“Keep looking for the truth as to continue learning, toiling, and forging”

“Keep looking for the truth as to continue learning, toiling, and forging”

A New Year’s message

As another year draws to a close in the tumult of history, this note bid thee the folk a hope-filled and a joyful new year. For this 2023 this note sincerely hope that this is not simply end as a “fourth year of the pandemic” as that of the last few pandemic-marred years, but rather a chance to recover each and everyone’s lives and livelihoods, and to find true love, happiness, and a lasting peace.

How come? For the fact that 2022 was marred by the COVID19 pandemic, people tried to find ways to survive, much better recover further from the crisis. From there individuals and establishments finding ways to stay afloat despite risky times. But unlike the first two years would say that everyone’s taking time to get vaccinated in order to be protected. It was also the time that communities realise that “the virus is there to stay” and thus “making their best” to strengthen their health and well being in order to keep going. And this requires effort, but not unlike the past years that’s riskier due to the fatal effects of COVID19.

But, on the other hand as people trying to cope with the situation there are those who rather exploit the situation for their interests. Especially in a time everyone’s trying to recover if not looking ways to sustain, there are those who use the pandemic to tinker their idea of silencing dissent and to consolidate their interests. Sorry if this seems going to be political but it is not surprising to see authorities putting their interests first while claiming to be “for the people” especially during last elections. 

And in speaking of that recent May elections people have waited for real hope to happen- but no, what they see is same old pretension by those claiming to be for the people and for the nation, but again no! Especially when cracks suddenly appear over the structure called “unity”, of scandals amongst allies unearthed, and policies and plans being scrutinised by those truly concerned, especially when it includes using the coffers of the public and claiming “this for the benefit of many”. Quite worrying isn’t it? Anyway sorry for this becoming political for the fact that this coming year will always hear same old scandals and problems alike a nation has to face. Expect protests of course, as well as actions of various sorts, as problems from past years will still ever carry even in 2023.

On the other hand, this note honours those whose inventive talent, ongoing education, and unwavering, artistic dedication to the craft have kept communities afloat and gives encouragement to those with whom it will continue unabated on the path of learning ever-new lessons and coming up with concepts that can actually have a positive impact in this crisis-ridden world.  

To cut this short, this note adopts an attitude of assurance and hope as the nation and the world prepare for the year 2023, despite actual fear and crisis. The people will also need to put in a lot of effort and patience this year. But have faith that everything won't be in vain. Keep looking for the truth as to continue learning, toiling, and forging, and let it be known that doing so today will help communities achieve their objectives in the near future, resulting in a truly better quality of life for the people.

“Inspire, inspire them to carry the lamps towards national redemption”

“Inspire, inspire them to carry the lamps 

towards national redemption”

A message for Rizal Day

Warm patriotic greetings. 

It is expected that this Rizal Day that evert message deals much with reflecting if not recalling the achievements of the late national hero. 

Knowing that Rizal’s life and works comes with encouraging young and old alike to be inspired and thus perform an act of heroism in various ways, this note would say that the Filipino, in its quest for freedom has to continue embody the virtues of excellence, patriotism, and perseverance that Jose Rizal exhibited in his lifetime. 

However, knowing that the Philippines is still in a state of continuing past, the desire to attain such virtues amidst corruption and injustice would say that such attainments requires a herculean task particularly that of continuous studying social realities and of performing acts of service to the people in various ways. 

And it is not surprising that such words can be mellowed down by those whose nature is corrupt, that contrary to the message their actions as really opposing. What more to hear then telling each and everyone to follow Rizal’s as well as other heroes whose determination to achieve real change empower today’s Filipinos to become vigilant of the social ills that may threaten life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. Yes, follow their example, the way these self proclaimed “servant of the people” urge to call for unity, but, that unity, that vigilance, and determination Filipinos embody may turn against them- especially when corruption, disenfranchisement, and various forms of oppression continue to prevail.  

And like Rizal’s works expect modern day Simouns to carry over the lamps that meant fear for the oppressor and hope for the oppressed. That’s all.

Keeping the flames burning no matter what

Keeping the flames burning no matter what 

 Kat Ulrike 

For sure some would rejoice thinking that the battle will soon be over. But will the people accept their message and stop fighting? In the face of mass misery that cries to the heavens, of the hopelessness of economic chaos, of the desperation of working people after the pandemic, and the growing mood of panic in the country would say that the prevailing mood outweighs the casualties in the battlefield, what more to see that the expression is not of mourning, but that of reaffirming-and of fighting. 

How come? Contrary to what the establishment would have you believe, those who steadfastly seek the truth from the facts will continue the protracted struggle, and current socioeconomic issues do serve as external, objective forces that consistently motivate the Filipino people to engage in conflict. What's more, one can see that decades' worth of work and deeds have produced and will continue to produce hundreds of thousands of revolutionaries with the skills to lead and instigate change by any means regardless of the establishment’s statements and claims of “victories” as well as pretensions of wanting for peace. These goons have attempted to cover up their treacherous actions while spewing their narrative, blaming "the rebels" for the crimes they have committed against the country while robbing the populace of the last vestiges of a respectable existence through their intolerable and inflammatory attempts to stifle the country's social life. But the truth of having the country still facing the basic problems and those who aggravate inspire the oppressed and exploited Filipino masses to rise up, organise, and mobilise in their millions to fight and be prepared to give their lives if necessary. 

While a developing nation is impacted by the economic crisis and thus is unable to escape the issue due to the way it submits to neoliberal socioeconomic policies, the order finds this to be "developmental" even though it is not. Therefore, seeking truth from facts and the right to struggle for national and social liberation goes beyond the local sphere. No matter how "developmental" they may seem, these policies are actually anti-national in nature and are imposed by "developed" countries and their moneylenders. Trade, investments, resource ownership, and other policies that sacrificed national patrimony and disregarded human rights are among these. For as in other countries still facing the worsening economic crisis, this shows that the global capitalist system is again set on a downward spiral, after a short period of momentary expansion last year following the global recession of 2020 during the height of the COVID19 pandemic. Most developed countries are still affected in this downturn due to high oil prices and the aftershocks of pandemic-related disruptions of globalized supply chains resulting to high inflation. 

The US economy stagnated at the start of the first half of 2022 and is already headed for a recession in 2023 after the Federal Reserve started raising interest rates in the middle of the year, which reduced production. On the other hand, as a result of a deepening financial crisis marked by high levels of debt, bank and real estate defaults, a sharp decline in property development, and sluggish production output, “peoples” China, which has long been regarded as the engine of global economic growth and an examplar of “Socialist Market Economy” is still marred by its own problems. With these two “developed” examples, it can be concluded that, in addition to the effects of the crisis on developed countries, the vast majority of developing or underdeveloped economies (that the Philippines is included) also experience steep inflation, acute unemployment, currency devaluations as a result of US efforts to strengthen the dollar, which causes sharp increases in the price of food and other imports, a decline in foreign direct investments, and ongoing trade deficits. 

The pandemic has compelled nations to enact protectionist measures "to save jobs and promote production," yet they are still holding onto the hope that neoliberalism will soon return, particularly in nations that have been condemned by decades of neoliberal impositions to allow unrestrained plunder, which has resulted in the massive destruction of productive forces and economic resources.

But again, will the folk just stay mum on this? The order tries to appease people be it promising them 20 peso for a kilo of rice to that of subsidies for those affected by the crisis, yet they failed to resolve problems regarding food sufficiency and security that even the price of onions remains expensive. The order would even claim that the decades-old battle would soon over in their own terms, but in spite of their statements the chronic crisis continues to worsen as living standards deteriorate, what more to see people expressing a strong dissent against a regime who speaks much of “unity” yet failing to address the people’s suffering, let alone treating the people as a propaganda piece in their quest for power alongside those with entrenched interests. Such realities has made the people act urgently to defend their rights and welfare amid threats of a sharp economic crisis that can bring about poverty and hunger. 

As in other countries that felt the crisis, workers are staging major strikes and mass demonstrations to amplify their demand for wage increases and better working conditions. In the US, union organizing is on the rise including those being formed in major corporations in response to rising cost of living and low wages. In China, Increasing number of strikes & protests take place as more workers complain about unsafe working conditions and lower pay following virus cases contrary to their government’s “zero Covid strategy”. For sure from these examples around the world not just these two developed countries would say that the working class had enough of the pretensions brought by interest seekers and instead assert just calls be it protecting and promoting local businesses, jobs and better wages, price controls and consumer protection, and efficient social services especially in this recovering times the way they have enough of anti-national policies on trade, investments, economic resource ownership, and other neoliberal policies imposed by imperialist banks and governments. 

