THE POLITICAL DIVERGENCE

THE POLITICAL DIVERGENCE

Political Motivations Behind Detentions: A Closer Look at Philippines' Political Prisoners

Ashley Treshia Pagota

Afunctional democracy depends on the values of free expression and peaceful dissent, both of which are challenged when people are detained because of their political ideas, actions and standings. Political Prisoners in the Philippines cases are most politically motivated. If a certain Politician does not conform or support the idea of the current administration then they are most likely to be in trouble and planted in some cases that can stain their names to the public. They are victims of political persecution. Upholding the rule of law necessitates making efforts to guarantee just and open legal proceedings for those charged with political crimes.

In the Philippines, the case of the Former Philippines’ Secretary of Justice and the Chair of the Philippine Commission on Human Rights, Mrs. Leila M. de Lima. A Filipino lawyer, human rights activist, politician and a

prominent critic of Duterte’s War on Drugs. De Lima first earned Duterte’s wrath in 2009 when she was head of the Commission on Human Rights in the Philippines.

President Duterte accused Senator de Lima of involvement in illegal drug activities. These accusations led to legal actions against de Lima, including her arrest in 2017 on charges of involvement in the illegal drug trade. De Lima said the only reason Duterte targeted her is that she refused to back down from her criticism of the president’s drug war. Which is clearly so undemocratic and clearly threatens the core principles of democracy.

detained for six years. She was released from detention last November 2023 into what she calls “a whole new world”.

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To support a strong democracy, the Philippines must address the problem of political prisoners and ensure that the legal system is unbiased, transparent, and free from political influence.

To support a strong democracy, the Philippines must address the problem of political prisoners and ensure that the legal system is unbiased, transparent, and free from political influence.

Upholding democratic norms requires respecting the diversity of opinions and protecting everyone's rights, including those who disagree and critiques of the government.

Though she was never convicted, Mrs. de Lima was

To cater to what is really the essence of democracy and that is to hear and address the problems, opinions and thoughts of the individuals.

Mrs. Leila De Lima is among the silent many that hold the center and keep our government from falling apart. They are the ones who keep our public institutions intact through storms and scandals, notwithstanding the misguided ambitions and corruption of some of their leaders. We all live in the same country. Because this government, whether we like it or not, is our government. Its cost is a burden we must all share. We need to help to protect those politicians that are willing to sacrifice their positions and safety just to address and inform the public about all the things that are happening inside the government. The task of building this nation is a task that we must all share. We all must contribute to build the kind of nation we dream for ourselves. Each one of us has a role in it. Each one of us has a responsibility to it.

A strong and functional justice system serves as vital to a society's overall well-being.

Philippine Party Politics: A Heartbreaking Symphony of Betrayal and Self-Interest

IPrincess Marie Tomaro

n the convoluted quagmire of Philippine party politics, the unfolding saga of realpolitik reads like a tragic opera of betrayal, opportunism, and the blatant absence of any moral compass. The tumultuous terrain of alliances, political shapeshifters, and the calculated manipulation of party dynamics reveals a system thriving not on principles but on a shameless pursuit of power and personal gain.

The 2022 Philippine election stands as a stark indictment of the sorry state of the nation's political landscape. The MarcosDuterte alliance, masquerading under the pretense of 'unity,' successfully hoodwinked the electorate, promising a harmonious governance that crumbled with the fragility of a hastily built house of cards. The partnership, embodied by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sarah Duterte, unraveled disgracefully within the hallowed halls of Congress, laying bare the harsh reality lurking beneath the facades of political camaraderie.

The explosive ArroyoRomualdez issue and the subsequent denial of confidential funds to the Office of the Vice President marked the

ignominious end for the illusion of unity.

’’President Marcos's sudden openness to cooperating with the International Criminal Court (ICC) sent shockwaves through the political landscape, especially for the victims of the ruthless war on drugs. It momentarily flickered as a beacon of hope, challenging the impunity that once shielded the architects of this controversial campaign. However, as the cracks widened, scrutiny extended to the Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI), Duterte's formidable propaganda machine. The suspension of SMNI by the National Telecommunication Commission exposed its nefarious role as a conveyor of misinformation, red-tagging, and an instrument of political manipulation.

