Not Your Ordinary Summer Activity

Issue 10 AY 11-12

Students have no class on May 1. Just like any other holiday, people usually use this time for leisure, stress relief, bonding with the family and other activities. But for other people, May 1 is no ordinary holiday.

May 1 commemorates and celebrates the workers of the world. In the Philippines, May 1 is usually tied with the concept of workers protesting in the streets and demanding improvements from the current administration. But more than that, May 1 is a special day because people from all walks of life - whether laborers, students, ordinary citizens, - join the Filipino worker in his call for more quality and decent jobs, security of tenure in his employment, better wages, and the protection of his rights and privileges that he deserves.

I had the privilege of attending the mobilization last May 1, 2012. In the heat of the summer, thousands of Filipinos walked the streets to make their voices heard. From morning until noon, you could see that everyone there had a purpose - a purpose that should be worth fighting for every single day, not just on this special day. The challenge for us is not to see this as any other mobilization, but rather a form of activism that transcends different perspectives.  

The laborers call for the passage of the Security of Tenure Bill, the across-the-board wage increase, the guarantee of their right to organize and form unions, and of course better working conditions for each and every one of them. Disputes arise from their call, citing problems such as owners losing profit, the economy not being able to provide the salaries – the list goes on and on. That is why maybe for some people, they see this cause as irrelevant. Workers fight for their rights every single year, yet nothing really changes. But the moment that we lose sight of why these works fight for their rights, why they walk the streets enduring the summer heat, we in a sense, a bit of our humanity. The moment that we can stand to see the employee suddenly being terminated from work, the tricycle driver working hard to earn a decent living and the security guard working long night shifts just to provide for his family, and be apathetic about it, that is when the vision of a better country and a brighter future us and the future generation starts to slip away.

From a students' standpoint, why should I join this activity when there are countless of other things to do during this summer? I believe that the issue involves us all even at this early age. We may not see it now, but as future members of the workforce, we should protect and support the call of the workers. The matter is not far from us. We only need to look at our surroundings to see proof that there is a better environment that can be provided for the Filipino worker. The challenge for us is to see beyond our own insecurities, our own selfish demands, our own self interests, and to start acting and helping others.

Next year, there will still be a May 1 holiday. There will still be people gathering in the streets, marching along during the intense heat. But the question is – will there be a celebration of the workers victory or will it be the continuing call of fighting for the betterment of the laborers and society? The answer depends on you.

Chris Erwin SG Alquizalas, 10A

 * Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect the views of the Academic Committee or of UP POLITICA

To Build Or Not To Build

Issue 9 AY 11-12

As a commuter, I have experienced my fair share of the so called, “good and bad times for commuting.” It is usually a bad day to commute during morning and afternoon rush hours. This leaves us the times in between the rush hours as the better time for travelling. I travel from place to place, usually by public transportation or by private vehicle, but the most common inconvenience that a commuter would face is that of heavy traffic. Countless of times we’ve heard our friends, family, and colleagues mutter the same excuse: “It’s so traffic here! Sorry! I’ll be a bit late!” or your friend saying “Maghintay ka lang diyan, malapait na kami. 5 minutes.” But they end up getting there after 20 minutes on top of that 5 due to unexpected traffic clogging up the roads. This is why the Citra – Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC) is proposing to the Aquino administration to start a Skyway-style project connecting Buendia to Balintawak. Dubbed the Citra – PNCC Alignment (CPA for short), this project’s main goal is to lessen traffic passing along Edsa, consequently decongesting it. A major detail to take note of from this venture is that the government will not spend a single centavo on the construction of the project. However, the toll will be capped at Php99 for the entire 14-kilometer stretch. Another point is that the project would cost only about 24 billion pesos as opposed to the initial 35 billion as well as the promise by the Citra-PNCC that the project would be finished in 30 months, being well within the term of President Benigno Aquino III.

If the Aquino administration decides to let the project push through Citra-PNCC President and CEO Shadik Wahono state, “everyone, not just motorists and commuters, will benefit from this project.” Motorists, including those who operate public utility vehicles, will experience a less congested road way along Edsa while commuters will enjoy faster travel times. With less vehicles travelling along the road, there will also be less risk of accidents, not to mention having less angry drivers behind the wheel as well.

Other benefits consist of both the direct and indirect effects of the actual construction of the skyway and when it’s completed. According to Wahono (CEO of PNCC), the project would directly stimulate economy due to the employment of the construction workers and the utilization of raw materials to be used for the project. An indirect effect would be the probable increase of land value due to the changes the skyway can impose in the future.
Some argue that it is not probable for the project to be done so cheaply and so quickly, but we cannot doubt the positive effects it has on the citizens. However it may seem alarming that it is not the government who is funding this project, it may also serve as an advantage against those who might criticize the project in the same way that the government-funded MRT/LRT project was criticized.

There is no final word from the Aquino administration on whether or not the project will get the go-ahead signal as of yet, but for me it seems clear what the final decision should be. It will benefit some people for short term duration and will benefit a lot more people through a longer period as well. Sounds like a pretty good deal to me.