However, since oppression is intensified by interest seekers, then expect a renewed resistance in various means necessarily, not just to assert just calls, but to advance just causes. For amid worsening sufferings, repression and state neglect, of messages downplaying people’s struggles, the overall crisis of the ruling system is generating broad people’s resistance. Claims of "recovery" from this pandemic crisis also failed to address the issue, as workers' and middle-income sectors' living conditions continue to deteriorate, owing to high inflation, low wages, widespread unemployment, food shortages, and an overall decay of productive forces. The debt servicing, military spending, pork barrel funds, overpriced  "infrastructure" projects, and other unproductive spending planned throughout the current administration will be paid for with new loans, austerity measures, and decreased spending on social services, while housing, public health care, and education will all receive even less funding. The cost of living has also increased as a result of high prices for basic necessities like food, fuel, and transportation as well as for services like health care and education. Furthermore, tax cuts for wealthy individuals and large corporations alike will eventually be offset by increased consumption taxes on the middle class and poor.

Authorities and their defenders, however, are clinging to their position and employing a combination of armed repression and widespread deception. To futher claim that the struggle is irrelevant massive sums of money are being invested in this campaign of disinformation in mainstream and social media to drown critical news and information. This campaign includes promoting false images of contentment, distorting history, to that of terrorist-labelling and red-tagging to divert people's attention from important issues, muzzle their voices, keep them submissive, undermine social unrest, and divert people from the path of collective struggle. And attacks against unions, community organizations, school associations and others have been stepped up on the pretext of counterinsurgency. However, such campaigns don't change the fact that assaults on the populace are even more ruthless and brutal. Both individuals and organisations concerned are subject to surveillance and harassment, which violates people's fundamental rights. Authorities pursue them to "surrender," but people who refuse to submit or cooperate with the authorities face arrest, torture, or death- while laws are being disregarded in order to achieve “victory”.   

But regardless of downplays and attempts to mislead the folk, the crisis has made the country perched atop a social volcano that is constantly rumbling and about to blow. The vast majority of labouring people, including workers, peasants, and other groups, are growing increasingly uneasy about the economic crisis and outraged by the Marcos regime's flagrant disregard for the people's deteriorating conditions since assuming power. The Marcos regime will undoubtedly encounter fierce opposition from the populace in the coming years as it pushes to implement its anti-national and anti-people policies and programmes. But come to think of this: since the regime talked about the need for unity, then yes the people have acknowledged the need for unity, yes that unity incites the people to resist and the will to continue carrying the torches of struggle, as it continuously seeks truth from facts and reveals the still corrupt nature of the current administration alongside asserting just cause by any means necessarily.

“A Christmas message”

“A Christmas message”

This christmas, Filipinos should bring to mind again the true spirit of this season- and this is more than just the material gifts nor the mouthwatering food one could enjoy. That the reason to enjoy is to give, even one’s self to the others as Christ did during his life on earth. His example would say that let people try their best to ensure the wellbeing and happiness of every folk that makes truly happy. 

Especially that as people trying their best to recover from the pandemic, of hearing scandals of various sorts, this note is ought to say that despite these challenges comes renewing a day of dedication of thoughts and efforts to the task of bringing about a better life to ome’s self, family, and community. Yet how? particularly in this period of crisis and anxiety? It becomes the responsibility of the people to seek the truth from facts, to stand up and assert what is right and just, to share with those in need, and to resist against oppression, just as the Angel told Mary about the messiah who will "cast down the mighty and has lifted up the humble, and filled the hungry with good things while the rich end sent away empty" in the Magnificat. 

That is what the Angel told Mary about the Messiah, and that Messiah is his son, Jesus Christ, who was born in a simple manger on this holy day. Call it a politically charged radical message, but that is what the Angel said.

To cut this note short, this event needs to reignite the reason to celebrate. That in addition to expressing love and joy during this season, every home and community must impart wisdom and inspire hope as to value the meaning behind every gift being shared. May this nation, like Christ who brought good news and peace, spark hope for a more positive, just, and peaceful future.

The beloved warrior is dead, long live the beloved warrior!

The beloved warrior is dead, 

 long live the beloved warrior! 

 By Lualhati Madlangawa Guererro 

Warm, patriotic greetings. 

At first, yours truly offers heartfelt condolences to the family and comrades of the late Jose Maria Sison. 

Born into a wealthy family in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur, "Joma," as his friends and colleagues called him, transcended his privileged upbringing by choosing to support the working and oppressed masses. He did this by studying the militant nationalism of Rizal, Bonifacio, and Recto and by creatively adapting Marxism-Leninism-Maoism to the Filipino context, giving the people a renewed committment to national rebirth and social justice through a protracted struggle to attain aspirations for national liberation and democracy. 

Through his writings, Cde. Sison laid the theoretical foundations of a new Philippine revolution with socialism as its perspective. Works like “Struggle for National Democracy”, “Philippine Society and Revolution” (as Amado Guerrero), and others became crucial study materials for the people to understand the nation’s situation and the serious need for struggle against systemic oppression in this continuing past. 

However, his analysis doesn’t limit to that of local context, but also in the international arena. He published the work “Stand for Socialism Against Modern Revisionism”, which shed light on the socialist revolution's path during the Soviet Union's complete return to capitalism in 1990, which was widely reported by various media outlets as the "end of history" and the triumph of the capitalist system. In 1997, he published a paper titled "On imperialist globalisation," in which he made it clear that the proletariat remains and still fighting even during the time of imperialism and the socialist revolution. 

Other than his theoretical notes, Cde. Sison is a litterateur whose poems showed his creative side as it celebrates with natural imagery and in a lyrical way the people’s struggle. In his poem “The Guerilla is like a Poet” he described the people’s war as a people’s epic with guerillas in rhyme with nature. The poem “The Forest is Still Enchanted” recognises myth and legend as guerillas taking over the role from the supernatural to lure and astonish intruders. There are other poems of his that carries the theme of liberation especially during his imprisonment, torture, and solitary confinement during Martial Law; as well as during his exile as he yearn for a warm, mountainous home with Mangoes and Orchids over Apples and Tulips. 

Regardless of his shortcomings, this doesn’t outweigh his immense contributions to the people, the nation, even the world, and the desire for freedom and justice. A trailblazer from his youth, Cde. Sison founded the SCAUP (Student Cultural Association of the University of the Philippines,  a play from the “UP Student Catholic Action”) in 1959 to counter the prevailing red scare over the campus and became an organized venue for the study of militant nationalism, as well as Marxism and the social conditions in the Philippines. This followed by the creation of Kabataang Makabayan (KM) with he as founding chairman in November 30, 1964 and led its development as one of the most important youth organizations in Philippine history. 

Over the past several years until his death, Cde. Sison continued to provide invaluable insights into both local and international crisis and the situation of the revolutionary forces. The importance of Cde. Sison and his works cannot be overestimated despite being belittled by his rivals and enemies, that his struggle no matter decades long will always be continuous as more and more will rise and fight against systemic oppression and in breaking open the path towards national and social liberation. 

That even his ideological rivals and enemies alike recognises his immense contributions in promoting national awareness and the need for a militant, radical social change. In an instance, Walden Bello, a known Democratic Socialist and ideological rival acknowledged Cde. Sison as a “giant of the Philippine Left”; to that of former president Duterte who admitted that while he and the late professor had major disagreements he believed that he and him shared same aspirations of a better future. 

On the other hand, there are others who rather spew slander even in his death, be it the Trotskyite Scalice who clings to his anti-Stalinist narrative, to that of Sara Duterte telling god “to have mercy on his soul” or Badoy’s “rest in piss”; but this doesn’t stop the struggle that Cde. Sison once actively participated. 

Indeed, for as he entered eternity the struggle he took part and led never stops. There will be more beloved warriors armed with the light that guides the people amidst darkness, of poets with bladed poems fighting a battle against tyrants and despots alike over a homeland where mango trees bear fruit and orchids bloom.

