I’m American. Do I want a Filipino in my foxhole?

Posted by JoeAm on April 15, 2014 · 147 Comments 

The U.S. and Philippines are about to strike up an agreement that stations Americans on Filipino soil in non-permanent facilities. It took eight working meetings for negotiators of the two countries to iron out the details about what kinds of facilities would be involved, where they would be, who would have access, how long the … Continue reading →

Category China, Citizenship/Patriotism, Foreign Affairs and Defense, USA/Americans

The Philippines: Assuming the Role of Leader in Asia

Posted by JoeAm on April 14, 2014 · 26 Comments 

I suppose that it is natural, in a nation that has been abused by occupiers and her own empowered class, that it would be difficult for some citizens of the Philippines to even grasp what good leadership looks like. This is a diverse nation, and often an argumentative and highly divided nation. As in most things in … Continue reading →

Category China, Citizenship/Patriotism, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Philippine Government, USA/Americans

The Morality of Self Justification

Posted by JoeAm on April 7, 2014 · 54 Comments 

A few weeks ago in the right column, I expressed admiration for the Chinese way of conducting business on international affairs. Chinese leaders follow a fundamental morality – the system that defines right and wrong – that states China is right in all words and deeds. Therefore, to object is not only wrong, but it … Continue reading →

Category China, Culture and Arts

The President’s State of the World Address (SOWA)

Posted by JoeAm on February 10, 2014 · 24 Comments 

Good evening distinguished guests and senators. My name is Joe America, and I’m a straight-shooting blogger in the best Filipino tradition. President Aquino had a date tonight and so he has asked me to stand in for him to present what will become an annual gala event, the “State of the World Address”. His instruction … Continue reading →

Category China, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Humor/Satire, Philippine Government, USA/Americans

Of Hong Kong and Dignity

Posted by JoeAm on February 3, 2014 · 34 Comments 

Hong Kong is starting a program of sanctions to punish the Philippines for declining to apologize, state-to-state, for the botched bus massacre in 2010. The Philippines has expressed its regrets and condolences to the family members, which is a step short of admitting state culpability in the massacre. Hong Kong wants the Philippines to accept … Continue reading →

Category China, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government