The post-election landscape reveals a disheartening truth— politicians’ loyalty does not lie with the electorate but with the self-serving interests that pave the way for future electoral victories.

The narrative pivoted from a purportedly formidable partnership to a reckless balancing act, with each party shamelessly prioritizing familial interests over the collective mandate they purported to represent. The ongoing saga of insults exchanged between the two families now dominates headlines, underscoring an unsettling shift from an ostensibly unbreakable alliance to a cringe-worthy spectacle of chaos. This transformation lays bare the overwhelming reality of the country’s political landscape, where the very notions of political alliances and principles are nothing more than cynical tools for political power, rather than a genuine commitment to ‘unity’ and the common good.

This deeply entrenched pattern of alliances, crafted solely for electoral advantage, lays bare the moral bankruptcy of Philippine party politics. The pre-election theatrics, where alliances are brokered with

President Marcos's abrupt about-face, once hailed as a stalwart defender of his political partner, cast a dark shadow over the loyalty that supposedly underpins these alliances.

strategic precision to secure votes and expand influence, mercilessly undermine the core essence of representation. Instead of standing on a foundation of principled governance, politicians pivot shamelessly towards whatever ensures electoral triumph, regardless of the broader consequences for the nation.

The post-election landscape reveals a disheartening truth— politicians' loyalty does not lie with the electorate but with the self-serving interests that pave the way for future electoral victories. The tales of betrayal, opportunism, and political hypocrisy paint a vivid and dismal picture of a system that cries out for urgent reform. Until the nation collectively demands a shift towards principled governance and ideological clarity, the insidious cycle of alliances, fractures, and betrayal will continue to poison Philippine party politics. It's an unpalatable truth that leaves the electorate to endure the consequences of a system that prioritizes personal gain over national progress, and it's a disappointment that hangs heavy over the hopes of a nation deserving so much more.

Diamonds or Diamonds in the Rough? The Ring That Sparked a Nation’s Debate

Aring—a timeless emblem, a symbol of love and commitment, and a testament . to a lasting connection—heralds the beginning of a lifelong journey for two individuals destined for the road of marriage. Then, a marriage that signifies the union of two individuals, molded and influenced by cultural norms and societal expectations. But what happens when an engagement ring that symbolizes such a thing costs a mere 299 pesos?

This question sparked a viral debate in the Philippines, dividing opinions and igniting conversations about love, finances, and societal expectations. The issue unravels a complex tapestry, questioning the significance of the ring’s price and reflecting the broader political and cultural trends within

society.

On one hand, some argue that true love transcends material costs. They point to grand gestures like saving for years for an engagement ring as potentially performative, not necessarily reflective of genuine love. A cheap ring, they say, can be just as meaningful, a testament to the couple’s commitment and resourcefulness. After all, love shouldn’t be quantified by a price tag, emphasizing the emotional and relational aspects over material considerations. However, others argue that the ring, despite its simplicity, holds symbolic weight. It represents not only a promise and commitment for the future but also serves as a visible symbol for the

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What might be a romantic gesture for one person can be hurtful for another, underscoring the subjectivity inherent in societal expectations.

couple’s lifelong journey together. In a society where financial stability is often intertwined with a sense of security, a cheap ring can send mixed messages, questioning the proposer’s priorities, their ability to provide for the growth of the family, and their commitment to sustaining the relationship throughout their lifetime.

Moreover, the crux of the issue lies in the individuals’ interpretation, highlighting the broader political aspect of personal relationships. What might be a romantic gesture for one person can be hurtful for another, underscoring the subjectivity inherent in societal expectations. The key to this

is open communication and understanding each other’s values and expectations. Therefore, the 299 peso engagement ring isn’t just about the money; it’s about the message it sends and how it’s received. It’s a reminder that love is complex, nuanced, and often defies simple definitions. It requires understanding, communication, and a willingness to bridge the gap between expectations and reality. This issue further prompts us to rethink cultural expectations surrounding love and marriage, questioning whether societal pressure for extravagant displays aligns with the authentic essence of a committed relationship, underscoring economic disparities and societal pressures reflecting the broader political landscape where the value of relationships is intertwined with financial considerations.