(Again) Right is the fund- but not this time, neither with them, nor under him

(Again) Right is the fund- but not this time,

 neither with them, nor under him

It is not surprising that the debate over the proposed “Sovereign Wealth Fund” by the Marcos administration continues. With all the editing and omissions over the act, this note is ought to say that people still strongly disagree if not treating the bill critically be it because of an unlikely situation, the sources of funds, or the people involved in its creation- and that includes the name of the fund itself, which absolutely sounds Marcosian.

And now as Marcos Jr. broke his silence last Sunday night and publicly expressed support for the proposed sovereign wealth fund, what more admitted that he was the one who first broached the idea of establishing that investment fund in front of reporters. As according to an Inquirer article made last December 13, the president justified the proposed fund by saying “It’s very clear that we need added investment. This is another way to get that…”

But despite the optimism that the fund will soon be realised and thus "help the administration achieve its Agenda for Prosperity," that the errors that embarrassed the idea will always be remembered by everyone. True, finance chief Diokno stated that the country should have had the Sovereign Wealth Fund a long time ago, but why is it being discussed now when previous administrations dismissed previous proposals for an SWF? Or was it simply because Bongbong Marcos and his ilk wanted a "legacy act" and make people believe they had recovered the economy from the pandemic-caused crisis?

Perhaps, what Emmanuel Esguerra, a former director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority, told Businessworld neatly captures the sentiments of those who signed the statement opposing the fund proposal, as according to an article by Filomeno S. Sta Ana III in that said paper. He stated: “People in Congress are debating if there are enough safeguards against mismanagement and corruption. Instead the proponents should be first made to make the case for a Sovereign Wealth Fund. There is none.”

In an Inquirer article last December 16, Camarines Sur 3rd District Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. did expressed that while the intention of an SWF is “very laudable,” it should be “done properly and [at] the right time,” pointing out that the country does not have surplus funds to invest in the fund. He likewise asserted that the national debt stands at P13.64 trillion while the national budget is now at a deficit.

Meanwhile, former legislator Neri Colmenares stated that the fund is a “monster that cannot be controlled by any of our regulatory restrictions,” as according to the report on CNN last December 5 : “The fund is opaque and therefore stealable kasi (because) it has really no sufficient safeguards at all,” Colmenares said, noting that the bill itself states that funds invested by government financial institutions (GFI) “shall be exempt from any regulatory restrictions” if invested solely to the fund. Accordingly, he explained, the Maharlika Wealth Fund will not be subject to regulatory laws like the Procurement Act, GOCC Governance Act, Civil Service Rules, Office of the Government Corporate Council review, or laws governing the sale of government property. Colmenares continued, Even if the fund's drafters claim that the Commission on Audit will examine it, their claim will be pointless because the policies cited as the foundation for the agency's work are not applicable to the Maharlika fund. He added that the fund's primary contributors, the general public, will not have access to it for inspection. 

There are more disapprovals to mention in this note for sure, but from these examples would say that yes, the idea may sound “good” at first (especially when a country really needed funds for developmental purposes) but with all the provisions written and the people involved does it mean it is for “the best” and therefore “acceptable by the people”? Nah! And now, with all the disapproval, is to hear from those drafters to “give the fund a chance”? No matter the act is declared “urgent” by the authorities and thus likely to be passed by administration-led legislators, expect debates and opposition for as people have had enough of a massive debt and corrupt bureaucrats suddenly talking about a wealth fund with few or no safeguards against mismanagement and corruption. 

And, because the fund remains a public fund even without SSS and GSIS, perhaps these bureaucrats, both senate and in house, should look at Malaysia's and Nauru's mistakes and mismanagement, not just Singapore's and Vietnam's successful experiences in handling their Sovereign Wealth Funds; otherwise, it is obvious that this pretentious plan, which has no sources of funds, is mocking the sovereigns who intended to benefit from it while stealing from their coffers. True, there is a need for additional investment, but the question is: who the hell needs a "fund" when it is not allowed to use someone else's money, has no surplus cash from the state, a massive debt, a slew of problems to address, and instead panhandles for someone to "invest"? 

Again, right is the idea of a sovereign wealth fund, but not this time nor with the people involved who cares about their interests than that of the folk.

“A message for International Human Rights Day”

“A message for International Human Rights Day”

By Kat Ulrike

Despite the difficulties, defending human rights will always be a part of a country's fight for freedom and justice. Contrary to assertions that minimise the truth, people today must assert themselves because of the realities they face. Because public space is becoming more and more limited, the only option left is to engage in resistance. 

Due to the fact that as the rotten system in power spirals out of control, hunger and poverty are rising, which has been an affront to people's political, economic and social rights. Additionally, the scale of the order's blatant killing sprees, massacres, massive destruction, and grave crimes is growing increasingly unfathomable as ringleaders and its attack dogs, all in the name of interest trying to silence those who stand for the people and for the nation. 

And these trying times demand to renew commitment to human rights and social justice. For regardless of the attacks, the masses have never allowed themselves to be suppressed or defeated in their fight for democratic interests, regardless of the obstacles in their path, and must instead cling to the struggle as their only means of achieving genuine freedom and justice. 

Those from the order may still try to undermine, urging the people to "move on," which appears to be the prevalent attitude today, with injustices both past and present forced to take a back seat to the necessities of daily living/survival. 

But will the people simply accept "moving on"? People will always demand rights and justice because it protects their own life and dignity. They cannot simply ignore the looming crisis, which includes rising commodity prices, inflation, low wages, unemployment, landlessness, and rampant corruption no matter the order is trying to downplay, deny, or divert attention to what they perceive as their enemies especially those who sought truth from facts. And the fact that some people are imprisoned or killed for asserting cannot prevent the rest from becoming concerned and fighting back in any way they can.

Again, the contradictions and disparities between the interests of the ruling few and those of the oppressed become even more apparent. 

So is the zeal of the nation's struggle for its rights.

Truly, there’s a need to invest (but not at this time)

Truly there’s a need to invest (but not at this time)

Everyone appears to be debating on how will it go about funding the Marcos' Maharlika Wealth Fund, especially since most people do not trust the authorities with their contributions as sources of funds, if not seeing the fund, particularly those behind it, may use these for their own self-interest. As the country grapples with the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government is looking for ways to accelerate financial recovery and means to support existing "developmental programmes," the majority of which are carryovers from previous administrations. 

For in contrast to countries where Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWF) are backed by savings, natural resources, and excess cash, the proposed “Maharlika Wealth Fund” will be backed by government funds to invest in various domestic and international sectors. However, this nearly includes pensions from the Social Security System and the Government Service Insurance System, which were recently removed from the initial draught due to public outcry, but instead limiting to that of excess funds from the Central Bank as its main source. 

However, why the Central Bank? Being an independent entity to be interrupted again by the government’s wishes? The provision requiring the Central Bank to contribute 50% of its cash dividends to the government seems questionable, especially when it runs contrary to the charter that states dividends should remain under the Central Bank as an equity infusion to complete its capitalisation. The bill however, deprives the authority of quicker capitalisation regardless of being “surplus” and undermines its independence as the central monetary authority and systemic risk regulator. 

Furthermore, since the draft “promised national development”, the draft doesn’t even prioritise domestic investment, particularly that of industrialisation, agricultural modernisation, even rural empowerment but instead trying to pursue what is dictated by interest seekers pretending to be that of the folk. For sure one would remember how the coconut levy fund became a disaster as its pretentious stewards failed to uplift the lives and livelihoods of coconut farmers despite investing in stocks or in companies less to do with the development of the industry nor having the producer’s say in managing. 

And since this happen in a fund meant for the coconut industry, what more a fund meant for the development of the entire country? Not at all comforting, is it? Despite this, it is impossible to deny that the fund put forth by Marcos and his allies is a corrupt scheme, especially in light of the fact that it calls for the placement of hundreds of billions of pesos—possibly up to a trillion pesos—of public funds under the management of a small group of managers chosen by the administration, with the president serving as its chairperson. They are even willing to invest in risky industries like real estate and local and international financial ones amid recessions that are only getting worse. 

