Robredo and Trillanes
Analysis and Opinion
By Joe America
How do we deal with our inability to get the Philippines honest and productive?
We are inclined to complain, grouse, whine, snivel, weep, pray, or bitch and moan because others, such as Leni Robredo and Sonny Trillanes, won’t do what we want them to do.
- Leni Robredo won’t put national politics on the front burner. She won’t lead the charge . . . but she may ride the wave.
- Sonny Trillanes won’t build a unified team. He called Leni Robredo out for being a passenger rather than the driver. He’s right, of course, but he isn’t helping.
- Then there’s us, unable to find a leader, a team-builder who is also a populist, or electable.
Well, I think we should be hard-nosed realists, not dreamers. Nor should we be perfectionists helping DDS by weakening good people with criticism. With impossible demands. We should be big enough, brave enough, and smart enough to TRUST good people even if they make mistakes or do things differently than we would.
Vico Sotto could be the kind of unifying, driving, populist leader the principled people of the Philippines need. Or Joy Belmonte, I would imagine, if people would simply stop demanding perfection and learn to TRUST. Or Gilbert Teodoro. Strong men sell well. But there is that nagging perfection issue again.
I intentionally leave Risa Hontiveros out of that paragraph, not because of her character, which is the best, or her work, which is also the best, but because I doubt she can get business backing and funding and I believe money is crucial to success. She is likely to be viewed as “union”, so pro-worker that businesses will balk at funding her. I can be proved wrong by someone “showing me the money” behind a Hontiveros campaign.
The order of things to put bacon to the sizzle should be somewhat as follows, I would imagine. A few people with stature, with agency, and with brains should do these things.
- Agree that unity, principle, and popularity are important for success in politics.
- Form a coalition Executive Board.
- Start building an organization: platform, financing, social media, technology, people.
- Set perfection aside in favor of winning.
- Pick a candidate to run for President in 2028 and make that person popular.
- Back him or her fully; learn how to trust and delegate to the imperfect. Communicate emotionally with voters.
By emotionally, I mean rationally in terms that voters can relate to. Emotionally.
“We will give you better jobs and a better life.”
Contributor Joey Nguyen has that one right when he says that should be the all-consuming passion of the pro-democracy crowd.
Which I suppose paints me confused for not seeing Hontiveros as the BEST prospect.
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Cover photo from the 2019 Human Rights Watch article “Philippines: Drop Sedition Cases Against Duterte Critics“.
The Society of Honor by Joe America 
Thanks, Joe. Reading your blog reminds me of how much energy goes into analyzing politics here (and possibly in the Philippines). But I also think of the everyday Philippines—families, fiestas, kindness of neighbors, the simple joys—that seems to rarely get into the conversation. That’s the part that keeps the country alive and gives hope. Would love to hear your reflections on that side, too. It might even help balance out the political frustrations.
What do you think?
I’ve remarked many times as to the enjoyments I’ve experienced here. I don’t know of anyone here who does not get frustrated by corruption and poor government work, so I write to whatever seems relevant when I grab my iPad to compose a piece. The blog is social and political commentary so I don’t do restaurant reviews or fashion trends. Irineo has done music trends.
Got it, Joe. Just thinking though—there’s a lot in between politics and restaurant reviews. Things like family life, humor, traditions, and the everyday ways Filipinos find a way to keep going. Your take on those may add a nice balance to the political side. But then again maybe those won’t interest your audience and generate discussions.
Other contributors are welcome to take up the writing of articles that cover things that I may omit. I just go with my passions as anything else is work, and I’m done doing that.
we people on the ground have shared experiences that shape our realities, hence shared realities. sans impediments to shared realities like isolation induced by mental disorders, but that’s another problem.
and our realities at the moment are booming! and there are changes! yay! first at senate: senate pres escudero got the big boot, and in comes sen sotto as replacement. out is marcoleta of the blue ribbon committee to be replaced by sen ping lacson. see? being aware with what goes on around us, ground us all to reality, and being involved is even better. aware and involved and engaged. like many of us, yay! kaso, those who cannot feel, or engage, or simply lack awareness for some other reasons about what is happening right now maybe because they’re nihilists, dont know what they are missing. like maybe life get too much for them, so maybe, it is better they take time off in their minds and recuperate.
and yes, the flood scandal is getting muddied and muddled with persons of interests now pointing the finger at one another, trying to deflect blame away from them. and with new witnesses taking stand, more deflections can only be expected, their manufactured realities open to scrutiny. early days.