Kenneth Geolina, 11B

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect the views of the Academic Committee or of UP POLITICA

The Queen's Fall Down

Issue 8 A.Y. 1112

I thought the series of events that unfolded in our very eyes last week are controversial enough, the Supreme Court voted 8-6 in favor of the issuance of TRO to lift the hold departure order of the DOJ, then we saw a weak Gloria Macapagal Arroyo trying to leave the country to seek medical help abroad but Justice Secretary Leila De lima stopped GMA’s attempt in the process defying Supreme Court order on the ground that the Motion for Reconsideration that they have filled was not yet resolved by the high tribunal because of this action GMA was forced to go back to St. Lukes Medical Center in Taguig. But come this week we have realize that there are still yet to come, Pasay City Judge Jesus Mupas issued warrant of arrest to GMA because of her alleged participation in the 2007 electoral sabotage and was placed under hospital arrest. Indeed this is the most controversial topic in our nation today, it created debates from different people in our society because of the many perspectives that we can utilize to look at this particular topic so I’m aware that mine will only be part of this many perspectives.

The Great Jose Rizal once said, “Why independence, if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?” As far as GMA’s allies are concerned (In fact even some of President Aquino’s allies) we can use this framework to explain the story behind today’s biggest issue, they said that P-noy is taking this on a personal level it is evident when they impede GMA’s departure of the country even when it means defying the rule of the highest tribunal in the land. They also claimed that P-noy is using his influence to incarcerate GMA for the alleged cheating and corruption allegations. In effect of this according to them, P-noy is taking the short cut on his “Madaan na tuwid” virtue.
But GMA’s critics tells us another story, according to them it is just right for the Executive Branch to do that because the Motion for Reconsideration that the Government filled was not yet resolved by the SC and according to Justice Sereno the petitioner’s camp failed to comply with one of the conditions that was set by the high tribunal (The petitioners shall appoint a legal representative common to both of them who will receive subpoena, orders, and other legal processes on their behalf during their absence.) she also inquired why the petitioner is questioning a circular order  which she created herself during her administration.

After laying down both sides of the argument it is just imperative for me to take a position. I believe the second argument represents the general will of our people, now why did I say so? One of the main reasons why Noynoy Aquino won the election is that they believe he will file cases against the alleged corruption and other misdeeds that the past administration have committed and in line with that he use the slogan “Kung walang corrupt walang mahirap!” that emphasizes his main flat form which is to somehow lessen the corrupt practices that was seen in the past government. Seeing this picture we can directly say that majority of our people want to know the truth behind these allegations. Somehow Arroyo’s camp kept on insisting her right to travel and I gave her that but just like Neal Cruz stated in his column “Every right has its limits.” that is when it is crosses the rights of other people and in this context it is the right of our people to know what had happened in their Government during those 9 years! Of course GMA camp defended that by saying she will seek medical help abroad because no one here is capable to perform the operation needed to cure her illness. Contrary to this claim Philippine Medical Association and the Health Secretary insisted that GMA is healing and the operation she needed can be perform in our country and even by a non specialize doctor! So at this point we would want to choose between the arguments of highly paid lawyers versus well established doctors. The Government even offered to send specialize doctor in our country if GMA really wanted a foreign doctor. Now, we can ask the inevitable question: Why does GMA insist on leaving the country? I know you can answer that question by yourself.

Now that the queen is falling down, we are about to see the repetition of the historic fall down of the king 10 years ago, as the song of Celine Dion goes “It’s all coming back to me now!”.

Romard Kevin Ramoso, 11A

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect the views of the Academic Committee or of UP POLITICA

The Height of Injustice

Issue 7 A.Y. 1112

Despite Vice President Jejomar Binay’s recommendations, President Benigno Aquino III declared that state burial or military honors will not be accorded to Former President and Dictator Ferdinand Marcos. 
A state burial is an honor accorded only to heads of state, soldiers and other people of significant contribution to the country, while a funeral with military honors usually involves the firing of shots as salute and the draping of the flag on the coffin of the deceased. 

The fundamental question here is: is President Marcos worthy of these honors? Since his downfall, Marcos has been known for being a dictator and authoritarian. His administration was marked by human rights violations, corruption and nepotism. How could someone like that be accorded as a hero?

But upon further reflection, it would also be considerable to note that as a head of state, Marcos certainly made significant contributions to the country. His administration was marked by wide-ranging infrastructure development and economic reforms. The Cultural Center of the Philippines, The Philippine Heart Center and the North Luzon Expressway are some of the Marcos administration’s notable achievements that stand strong until now. Aside from his achievements as a leader, Marcos was also a lawyer par excellence and an acclaimed war hero. 

Aside from the aforementioned considerations, the interests of the Filipino people and the different sectors of society must also be noted. First and foremost, we must think of the victims of Martial Law; those who suffered from political persecution, torture, and those who lost their loved ones. As President Aquino put it, it would be the height of injustice to honor the mastermind of all their sufferings. However, people like Gregorio Honasan and Bongbong Marcos believe that Aquino’s decision caused nothing but division in the country, and made worse the suffering brought by Martial Law.

Taking these things into consideration, I believe President Aquino made the right decision. I believe the Libingan ng mga Bayani must be put in a pedestal; it is an honor that must be bestowed only upon those who made positive contributions to the Philippines and its people. Yes, President Marcos was brilliant and made remarkable progress during his administration, but these achievements cannot overshadow the fact that he plunged the Philippines into military rule, violated the Filipinos’ human rights and sunk our country into millions of debts.

We should recognize the achievements of this man as leader; that is giving him what is due. But by declaring him a hero, we are rewriting history and overglorifying a dictator.

Trixie Peralta, 11A


* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect the views of the Academic Committee or of UP POLITICA

Persecution Amidst the Inevitable

Issue 7 A.Y. 1112

  

Within this week, Pastor Yousef Nadarkhani, will die due to his defiance of the Sharia law, which he should renounce his faith towards Jesus Christ. The Iranian Supreme Court gave its final verdict amidst of the appeals of Nadarkhani's family because of the fact that he has denied the state religion, Islam. 