Thus, this would imply that it is worth investigating given the fund’s goals and potential sources of funding for investments. Senators, former state officials, and business organisations with a neoliberal bent have all of a sudden started churning out statements on topics ranging from the need for safeguards, stopping the government from using money from pension funds without consent from the pensioners, insisting transparency through popular oversight, to an outright scrapping of the act simply because of downsizing and government non-intervention in economic affairs. And these groups are objecting on valid and reasonable grounds, such as: the country is not yet ready; the country has no commodity-based surplus; the country is experiencing big trade deficit; facing a burgeoning foreign and domestic debts; inflation and high prices problem; the presence of the geopolitical conflict; the uncertainty in the global economic climate, etc. In sum the filing of the bill may not have been done in proper time. 

And truly to say that the upper house is concerned about the issue as Senator Ejercito is apprehensive to touch pension funds because of past experiences with those from the military, whose savings and loan association and benefits system did ventured into bad investments. Meanwhile, in countries like Vietnam, it uses its SWF with a strategic view of economic development beyond immediate returns and profit. Its State Capital and Investment Corporation (SCIC) is actively used to foster state-owned industrial enterprises even if there might be greater short-term returns from other investments. The question is, since those behind the proposed SWF is so stubborn on their idea, how come there’s no state owned enterprise to seriously support with (other than those “Government Owned and Controlled Corporations”) Obviously most end privatised with the National Grid Corporation end under the hands of the Chinese! 

Again, the fund would function better if the nation has enough surpluses in its trade or in commodities. The nation's natural resource wealth is sufficient to allow for the use of investment proceeds. And while it is true that the government would actively participate and intervene in the economy as a result of this proposal, it also requires responsible individuals whose loyalty to the public comes before personal interests (like Vietnam as stated above). This requires adherence to laws and regulations governing good governance as well as an understanding that working for the government entails sacrificing one's privacy and coming under public scrutiny. But the country must immediately deal with some fundamental problems. If the government truly has excess financial and foreign exchange resources, these would be much better used for more urgent aid, wage subsidies, support for small businesses, building and improving public schools, and hospitals. Compared to an investment fund that is explicitly seeking profits and returns, these will provide more immediate and tangible social benefits. 

Otherwise, right is Ibon foundation that: “If the government really is so serious to raise revenues, a billionaire wealth tax or windfall real estate land value tax on just the few thousand richest Filipinos and few hundred largest firms are much more logical alternatives. Not to mention the hundreds of billions in unpaid estate taxes and the many hundreds of billions more in ill-gotten wealth that the president’s family can voluntarily contribute to the state’s revenues.”

“Using pension funds, remittances, yet no surplus cash: Is it really the right time for a Sovereign Wealth Fund?”

“Using pension funds, remittances, yet no surplus cash: 

Is it really the right time for a Sovereign Wealth Fund?”

Notes on the proposed sovereign wealth fund and why people critically sees it 

Other countries established "Sovereign Wealth Funds" (SWF) because they had excess earnings from oil production, such as Norway, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, and Indonesia; excess mining resource revenues, such as Australia, Brazil, and South Africa; and excess export revenues, such as China and Singapore. All of the above, however, are lacking in the Philippines. There are no surplus funds available for investment, and since 2017, the nation has only experienced record deficits. A sovereign wealth fund can be established by a government with extra funds and resources. Simply put, these funds can act as a state's investment and revenue-raising tool while also luring firm investments. 

However, there had been attempts in the past to establish a state-backed wealth fund in the Philippines. Former Sen. Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino filed Senate Bill 1212 that sought to form a sovereign wealth fund in October 2016. According to SB 1212, it stated that the Authorized Capitalization of the proposed “Philippine Investment Fund Corporation” shall be appropriated in the annual General Appropriations Act ("GAA") or in such manner as the Government, through the National Treasurer and the Secretary of Budget and Management, may determine. Over a year later, Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito filed similar legislation in March 2018. The latter was supported by former Finance secretary Carlos Dominguez III who had recommended pooling funds from the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). 

On the other hand, HB 6398 known as the “Maharlika Wealth Fund” or “Maharlika Investment Fund” (MlF) proposed by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Congressman Ferdinand Alexander Marcos will get its initial P250 billion from the SSS and GSIS pension funds, plus P100 billion from the Development Bank of the Philippines, LandBank, and National Treasury, all of which rely on loans to survive, just like a third of the National Annual Budget. There are no surplus or excess funds that actually meant to support that Sovereign Wealth Fund, what more the state will even borrow 1.7 trillion pesos to complete the 2023 annual budget. And if the fund is to draw from the annual General Appropriations Act or supplemental appropriations according to the provisions of HB 6398, this can possibly reduce available funds for vital social services such as healthcare, housing, or even education. 

To be honest this issue is first good to talk about it but likely to be implemented in the wrong time and situation. While experts admitted that having an SWF is a necessity for a growing economy like the Philippines, its creation requires proper timing, especially in view of the challenges the country is facing. Even Senator Imee Marcos disagreed with the proposal, citing recession and debt issues.

“With all due respect to our bankers and economists who have recommended the measure, I think creating a sovereign fund at this time of gargantuan debt and an impending world recession seems heedless and extremely risky,” Imee said in a statement. 

In that case, will loyalists agree on her statement, that is, against her cousin, her nephew, and even her brother who’s the president himself? Some would cling to that idea as if the Philippines is capable of doing it “today” but, given the situation where there’s a need to pay debts from moneylenders to that of addressing corruption in the bureaucracy, nor having no sound policy on who’s managing resources to serve as sources of funds, why on earth the need for a fund? 

To make matters worse, beneficiaries of the fund are not informed of how their savings will be invested because GSIS and SSS funds are being used. These pensions, for which the government acts as trustee, were funded by those who paid the premiums, and HB 6398 would reduce benefits for both employees and retirees. People must understand and accept the SWF risk level without a doubt, especially since their hard-earned savings are on the line. People's appetites for risk and reward vary. Hard-earned savings are at risk because of this. 

And given that the proposal was made during the Marcos regime and that the sources of funding include pension contributions and OFW remittances, expect trust issues on those who will administer the said fund. The question is: How do people prevent another corruption scandal? Will the general public scrutinise this? There’s no clear and solid provision for sufficient worker/employee representation in the fund's governing body, a mechanism to directly distribute profits to the people (especially SSS and GSIS members), a provision to prioritise investments in the creation of "green" jobs (especially in the renewable energy sector), agricultural modernization, rural empowerment, and industrialization, as well as a lack of a provision to prioritise investments in these areas the could potentially limit any real national benefits from the fund's operations. 

Once more, the concept is intriguing, but given the current circumstances, it is pretentious. This could develop into a source of corruption like that of Malaysia or be mismanaged like what occurred in phosphate-rich Nauru, especially given the lack of transparency surrounding the management of the aforementioned fund and taking the reputation of the proponents into account. Singapore's Temasek, the best regional example of a sovereign wealth fund that functions reasonably well, has not been exempt from criticism for a lack of transparency and investments in projects that benefit well-connected interests more than they do the general public. The lack of a sound source to support the fund (other than OFW remittances or Pensions from both government and private sectors as what the proposed law said) also shows that the proposed SWF is a redundant entity since there’s the SSS and GSIS for its role (since its pension funds did also used in investing such as San Miguel). 

On the other hand, this note would agree to that proposition if there should be a sound source of funds, that is, rather than depending on someone else’s savings and remittances. The funds in a country's SWF can come from numerous sources, including surplus from foreign reserves, revenue from exported natural resources, budgeting surpluses, and bank reserves. The country can have the capacity to have those to generate such funds, but given the situation such as those stated earlier would again say that the country has to address first the basic problem then let the people themselves decide in this kind of proposition.

“A requiem for Ericson Acosta”

“A requiem for Ericson Acosta”

He may be gone, 

But his works live forever 

The order just killed a messenger 

But the message will soon create another 

The order and its attack dogs 

For now trying to block the way 

But sooner or even later 

More to follow the once fallen as they seize the day

Expect the lies to hurl on him 

Like the recent news played today 

But truth stands with the people 

Diminishing what the order say 

For he stood at the folk’s side 

Who inspired him to write 

Earning praises over scorn 

As his works brought tide against the norm 

If not listening to their pleas

And assert the need for a just peace

Like the poems he wrote and sung

Peace, hope, and freedom rung

Is just peace be disregarded

By interests whose hands tainted

In the name of order as they said

Should it require being bled?

