Jojo Binay: last man standing, the dying gasp of the Aguinaldo Era

Posted by JoeAm on November 5, 2014 · 85 Comments 

We can look at the Philippines as moving along several different timelines. One is economic, another geo-political, a third is different phases of government, and a fourth considers the whims and ways of the ruling class. We are not looking for a rigorous academic method here. The writing is simply an aid to thinking through what the Binay corruption scandal means to … Continue reading →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Crime/Corruption, Economy, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government, Philippine Politics

Important tips for Senator Trillanes for his debate with VP Binay

Posted by JoeAm on October 30, 2014 · 56 Comments 

by Andrew Lim Vice President Binay chose Trillanes probably because he is not a lawyer like Cayetano who can scrutinize the legal and corporate maze or because he loses his temper quickly. Or because he is the least experienced politician among the members of the sub-committee. Trillanes also makes the most pointed allegations in the … Continue reading →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Crime/Corruption, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Politics

Of division, diversity and an admiral

Posted by JoeAm on October 28, 2014 · 83 Comments 

One of the discoveries I have made in blogging is that it is extraordinarily difficult to find successful ways to bring people of different backgrounds and thinking into a common community that nurtures itself. Rather, the division caused by our diversity inherently wins out. And thus we find hostility in the blog threads, protests and violent complaints across the … Continue reading →

Filed under Blogging/Journalism, Citizenship/Patriotism, Foreign Affairs and Defense, USA/Americans

UNA: Political party or cabal of crooks?

Posted by JoeAm on October 26, 2014 · 64 Comments 

I admit to getting frustrated with Philippine political parties because they are like smoke, hard to grasp. Personalities are more important than principles and platforms. Indeed, as we will see, the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), a major player in the 2013 national election, apparently never even got around to formulating a set of projects, or … Continue reading →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Crime/Corruption, Philippine Politics

Of perverts and sovereign states

Posted by JoeAm on October 24, 2014 · 86 Comments 

Let me drop off this blog before hitting the road for one of my family’s annual explorations of Philippine tourist delights. I may not be able to tend to comments diligently, but I trust you can deal with this unusual topic with the normal wise maturity of Society members. It is a serious topic. Stipulations As we … Continue reading →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Crime/Corruption, Culture and Arts, Laws and Ethics