Transparency does not mean data, it means dealing straight: DepEd case study

Posted by JoeAm on April 14, 2015 · 143 Comments 

I started this blog as an update on the Department of Education (DepEd), but a broader lesson emerged from the study. This will be a case study of DepEd’s “transparency” fulfillment, and what we learn can be applied to other departments as well. The resources for this article are all available at DepEd’s web site. As we … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Education, Philippine Government

Three options for Philippine citizens

Posted by josephivo on April 12, 2015 · 188 Comments 

  by josephivo 1- INTRODUCTION Who to vote for? How to reduce the victim mentality and build confidence? Dynasties? A free and thriving Philippines? Important questions, but two higher questions should be answered first. Just as Lenin always asked ironically: “Freedom — yes, but for whom? To do what?”, we could ask “For what Filipinos? … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Economy, Philippine Government, Philippine Politics

The elegance of China’s island strategy

Posted by JoeAm on April 11, 2015 · 185 Comments 

It was reported by US intelligence services that China is actively building Coast Guard ships. It is likely that these ships will be deployed to the reclaimed “islands” that formalize China’s “sovereign domestic territory” in the South China Sea. That territory includes contested outposts within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone. By using Coast Guard ships, China accomplishes … Continue reading →

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

How the Nacionalista Party can regain prominence in the Philippines

Posted by JoeAm on March 31, 2015 · 158 Comments 

The Nacionalista Party (NP) has not been at the forefront of Philippine government, in the executive office, for some time. Let us assume we are in NP President Manny Villar’s shoes. How would we develop a game plan? As we will see, it is a tad problematic. But before getting to that, let’s get some background … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Philippine Government, Philippine Politics

Bangsamoro Basic Law – Managing Risks

Posted by JoeAm on March 29, 2015 · 269 Comments 

By Pinoy in Europe PART 1: INTRODUCTION The purpose of the BBL is to finally put an end to decades, even centuries of conflict in the Muslim-dominated southern regions of the Philippines. It was made in the hope of empowering the region and ending conflict by increasing affluence. This is a great hope and important … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government