The State of Iran declared its sovereignty as an Islamic state and putting its principles into effect since its foundation in the late 20th century. Recently, Iran has continued proudly its efforts as an Islamic State without any confrontation or intervention by the western powers, except to the Nuclear Power program which was put into effect for about two years ago. But it was long debated in the Iranian legislature about the issue of religious freedom within the state and that it has to consider the Christian minorities in the state. 

Once it was a sign of a smooth sail to Nadarkhani because of the findings that he was indeed a Christian and he hasn't practiced the Muslim faith long ago, which according to the defense panel is an exception to Sharia rule which is against apostasy (leaving Islam), since Nadarkhani wasn't even practicing the religion before he became a Christian. It was promising at first, but the light got dim when the final verdict was heard. 

Yousef Nadarkhani's case was defended by Mohammed Ali Dadkah who is reportedly now facing charges by using "acts and propaganda against the Islamic Regime". It is natural for the defense panel, to defend its client but I think it is not rightful for the Iranian Supreme Court to denounce his findings as a case of libel against the state. In the case of his client, many sources are now saying that he will be executed secretly in order for the people not be encouraged to do a mass riot. Perhaps by hanging, which is the most common means of execution in Iran. 

The International Community is now pressuring Iran to release Yousef, which the government will not acknowledge since it will cause them a dilemma of defeat when they release him, yet if they don't and executed him, it will cause a massive crime against humanity and for thwarting the right of religious freedom given to an individual. The Iranian government argued that it is based on the principles of Sharia and they must do what is written. 

We all know that our freedom is the birthright of every individual and it must be protected by the state which is a part of the Social Contract. Many times the Christian and Muslim faith has been clashing with blood spilled on the pages of history, both were persecuted by other religion because of difference and defiance against the status quo. In this modern era, persecution we have to admit, is still there. In the case of Nadarkhani and his family, it is indeed a nightmare to be facing the open arms of death just because of your faith. 

At the end of the day, we will realize that we ourselves are persecuted in a different manner. Even in the Philippines, persecution still lives which was emphasized by the religious minority in the country, they too are experiencing the state of Nadarkhani in Iran. Let us not have more Nadarkhanis in this realm, for we as an individual has the right to religious freedom.

- Brandon P. De Luna, 11A

 * Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect the views of the Academic Committee or of UP POLITICA

Striking Against Outsourcing Alongside Pedring

Issue 7 A.Y. 1112

As typhoon Pedring was devastating the country on Tuesday, members of the Philippine Airlines Employees’ Association stopped their work and went on a strike opposing the planned outsourcing next year. 172 domestic and international flights were cancelled not only due to the typhoon but also due to work stoppage and approximately 14,000 passengers were affected.

Malacañang Palace called the mass action “insensitive” since the country was already experiencing a typhoon but despite that, these employees still insisted on walking out of their jobs. President Benigno Aquino III said that members of the PALEA who participated in the strike shall be held liable for upsetting the airport services. Under the Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2008, any person who disrupts the services of an airport is criminally liable, may be imprisoned or may be entitled to pay a fine ranging from 50,000 to 500,000 pesos. PAL President and COO Jaime J. Bautista said in an interview that what the protesters did is an illegal strike and constitutes administrative and criminal charges.

Moreover, President Aquino said that a meeting between the Ninoy Aquino International Airport management and PALEA members was held on Monday and the latter assured that they would be no strike. However, contrary to their earlier statement, about 300 PAL ground workers still walked out of their works to protest. The legal team of President Aquino is on a study on the possibility of filing economic sabotage charges against these workers.

The said protest against outsourcing may be viewed in two different ways. First, the workers merely showed participation in the form of activism. Since the outsourcing sees 2,600 workers being laid off by October of this year, members wanted to retain their jobs because it is their only source of living and they have families to support. PAL said that compensation to laid-off employees will include 100% cash payment of vacation and sick leave balance regardless of years of service, one-year extension of medical and hospitalization package, and continued trip-pass benefits depending on the years of service rendered. But PALEA members say that the termination is not “necessitated nor justified by the company's financial situation”; hence, a strike. Most of the employees have been working for the airlines for years and some are already old making it hard for them to search for new jobs.

But whatever the situation is, it is clearly the obligation of these workers to serve the passengers. A number of flights were suspended due to the impact of typhoon Pedring so they have to attend to the customers’ needs. Their action was in part insensitive because they did not consider the fact that thousands of people will be affected. They could have done the mass protest on a different day, when the country is not in a situation where it is losing a number of lives and infrastructures. Also, they should have held on to their assurance that they will not push through with the protest. They must have planned this step very carefully and made sure that it would not be a big hassle both for the airlines and the passengers. Because of this insensitivity, they might not only lose their jobs but also be charged with administrative cases.

PAL management says that the outsourcing will push through on October 1, 2011 as they have scheduled earlier. Flights will be reduced as the flag carrier prepares for the transfer of catering, ground handling and call center reservations units to third party service providers. In addressing the issue, PAL management and the administration should talk about the welfare of the employees very carefully and lay out efficient plans regarding it. On the other hand, the government is just adhering to the rule of law if they continue to file charges against the protesters. In this case, there must be an effort from the PAL management and PALEA alike. After all, both parties will be affected when the said outsourcing is implemented.