I suspect every corrupt official is having trouble sleeping, and for some it is low grade panic and considerable anger. Sweet!
hear! hear! expect feigned sickness and exodus of big name persons of interests traveling overseas, seeking treatment of sudden high blood pressure as well as low blood pressure, the treatment so specialised, it is not available in philippine, only overseas.
most are probly on anti anxiety drugs now, sobrang stressed and biting their fingernails, named and shamed and facing uncertain future.
and for the misery and inconveniences they put us all into, sweet indeed! seeing them scramble.
“and for the misery and inconveniences they put us all into, sweet indeed! seeing them scramble.” – Kasambahay
Would you say that is a good example of “mababaw ang kaligayahan?” Remember, the Marcoses left in disgrace (though very wealthy) and in the case of Marcos, Sr. himself, terminal illness. But it wasn’t long before they returned, first to power in the Ilocos, eventually back to Malacañang, all with the blessing of majority Filipinos.
Sweet indeed for the Marcoses and their crony friends.
gee, where have you been! I was not talking about makoy and cronies et al. I was talking about the current happening here in sept 2025, with bunch of sitting politicians caught on the spotlight and immediately scrambling to escape overseas, hoping to avoid justice.
I’m happy for you, Kasambahay. I was an immigrant in California when Marcos, Sr. fell in 1986. Where were you then?
One of my kabarkada wrote me in a letter: “Greetings from a newly liberated Philippines!” He was thrilled too.
My sister-in-law, who comes from a political family in Mindoro Oriental, was also elated. She started calling relatives in Mindoro and Manila to get firsthand news. They told her: “Wala na si Makoy! Kami naman!!”
She was shocked. She expected that after 20 years of the conjugal dictatorship, we would have learned something. By “Kami naman,” they meant: “Kami naman ang mangungurakot!” It was almost prophetic.
I hope we learn to trust good people like we trust pilots to land us to point B safely.
It’s getting hard to trust because social media emotionalize debates and have become a rather bizarre place where beliefs are mistaken for facts and hate is a feel-good emotional release. But you are right. We should get back to reality with all its flaws, few of which are really material.
Joe: In the context of the topic, what do you mean by “get back to reality with all its flaws?” What is this reality?
I mean that the expectation that others must see things as we do is a ridiculous expectation and, if pursued, will result in the election of lousy leaders who seem strong because blowhards don’t carry with them the same expectation of perfection.
I supposed it is okay, to get lousy leaders elected. we have gatekeepers aplenty and having initially dodge one, the voters, lousy leaders have to contend with another series of gatekeepers, the leaders like them who are more insightful and up to par, that is if there is no collusion happening among them, but if there is, there is always the last resort: the public.
maybe because the public is most affected by the lack of services and decaying infras, they get more touchy feely astute, but not very articulate in voicing their concerns, but voice they did and do, complain they do, again and again and like broken records, they got more noisy and incessant until they got tended to, raising doubts and whatnots. more doubts gathered and amplified by social media, it reach the ears of those in highest power. and now, we are seeing the purge!
zero budget to dept of public works and highways. its chair got the big boot, replaced by the boyish and smiling purger, sec vince dizon.
Trust is earned…except maybe with clergy. With them, you are assumed to be trustworthy until you betray the trust.
Yes and in the case of the pilot, if you have no problems on the most recent flight you trust that nothing will happen. But if something happens you will be lucky to live to tell about it.
If you are a star athlete, you are only as good as your last feat,game, match or what have you.
Same with trust it is case to case.
I suppose with a pilot, you’re really trusting the system rather than the individual. You don’t know the pilot personally, but you trust the training, the safeguards, and the rarity of fatal pilot error. The odds are in your favor, so you take the flight.
But Philippine politics is another story. The system itself is hard to trust because of the kinds of candidates and winners it produces. Even when a politician seems honest and competent, history suggests the odds are not good.
What choices do we have? Some people simply opt out of participatory government by not voting at all. I had a neighbor here in the U.S.—a Canadian dual citizen—who disliked politics so much that he never voted. In the Philippines, some people go a step further and just sell their votes.
I think I voted only once in the Philippines, back in the Marcos Sr. era. It wasn’t a presidential election. If I recall correctly, he had lowered the voting age from 21 to 18, which suddenly made me eligible. I can’t remember if voting was mandatory then.
Here in the U.S., though, I make it a point to vote regularly.
Thanks so much for your insights of earning trust.
May I interest you in a slightly related article of mine.
“Institutionalization of People Power/Direct Democracy” – Karl G.
