Absurdistan: the Philippines under Duterte

By Joe America My thanks to contributor and blogging colleague Irineo B. R. Salazar (Filipino-German Learning Center) for the perfect characterization of the Philippines in 2017. Absurdistan It is absurd when killing is adopted as a state-enterprise, in the guise of fighting drugs . . . without the compassion that recognizes drugs are a symptom of the … Continue reading

A wry, unscientific, but very meaningful poll

By Joe America I posted a poll on Twitter and got the results shown below. Let’s talk about it. The first thing those who don’t like the results will say is that “It is not scientific. It is flawed.” Haha. Okay, sure. But of course it is not meant to be scientific. It is a … Continue reading

Has democracy decapitated respect and decency?

By Popoy Del R. Cartanio Feeling like I am putting a grandson to sleep with a bedtime story and avoiding the Once Upon A Time formula, I began the hypnosis with a yawn . . . I read long ago in some libraries, about the year 399 before Jesus Christ was born and 30 years … Continue reading

Anatomy of the battle of Marawi

  By Chemrock In the age of Mocha symbolism, I quote military historian Byron Farwell “….. armies stand as disturbing reminders that democratic processes are not always the best”. When the army is activated to quell an internal strife, it is often a fine line whether it is propping up or dismantling democratic institutions. The … Continue reading

The Short, Short Lives of a Dilawan and a Dutertard

By Wilfredo G. Villanueva It’s bound to happen sooner than later. Greg, the Dutertard, and Mario, the Dilawan meet at last after avoiding each other since the new President assumed office. Greg: Bro! Mario: Hey! Greg and Mario: (almost at the same time) Long time no see! They embrace like long-lost brothers, which they are. … Continue reading