The Left Is Out To Lunch

Posted by JoeAm on August 19, 2013 · 19 Comments 

The Humpty Dumpty New World Dictionary provides us with the following definitions: Left. (noun) That branch of politics that thinks government ought to take care of the people broadly as a top priority. Right. (noun) That branch of politics that thinks the people benefit broadly if government allows capitalism to work with little restraint. Note … Continue reading →

Category Economy, Philippine Politics

Breaking up Dynasties by Breaking up Campaign Contributions

Posted by JoeAm on July 26, 2013 · 37 Comments 

Compiling this blog has been fascinating as I was forced to confront my own presumptions and discover them to be, if not wrong, at least a bit shaky. The headline was written in anticipation of what the blog would conclude.  Let’s go through the facts and arguments and see where we come out. Philippine democracy … Continue reading →

Category Citizenship/Patriotism, Philippine Politics

Observations on a Philippine Election

Posted by JoeAm on May 15, 2013 · 48 Comments 

The 2013 bout of nationalistic censorship is done and foreigner JoeAm can speak once more about candidates. Let me offer some observations: Congratulations to the Philippines for conducting a rigorous and well-organized election, one where people may be inclined to complain about the hiccups, but that cannot change one thing: this was a huge logistical … Continue reading →

Category Philippine Politics

Discussion Topic: Authoritarianism and the Stateless Society

Posted by JoeAm on April 22, 2013 · 54 Comments 

Your mission if you agree to accept it . . . The real JoeAm?   JoeAm will be on family vacation for two weeks, returning in early May. He drops off this blog as a voluntary mission for readers, ala “Mission Impossible”.    Here’s the framing: The Philippines is an authoritarian society. Interpersonal rivalries are … Continue reading →

Category Philippine Government, Philippine Politics · Tagged with , ,

Electioneering and the Blogging Foreigner

Posted by JoeAm on March 15, 2013 · 78 Comments 

I have been silenced . . . Philippine Immigration has made clear that foreigners are not to engage in Philippine elections in any way. Not even open our mouths or tap our keyboards. Immigration has announced that it will deport foreigners who violate Section 4 of COMELEC Resolution 9615: Resolution 9615, SECTION 4. Prohibition against Foreign … Continue reading →

Category Blogging/Journalism, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Politics · Tagged with , , , ,