Jamayka Pamplona and Abdiel Bernales

Lord, what will become of me / Once I’ve lost my novelty?

Fighting with him was like Trying to solve a crossword and realizing there’s no right answer.

Please don’t ever become a stranger whose laugh I could recognize anywhere

My reputation’s never been worse, so/ You must like me for me.

All of this silence and patience, pining in anticipation/ My hands are shaking from holding back from you

But we might just get away with it/ Religion’s in your lips /Even if it’s a false god /We’d still worship this love

One of the primary arguments in favor of this proposed course is the resonance of Taylor Swift’s music and persona with a diverse array of audiences, from her early work addressing themes of adolescence and heartache to her later anthems of empowerment and self-discovery. Her career is a clear example of creativity as an artist, how she maintains her popularity for over a decade, and how was she able to do it. With her music that evolves overtime, her catalogs and success in the music industry, and her literary works on how she writes her songs with such wordplay implicates on why one should look over and acknowledge the transformative influence to the masses.

According to Prof. Billon, the sparked conversations revealed a lot about how the academe and Filipino society, “it remained conservative, rigid, and hierarchical, especially on what is deemed as worth studying and worth paying attention to.” She also added that, “there still seems to be a bias when it comes to studying media, its culture, its processes, and its products.” By studying her lyrical themes, musical evolution, and approach to storytelling, students could gain a deeper understanding of the power of music as a conduit for personal and collective narratives. Furthermore, the course could delve into the intersections between celebrity, gender, and cultural critique. Taylor Swift’s

Taylor Swift as an elective course in UP: Should it exist?

Lexdhel Jayne Cahatol

Taylor Swift's wide influence as a singer, songwriter, performer, and cultural icon cannot be overstated. Her trajectory from country music prodigy to global pop sensation is not only an artistic evolution, but also a case study in the complexities of today's music industry. College courses dedicated to understanding her journey will provide valuable insight into the fields of music, business and cultural influence. In an era of cultural and academic convergence, it is time for universities to recognize the importance of popular figures in shaping the socio-cultural landscape. Proposals to develop university courses on the musical and cultural significance of Taylor Swift should therefore be seriously considered.

On January 11, 2023 The University of the Philippines Diliman, College of Mass Communication announced that they will be offering an elective course about American pop star Taylor Swift, “Celebrity Studies: Taylor Swift in Focus” under BA Broadcast Media Arts and Studies in the second semester. It will be mentored by Broadcast Communication Ass. Professor Cherish Aileen A. Brillon, PhD. The course will focus on the conception, construction, and the performance of Taylor Swift as a celebrity and how she can be used to explain our and, of course, media’s relationship with class, politics, gender, race, and fantasies of success and mobility.

public persona and the media’s portrayal of her have sparked conversations about feminism, industry politics, and the impact of celebrity culture on society. By analyzing these topics, students could engage in critical discourse surrounding the representation of women in the music industry and the broader implications of fame in the digital age.

courses. All of this has created different levels of conversation in the media and social networks.

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The field is no stranger in the Philippine academia. Celebrity studies is part of the broader field of media studies and popular culture. Many local scholars such as Soledad Reyes, Roland Tolentino, Wendell Capili, Joven Velasco, Louis John Sanchez and Alfonso Deza have written academically about local notables. UP has hosted many pop culture courses over the years including K-drama courses, and animation-focused biology courses such as Attack on titans. Other universities, such as La Salle, also offered TV series subjects, and Ateneo offered content on Star Wars and religion. Top universities including New York University, Harvard University and Stanford University already offer Taylor Swift

The time has come for academia to embrace the evolution of cultural studies, and a Taylor Swift course would undoubtedly be a meaningful step in the direction.