Thanks Karl for this interesting article of yours. I’d love to discuss your idea vs. that of Civics and a Participative democracy. To prime the pump and give you an idea of where I am coming from, check this out:
>>Civics is the study (and practice) of the rights and responsibilities of citizens, how government works, and how individuals can contribute to the common good. It’s the foundation for understanding what it means to be part of a political community.
Participative democracy is a form of democracy that goes beyond just voting every few years. It emphasizes the active involvement of citizens in decision-making — things like community assemblies, citizen juries, referendums, participatory budgeting, public consultations, and grassroots movements.
So the relationship works like this:
Civics provides the knowledge and skills: By learning civics, citizens understand their rights, responsibilities, and how institutions function. They learn how to deliberate, compromise, and act for the public good.
Participative democracy provides the arena for action: It’s where citizens put that civic knowledge into practice — not just electing leaders but also shaping policies, holding officials accountable, and engaging in dialogue about community needs.
👉 Put simply: Civics is the training ground; participative democracy is the playing field.
Without civics, people may lack the capacity or confidence to engage meaningfully. Without participative democracy, civics remains abstract and detached from lived political life.<<
I doubled check of civics is still in Araling Panlipunan
It is taught in Grades 10, 11, and 12
I see we got a good curriculum, maybe it is the unqualified teachers that is the cause of ideal to practical gap.
And tough home circumstances.
Karl, have you considered that your idea of institutionalization of People Power/Direct Democracy will run into the same obstacle – unqualified teachers?
I think JoeAm hits the nail on the head with “tough home circumstances.” Our parents are our first teachers. The prepare the foundation in our early years before formal schooling begins.
Yes
Need a train the trainers program across all areas.
Karl, of course there is a train the trainers program. Teachers need to get accredited. That is the training program. So you can see it is not as simple as waving a wand. Identifying a solution is not solving a problem.
Parenting is a more difficult challenge, I think. Training people to be good parents can be tough for many reasons. In the Philippines, developing good parents is not just about individuals learning better parenting skills. It’s also about fixing structural issues: reducing poverty, offering real child-rearing support, creating better social safety nets, and balancing tradition with modern knowledge of child development.
Again, identifying the solution is not solving the problem.
Thanksgir pointing that out.Indeed the requirement of the Profession Regulatory Commission is more rigorous. Thus may require commissions (sarcasm) to speed things, yhe irony of speeding things up is you make the line figuratively and literally for the ones behind you once you go to the front of the line so to speak. Singit in the vernacular….not asking anyone to sing BTW.
Karl, thanks — I get your point about the bureaucracy and how “singit” makes the system unfair and slower for everyone else. But what I was really focusing on is the end result: whether the training produces well-prepared teachers (or parents, in the analogy). Speeding up the process by itself, or cutting corners, doesn’t solve the deeper issue of quality and preparedness.
Thanks and pardon the typos. We have the rules and regulations,I guess a start is to follow them, that includes learning and training guidelines
Thanks for your note, Karl. I agree that following rules, regulations, and training guidelines is important. At the same time, it’s worth reflecting not just on teachers or trainers when learning falls short, but also on ourselves as students. Perhaps there are areas where we could improve—our effort, our approach, or our engagement. As Rizal warns in El Filibusterismo, “Our ills we owe to ourselves alone, so let us blame no one… With Spain or without Spain they would always be the same, and perhaps worse!” In other words, lasting improvement requires acknowledging our own responsibility. Recognizing this helps us grow more effectively in any learning process.
ahem, never voted? like because they are probly illegals! and dont want to bring attention to themselves, their addresses and whereabouts unknown.
I cannot believe it, if they are receiving social welfare from the govt, and enjoy what the govt has to offer like sealed roads, free hospitalisation, etc, they should exercise their mandate and go out and vote. voting is not an everyday nonoccurence, it would not cause heavy burden to get off their backsides and vote once in a while.
” like because they are probably illegals! and don’t want to bring attention to themselves, their addresses and whereabouts unknown.” – Kasambahay
I doubt it. For all the years I knew him (and his family) he was self-employed – he sold tools. He used to be a mechanic before that. He and his wife owned their home. They were the first owners. They eventually sold when the homes were worth half what they are worth now. They moved to Idaho where at least one of his sons lives. He is retired now.
The house is currently occupied by renters some of whom probably are illegals. There is quite a turnover of residents. But they work hard, nobody seems to be married. It is a single family home, about 1,000 sqft, 4 small bedrooms and there are about 11 or 13 cars connected with that abode, probably 4 that are not running! All park on their driveway and street. Their garage is used as a bedroom and family room of sorts. Very common in neighborhoods like mine. A real blight.
