Why the Philippines Should Walk Alone

Posted by JoeAm on June 14, 2013 · 42 Comments 

Here’s the deal. We outsiders are always raggin’ on the Philippines to be different than she is. We are a collective of Dan Browns and James Fallows and Joe Americas riding across the islands on high horses and pretending our view is better. Well, I’m saying “Whoa!” to that particular horse right now, and climbing … Continue reading →

Category Culture and Arts

Free the Philippines with Hard, Cold Brains

Posted by JoeAm on June 12, 2013 · 30 Comments 

I play an android game on my Samsung Note. It is called World at Arms. The game is a combination of a “building” game and a war game. You busy yourself gathering income to buy buildings or weaponry, collect oil, pursue quests and battle the enemy players. Gradually, you increase your ability to earn money … Continue reading →

Category Culture and Arts, Economy, Philippine Government

Are Filipinos For Real?

Posted by edgar lores on June 10, 2013 · 66 Comments 

Are Filipinos for Real? by Edgar Lores I chanced across a website that promised to tell you what type of person you are — personality-wise. Personality (noun) The combination of characteristics or qualities that form an individual’s distinctive character. Qualities that make someone interesting or popular. According to the website, one of several, there are … Continue reading →

Category Culture and Arts, Education

No Island is an Island

Posted by JoeAm on May 31, 2013 · 30 Comments 

One of my favorite online thinkers is “J”. “J” is one of a set of good writers who have collected at the newly formed blog entitled “The Observers” which discusses international relations, primarily in Asia. A recent article looks at “apology” in diplomatic terms, comparing German and Japanese histories and development post World War II … Continue reading →

Category Culture and Arts, Foreign Affairs and Defense

Real Confidence, and Where to Find It

Posted by JoeAm on May 29, 2013 · 34 Comments 

Money you can count. Confidence you can’t. I’m no shrink. Just poppin’ off some ideas, you know? Confidence does not seem to be an emotion, exactly. But it is a feeling. That’s weird, eh? Lack of confidence generates emotions. Like fear or anxiety. It is a pit that often grows into depression or despair. My … Continue reading →

Category Culture and Arts, Family/Parenting/Children