And now with he arrested, then beaten

And be reinterpreted as from an encounter fallen 

This reminds of the past statements

Calling subversives those who express true sentiments 

By so-called state agencies, with old and new personages

Expressing the same hysterical messages

Calling a concerned folk as criminals, rebels, terrorists

When is being thoughtful about one’s country crime at least?

Thus no wonder why there are those who chose resistance

Neither “law” nor “heaven” will stand against their way

If that is the means to assert just peace

A land to till, a just wage to pay

No matter how many arrested, killed, or disappeared 

More will stand fight back to clear the way

Through every piece, every work, every action

The message sums it all: seize the day!

Again be it poem, essay, play, or song 

The message he made lasts forever long 

Despite the heckle, libel, or threat 

The message is for the masses whom he truly belongs 

Every written piece becomes bullets 

As hearts and minds ablaze 

Willing to jump into the endless abyss 

Willing to die as they clamour for change

This Bonifacio day: workers demand just wage and better working, living conditions amidst crisis

This Bonifacio day: workers demand just wage and better working, living conditions amidst crisis

A note in commemoration of Bonifacio Day

By Kat Ulrike

Warm greetings. 

This note is in one with the Filipino folk in its struggle for a just living wage as well as in commemoration of the birth of Andres Bonifacio. 

For contrary to the opinions of those who argue against the need for a pay increase, workers have had enough of receiving low wages in the face of increases in the cost of goods and services. They also suffer from the practice of using cheap, compliant labor for wages that are significantly below the cost of living in order to support their employment. 

However, authorities turned down their calls as they cling into their narrative: that wages should be low to promote “investments”, and is coupled by crackdowns against unions, as police and military truing take away worker’s capacity to defend and fight for their interests and welfare. Authorities demand “industrial peace” that is, forcing the worker to be subservient to the wishes of a despotic employer, followed by policies such as contractualisation, even deploying state agents in workplaces in the name of “counterinsurgency.” 

But despite this, workers cannot stop from asserting the right for organise and demanding just wage. Through a massive display of unity and resistance means a call for justice and thus becomes urgent in the face of growing repression. Just like Andres Bonifacio who endured hardship and understood a burning concern on the plight of his countryfolk, the laborer who suffered from poverty and repression aspired for national and social freedom. Works like “Pagibig sa Tinubuang Bayan” as well as Bonifacio’s dedication to “join with the people” in struggle reflects the need for renewing one’s love for country and people- and therefore the need to fight if necessary. 

Call it sentimental, but looking back on history would suggest that workers should band together and struggle to improve their well-being, much like Bonifacio and the gremios who most joined the Katipunan. The need for a just pay, better working conditions, agrarian reform, and an end to unfair deals and oppressive policies, among other demands, would indicate that the working class is still willing to resist oppression from all quarters with sheer determination.

“That eerie silence doesn’t make the setting peaceful”

“That eerie silence doesn’t make the setting peaceful”

(Thoughts after the struggle of peasants in Hacienda Luisita and other disputed farmlands despite downplayed by authorities)

By Kat Ulrike

It’s been long years passed since the attack dogs of the order unleashed its wrath against the farmers of Haceinda Luisita.

Reminiscent of Mendiola decades earlier, the farmers of Hacienda Luisita, whose clamour was land and justice, were met by bullets and slander as authorities fired their guns and killed them, what more slandering them by downplaying the massacre as an “incident” if not its victims as “misled” by “rebels” and “terrorists”. Such tragedy as one would say intensify further struggles for land and justice despite empty promises and “reforms” that are obviously meant trying placate people’s anger. However, that massacre was also reduced to some kind of “whataboutism” especially when those supporting Marcos and Duterte are using the tragedy as an excuse the atrocities brought by these two presidents. They even forgot that the Arroyo who supported Duterte (and Marcos Jr.) is the same Arroyo who tacitly supported the Cojuangco-Aquinos against the farmers in the name of “counterinsurgency.”

And this tragic incident cannot be forgotten, as with any other. Authorities will do their "best" to minimise and encourage people to "move on" from this bloody reality, but apologists will likely use the massacre as an illustration of what occurred under the Cojuangcos if not blaming the farmers as influenced by rebels. If one may ask, however, did the government or its defenders ever achieve justice beyond formal reforms? In reality, this isn't just happening at Hacienda Luisita; it's happening at other haciendas and plantations as well, where the owners work with the government to protect their interests. They would assert that they are improving farmers' lives and means of subsistence while simultaneously reducing their pay and threatening to arrest them on fabricated grounds or outrightly killed and branded as rebel casualties! Is this what the system claim as social justice many years ago? Being arrested or killed for asserting the right to till in their lands? The destruction of their crops by authorities, of forced evictions from their homes, even creating sham “cooperatives” to create an appearance of farmer’s support for the landlords and bureaucrats, and other methods all to evade redistribution to perpetuate interests while pretending having supported government’s efforts for agrarian reform.

But no! Despite attempts by the authorities to minimise or assign blame to those who struggle, the peasant struggle persists in every hacienda, plantation, and area of disputed land. The fight for land has been an integral part of freeing a nation from injustice, just like those who demand higher wages and the right to form unions, the need for price controls, the assertion of civil rights, and the assertion of national sovereignty. Call it idyllic or even dismiss it as irrelevant in the modern era, but given that agriculture is still the main industry in the Philippines and that farmers are still revolting and suffering, why dismiss the conflict as fantasy? Perhaps dismissing the struggle as a fantasy is part of the counterinsurgency narrative, as is authorities' demand for "industrial peace"—forcing workers to live with limited rights, meagre wages, and sweatshop conditions, or be outright dismissed. And words like Globalisation and Neoliberalism ring in the ears of feudal despots and corrupt bureaucrats alike as they accept the demands of multinational moneylenders—including fewer regulations on labour and environmental issues, which the people strongly oppose. 

Whether in the farmland or in the factory, in offices or in the universities, so long as state terror prevails so is the right to rebel. For as folks seek truth from facts the dismissive antics of the order is deemed worthless. And events such as what happened in Hacienda Luisita and others (Hacienda Looc, Nene, Lupang Ramos, victims of “oplan Sauron”, etc.) would say that the people cannot just get contented on sham reforms as promised by some politicians but instead demand action as sovereigns. Again, authorities may dismiss various forms of actions as “subversion” while apologists cry wolf over the people’s struggle - be it the planting of vegetables during a “bungkalan” to that of supporting picketlines and protest marches demanding a just land redistribution and justice for those who killed for their beliefs. 

But will the order’s brand of “peace” is itself peaceful, especially when the folk cannot forget those tragic events of the past? Much better if to call their “peace” as silence, but that eerie silence doesn’t make the setting peaceful. People may live their “normal lives” both at home, school, and in their workplaces, but that “normal life” is not that of what they wished for, but instead it is driven by fear and injustice, to which people may soon have enough and instead fight again against that pretentious “peace.” Will families just get contented on few bucks as prices soar? Of farmers being deprived their right to till? Or workers being booted out for demanding just wage and better working standards? Of people getting threatened for their right to free speech, press, assembly, and others enshrined in the constitution?

To borrow Pearse: a nation unfree will never be at peace.

“Going against the grain- no matter their lives are at stake”

“Going against the grain- 

no matter their lives are at stake”

This note is first intended to pay tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives in pursuit of the truth, but it is also an opportunity for reflection and reaffirming one's dedication to doing so, particularly in the middle of a tumultuous past. Everyone has undoubtedly fought for civil rights, particularly press freedom, as well as justice for their families and friends. 

For since the single bloodiest election-related violence against journalists in modern history occurred there in Maguindanao 13 years ago, weeds have taken over the area, and despite the fact that the criminals have been charged and are in prison, there has still been insufficient redress. 

This widespread assault on the media ended up being the worst day of election-related violence in Philippine history. And 13 years after such a horrible tragedy, the fight against the culture of impunity still goes on, despite those who urge to “forget” and to "move on." 

However, this tragic incident doesn’t stop there, for there are other tragic incidents that befell journalists and media professionals as a result of their dedication to their profession, ranging from harassment to outright murder. These individuals preferred to go against the grain as they unearth truths and encourage others to speak out or engage in conflict to defend what is right and just in response to their works. Those who seek truth from facts observe the opposite of the corrupt and cruel despots' "attempts" to "block the road" in favour of their story; as a result, they are exposed and challenged in the name of truth, fairness, and justice.