The landlord doesn’t care. He just likes the rental income. He used to live there. Nice couple, probably Vietnamese. Am sorry they moved.
His renters are Hispanic and don’t speak much English. They communicate w/ non Spanish speaking people through translators on their phones. But I get along with them. I just turn a blind eye on the blight.
I don’t know why you presumed non-voters to be illegals. Many Democrat leaning citizens do not vote either, especially in the black community I am told.
thanks, non voters over you bakod is not really my concern.
No problem, K. Just wanted to correct your misconception about illegals and American citizens who don’t take their right to vote seriously. There are many of them, too many. I must confess that voting can be a chore. The ballots can contain very complicated Measures as they are called. These are not candidates but Measures and Propositions trying to by-pass the normal debate process in legislative bodies whether at the local level or even State level. Next election I am looking forward to using AI to help with the process of choosing properly.
The structure of Philippine democracy is excellent, a classic three branch system with several independent agencies. The problems have more to do with people than system, just as the US model has broken down because of people. In the Philippines, corruption is systematized as one of those dirty secrets no one talks about. Until now, and we’ll see how that goes. Then decision-making is not value based, and it is not consistent from one admin to the next. And hiring is not merit based. But the system is good. The structure and the workings. One can today watch the interplay between branches on the corruption issue and admire the system. It’s excellent.
Joe, you describe the interplay between branches as excellent. Could you clarify what you mean? Are you referring to the system’s design, or to how it actually functions in practice?
cv, I think, it will help you a lot to read online news about the philippines. there are many such on the internet accessible for free. there a lots of current political analysts, opinion makers, videos, business and entertainment currently trending, etc. reading them all will easily bring you up to par with what is going on with the philippines. pls check google and happy hunting.
p.s. I may give some nous but that would be spoon feeding summat, and I dont think, you like that.
cheers!
Thanks, Kasambahay…I do get some news from the Philippines, but they seem to contradict what JoeAm calls “excellent” interplay. That is why I am seeking clarification from Joe.
Well, echo chambers do sound alike, so good that you read here to get shadings other than what old school Marcos haters give you.
Yes Joe, nothing like hearing from the other side. One source I have, a retired Filipino doctor who practiced in Europe AND the USA and chose to retire in the Philippines. He calls the Philippines 4th World! Yikes!
He comes from what he calls the Golden Age of Philippine medicine, when doctors educated in the Philippines were desired in first world countries. He says now they cannot pass the exams and so end up practicing as nurses, earning more than they would earn in the Philippines as doctors.
You’ve mentioned him before. I’m reminded of my American dentist when I told him I was moving to the Philippines. He was aghast. “The Philippines? Why the Philippines?” I said “for something different”, and off I went into the most interesting, complicated, and wonderful 20 years of my life. People see what they want to see. Usually it’s not what’s there.
“…and off I went into the most interesting, complicated, and wonderful 20 years of my life. People see what they want to see. Usually it’s not what’s there.” – JoeAm
I agree, and that’s why I mentioned my observation: much of what we discuss tends to focus on the negative, which doesn’t quite balance with the word “wonderful” you used to describe your experience. Our conversations often circle around politics and corruption. Perhaps that’s what your dentist had in mind when he asked, “Why the Philippines?”
I think I told you that retired doctor I know complains endlessly about life in the Philippines. I once asked him why he chose to retire there if he disliked so much about the place. His answer was simple: family. To his credit, though, in his younger retirement years — perhaps in his late 1960s and 1970s — he did make a real effort to push for improvements in the health care sector through organizations he was involved with. Interestingly, I’ve never seen him mention family in his emails.
You and Kasambahay, on the other hand, find encouragement in seeing the different branches of government exercising checks and balances. I receive many opinion pieces from Filipino journalists, and one skeptic remarked that the prosecutors themselves are corrupt, so he doubts much will come of these efforts.
When I was growing up in the Philippines, whenever a corruption scandal broke, the common joke was: “Somebody didn’t get paid.” It shows how we Pinoys use humor to lighten the mood, especially when the news is mostly bad.
I think my dentist had “third world” in mind, poverty and dilapidation.
The Senate “prosecutors” got tossed when the Senate got upended Monday. Senator Lacson heads the Blue Ribbon Committee now and I think he will be orderly and purposeful. I don’t think DOJ is corrupt any more and will be under the spotlight. We can track it. The Ombudsman will be replaced soon, so that’s open for progress.