Critics of the idea may argue that a Taylor Swift-centric course lacks the academic rigor or depths of traditional subjects. However, Prof. Billon said that, “I am not dismissing the need to study local celebrities. I always say they are equally important.”, and said that the academic interests she focuses on are all embodied by Taylor Swift who is currently the biggest pop star we have today. “I am very much aware that there are parallel, existing realities that need attention and focus in the country and elsewhere, but it doesn’t invalidate the existence of other realities and phenomena. All are important subjects worth exploring.” She added. The field of popular culture studies has been gaining traction in academia, recognizing the importance of understanding the cultural artifacts that shape our world. As media and the internet has been polarizing our daily lives, our relationship with and consumption of celebrities has changed as we expect celebrities to be politically aware and vocal.

Before, artists are only expected to make good music but in our times, one should expect that someone who is influential should use their platform to advocate for something. This gives a reason to study how celebrities’ impact on societal change that now holds responsibility and opportunity with their fame not just by giving entertainment alone.

The addition of a university course focused on Taylor Swift is not only relevant but also essential in recognizing and analyzing her strategy in the marketing and branding on how she was able to keep her relevance in the contemporary times. Just as courses on film, literature, and art are valued for their exploration of societal themes, a course on Taylor Swift’s impact could similarly contribute to the academic discourse on contemporary culture and its influence on our collective consciousness. Studying her music doesn’t only stop on memorizing “You Belong with Me”, but it gives insight when studying her works in the academic approach. By appreciating her contributions in a scholarly context, students can gain a multifaceted view of the interconnectedness of art, commerce, and cultural significance. The time has come for academia to embrace the evolution of cultural studies, and a Taylor Swift course would undoubtedly be a meaningful step in the direction.

A Call for Justice

On October 7, 2023, devastating news shocked the world, Hamas, a Palestinian militant group initiated and committed a bloody massacre against Israel. Hamas’s actions

the invasion of Afghanistan or the complete destruction of Iraq. At the very moment, Israel is applying the same principle in its military operation in Gaza. The argument of fighting terrorism is once again used to justify the deaths of thousands of Palestinians, the indiscriminate bombings, and

case brought by South Africa against the State of Israel for violations of the terms of the Genocide Convention. The term “genocide” as defined in the Convention is “acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group.” South Africa asked the Court to

very apparent- which is usually hard to prove since perpetrators of genocide rarely express their intentions in explicit ways. South Africa, in its case has been able to make a comprehensive database from statements of Israeli public officials that incites the genocidal destruction of Gaza. South Africa in presenting

The International Court of Justice, must once and for all stop the unchecked impunity being committed to the Palestinian people, put an end to the violence, and save Gaza from complete obliteration.

The Ingenuity of Benevolence Politics: An Exposition of Philippine Food Security and A Deception of Utility

Over the years agriculture has been one of many sources of both survival and growth. Looking at history alone, it has been one of the key cornerstones of the growing society. Where power was exercised and molded the confines of our modern society. The Philippines as a nationstate is not excluded from the grace of agricultural providence. As known, the state is primarily an agricultural country, where the economy rests in the hands of crops and natural resources. Rice, in particular, has been one of those sectors in agriculture that effectively backdrop the survival of the growing economy.

However, tables turn as Taiwan donates 2 MT of rice to the Philippines. Half of the said commitment by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) had already been turned over to the country. As generous as the donation sounds, the rice offered is operational to distribute to families in the most desperate situations. According to the DSWD, which is responsible for determining

the qualified beneficiaries, Taiwan’s rice may be used for food packs during disasters (CNN). In short, the news has it that Taiwan, a nearby island had the benevolence to donate a significant amount of an agricultural resource in the spirit of friendship shared by both actors.

There are pertinent perspectives that describe the surrounding narrative of the scenario. One of which is the evident decline of the Philippine economy especially in the agricultural sector especially as a country that boasts agricultural prowess in the east. Up until the 1970s, the Philippines’ agricultural performance, in terms of both agricultural Gross Value Added (GVA) and agricultural exports, compared well with its neighbors and other Asian countries (Habito, 2005). In the following years, by the 1980s and 1990s, agricultural outputs had evidently declined. Paired with the volatile nature of harvest due to unpredictable weather patterns such as El Nino, the sector suffered even more. In

reality where the Philippines must take a reconsideration of policy alternatives and a serious plan to secure the food of thousands of Filipinos in situations of vulnerability.