“Holding the line with all their lives to upheld truth with facts”

“Holding the line with all their lives

 to upheld truth with facts”

Ever since people heard the news about their sacrifices one would say that their commitment to truth and accountability  is more precious than their lives, and their work, such as that of media, is a one great example of a dedication that is, lifelong. 

However, this dedication means facing the risks: be it acts of god or acts of man, that dedication to promote truth and accountability cannot stop them from doing it- especially when those who record truth for the future are being driven by these words: „beat the line or you’re dead”- and therefore having to capture every moment that soon be part of the annals of history. 

Sadly, having this kind of commitment means life or death- of facing enemies that either buy one’s conscience or by simply killing them. Yes, they did work hard to uncover truth, of promoting seeking truth from facts, and to expose the inconveniences that lay hidden behind grandiose, tangible lies. 

For the time being, this message honors those who give their lives in order for the truth to be seen, but it is also a moment for reflection and reaffirming one's dedication to pursuing the truth from facts—particularly in light of the ongoing past that is so full of unease and wrath. Everyone has undoubtedly looked for justice for themselves, their loved ones, and the freedom of the press because tyrants try to stifle it, as was the case in Maguindanao 13 years ago and recently after a radio commentator was killed south of Metro Manila for speaking out against tyranny and corruption. Others have also experienced various threats; one well-known author has been charged with cyberlibel, and a group of writers' online publication has faced closure threats from the authorities all because they have supported the truth and the public's desire for change. The same goes for individuals who receive false accusations, red tagging, and other sorts of harassment. 

And these risks that affect their life and limb are again all due to their occupation—or perhaps I should say, devotion? Being a writer sometimes encounter low wages, and heavier tasks, but the sacrifices a writer endure is a devotion- for it is more in line with their oath: steadfastness in seeking truth from facts, to expose uncomfortable truths, particularly those that were once well-hidden beneath layers of "beautiful" delusions, and to assist in bringing about changes that are all for the good of the people. After all, for whom are journalists actually writing? 

There are more incidents that attempt to denigrate the profession and its dedication to seeking out the truth, fairness, and justice; yet, forgetting is still not an option, despite claims by authorities and its defenders that "justice was served" and that those affected should "move on." Because, just as in the past, the culture of impunity still prevails, it continues to strive to silence those who seek the truth "in the name of order," and even worse, it labels them as "rebels" or "terrorists," all because the truths ran counter to the official narratives. 

But despite this, it is a lifelong responsibility of the media person to always be on guard and ensure that every piece of work published or posted serves to inform and empower, even while their lives are on the line.

“Of low wages and ‘global competitiveness’, ‘knowledge work’, and the worker’s right to unionise in the ‘New Digital Economy’”

“Of low wages and ‘global competitiveness’, 

‘knowledge work’, 

and the worker’s right to unionise in the ‘New Digital Economy’”

(Thoughts on the worker’s struggle

in the “Business Processing Outsourcing” and “Gig” sectors)

People have been hearing these words for years: that wages must remain low in order for the Philippines to remain "globally competitive." 

Keeping wages low, according to a well-known oligarch, is all about encouraging more people to work, more profits to increase, more businesses to open, and remaining competitive with its neighbours in an era of globalisation and neoliberal capitalism. With its apologists believing that low wages mean more investment and thus more businesses to set up and compete, that "great idea" that's driven by interests rather benefits the well-off at the expense of the have-nots: undereducated and unskilled workers at the mercy of both corrupt bureaucrats and despotic bosses, scrimping on lower wages in the face of rising living costs and low purchasing power. 

And this includes "sunshine industries" like the Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO) sector, which, while claiming to be keeping the country "afloat," exposes its workers to the same conditions as others: enduring hours of hardship for a pittance and unjust contracts, or be booted out. 

That this continues to impede working people even today, as commodity prices continue to rise—contrary to apologists' claims that "food is cheap"—and is still somewhat wishful thinking. In retrospect, those who work hard are concerned about the "fruits of their labour": will their work be sustainable in the face of unjust pay, unfair policies, and threats of suspension or dismissal? Of course, they enjoyed their jobs from the start, but the reality of hardship and forced contentment in the face of threats has made these workers realise that there is a serious need for fairness and justice. 

 “For the Union makes us strong- even in ‘Knowledge work’” 

The rationale for this anti-union policy towards BPO employees was the realisation that even the most junior employees in these firms performed Knowledge Work or, for that matter, were better paid in comparison to manufacturing firms and were White Collared, which meant that these employees did not need to be members of unions. For it was believed that while White Collar workers, who were often better paid and had degrees and other credentials, were seen to be members of the elite and so did not need to be unionised, it was assumed that Blue Collar workers may join unions. This practise of the administrative and executive elite do not belonging to any unions while the rank-and-file workers in many areas are unionised is still in place today. 

However, one would therefore wonder, given this assertion, which category BPO employees fall under? Even though the majority of them possessed degrees and do “knowledge work” like those of teachers and government employees, they were nevertheless required to work for hours as those of skilled workers. There are even situations where basic protections are denied to workers and mass layoffs occur. So why deny them the right to organise a union and make their legitimate demands? 

Some would even dismiss altogether the idea that BPO employees, as well as freelancers alike can form unions, as they would claim establishments where they’re working offer better packages and therefore doesn’t need to create unions! If not since every employee in these companies was a part of the “New Digital Economy,” which was expected to usher in a new era in the way labour was performed, unionisation is accepted as being incompatible with these businesses! Even freelancers also downplayed their right to organise all because “they could set their own hours” and “choose their employers”, in addition to being dispersed, and therefore was not feasible, neither in terms of organising them nor in terms of them not being workers in the first place. 

“For a just wage, better working conditions, 

and the right to organise in the New Digital Economy”

But still, as opposed to the views taken by the establishment would say that workers, including those in the “sunshine industries” should unite in order to assert their just calls ranging from just wages to better labor practises. True, a BPO employee or a freelancer is paid more than the average worker, but in reality, greedy foreign companies or scrupulous clients are taking advantage of the country's "cheap labour," ensuring profits for the companies that entice people to work with promises of above-average pay, signing bonuses, and incentives for good work performance- and this make a concerned wonder if, because companies promised such things, it meant that these employees were truly satisfied while being stabbed from behind by these scrupulous “employers”. Meanwhile, lawmakers remain silent in their situation, while muttering phrases like "a just wage for a just work"! 

"A just wage for a just work," while agreeing with an oligarch that says "wages should be kept low"? What a bummer! The desire for global competitiveness is what the economist Krugman described as a “dangerous obsession”- with nations compete against each other like big corporations as it skews domestic policies.  No wonder these well-offs, both bureaucrats and compradores, consider food and commodities to be "cheap" while ordinary people are forced to make do on meagre wages and are duped by promises of bonuses. And to maintain their illusion, apologists for this goddamn system would completely downplay, if not ignore, these facts. 

But damn their ill-conceived ideas because they downplay the reality that workers, whether white collar or blue collar, demand fairness and justice, especially at a time when interest-seekers continue to exploit them for their own gain, forcing them to work long hours for a pittance, having “pizza parties” instead of better wages and benefits, and dismissing their hardships as "knowledge work" with "perks" and thus "incompatible" with the need for worker unity.

“The struggle for Peace, Land, Bread still resonates”

“The struggle for Peace, Land, Bread still resonates”

A message for the 105th anniversary of the Great October Revolution 

(25 October O.S.; 7 November, N.S.) 

Kat Ulrike

Despite efforts to minimise its significance, the Great October Revolution was pivotal in the history of the twentieth century. That, from the actions of the working classes in St. Petersburg to that Lenin's speeches and writings, had a significant impact on the course of world history and determined the fates of many nations. 

From the words “peace, land, and bread” proletariat rose up, took power, and so disrupted the existing order that neighbouring countries felt the tremor of the avenging labourer. On the other hand, the revolution brought social empowerment as available social benefits, the ideals of equability, peace, and interethnic harmony formed in the Soviet Union are still valued today by most countries. Its emphasis on the building socialism has brought the country significant advances in manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and space technologies, laying the groundwork for many industries and new lines of research. So is its achievements in culture, arts, as well as sports, altogether became a legacy for humanity, bringing the Soviet Union worldwide fame and an inspiration for those homelands in struggle for national and social liberation.