“I don’t think DOJ is corrupt any more and will be under the spotlight. We can track it. The Ombudsman will be replaced soon, so that’s open for progress.” – JoeAm
That is positive thinking, Joe. I invite you to update us on the progress of the DOJ which finally is not corrupt (at least according to you). Maybe you can make it a once a month article in your blog. Certainly more interesting than reviews on restaurants and fashion.
You are as capable as me of doing the tracking, and once a month I would welcome your update.
I asked Gemini if there has been much change in DOJ from Duterte to Marcos. Here is the answer:
Yes, the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) has seen significant shifts in focus and policy between the Duterte and Marcos administrations, particularly in the context of the drug war, human rights, and law enforcement approaches. Under President Duterte, the DOJ was largely aligned with his administration’s aggressive “war on drugs” and often faced criticism for alleged human rights violations and a lack of accountability. In contrast, the Marcos Jr. administration has emphasized different priorities, such as a more balanced approach to drug control, increased focus on corruption within the legal system, and greater international cooperation, leading to a noticeable change in the DOJ’s operational and policy direction.
Key Changes and Continuity
Shift from War on Drugs to a More Nuanced Approach:
Duterte Administration: The DOJ was central to the Duterte administration’s aggressive “war on drugs,” which resulted in widespread extrajudicial killings and human rights abuses. The focus was on combating illegal drugs with often brutal enforcement tactics.
Marcos Jr. Administration: President Marcos Jr. has advocated for a more nuanced approach, prioritizing rehabilitation and prevention over punitive measures and a renewed focus on addressing the root causes of drug abuse.
Emphasis on Human Rights and Accountability:
Duterte Administration: The DOJ was frequently criticized for its perceived role in the systematic human rights violations during the drug war and the lack of accountability for perpetrators.
Marcos Jr. Administration: The Marcos Jr. administration has expressed a commitment to upholding human rights and strengthening accountability within the justice system, though the effectiveness of these efforts remains a subject of ongoing debate.
Focus on Corruption and Systemic Issues:
Duterte Administration: While anti-corruption was a stated goal, the primary focus remained on the drug war, with less emphasis on broader systemic reforms.
Marcos Jr. Administration: There has been a noticeable push within the DOJ to address corruption, improve the efficiency of the legal process, and enhance the integrity of judicial institutions.
International Cooperation:
Duterte Administration: The Philippines under Duterte had a strained relationship with international bodies, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), which investigated the drug war.
Marcos Jr. Administration: The Marcos Jr. administration has shown a greater willingness to engage with international bodies and seek collaboration on matters of justice, including cooperation with the ICC in certain aspects of its investigations.
On a deeper dive, Gemini points out that the Marcos Administration’s DOJ now allows Filipinos to testify for the ICC, but also continues, at a lesser scope, the abusive war on drugs and use of the Anti-Terrorist law to go after critics and dissidents. Justice in the Philippines is a very important topic at this possible crossroads in time, so I may look into it, but not on a regularly scheduled basis, as that would require “work” which I am allergic to.
JoeAm outlines the Marcos Jr. DOJ’s stated priorities — human rights, nuanced drug policy, anti-corruption, and international cooperation. But Philippine politics teaches us to be cautious: history shows a persistent gap between words and actions. The real measure is what actually happens on the ground — prosecutions, accountability, and enforcement. Rhetoric gives clues, but observing implementation over time tells the true story.
Gemini did the analysis, not JoeAm. And yes, the deeds of men and women will tell the tale.
Maybe Kasambahay will oblige us on this. I recall he was surprised how poorly informed I was on current events over there. He is right. Because I am not directly affected, I tend to pay attention only to the “blockbuster” stuff.
Refer to today’s blog. The structure is sound and when leadership is pointed in the right direction, good things happen. Good is defined to mean reasonable, stable, and what the Constitution intends.
Yes of course, Joe. And leadership is pointed in the right direction now, eh? Until it isn’t. Let us see what tomorrow brings. Hopefully not excuses and finger pointing. Been there, done that.
Being negative or positive is often a choice.
some of us have to stay positive, lay the foundation for the young ones to take courage and be positive about. we cannot all be negative. and there is much to be positive in our country. this country is worth fighting for. I am not one of those who would rather lament and mop around, having failed their calling.
I agree, Kasambahay. If I were “stuck” there, I would do my best to make lemonade. I have a niece who lives and works in Cebu City. She has a very positive disposition, always talking about the fun things she is doing at work and at play. She has a husband and they are raising one son who I believe is in his teens now. He has musical talents like his grandfather (my brother) and his maternal grandmother who was a singer.
