Our own intellectual Truth Commission, starting with the BBL

Posted by JoeAm on February 5, 2015 · 25 Comments 

As the Philippine National government, or “Central government” as it is termed in the Bangsmoro Basic Law (BBL), wrestles with the aftermath of a horrid battle in the cornfields of Mindanao, let us take a different approach. The official government investigations will center on the battlefield and from that consider the BBL. We will start … Continue reading →

Category Crime/Corruption, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government, Religion

Mindanao . . . An Opinion

Posted by JoeAm on February 2, 2015 · 255 Comments 

  by Taga Bundok This is the opinion of one person who has spent some time in Mindanao, and has been paying attention for a while. It is not meant to be presented as “truth” or as the only possible valid opinion. There is a great deal that could be said and most perspectives deserve … Continue reading →

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

The Pope brought love. It lasted two weeks.

Posted by JoeAm on February 1, 2015 · 112 Comments 

I am ignorant in my ways, of that I am convinced. People here and elsewhere have told me so. I agree, because my emotional and intellectual capacities do not comprehend. The topic today is grief and compassion. grief, ɡrēf/, noun, deep sorrow, especially that caused by someone’s death. Synonyms: sorrow, misery, sadness, anguish, pain, distress, heartache, heartbreak,agony, torment, affliction, … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Family/Parenting/Children, Philippine Government, Religion

Way too many Filipinos are looking for culprits; grief is personal

Posted by JoeAm on January 30, 2015 · 159 Comments 

I got into a twitter argument with popular columnist Boo Chanco over President Aquino’s decision to welcome Japanese investors to the Philippines rather than welcome war casualties for burial. Boo was livid about it. I like Boo. He did a story about one of my blogs long ago. He thinks earnestly. Blogger Cocoy Dayao explained that this … Continue reading →

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

BBL, MILF, BIFF, PNP, AFP, CIA and ISIS

Posted by JoeAm on January 28, 2015 · 103 Comments 

As with many topics, I don’t have full knowledge or complete conviction in my opinions. I put one version out here, as close as I can get to what I think is right, and leave it to the discussion to correct or re-aim the matter. This one I will break into two components: (1) the … Continue reading →

Category Crime/Corruption, Foreign Affairs and Defense, Philippine Government, USA/Americans