That this continues to resonate even in this current context. Today, with people suffering from the socioeconomic crisis brought on by neoliberal capitalism and globalisation, aggravated by the recent COVID19 pandemic as well as wars and various forms of social injustice, the call for "peace, land, and bread" continues to ring out as protest marches to armed uprisings people demand justice for the peoples and liberation for their homelands. Call it idyllic, but the realities that drove people to revolution saw the October experience as an inspiration for the French, Chinese, and other revolutions. However, the legacy of the Great October Revolution—shaking the foundations of an ever-continuing past—brought fear to the oppressor and hope to the oppressed, much like the guns of the Aurora signalled the day of liberation for the working masses. 

Again, despite attempts to denigrate, or minimise the significance of the Great October Revolution and its legacy, people are proud of Soviet-era labour feats, scientific discoveries, and Soviet soldiers' heroism. And, despite the absence of the Soviet Union, the folk who carry the torch of struggle are doing our best to preserve and multiply the achievements of predecessors who prioritised values such as freedom, justice, diligence, and equality, using lessons learned from the Great October Revolution and its succeeding contributions in the face of ever existing oppression and social injustice- for the revolution was not some idyllic struggle for some values like those stated earlier, but rather a challenge, the looming social question manifested in three slogans: peace, land, and bread. 

Thus, this note cherish the invaluable experience of previous generations, and it means that this serves as a blueprint for successes in various fields.

Keep firmly the light in this time of darkness

Keep firmly the light in this time of darkness

 

A message for all hallows, all saints, and all souls 

Warm greetings. 

As a nation, these significant holidays serve as a reminder that "life is short" and that we must spend it wisely in these rapidly changing times. 

As with the lives of loved ones who have passed, the lives of saints and martyrs serve as examples of how to live principledly as time passes. For as this centuries-old tradition of honouring loved ones with all of their virtuous lives, with all of the cherished memories, this note should say that this is more than just pray or reflect, but to continue to carry the light—that of their contribution to life, family, and community.

There will undoubtedly be those who say "move on," especially after tragic events such as the pandemic, "drug war," or any other conflict that has left thousands of innocents and those who have died for their principles. But reality forces the people to accept the fight and fight on in order to move forward with the lessons learned from such tragic events and inconvenient truths. The lessons this nation learns, no matter how difficult they are, reinforce its own foundations as it struggles to keep up with the times, forging what more to compel in living with genuine love and compassion. 

And like the candles being lit in thy graves, let the concerned continue to firmly carry on the light that is, to shatter darkness.

“All after 100 days of foolishness, fear, and suffering”

“All after 100 days of foolishness, fear, and suffering”

By Kat Ulrike

Ever since Ferdinand Marcos Jr. came to power, the thermidor under the past Duterte administration has made its way into a Marcosian restoration. Supported by entrenched interests and apologists yearning to restore the old order, the current regime is becoming more than just securing their ill-gotten wealth and perpetuate their political dynasty, but to keep firm further as those who "invested" in both past and current administrations consolidating further their interests all at the expense of the people.

However, as long as these entrenched interests continue to benefit from the regime, the country's situation deteriorates. Marcos jr's policies and plans, like Duterte's, are merely rehashes of previous policies and plans, particularly in terms of economic policy- that, contrary to their promises, the Filipino people saw no improvement in their living conditions during the first 100 days, instead seeing issues within the cabinet, of growing mistrust within the "Uniteam" tandem, while the folk face additional economic challenges as they struggle to earn enough money to put food on their tables on a daily basis. 

For the past few months, Marcos has done virtually nothing to address the public's widespread desire for lower prices on basic commodities and services, particularly oil, food, and medicine. With phrases like "inflation is not that high," it downplays data from its own statistics agency showing that inflation rose to 6.1% in June. Three months later, inflation has risen to 6.9%, driven by high import oil prices, resulting in a rapid decline in people's living standards. Such blatant disregard for the people's economic plight in the face of rising prices, low wages, widespread unemployment, and a lack of public services contradicts the regime's promise of betterment, as Marcos, his policymakers, and minions in Congress have ignored calls for immediate economic assistance, wage increases, and price-cutting measures. Such blatant disregard for the people's economic plight in the face of rising prices, low wages, widespread unemployment, and a lack of public services contradicts the regime's promise of betterment, as Marcos, his policymakers, and minions in Congress have ignored calls for immediate economic assistance, wage increases, and price-cutting measures. They have reduced social spending in favour of huge foreign-funded infrastructure projects that enrich interests mainly foreign contractors, their local partners, and corrupt big bureaucrats. 

Furthermore, the regime maintained the neoliberal agenda through the implementation of the Retail Trade Liberalization Act, the Public Service Act, and modifications to the Foreign Investments Act. Again, contrary to the rhetoric of national regeneration, the legislation enacted by the previous Duterte administration in response to demands from the US government and businessmen further reinforce imperialist economic dominance in the country. And while Filipinos are constantly fleeced by hefty taxes and workplace repression, Marcos intends to reward foreign firms with tax cuts and fewer rules for taking use of the country's cheap labour and natural resources. Authorities insist that the laws are all intended to bring recovery after the pandemic crisis, while ignoring the consequences, which include high commodity and service prices, higher taxes, and fewer regulations in workplaces and the environment—all for the whims of entrenched local and foreign interests.

His supporters as well as that of the past administration will cling to their support as they belittle any accurate data including that from the government; insisting the “efforts” of the administration as enough to suffice the problem even tho it isn’t. The so-called efforts to suffice the problem using neoliberalism rather aggravates as most countries, especially that of the United States resorted to pandemic-induced trade protectionism. The lack of strong industrial base, the failure to pursue genuine agrarian reform, and a deficient social policy especially in health services outweighs the promises of industrialisation, of improving labor standards including that of health workers in need of better pay and working conditions. Meanwhile, countries like the United States, are trying to protect their jobs and businesses as the pandemic-induced recession disrupted the entire neoliberal-globalist order and its trade routes. Thus, in the face of a continuing slowdown in global capitalist centres and rising recessionary threats, the economic plan brought by Marcos jr., like those of his predecessors will only push the country deeper into economic crisis, deepening its backward, agrarian, and non-industrial state, depending on dollar remittances and concessions to “stay afloat” amidst crisis. 

Speaking of concessions, the current regime continues to kowtow to both American and Chinese interests while pretending to be non-aligned like his predecessor. “A friend to all and an enemy to none” as being claimed of, as the administration continues to remain subservient in every agreement verbatim while claiming to be “patriotic”. That before the United Nations, Marcos made no demand that China respect the International Arbitral Tribunal's July 2016 ruling in favour of the country's territorial claims under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), while on the other hand, he recently granted permission for over 2,550 American soldiers to use the country and armed forces for US war exercises, which are aimed at increasing military tensions in the West Philippine Sea. Putting the country in grave danger of getting caught between the United States and China.  

For the order, it makes no difference whether the visit to Singapore and its grand prix, of turning a state visit to a family affair like in New York, or Sara Duterte's message in Mandarin and the use of presidential helicopter for “personal use”, are altogether controversial, because the reactions to the first 100 days demonstrated the country's political polarisation. Those who praised Marcos and Duterte are associated with them, while those who criticised the regime are associated with the opposition, think tanks, and credible analysts. Of course, the former will fanatically defend their idol as they assert words like “unity” to that of trolling the opposition; but the latter, having facts as basis to oppose the moves of the order would say that in the face of worsening sufferings and state neglect, the Filipino people have no choice but to speak up and assert and defend their rights and welfare. All this, despite the brutal "war on drugs" that continues unabated in the name of "peace and order" and against the poor, to red-tagging and harassment of concerned individuals and groups, as attacks on press freedom and people's freedom of expression continue unabated- with the police and military continuing to blur the distinction between civilians and armed combatants in violation of international humanitarian law. 

It’s easy to discern whose comments make sense. As people increasingly seeking truth from facts it becomes a problem for the order as the people themselves know the truth that is, contrary to their narrative. 

“When cracks of discontent starting to appear.”

“When cracks of discontent starting to appear.”

(On the recent changes in the Marcos cabinet)

It seems that in less than a hundred days that the Second Marcos administration isn’t even complete yet but showing off its cracks. 

