Weekly Brief
The view from the backseat as global powers determine where regional politics are headed
In review and in prospect
As arms buildup in the region ramps up, the Philippines again finds itself caught in between the strategic positioning of military powers. The national debate as always, but more pronounced now given these circumstances, is framed by how the Philippines will position itself within the tiny square within which the powers-that-be allow her some wiggle room.
That is as much perspective from which could be regarded the matter of whatever latitude to determine their fate Filipinos see themselves enjoying in the context of globo-politics today. Not much really. Options are effectively mere perceptions most Philippine governments create to assure their constituents theirs is a country that charts its own way. This government is no exception.
Last two weeks’ blog posts
CIA hijacks Philippine foreign policy
April 24, 2023 by Ramon Ortoll
"While Marcos continues to enjoy popular support coming off his record win at the polls in May 2022, critical-thinking Filipinos are wary of his pivot to the US given the risk involved in provoking retaliation from China through increased tensions in the disputed waters..."
“I’m verified. You’re not.” – @znsuzara
April 23, 2023 by benign0
"Credentialism is a cancer that needs to be eradicated from the Philippines’ national 'debate'. A habit of deferring to credentials leads to a prevalence of the logical fallacy of appeal to authority in the the national discourse that severely degrades it."
April 23, 2023 by Ramon Ortoll
"Most Filipinos are pro-US so Marcos feels safe with his pivot. It also neutralizes the opposition because the Americans won’t tolerate any destabilization attempt, not that the opposition is capable of anything serious at this point."
Twitter snowflakes go berserk over loss of blue tick
April 22, 2023 by benign0
"To be dependent on a credential awarded by a higher authority to prop up one’s relevance in society is a red mark on one’s character in much the same way as a person who always has to insist she is a 'truth teller' is more likely to be a dishonest person."