China’s plan for the Philippines

Posted by JoeAm on March 4, 2019 · 78 Comments 

By JoeAm As I look at what is happening in and around the Philippines, I don’t think it is a great mystery as to what China’s plan for the Philippines might be. I mean, figuring it out is easier than reading tea leaves. The Main Goals The first thing we have to recognize is that … Continue reading →

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

How China is peeling the Philippines like a very blind cabbage

Posted by JoeAm on February 13, 2019 · 104 Comments 

By JoeAm I am impressed with China’s strategic approach to gaining global power. I don’t like it. But I am impressed. China uses small steps unrestrained by laws or matters of fair play, kindness, or respect. She does not need an army. She has agents on the ground. Filipinos, in the Philippines. When push-back occurs, … Continue reading →

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

Huawei: friend or foe of the Philippines?

Posted by JoeAm on February 1, 2019 · 48 Comments 

By JoeAm Due credit to regular contributor NHerrera for raising this issue and providing graphic exhibits and some references used herein. To set the scene for this discussion, we have to recognize that hard battle lines are shaping up globally with democracies facing off against autocratic states China and Russia. Several of those democracies have … Continue reading →

Category China, Citizenship/Patriotism, Crime/Corruption, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government, Technology/Internet, USA/Americans

The speech of Secretary Locsin at the United Nations in favor of the Global Compact for Migration

Posted by JoeAm on January 4, 2019 · 87 Comments 

Preface by JoeAm Foreign Affairs Secretary delivered a speech explaining the Philippines’ vote FOR the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration. It was received with sustained applause. The Secretary covers a lot of ground in his speech, trips the delicate diplomatic dance without being shy, and delivers the view of the Philippine nation … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government

The Balangiga Bells: Philippine Liberty Bells

Posted by JoeAm on December 19, 2018 · 186 Comments 

By JoeAm I’ve started liking those bells, those Balangiga Bells, for what they represent. For a long time, they were an embarrassment for me, attaching my heritage to a symbol of American brutality and the racism that was prevalent at the time. I wished they would just go away and for sure wished President Duterte … Continue reading →

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