With news like Calida resigned from the Commission on Audit, Vic Rodriguez as “no longer part of the administration”, to that of Trixie Cruz-Angeles resigned as press secretary, these and others would say that the regime is having problems within the ranks- if not a possible infighting between Marcos and Duterte factions. 

So much for the “unity” that’s been bannered throughout the time. Of course, there are legit reasons such as Calida for his health problems, if not Cruz-Angeles for being a suspended lawyer and therefore unlikely to be part of the cabinet according to rumors. And Dominguez? “We do not talk about it” said Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, justifying there’s no such order such as a “presidential chief of staff” exists and therefore Dominguez as no longer part of the administration. 

On the other hand, unpopular figures were reappointed such as Erwin Tulfo as Social Welfare secretary. Even the neoliberal Diokno is also reappointed as Finance secretary too. And Vice President Sara Duterte? She remained concurrently as Education secretary despite issues of confidential and intelligence funds within the department (and susceptible to corruption) still fresh in everyone’s minds. 

For the apologist, they would still cling to their narrative that these people were performing well despite the fact that they’re defending a soiled regime. But, if one may ask, where’s the unity the regime is claiming about as cracks been shown out and therefore making people concerned as ever? In fact, Other than changes in the cabinet, issues like ex-government official Lorraine Badoy Partosa continues to be a talk of the town after the courts asserts the rule of law versus the hysteria brought by the past administration’s excesses. According to a press briefer, the Supreme Court ordered the former member of the NTFELCAC to show cause and must respond on her statement in social media towards Judge Marlo Magdoza-Malagar. And that includes “implying her message as protected constitutional speech.” Furthermore, authorities disowned Badoy to save the administration’s face, for in a statement she’s “not even a consultant” from the Office of the President (OP) nor the anti-insurgency task force; isn’t it that ridiculous despite apologists changing the narrative by redescribing her as a private citizen doing her counterinsurgency propaganda? After all, they’re actively defending her “view” as they’re calling the courts “infiltrated by the enemies of the state” and justifying her work as part of the “government’s efforts in winning the propaganda war” even it means making shit towards the opposition, the concerned citizen, and even the courts who for these apologists thinking they’re standing against their way. 

But, come to think of it, while apologists were bannering their anticommunist hysteria with all of its excesses, this hysteria did a lot of damage on themselves rather than their targets—for using the "communist" bogeyman as an alibi, the administration targeted those who stood in their way—including a concerned citizen who had enough of rising vegetable prices and promises of a 20 per kilo of rice. For sure everyone remembers how these red taggers also harassed those performing acts of solidarity like the community pantry movement, to that of demanding subsidies for the needy during the pandemic; and come to think that within the administration, there are those having enough of rotten eggs among them, such as Bersamin, who is a loyalist shooing off Cruz-Angeles, who is a Duterte supporter, or Clarita Carlos, who has had enough of red taggers like Badoy. 

However, will those who supported the previous administration and those loyal to the Marcoses remain silent on this? Some did express dismay as cracks of discontent emerging in that goddamned “unity” with all the successive resignations and controversies trying to be well-buried with alibis and “achievements”; of course they cannot express it throughout especially when facing towards the opposition!

“From his sacrifice validates the message”

“From his sacrifice validates the message” 

This note condemns the killing of broadcaster Percy Mabasa aka “Percy Lapid” of “Lapid fire” in Las Piñas recently. 

This killing shows that journalism, or seeking truth from facts, remains a dangerous profession in the country- and despite claims of having free press thriving under the current Marcos regime this incident indicates how authorities failed to protect those who seek truth or voicing out opinions from harm; what more to see its ringleaders continuing to run. 

Lapid, host of “Lapid fire” in DWB,1242, had been critical of the Aquino, Duterte, as well as the current Marcos administration, as well as its policies and personalities involved. And among his commentaries in his YouTube channel was on the dangers of red tagging and historical revisionism that’s thriving under the current regime.

This note strongly condemn this deplorable crime; for it was done not just against the messenger but also to the country and to the truth in which he’s seeking and upheld for. And in his death this validates the message that the order is scared of the reality how corrupt and oppressive is as in the past; that the culture if impunity is still flourishing no matter how they’re trying to downplay such inconvenient truths seen by many even up to the present. 

And wouldn’t be surprised that the current administration, or its apologists would link to the killing of a radio commentator to that of the growing people’s concern over the government and its policies. Of course these people, in seriously defending the regime would respond by claiming “no proof” and “only wild speculations” that “serve as fodder” to the “recycled narrative that ‘the government did it’”, if not blaming the opposition for actively dissenting against the regime. 

But from his death, as well as others who died for their profession would say that seeking truth from facts will continue to prevail even in this tumultuous times. That liberating ideas should thrive no matter foes trying to stop in this supposed democratic façade. 

And therefore must not let his murder go unresolved or its perpetrators be brought to justice.

So much for her bullshitry! (Only to have shit thrown back at it!)

So much for her bullshitry! 

(Only to have shit thrown back at it!)

Notes on the recent action of Lorraine Badoy-Partosa 

and how lawyers, academics, and concerned folks ganged up together against her hyseria

This note condemns a former government official and her threats against Judge Marlo Magdoza-Malagar and her husband, Atty. Chancellor of the University of the Philippines-Cebu, Leo Malagar. 

Because Lorraine Badoy-Partosa made the claim a few days ago on social media that political beliefs were to blame for the murder of a judge and the bombing of courthouses. The DOJ's petition was dismissed on September 21 by Magdoza-Malagar, presiding judge of Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 19, in a court judgment that the influencer disagrees with. Malagar contrasted between "terrorism" and "rebellion" in rejecting the DOJ's argument, pointing out that terrorism has a wider reach than revolt and that rebellion is merely one method of terrorism. Malagar distinguished between "rebellion" and "terrorism" in rejecting the DOJ's plea, pointing out that terrorism is broader in scope than rebellion, with rebellion being only one of the various means by which terrorism can be committed. 

For the apologist, Badoy's and her colleagues in the NTFELCAC "were about to cut the head of the serpent," as they've claimed, only to find themselves affecting the concerned, much less the innocent, all in the name of "anti-subversion" and "anti-terrorism." That their comments, whether justified as free speech whether posted on social media or spoken in a television program, rather degenerated into absurdity, especially in connecting certain people (including judge Magdoza-Malagar) to the communist party and therefore “face the consequences”. 

With words such as “So if I kill this judge and I do so out of my political belief that all allies of the CPP-NPA-NDF must be killed because there is no difference in my mind between a member of the CPP-NPA-NDF and their friends, then please be lenient with me,” the former government official posted a hypothetical question that is willing to do so in the name of her “anti-communist cause.” 

And this kind of question did occur in countries such as Latin America during the 1980s. Those who advocated for human rights, the rule of law, and even expressed concern were killed in the name of counterinsurgency, or anti-terrorism in today's parlance. Even clergymen like Bishop Romero was killed by the military just because he spoke against state terror! Will Badoy's words remain hypothetical in light of this example? This doesn't matter to the apologist; in fact, it justifies what amounts to an open public threat against a lawful official, what more a member of the bar. 

Furthermore, according to the statement from the “Free Legal Assistance Group”, that “Badoy's threat is not protected speech-it is a felony. Her red-tagging of the spouses Malagar violate their rights under international law and Philippine law. Her irresponsible posts against them and others clearly indicate that she will continue to act with impunity unless she is held accountable.”

Even the University of the Philippines College of Law condemn the threats and should not be allowed to remain unaddressed as red tagging violates the basic principles on the role of lawyers. “Both undermine the rule of law a s represent the continuing impunity which is key to the modus operandi of Ms. Badoy and her ilk.” According to the statement.

Thus, in this light, this note again deplores such action by Badoy et al. as reeks of hysteria, as it vilifies and endangers those who administers justice if not seeking truth from facts. By claiming to be defending “democracy” and “freedom” under this current order this turned out to be willing to set aside due process, rule of law for their distorted concept of order reminiscent of oplans “Tokhang” and “Double Barrel” of the past regime- and this may repeat again by claiming this as a necessary evil.

At present, the former government official may’ve “obeyed” the order brought from the courts as it sternly warns those who continue to incite violence which endangers the lives of judges and their families" shall “likewise be considered a contempt” of the tribunal and “will be dealt with accordingly.” 

But, does it mean she and her ilk will stop and give way to the decision? Or will still babble as if nothing happened?