Democracy on the brink in the Philippines

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 →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government

RESIGN, PRESIDENT DUTERTE

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 →

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

The rise of a new authoritarian regime in Asia

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 →

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

The (Im)moral Justifications of Duterte’s Anti-drug War

w By Edgar Lores “Human rights are not worthy of the name if they do not protect the people we don’t like as well as those we do.” Trevor Phillips Three ethical doctrines have been asserted to justify President Rodrigo Duterte’s anti-drug war. These are: o The utilitarian doctrine o The ethnocentrism doctrine o The … Continue reading →

Filed under Crime/Corruption, Laws and Ethics, Philippine Government

Metamorphosis and Metastasis

w By Andrew Lim Two big polysyllabic words. Nevertheless, it has made its way into mainstream use via different routes, one through early education, the other when illness strikes someone you know. Top of mind answer for metamorphosis is the butterfly, which starts as an icky itchyworm (sosyal for higad) and finishes as a work … Continue reading →

Filed under Culture and Arts, Education