How does the President stop his slide? Propaganda, intimidation or good works?

Posted by JoeAm on October 9, 2016 · 205 Comments 

By Joe America A recent public survey gave President Duterte a 75% satisfaction rating. The result is typically characterized by the President’s spokesmen and much of the press as “very good”. Strong in relation to other presidents. That is one way to look at it, for sure. That’s the political spin, that’s the propaganda. Another … Continue reading →

Category China, Citizenship/Patriotism, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government

Elitism and dreams

Posted by JoeAm on October 7, 2016 · 130 Comments 

  By Joe America One of the problems I’ve been having of late is the accusation by Duterte supporters that we critics are “elitists”, trying to impose our moral authority on a people who don’t want it. I’m sensitive to the issue because we foreigners easily fall into the trap of judging people by our experience … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Economy, Education, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Philippine Government

Democracy on the brink in the Philippines

Posted by JoeAm on October 4, 2016 · 131 Comments 

By Joe America Democratic principles and institutions have always been an awkward fit in the Philippines. The nation remains tribal in the sense that people are fulfilled by being a part of a power bloc rather than a part of a system of freedoms and responsibilities. Loyalty to personalities trumps loyalty to principles because people … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government

RESIGN, PRESIDENT DUTERTE

Posted by JoeAm on October 2, 2016 · 93 Comments 

w by Andrew Lim Gotcha! I am not asking him to resign as President. What I am asking, specifically: for President Duterte to resign immediately and irrevocably his executive functions that involve the following: the economy and foreign policy. Allow me to argue the case. When one starts to see conspiracy when there is none, it … Continue reading →

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

The rise of a new authoritarian regime in Asia

Posted by JoeAm on September 22, 2016 · 240 Comments 

Let me get as dry and analytical as I can. Those who seek support for a cause, no matter what it may be, are unlikely to find satisfaction here. You might look for a particular Rolling Stones song, and play it loudly (Lyrics: “Satisfaction“). Even if this is a blog that absolutely no one wants, perhaps it may … Continue reading →

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