For with this regime trying to create a new normal that's based on repression, it is unsurprising that the order is again trying to draw example from the Marcos dictatorship especially in wanting to silence those who oppose their moves and by doing anything to cling to power. With the same ploy of appointing former military officials to civilian positions, as well as by increasing budgets to both police and in the armed forces, it seems that as in the past, this order as wanting to perpetuate power, aggrandise greater wealth all at the expense of the working folk. Of seeing gross abuses of human rights, unbridled corruption, cronyism, subservience to foreign interests, burdensome debt, and an ever prevailing economic crisis, this tramples the supposed "change" that's parroted by the administration.
Also from this note pays tribute to those who fought and died for freedom, democracy, and justice. Tens and thousands suffered detention and torture, if not abducted, summarily executed, or disappeared all because of a belief in national liberation, people's democracy, and in social justice. Their sacrifices did nurture the nation's resistance because of this, and hope with their contributions, both fallen and survived, to draw inspiration for the coming generations that no tyrant can ever tread on those who truly love independence, freedom, and justice. Especially in this time of growing repression and tyranny Duterte has trying to manifest.
At present, this regime is becoming worse especially in this time of pandemic. With thoughts of having a new normal based on their idealised order of "iron fist", the regime extended for another year this state of emergency, if not still toying with martial rule as the administration threatens those who oppose its soiled moves with further repression. It is the same "new normal" with more loans for its grandiose programs, while shunning those who demand for subsidies and support for their return to workplaces. It is also the same "new normal" with thoughts of silencing the opposition, like in the case of the closure of ABS CBN by removing its right to broadcast in radio and in television. This regime still respects unequal agreements be it from the United States and China, and that by freeing the convicted Pemberton and the still-control of China over the disputed isles in the West Philippine Sea this "new normal" has mocked the people over.
It is not surprising this kind of antic the system has done to its people. That while feigning they are for democracy, freedom, and development they want to restrain each and every Filipino with their view of order that tramples people's rights and freedoms. With or without this pandemic would say that Duterte is having an itchy hand to pursue that kind of direction while his supporters fanatically yearning for their idol's bloodied venture. Like Marcos would say that Duterte is trying to embark on development, but that development comes with a price-either of blood or passing debt from one generation after another, while hearing the government claiming there's "progress" in its kind of order.
However, regardless of their statements a concerned would say that tyrants will always be tyrants. And with this kind of setting would say that calls for removing the tyrant has gone aloud despite the imposed restrictions. That rallies such as in UP Diliman did kept the flame alive no matter authorities trying to threaten them with arrests and truncheons. And since people suffer more amidst this pandemic and socio-economic crisis, it is unsurprising that various forms of protests occur, with the will to make the necessary sacrifices to resist against tyranny and to assert the necessary changes in the society. Let no pandemic nor tyranny can block the way in attaining peace, justice, and freedom in the country.