- Judienne Capiz, 11A

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect the views of the Academic Committee or of UP POLITICA

The Shamcey Fever: A Philippine Pride

Issue 6 A.Y. 1112

Trending worldwide, this is indeed another remarkable year for the Miss Universe 2011, and for the Filipinos, another victory is celebrated. Our very own, Shamcey Supsup won the third runner up. But then we question:  Is this the real place for her? Why did not make it as Miss Universe 2011, where most of us argued that she gave the best answer among others? Some said that it's the judges’ decision that disappoint us. Even politicians expect more, international personalities cast their choice for her. But for awhile, how does this pageant enters the room and creates another discussion that matters?

For one thing, I am sure that die hard Filipino fans are now frustrated because of the disappointments they felt on the results. I can hardly see people who are so happy for the decision, most sentiments from corners to corners tell us that she could have won the crown or at least the first runner-up. Now, we can see how question and answer drives the competition and this value or essence of having an interpreter for one thing. This tells us that even in pageants, nuances do exist. For this matter, questions given are of same equal importance in picturing the society today. We can see that the ideas are coming from how a particular choice will change the world, how beauty can be powerful to be an effective tool for good cause, even to limitations and involvement of religion, and many other aspects of modern life.

Well, it is distinct that the very nature of a question and answer portion in any pageant is to assess who deserves to win the crown and to showcase the intelligence of those who make it for the final cut. In this context, most questions here are subject as to how they will make or break these questions just to get the title. It is indeed the doorway for success, for this will be their starting point, the beauty queen stardom.

During the last minutes of the competition and with the absence of any interpreter, Shamcey was confident in answering the question: "Would you change your religious belief to marry the person that you love?", “I would not marry the person I love because the first person I love is my God and if the person loves me, he should also love my God,” she said. And this answer paved way for her to rank first in the fan votes among the top five.

The discussion enters when people see how Shamcey performed well during the entire pageant and yet ranked third runner up in the end. And for this, it is time for us to look for commentaries and weigh them to see which will count.

It is given that people from Binibining Pilipinas and other bodies from the pageant world will be very proud of what Shamcey achieved. From them, entering the top 5 already signals victory. They believe that defeating countries like USA and Venezuela is also a milestone. And being the third runner up in the competition is really a great thing for them too. While, politicians like Miriam Santiago are vocal on their disappointment on the result. And as senator Santiago said: that if ever she can file a legal remedy, she could have done that. On one side, international personality like Oprah felt that it will be Shamcey who will win. And coming from these different commentaries, we can see the importance of the popular support and how it affects the shock of the event. It is then clear that having a pageant like Miss Universe, people are put to open field – a field where everyone can be heard.

The tie-back in our question of how worthy Shamcey for the crown is simple. At the end of the day, with all these arguments that we have, still, Shamcey Supsup made the Filipinos proud again. Second, we proved them how much competent Filipinos in answering questions without the benefit of a translator. Third, we showed the world that Filipina beauties are always good in and out. And for the last, we acknowledge and respect the views of the people without sacrificing our prestige to let the world see how worthy we are for the crown.

 - Neil Andrew Race, 11A

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect the views of the Academic Committee or of UP POLITICA.

Feast of the Faith

3rd Semester '10-'11 Issue 2

Pope John Paul II has achieved one big step towards sainthood as his beatification commenced in the Holy City on May 1. The crowd in St. Peter’s Square was the largest since his death in 2005, manifesting that the support for the pope has not waned in the past six years. Blessed John Paul II was known for being the most travelled pope and for his efforts to purify the history of the Roman Catholic Church when he asked for forgiveness for its errors in over 2000 years of existence.

Pope Benedict claimed that Blessed John Paul was an inspiring example of prayer and cheerfulness throughout his 27 years as the head of the Catholic Church.

As a pope, John Paul II broke the tradition of pomp, finding ways to make himself and the Catholic Church accessible and visible internationally. He travelled to 129 countries, talking of peace and denouncing human rights violations and is notable for his efforts to establish peaceful relations among the religions in the world. He was the first pope to pray in a synagogue, to enter a mosque in Syria, and to meet with different religious leaders in 1986. He is also claimed to have thawed the Communist presence in Central and Eastern Europe.

However, in light of the scandal of pedophile priests that tainted JPII’s pontificate, many criticized Pope Benedict’s decision to speed up the path for his sainthood. Pope Benedict permitted the traditionally decade-long process to start only weeks after Blessed John Paul’s death.

He will be most remembered by Filipinos who took part in the World Youth Day held in the Philippines in 1995 which mobilized 5 million people from all over the world. But he will also be remembered for his moral campaigns on family values, extramarital sex, homosexuality, birth control, euthanasia, and abortion.

Ironically, at this moment, the battle waged over the Reproductive Health Bill in the country is escalating. The Church however is at a standstill with critics and the faithful alike, waiting whether it will stand for the traditional tenets of the faith or heed the call of many social groups that argue for the bill’s passage.

Behind the festivities of what Pope Benedict claimed to be a “feast of the faith,” is the inevitable struggle that the Church constantly faces in the modern age: while it aims to preserve its teachings and the traditions that have kept it strong in over 2000 years, it also needs to remain relevant and responsive to the social realities of the day.

This call for a more relevant and responsive institution begs the question of whether such a challenge only facilitates the further politicization of the Church. In the country, the reality is that Church-State relations are essentially blurred. The political role of the Catholic Church is significant, but more importantly, it is rooted historically. Because of the Catholic Church’s hand in mobilizing the People Power, it has long been given a favored position in Philippines politics particularly in selected administrations. This has allowed the Church to deviate from its traditional role of simply serving as moral guidance for the people.

The challenge for the Roman Catholic Church here is to strike a balance. The Church’s strength lies in its unswerving adherence to tradition and to dogmatic teachings that have stood the test of time. However, its potency as an institution depends also on its ability to be an instrument of social change without necessarily intervening in the political sphere and its ability to be responsive to the context within which it is situated.

