The only way for the Philippines is forward

The Dalian trains are finally being put to use on the MRT-3 after ten years, having been kept from being used by pettiness. After two rants, I have something nicer to say about the Philippines. There are people there now who understand building on what is already there. Marcos Jr. following the 1987 Constitution, or … Continue reading

What does the Philippines dream of?

This is not about the Philippine dream, which probably doesn’t exist, even as the Philippines certainly dreams of many things, and one good way to see those dreams is through the stories that Filipinos like best. In the Philippines, a lot is felt more than thought. Intellectuals and reformist politicians often aren’t in touch with … Continue reading

The Philippines and the world

My mixed perspective when it comes to the Philippines and the world does show me that the relationship between the two can be strange. This is also visible in Philippine politics. Marcos Sr. was very eager to show a positive image of the Philippines to the world. Some Filipinos loved Duterte for thumbing his nose … Continue reading

Democracy: Grace, Wisdom and Confidence

Two prior blogs on Philippine governance and culture dealt with: (1) subservience as an ethical value in the Philippines which makes speaking out risky, and (2) an apparent lack of patriotic humility among most leaders in the Philippines; this results in the failure of dynastic leaders to respect that opposing views help keep democracy centered. … Continue reading