In defense of knowledge: Philippine victimhood, the sequel

A recent blog by Pinoy in Europe gave me the opportunity to sit back and reflect for a change, rather than engage in the dialogue. PiE’s point was that it is time for Filipinos to set aside the notion of being victims, which is a powerless role, and aspire to take control of their lives, … Continue reading →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Education, Family/Parenting/Children, Religion

The ethics of impunity

Often I overlay my observations about the Philippines with personal history, that being American, corporate, and socially liberal, touched with military, sports, travels and family. Often, I am met with the pointed point that “we do it differently here, Joe”, or its obverse, “the US is the same way.” Well, if I am here to learn … Continue reading →

Filed under Blogging/Journalism, Citizenship/Patriotism, Crime/Corruption, Culture and Arts, Laws and Ethics

Rising from victimhood

  By Pinoy in Europe For many centuries, Filipinos have seen themselves as victims. As part of colonial manipulation, the Spanish friars inculcated into a formerly warrior people a spirit of passivity and glorified victimhood similar to what they were not able to teach to people in Europe anymore, which had passed from the Middle … Continue reading →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Culture and Arts, Philippine Politics, Religion

When military is undisciplined, failure follows

There is always some risk when I overlay American ways on Filipino ways. For one thing, it is often okay for there to be two different ways. No problem. But I think in the matter of military discipline, the codes are universal. So I will overlay my own American experiences on what I observed during … Continue reading →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Crime/Corruption, Foreign Affairs and Defense

How the Nacionalista Party can regain prominence in the Philippines

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 →

Filed under Citizenship/Patriotism, Philippine Government, Philippine Politics