John Paul II’s beatification represents the persistence of millennium-long Catholic traditions. It manifests the Church’s recognition of his extraordinary devotion to prayer and to his many efforts for peace and religious tolerance; but it also indirectly represents an affirmation of the Church’s longstanding position on many issues concerning society today.

Pola Lia Celina Lamarca, 2009A

Of Means, Ends, and Divine Intervention

Issue 5 A.Y. 1112

"We assure you that the bishops concerned are ready to accept responsibility for their action and to face the consequences if it would be proven unlawful, anomalous, and unconstitutional. We assure you that their action was done without malice. Out of their sincere desire to help their people, they failed to consider the pitfalls to which these grants could possibly lead them. They have also expressed their readiness to do everything that is necessary to heal this wound so that we can all move forward in hope." - "A time of pain, a time of grace (A Pastoral Statement)" by NEREO P. ODCHIMAR, D.D., President, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, July 11, 2011

Most bibliophiles I know wouldn't admit to being a Dan Brown fan in public for fear of figurative flogging, but I am not ashamed to say that Angels and Demons is one of my favorite books. What Angels and Demons gives its audience is not just shock, but sacrilegious shock. A tale where the holiest of people do the unholiest of things to "urge their followers to turn back towards the light" is scandalous at best and deeply frightening at worst; imagine Saint Teresa possessed by Niccolò Machiavelli.

Stories like this play on the level of trust we ascribe to our religious leaders. This trust has been drilled into our brains by parents and grandparents, by years of socialization, by participation in our own religious communities, and for some of us, by Catholic Schools. Suggesting that they can be capable of something other than the true, the good, and the beautiful is not only difficult to accept, it goes against the very rules of the game we have grown up with. It is this complicated negotiation of meaning that the recent issue on the "Pajero Bishops" forced us to deal with.

Here are the seven names: Bontoc-Lagawe Bishop Rodolfo Beltran, Bangued-Abra Bishop Leopoldo Jaucian, Cotabato Archbishop Orlando Quevedo, Basilan Bishop Martin Jumoad, Zamboanga Bishop Romulo Valles, Butuan Bishop Juan de Dios Pueblos, and Ilocos Sur Bishop Ernesto Salgado. They were proven to have received seven million pesos from the PCSO during the Arroyo Administration. The money was used to buy “utility vehicles,” which were allegedly used to service the poor in their provinces. When the so-called PCSO Scandal broke out, they returned the vehicles. Last Thursday, the bishops were cleared of any and all responsibility, after which they asked current PCSO Chair Margarita Juico to resign for divulging the story to the media “without accuracy” and “inciting malice where there was none.” Article VI, Section 29, Paragraph 2 of the Philippine Constitution of 1987 will hold up, but against PCSO and not the bishops.

But then, as the Church has always reminded us, moral laws should always be in consideration. And in that context the true mistake of the seven bishops is much like Machiavelli's: they failed to see the real relationship between means and ends. Machiavelli believed that any and all means are acceptable as long as the desired end is realized. But reality is more complex than that, and we must not forget that ends are shaped by the means employed to achieve them. They claim that they used the funds to help the poor of their communities, but that is beside the point. The more important question is, at what cost? Did it buy their silence, their cooperation, their support? We can only speculate, but we have all lived long enough to know that money always comes with strings.

The senate has allowed this to pass, and pass quietly as so much has before it.  “Why concentrate on the P7 million given to the bishops when there are billions that were apparently abused or wasted? Why are we being led down this path? Who is manipulating the scenarios?” asks Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Let the men of God go with not even a slap on the wrist, there is no legal case, and there are more expensive fish to fry. What's seven million after all? Like Pajeros, Monteros, Stradas and Crosswinds, justice and time also have price tags.

Are the seven Bishops truly blameless? Can we take them at their word that the cars had nothing to do with exchanged favors? The affairs of these men of God are not divorced from politics, especially not here and not today. It would be more convenient to absolve them in all senses, and to humor them in their demands for Juico’s resignation. But we must continue to pursue this issue, debate upon it, understand its social implications, not because we want to "launch an anti-Catholic Church Campaign" but because we must learn to speak out against blatantly wrong methods. Ultimately, the means shape the quality of the end result, and unless we speak out, and do so soon, the only thing that will be able to lift our country out of its current predicament is divine intervention.

 - Mary Roseann Ramirez, 09A

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect those of the Academic Committee or UP POLITICA.

Punchline

Issue 4 A.Y. 1112

Depending on who is talking, Sara Duterte, the lady Mayor of Davao City, is either a heroine or a goon. After being caught on camera by the major television networks while punching a sheriff who, despite a request for a postponement of two hours, ordered the start of the demolition of the shanties of some 217 families of informal settlers in Davao City, Sara Duterte became a YouTube sensation overnight. She became the topic of discussions in barber shops and conversations in coffee and deli shops.  Almost everyone has personal view about the incident.

Sara has been charged administratively with the Ombudsman by the Sheriffs Confederation of the Philippines. Another lawyer wants her disbarred. The DILG Secretary has ordered and conducted its own investigation and Malacañang has declared that it will observe a hands-off policy on the issue. On the other hand, Abe Andres, the sheriff who got the ire of Duterte, has stated publicly that he does not hold any grudge against Sara.  Judge Carpio, the judge who authorized the demolition, ordered a 10-day stay of the demolition.  Moreover, the people of Davao City held a rally in support of Mayor Duterte.

