Arao, D. A. (2007, June 13-19). Kultura ng kasalukuyang pamamahala. Pinoy Weekly, 6 (22), p. 5. This may be retrieved from http://www.pinoyweekly.org/pw6-22/op_ed/ed-6_22_3.htm.

Consider this article an effect of reading and watching too many news about human rights violations. After all, we have in our midst so-called public servants who will do anything and everything to perpetuate themselves in power. They have resorted to means both legal and extra-legal to quell social unrest.

Killings, abductions and other forms of human rights violations are being committed with impunity. The goal of those responsible is simple: to silence opposition to government policies and programs detrimental to marginalized sectors of society.

With the opening of the 14th Congress in July, we can expect moves to clip the power and influence of the Philippine Senate which is currently dominated by the opposition. There are already claims from some pro-administration legislators that a unicameral legislature is necessary for development. It is clear, of course, that this will result in the abolition of the Senate. Isn’t it ironic that the powers-that-be want the abolition of an institution just because they do not control it?

There is a strong possibility that the Macapagal-Arroyo administration will push for the change in the Constitution not only to change the form of government from the current presidential system to a parliamentary one but also to facilitate the further opening up of the economy to foreign investors. With regard to the latter, the administration will most likely change the Constitution so that it can finally allow foreign ownership of land and mass media.

Given what’s happening in the Philippines now and what the future holds, it may be worthwhile to read this article. But please don’t blame me if you end up agitated.

Thanks for reading!