Growing up in the Philippines, I learned to have a Plan A, Plan B, and Plan C because the probability of something going wrong was high. A lot of things didn’t work (like public telephones and with private phones, it was not rare that you got a busy signal ….no cell phones yet then) so you learn to “make paraan” (translated “find a way.”). I had this attitude of not being denied….sort of like the post office’s “come rain, sleet or snow”
Here in the US, things generally work. I remember it was not until after 3 months at work that I got my first busy signal. That was in 1980. It made me homesick! No, not really…but it did remind me of home so much so that I kept it in my memory bank as a milestone.
From my vantage point, those of you stuck in the USA are brewing lemonade three times a day. A nation of bullies, murderers, and ineffectual losers.
“From my vantage point, those of you stuck in the USA are brewing lemonade three times a day. A nation of bullies, murderers, and ineffectual losers.” – JoeAm
I recall that recently Joey N. gave 2 reasons he chose to make California a permanent home over the Philippines. Maybe he prefers lemonade over calamansi juice? Seriously, perhaps he can remind us of his choice and the reasons for it in light of this comment of yours.
Joey is traveling and not attending to the blog. Everyone has a different circumstance, California is politically rational, and few are stuck anywhere. The only people stuck are those who would overlay their judgments on others without having spent a second in their shoes.
“Everyone has a different circumstance…” – JoeAm
I recall that Joey once made a generalization that few people immigrate to the Philippines for economic reasons. That’s a broad statement that already covers many different circumstances.
I think there are times when making generalizations is fair, but it seems worth noting that you also did so about the U.S. when you wrote: “A nation of bullies, murderers, and ineffectual losers.”
Generalizations are literarily useful when addressed to those who are aware enough to parse lessons from them, but not take them literally. Respect for others is a principle that I write from or into now and then. And it upsets me when people categorically judge Filipinos or the Philippines harshly from some presumed pedestal of superior wisdom or existence.
Joe, you’ve described your time in the Philippines as “wonderful,” and even spoken of its politics in very positive terms. That perspective is understandable, but I think part of it comes from your situation — living on American income, you’re more insulated from the economic struggles most Filipinos deal with every day.
That’s why I find it interesting when you talk about people judging from a “pedestal.” In a way, we all speak from our own vantage points, shaped by circumstance. Yours happens to be one of relative security, which colors how you see the Philippines.
I agree with you that generalizations can be useful when handled carefully. Maybe the real challenge is making sure we apply the same balance and fairness no matter which country or subject matter we’re talking about.
That is a mischaracterization. I don’t speak of Philippine politics “in very positive terms”, but in as close to realistic terms as I can get. I think the Constitution is a sound document, and the democratic structure and fundamentals are sound. The people wobble. I sort out the deeds of political leaders as I see them, which under Aquino were predominantly good, under Duterte were predominantly horrible, and under Marcos are substantially good.
It’s true that I have more money than most but my views are informed from having lived in the provinces among the poor, and having married a wife who came from poverty and an abusive family. You can try to discredit me all you want but readers of the blog have walked with me for years sharing the journey and know the truth of things.
Maybe the real challenge is for you to read more and judge less.
You can search the blog articles from the home page search box. For example, you can search on “poverty” and find out what has been written here about the subject. Or any other topic you’d like to become informed on before making assumptions. Always read the comments to articles because the greater wisdoms come from there.
As I said recently Joe writes to provoke, sometimes through satireB, but most of the time using straight talk or real talk.
Me too I am not poor, but I am as koboy as anyone.
In re-reading your remarks, it seems to me that you believe Filipinos cannot possibly find the Philippines “wonderful” because circumstances here are so miserable, government is corrupt, and whatever other disparagements occupy your brain. You possibly think that most Filipinos, if given the chance, would follow in your footsteps and flee this miserable mess. The problem is, they can’t. They don’t have the money. They are “stuck” here, as you put it. And if they could, that is, if they had money as I do, they’d just stay here, because it’s a wonderful place for people with money. Well, it’s a wonderful place for people without money, too, because it’s what they wake up to every day and they don’t have to go outside and shovel snow. The Philippines is cool, in my hippy vernacular. It’s what we have.
Joe, thanks for sharing your thoughts. But I think you’ve made some assumptions about my views that aren’t accurate. You said “it seems to me you believe Filipinos cannot possibly find the Philippines wonderful”—yet I never said or implied that. I actually know of people who found deep meaning in living in the Philippines, even leaving the U.S. for it. The fact that they both died from self-inflicted illness doesn’t negate that they loved the place.