The incident involving Mayor Duterte is a study in local leadership –- because the squatter problem is very local. The incident can be viewed from two perspectives: legal and humanitarian. From the legal point of view, the demolition must proceed because according to the Latin phrase, dura lex sed lex:  the law may be harsh, but it is the law.  From the human consideration point of view, provide the squatters with a habitable relocation site before demolition.  Mayor Duterte however viewed the situation from the point of view as a leader. The leader has the responsibility to take care of his constituents. And responsibility is not always dependent on the law.  This responsibility must combine law, human compassion, justice, management and leadership together.  Mayor Duterte understands the need for the demolition.  However, on that point, she also knows that violence would erupt if the demolition is carried out without able leadership.  She thinks that she could provide that kind of leadership. She wants to protect the informal settlers as well as the law enforcers.

However, she had that well publicized outburst because as she said, she was quite tired attending to a very serious situation that Davao City has not experienced quite recently.  Lives have been lost in the city floods. However, such action should not be condoned because as a leader, she overreacted.  But, in investigating the incident, her superiors should not overreact either.  This is not a case of corruption or self- aggrandizement. She is loved by her bosses (as President Noynoy Aquino remarks), the Davao City constituents she is only responsible to. A minute of uncalled-for outrage cannot and should not overshadow a year of efficient and unquestioned leadership.  After all, no matter how good a leader she is, she is but human.

 - Carmela Fojas, 10A

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect those of the Academic Committee or UP POLITICA

Will you Divorce me?

Issue 3 A.Y. 1112

After the issue on the Reproductive Health bill, Filipinos are once more at odds with each other in considering another contentious and controversial piece of legislation, the Divorce Bill. After citizens of Malta voted for divorce in a referendum, only the Vatican City and the Philippines remain in the list of states that prohibit divorce - and it seems that Philippines doesn’t want to be  left behind. The debate on legalizing divorce in the country started when this news of Maltese referendum favoring divorce reached the Philippines recently; this eventually encouraged and provoked various groups to make a stronger call for the country to follow in Malta's steps and permit divorce in this predominantly Catholic state.

Comparatively, both countries are the last fortresses of Catholicism, Malta in Europe and Philippines in Asia. Malta is more predominantly Catholic, around 95 %, than Philippines with around 80 %. Also, both countries experience conflicts between the Government and the Church in many aspects.

Recently, the Philippine Congress started working on House Bill 1799, An Act Introducing Divorce in the Philippines, with Gabriela Representatives Luzviminda Ilagan and Emmi de Jesus as the principal authors. It gained supporters and opponents. House of Representatives Speaker Feliciano Belmonte threw his support, as well as Former Gabriela Representative Liza Maza and Akbayan Party Spokesperson Risa Hontiveros. On the other side, Saranggani Rep. Manny Pacquiao, echoing the sentiments of the Catholic Church, took a conservative stand on the bill.

We all know that family is the most basic social institution; a family must not be destroyed, and according to Anti-Divorce people, Divorce destroys the family. Well, for me, Divorce cannot destroy something that is already destroyed. Family members seeking divorce implies that for them, there is no more sense of being a family. Divorce does not destroy the family - only the members of the family can do that. We should recognize the fact that some marriages work, whereas some really don’t. And in cases like these – where a union of two people is more damaging than beneficial – a divorce can be a way of severing ties with your partner.

Physical abuse, irreconcilable differences and conflicting personalities, sexual infidelity, and loss of affection are just some of the many other reasons why marriage doesn’t work. Keeping a couple together locked in their irreparable marriage, would not only mean suffering for them but for their children as well. People against the bill argue that the children suffer if their parents are not together anymore. However, I believe that it is more unhealthy and painful for the children to see their parents always at each other’s throats for the smallest reasons, rather than having parents who are perfectly fine with each other although they are separated and not married anymore.

Divorce offers us a choice. It is not a highway for immorality and degradation of Philippine culture and religious standards. We can legalize divorce here in the Philippines without being a nation composed of people who marry just because divorce is just around the corner in case it fails. We just have to remember and continue living with these culture and religious standards.

It is time to move forward, away from the past and into the modern era. Divorce offers each and everyone the opportunity to start a new life - be it by remarrying or remaining divorced. The rest of the world has given this choice to their citizens; let us offer the same right and opportunity to our fellow Filipinos.

 - Emmalyn Escanilla, 10A

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect those of the Academic Committee or UP POLITICA.

Anniversary of P-Noy: 1 down, 5 to go

Issue 2 AY 1112

It has been almost a year since our country held its recent presidential elections. After the 9 years under President Arroyo, the people clamored for change. And with the recent death of Cory Aquino, Noynoy was pushed to the scene and immediately became a favorite and eventually won. With a promise to curb or even eradicate corruption, he was set to begin his term. Now a year has passed since that time when “Cory magic” still captivated the resolve of the people which resulted to another Aquino in the presidency. What has happened since then? Remembering the year makes one picture the hostage crisis, the Filipino drug mules, the RH Bill, Ombudsman resignation, price hikes, the recent Spratly issue and natural calamities to hit the country. And in a few days, the current administration will be celebrating its first year. Is there something to celebrate? 

Looking back at his platforms, there are many tenets to examine. The best area to examine is transformational leadership. This was his mantra, what supposedly made him stand out among other candidates. He has vowed not to tolerate corruption and to make those who practiced it accountable and also to possibly give a solution to the problem.  The impeachment and eventual resignation of the ombudsman was seen as a good stepping stone to his goal by the public. To make corrupt officials accountable (especially in the past administration), he tried to create EO1 or more commonly known as the Truth Commission, which was later on deemed as unconstitutional. Currently, GMA has yet to answer allegations regarding corruption. She was even criticizing Aquino for how he dealt with the Cotabato flood predicament and even compared her government to Aquino's .

