China’s 9 Dash Lines and the demise of the $ (Part I)

Posted by chemrock on January 23, 2017 · 108 Comments 

By Chemrock I had wanted to do a follow up on my November 2016 blog on the Rube Goldberg US$ printing machine, but following Distant Observer’s article on “Scarborough Shoal, it’s not about fishes or oil, it’s about power”, I decided to tie 2 issues together. Due to its length, I’ll publish in 2 parts. … Continue reading →

Category China, Economy, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Philippine Government

Scarborough Shoal. It’s not about fishes or oil. It’s about power.

Posted by JoeAm on January 16, 2017 · 170 Comments 

  By A Distant Observer Some time ago, I offered to contribute here with an article about Scarborough Shoal, its political and legal aspects. While The Society of Honor was discussing matters of various kinds, the country with the most powerful military in the world just elected a demagogue Hitler himself would be proud of. Hence, … Continue reading →

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

“Let’s see if I have this right . . .”

Posted by JoeAm on November 2, 2016 · 162 Comments 

By Joe America I’d like to confirm that my thinking is properly aligned with, and supportive of, the Duterte Administration. You know, to abide by the terms of my resident visa. As I understand it, that hokey “rising star of Asia” slogan was propaganda promoted by the failed Aquino Administration, a bunch of losers who … Continue reading →

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

“We now have almost all the cards!” Red-Teaming Duterte

Posted by JoeAm on October 30, 2016 · 224 Comments 

By Andrew Lim Red-teaming is the practice of evaluating a problem from your adversary’s perspective. You sit in his chair and ask, “if I were in his position, how would I think and act?” It is used by corporations, governments, intelligence agencies and the like to enhance decision making; it challenges preconceived notions. It aims … Continue reading →

Category China, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Philippine Government

A right proper foreign policy for the Philippines

Posted by JoeAm on October 18, 2016 · 264 Comments 

By Joe America Kindly excuse the frustration and ‘attitude’ demonstrated herein. It’s not my fault. he he It seems pretty clear that the Duterte Administration does not believe in transparency but prefers the power that comes from keeping others confused and off balance. An FOI with 161 exceptions reflects the Administration’s approach to candor. The President’s spokespeople are … Continue reading →

Category China, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government, USA/Americans