Where I differ from you is in calling the Philippines “a wonderful place for people without money.” That sounds more like wishful thinking than reality. I know Filipinos who grew up with meals of just rice and soy sauce because of poverty. It would be hard to imagine them thinking life was “wonderful” as they looked at others who were better off. I know of this Dr. Sanchez who has his ministry of Hospital on Wheels where does free surgery (and other medical treatments) on people who otherwise could not afford it. Are they in “wonderful” conditions?
You also wrote that if poor Filipinos had money as you do, they’d just stay. But the record says otherwise. Many who are given the chance—whether through visas, work sponsorships, or sheer luck—do leave. And not just for the “comforts” of the U.S., but even to places like Denmark, Greenland, or Michigan, where they gladly endure snow shoveling if it means better opportunities for their families.
So while yes, the Philippines is home for millions who wake up to it every day, and many find joy there despite hardship, calling it universally “wonderful” for the poor glosses over harsh realities. It seems more accurate to say: it can be wonderful despite poverty, but not because of it.
You overlay interpretations of what I say that completely lack nuance, or interpretive reasoning. Point to wherever it was that I said “the Philippines is a wonderful place for people without money.” Give the full quote and context. I tire of critics who can find nothing positive or constructive to say about the Philippines and Filipinos that grants them legitimacy in being who they are and where they are, and appreciation for their labors and efforts. Yes, a lot of Yellows left the Philippines when Duterte was elected, and some are like people of means everywhere, they want a change. Individuals do what individuals do. My wife had the choice to move to the US and declined.
I have not said the Philippines is universally “wonderful” for the poor and I resent your repeatedly getting things I say wrong. Your suggesting that I have no legitimate basis for understanding the Philippines is offensive to the core. What’s your problem?
‘Point to wherever it was that I said “the Philippines is a wonderful place for people without money.” ‘ – JoeAm
It was in a recent quote of yours:
“Well, it’s a wonderful place for people without money, too, because it’s what they wake up to and they don’t have to go outside and shovel snow.”
That is not a categorical statement of opinion on how wonderful the Philippines is. That’s a one-off satirical response to your remark, recognizing that Filipinos can either hang their heads down or keep them up, because this is where they live, but I suppose one has to grasp satire to pick that up. The Philippines is where Filipinos live. They can choose to grouse about it or help change things. The Philippines has a lot going for it. I’m opposed to grousing. Today’s article may help put it in context.
You made the erroneous “wonderful” remark prior to my penning that satirical line. So go back to whatever gave you that erroneous understanding that I think the Philippines is wonderful for poor people.
Joe, aren’t you going to even thank me for reminding you where you recently actually said that that the Philippines was a wonderful place even for those without money? 🙂
I understand you describe your remark as satire, but when I look at the actual words, it doesn’t really read that way. Satire usually relies on irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to highlight some absurdity or fault. In your passage, though, the line about the poor finding the Philippines “wonderful” comes across as a straightforward description, with the “shoveling snow” part being more of a casual comparison than an ironic twist.
That’s why I took it at face value rather than as satire. I just wanted to clarify why it didn’t strike me as satire in the moment. But it is what it is and we can agree to disagree on that.
As to grousing, I have a former classmate from high school and college days. He is from a pretty wealthy family so was never wanting of anything financially. On the problems of the Philippines his attitude was “I may not be part of the solution, but I also strive not to be part of the problem.”
He proudly participated in the first People Power revolt that sent Marcos, Sr. packing. Afterwards, we talked about the task of rebuilding the Philippines. Remember, he and I were part of the educated elite of the Philippine (he more than me, as I was always just middle class…he was definitely upper class). He actually said to me “No, I did my part at EDSA.”
I bring this up just to say that there is a 3rd option: to neither grouse nor help change things. He was committed to neither. Rather, he was happy with “not being part of the problem.”
I write in a style that you evidently don’t understand. I’ve heard people say that Filipinos don’t get satire, but I have not accepted that as a truth because there are excellent satirists here. But you persistently misrepresent what I have written, so I suspect you are a “literalist”. You certainly don’t read between lines or with an appreciation of my take on things. I wonder why you’re even here. You don’t give a shit about the future of the Philippines and I’m consumed by it. You must be very bored in life to keep slopping oil on the water.