People were also skeptical of his appointments to different positions, creating his own version of KKK(Kaibigan, Kaklase, Kabarilan). He was even accused of failure to discipline them and prevented them from being held accountable on cases of incompetence and illegal acts, contrary to his promise to strengthen institutions. To be fair, his logic behind it was to appoint people whom he was confident that could share his vision and persistence and only a few of these kaibigans, kaklases and kabarilans have been linked to controversies. But what could have been better for him was to immediately sanction or dismiss them out of office when the controversies hounded them.

On improving the situation of the people, there is yet a great progress to be seen. The rise in unemployment remains to be unresolved, as well as poverty, hunger, and housing among many others. The Philippines' dependency on remittances is still large. And these are just some of the economic challenges looming large over the Philippines. The government is taking extensive steps to ensure the even distribution of economic growth within the nation, by promoting overseas and home-bound investments in the Philippine Islands. Regardless of these, the country is facing significant decline in industrial production, gross domestic product, income and employment and sales, but people are still optimistic that things will (hopefully) change for the better.

Suffice to say that one cannot judge him yet, for it is still too early and that there are too many areas to discuss or debate on to grade him. Only a year has passed and P-Noy may or may not be blamed for most of the missteps that has happened. But he has to be accountable. He cannot use the same excuse over and over again of inheriting the problems from the past administration. What must be realized is that there is little room for mistakes with the public eye watching closely and the media ready to publish and report anything, whether good or bad. He has to remain steadfast in achieving his goal. His net satisfaction rating is still very high, compared to other presidents, which is a positive indicator for him. What he has done may be enough for him, but there are still areas for improvement. He has to realize that his duty is never to do just enough, but to exceed his own expectations of others and himself.  Another excuse for further incompetence cannot simply go unnoticed. The Filipino people are still hoping for some kind of miracle. He still has 5 years left to try and do something to that extent.

- Chris Erwin Alquizalas, '10A

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect those of the Academic Committee or UP POLITICA.

Spratlys Spat: Perhaps even more than that

1st Semester 1112 Issue 1

It’s the hot topic recently: Spratlys. This isn’t the first time it popped up as a big issue, however. But to date, it’s at its “hottest” yet. And this latest chapter started around 6 months ago.

In the period of December 2010 to January 2011, there were reports from Vietnam that a Chinese “survey” ship was found within Vietnamese waters. Understandably, Vietnam didn’t like the presence of that ship there, thus sending it away from the area. Yet that ship was insistent in its claims that they were in Chinese waters, regardless of the fact that the area was more than 300 nautical miles away from the nearest point in China, and is around100 nautical miles from the nearest Vietnamese coast.

In February, a Vietnamese “survey” ship then proceeded to that area in what the Vietnamese call the “Eastern Sea”, to survey the area. Yet surprise, surprise, armed Chinese ships quickly surrounded the Vietnamese ship, threatening to attack it unless it “leaves Chinese waters.” This was the similar scenario that happened with Philippine fishing boats near Spratlys in the coming months, except it’s more than 500 nautical miles from China, is well within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone or EEZ, and gunfire was actually heard (i.e. an attack actually happened – they carried out the threat).

But amid this heigthening of tension through Chinese actions, their official stance is quite far from it. Statements like “we must avoid taking unilateral actions” and “those involved must act responsibly” certainly fall on ears full of disbelief. It’s as if they are assuming that those that would listen would actually be fooled by their ridiculous rhetoric. What they said must be avoided, they did; what they said must be done, they didn’t.

Now with recent reports that an oil drilling platform would be enroute to the West Philippine Sea by July, it seems China are ignoring warning from the other claimants, as well as completely discarding what they have “officially” stated. The situation thus leads to many bleak outcomes: if war breaks out, it would most probably involve many countries, and disrupt lives in the country today. Although looking at it positively, a long overdue modernization of the AFP is finally underway. Pending purchases of old frigates by the Navy to augment our current “fleet” of one frigate were recently announced. Although “old” (built in the 70s), the newcomers would be quite young compared to our lone frigate, a WWII-era ship.

Reports too of the Air Force looking to purchase MiG-29s and F/A-18s are considered good news, considering that our Air Force currently cannot be considered as such, due to the lack of fully-functional aircraft.

Yet this is not a wish for war to happen. Of course, peaceful means would still be a priority. With the US Navy’s 7th Fleet being augmented by elements from other fleets for increased military presence, this deterrence may sway China to avoid even more provocative actions in the region, and deal peacefully with the issue. But the “strengthening” of our Armed Forces must still not be ignored: "If you wish for peace, prepare for war."

And a last point: the slightly different reaction of “militants” with regards to the issue. As has been noted by many already, had the US done something their reactions and protests would be swift and decisive. Some claim, that perhaps, these groups are actually connected, in a way, to China, ideologically and financially maybe. I won’t be sharing more of my thoughts on this for now, but suffice to say their relatively “weaker” and “slower” response certainly made more people suspicious of them. And I don’t know, or it’s just me, but I would pick the US at its worst (which is what the militants claim the US of now is) over China at its worst (the China we’ll soon be getting, at this rate).

Jaime Alphonso F. Soria

* Notice to readers: The views expressed in the Weekly Perspective do not necessarily reflect those of the Academic Committee or UP POLITICA.

