Filipinos must step away from capitalist shadow of USA
The Universe
(July 09, 2006)
Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo did not visited Pope Benedict empty handed. She brought a ‘gift’ - the abolition of the death penalty which she signed into law June 23.
She deserves praise and a blessing from the Pope. She certified the law as urgent, had it passed and removed this odious and cruel punishment, something long sought after by the Church in the Philippines. The president also got the Juvenile Justice Bill passed, which will release all children in jail and prevent more being put inside. Now we await the implementing guidelines.
Abolishing the death penalty is seen here as a conciliatory gesture to the Vatican after several of the most outspoken bishops were hosed down and driven from the streets during protests against social injustice and the environmental destruction. The president lost much support for this intolerance and disrespect for the constitutional rights of free speech and public assembly.
Over the years, the Philippine authorities have allowed themselves to be shamefully influenced by their former colonial masters, the USA, whose influence is still all powerful. Philippine law and attitude have been adopted from the US, including the American political system. But it is a shame democracy wherein the richest families with the most powerful corporate support win.
Sadly it is all too similar to the United States. These adopted polices - violations of human rights like arbitrary detention, torture, abductions, beatings and death squads are all repugnant to the Christian conscience.
Likewise, branding all critics and dissidents as terrorists undermines democratic principles. The execution squads are murdering dissidents, labour leaders, social activists, media people and even youth and minors with impunity. It’s a programme of social cleansing for which there must be a reckoning. A reign of fear and death is sweeping the country. We hope and pray that the president will respond to the Pope’s desire for peace and an end to violence as a means to solve problems that are rooted in social injustice.
A United States grant of $21 million given recently to President Macapagal-Arroyo, ostensibly to fight corruption, is interpreted here as a reward for supporting the antiterrorist policies of President Bush and declaring all out war on the communists here.
The military and police are spending massive funds through negotiated purchases of weapons, equipment and vehicles and bypassing the public bidding necessary to prevent over-pricing and massive kickbacks. Meanwhile, education and social services are at an all time low. The World Bank has just come to the rescue with a big loan for education. But how much of that will reach the children?
Filipinos, aside from the ruling elite, and their vicious goons, are admired around the world for their kindness, gentleness, tolerance and forgiveness. This comes from their faith in a loving compassionate for God.
But it is economic and political powerlessness that prevents them from transforming society. [End]