Joe, I can see that you care deeply about the Philippines, and I respect your passion. You mentioned that I “persistently misrepresent” what you have written, but in the case of people without money seeing the Philippines as “wonderful” I quoted your words verbatim. Pretty tough misrepresenting someone when you are quoting him verbatim.
That aside, I think our exchanges could be more productive if you use my responses as a springboard for you to elaborate on the ideas and insights you’re sharing—this “gospel” you’re preaching about the country. That way, your audience (including me) can engage with the substance of your vision, rather than getting caught up in misunderstandings or personal attacks. I’d appreciate it if we could focus on the issues you raise and the examples you provide, which are far more meaningful than critiques of style or personal characterizations.
You wonder why I am here. You’ve heard the term “iron sharpens iron.” Perhaps you can see my participation here as a chance to sharpen your positions about the Philippines and its future, especially under Pres. Marcos, Jr.
Keep the faith!
You quoted a satirical remark I made in response to your comment. You have not shown where I said it as a primary, earnest statement. And you can’t because I don’t believe it. You can’t even tell me from Gemini. So stop the bullshit.
I see no value to your contributions here. Be respectful, or be gone.
I’m putting you into moderation so I can review your comments before they are published. I’m done with nonsense.
“The only people stuck are those who would overlay their judgments on others without having spent a second in their shoes.” – JoeAm
Not sure who you are talking about here, and what “judgments on others.”
I’m confident you’ll figure it out.
Hear hear! The trick is not to get caught in the negativity that others get consumed by (like foreigners who gripe that the Philippines is not like American suburbs, those losers). The Philippines is a blank book and each day is a page to be filled. Lots of ways to fill it.
I don’t think it is totally blank, I am sure that in the province there are still the noises I heard in UP Diliman of my youth. Roosters crowing very early, frogs croaking competitively after heavy rains, with the possible alpha male frogs having voices as deep as Frankie Drilon. Maybe dogs kept outside the house but in the compound no longer howl competitively on very warm nights, their wolf nature coming out, but they did in UP Diliman of the 1970s. Many politicians definitely still have a lot of wolf nature when things get hot, others croak like bullfrogs, while few probably dare to crow about a new dawn yet. One who thought he was an eagle is now looking more like the losing rooster in a cockfight, saying he is too sick to enter the arena he is in now, but that is yet to be ascertained. Geckos went up the walls of our house in UP and often clicked “Tsk Tsk”, are they like some of the Filipino public on social media?
Yes, blank is not the right word. Full, but open to redrawing? The point is the potential exists for good pursuits.
“The Philippines is a blank book and each day is a page to be filled. Lots of ways to fill it.” – JoeAm
We may wish it is a blank book, but really it is anything but that. The Philippines already has a long and complicated story written in it — history, culture, politics, and all the struggles and achievements that shaped it. Each day may add a new page, but it’s hardly starting from scratch.
Yes, Irineo made that point. I was striving for a concept but missed the mark. The Philippines is rich with potential for individuals.
excellent indeed! where else can you find people writing letters sumbong sa pangulo to report directly to the president about the anomalies of govt projects? last count, there were 12thousands letters received, most with common themes such as the existence of costly ghost projects.
@Joe
Talked to a neighbor earlier and she was very happy to see you again on Facebook.
If she reads the blog and not just the title in your FB posts and succeeeding coments, she would have seen my comments and articles .
Our conversation started with Tito Sotto as SP and then your name came up.
Thanks. The blog gets most of its readership from FB. X may suppress my postings because of prior criticisms of Trump.
Tom Hanks honorary award in West Post got blocked by Trump people all because per Trump is woke
Hanks is a good actor and good human as far as I can tell. Trump is the opposite.
actually Risa H is landed old wealth based in the Visayas particularly Iloilo and Aklan. Probably her later advocacies labeled her as pro labor, poor, deprived, oppressed. Though i would consider her centrist, democratic left in the so called political spectrum. The present political situation indeed is like the situation of the Israelites roaming the desert for forty years when in fact if they only walked a few miles in a straight line could have brought them to the promised land within 3 months. The current opposition leaders are either too old, had too much old political baggage, too young, too narrow in perspective, too early, too late. The crucible for testing their mettle could be this trying times when almost all of the current political luminaries are tainted or tarred by the curse of duterte or the marcoses.
Thanks for the background on Senator Hontiveros. The current Senate shift is uplifting to me. Sotto as Senate President. Maybe the old crocodiles want to go out as something other than lackeys to a murderous President Duterte.
“I’m confident you’ll figure it out.” – JoeAm
Whew! For a moment I thought you might be referring to me. 🙂