Feast of Faith

3rd Semester '10-'11 Issue 2

Pope John Paul II has achieved one big step towards sainthood as his beatification commenced in the Holy City on May 1. The crowd in St. Peter’s Square was the largest since his death in 2005, manifesting that the support for the pope has not waned in the past six years. Blessed John Paul II was known for being the most travelled pope and for his efforts to purify the history of the Roman Catholic Church when he asked for forgiveness for its errors in over 2000 years of existence.

Pope Benedict claimed that Blessed John Paul was an inspiring example of prayer and cheerfulness throughout his 27 years as the head of the Catholic Church.

As a pope, John Paul II broke the tradition of pomp, finding ways to make himself and the Catholic Church accessible and visible internationally. He travelled to 129 countries, talking of peace and denouncing human rights violations and is notable for his efforts to establish peaceful relations among the religions in the world. He was the first pope to pray in a synagogue, to enter a mosque in Syria, and to meet with different religious leaders in 1986. He is also claimed to have thawed the Communist presence in Central and Eastern Europe.

However, in light of the scandal of pedophile priests that tainted JPII’s pontificate, many criticized Pope Benedict’s decision to speed up the path for his sainthood. Pope Benedict permitted the traditionally decade-long process to start only weeks after Blessed John Paul’s death.

He will be most remembered by Filipinos who took part in the World Youth Day held in the Philippines in 1995 which mobilized 5 million people from all over the world. But he will also be remembered for his moral campaigns on family values, extramarital sex, homosexuality, birth control, euthanasia, and abortion.

Ironically, at this moment, the battle waged over the Reproductive Health Bill in the country is escalating. The Church however is at a standstill with critics and the faithful alike, waiting whether it will stand for the traditional tenets of the faith or heed the call of many social groups that argue for the bill’s passage.

Behind the festivities of what Pope Benedict claimed to be a “feast of the faith,” is the inevitable struggle that the Church constantly faces in the modern age: while it aims to preserve its teachings and the traditions that have kept it strong in over 2000 years, it also needs to remain relevant and responsive to the social realities of the day.

This call for a more relevant and responsive institution begs the question of whether such a challenge only facilitates the further politicization of the Church. In the country, the reality is that Church-State relations are essentially blurred. The political role of the Catholic Church is significant, but more importantly, it is rooted historically. Because of the Catholic Church’s hand in mobilizing the People Power, it has long been given a favored position in Philippines politics particularly in selected administrations. This has allowed the Church to deviate from its traditional role of simply serving as moral guidance for the people.

The challenge for the Roman Catholic Church here is to strike a balance. The Church’s strength lies in its unswerving adherence to tradition and to dogmatic teachings that have stood the test of time. However, its potency as an institution depends also on its ability to be an instrument of social change without necessarily intervening in the political sphere and its ability to be responsive to the context within which it is situated.

John Paul II’s beatification represents the persistence of millennium-long Catholic traditions. It manifests the Church’s recognition of his extraordinary devotion to prayer and to his many efforts for peace and religious tolerance; but it also indirectly represents an affirmation of the Church’s longstanding position on many issues concerning society today.

Pola Lia Celina Lamarca, 2009A

A Wedding, Two Divorces, and an Affair: A Look into the Middle East of a more Recent History

3rd Semester '10-'11 Issue 1

In recent years, the world has been eagerly waiting for April 29 since it would be the day that another ‘commoner’ would be married to someone who is royal of birth. The royal wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton is to be the wedding of the century! The wedding that networks all over the world will devote precious air time to, because if you are not covering the wedding you are lagging behind.

If the royal wedding would be the start of a royal couple’s life together, a wedding that is neither royal nor holy had transpired years ago. And such a union is making its presence felt once again after sometime. I am referring to the ungodly union of the Middle East and violence.

The struggle in the Middle East may be traced back years and years ago into the halls of ancient history as its lands became the number one point of conflict as nations upon nations battle it out for the possession of fertile lands with diplomatic weapons such as persuasion, historical records, and the like accompanied by deadly weapons that ranges from guns, tanks, and highly explosive materials among others. But in recent years, the ghastly nuptial vows between these Middle Eastern countries have been renewed and this time it was not international as it was before. It was no longer Iran warring against Iraq or Israel going at it against Palestine, the battle was now found within the borders of countries. And it was a battle not against the wicked anti-government forces and the law abiding government forces-- something that we always find in books as children, it was in actuality the battle of the people against the reign of authoritarian leaders who had impinged on the lives of the people promoting not the betterment of their countries as a whole but the betterment of some but most likely of the self.

Such quest for freedom against the authoritarian regime was made evident in the events of 2010 where Egypt made their call for the resignation of Hosni Mubarak as the leader of the country. It was a monumental event! It was a fist in recent times when a country in the Middle East initiated its own call for democracy or a Mubarak-less country. And in their triumph in February of 2011, countries such as: Libya and Syria, one country after another followed in its footsteps. In a manner of speaking, they have become the modern adaptation of a People Power Revolution. Yes, indeed it may not be as peaceful and as scar-less, and as prayerful as the Philippine original version, but it is nonetheless the effort of the people to regain their human person by regaining their rights and civil liberties.

And so, as Kate Middleton and Prince William start their life together as a couple in love, then the people of Middle East are determined to divorce authoritarian regimes after tending to three grotesque children named oppression, strife, and fear. In the divorce of countries and authoritarian regimes, the possibility of a resultant divorce between the Middle East and violence might give way to a new lover called peace.

Ma. Kathrina Francisco, 2009C

Notice to Readers: The views expressed in the Perspective do not necessarily reflect those of the Academic Committee or UP POLITICA.