In the course of time, the Philippines has always been branded with the ‘Third World’ narrative. There may be problematic instances that lay in the label but in the place of hierarchy that it is in, it has never been more true. The act of generosity from the neighboring country which is experiencing significant political upheavals projects a telling story of charity in the face of covert desperation. As a growing economy, the action serves as a reality check of how far the country must strive in order to achieve the height it wishes to reach. The goals of food security among the people and sustainable agriculture must truly lie at the forefront of the administration and for administrations to come.

Another point to consider is the political environment that surrounds Taiwan in the middle of this liberality in rice. Evident tensions around Taiwan these past few years have described the situation to be both slippery and dangerous, especially in instances of cooperation. Recent collisions with China, internal movements to unite against the reunification, and the involvement of US in the scene are manifestations of the danger intrinsic in Taiwan in the present time. The situation gets even tighter as US currently holds and has recently acquired four more military bases in the Philippines. Giving off an environment of hostility and alarm in the context of security and order.

the contemporary context, the donation that took place takes a defining turn in describing the standing of the Philippines as an agricultural country.

Others may find Taiwan's rice donation as an act of generosity that deserves gratitude, but at the same time, It may be a bitter pill to swallow. This shows that the Philippines have resorted to band-aid solutions in dealing with food security. Given that, in size, the Philippines is 8 times larger than Taiwan, with an evidently greater space of agricultural lands, it is a shame that the country is in need of Taiwan’s rice donation. The irony of the 20-peso rice promise that helped win the election is now becoming the reason for the people to make a mockery of our administration, with the Philippines ranking second among global rice importers in 2023, and now, a charity case. Even if, the economy and progress are not clearly defined by the diplomacy and actions that take place in the international realm, the donation speaks a hard truth of

It is apparent that the majority of the people in Taiwan oppose reunification with China, as the latest survey shows that only a fraction of the population (12%) identify and support the Chinese. Taking anchor on the scenario established, the rice donation becomes a bigger play of politics exercised by Taiwan. On one hand, the Philippines is a known ally of USA and on the other, Taiwan wants to be independent of China. From this, it can be deduced that the act of donation crosses the ‘benevolence’ that is intrinsic to the outside appearance of the policy. But rather a play that secures the support and allegiance of the Philippines in times of future instability inherent in the situation in which Taiwan finds itself. It seems as if through the initiative, Taiwan searches for utility in the resources they donated. And so, contrary to a surface understanding of the event, both actors actually benefit. Philippines gets the rice which braces food security in times of desperate need and Taiwan assures the connection with Philippines in their rally against reunification with China. Together, they enforce the ideologies of International relations with utilitarianism and realist assumptions of interest. It projects not sheer generosity, but rice politics.

Altogether, the news of Taiwan donating 2MT of rice to the Philippines is unsurprising in the waves of the contemporary world. It is a matter that does not traverse the confines of our contemporary terms, but rather supplements and upholds the known politics revealed to us. It is a matter of exposing the decline and failings of Philippine domestic systems concerning agriculture and food while also uncovering the environment in play that might have positively motivated the initiative. Surely, international politics and internal dispositions will never escape the eyes of reality, it was revealed by a simple grain of rice and a kind of initiative that superficially defines generosity.

Reil Angelo C. Valdueza and Lyn Anhara Taroy

The Latest Attempt at Charter Change in the Philippines: Will it ever happen?

As the Philippine Constitution ages, issues and concerns grow with it, especially on how it will suit and cater to the current situation and dilemmas of the country. Many attempts for charter change throughout the Philippine government's history were evident but failed to pass through the Senate after its establishment almost four decades ago. People in the present government who are concerned came up with the idea to propose amendments to the Bill of Rights. Recently, in March 2023, a resolution was approved by the House that paved the way to convene a Constitutional Convention aiming for economic provisions. But this continues to languish in the Senate, as of the moment. Because of that, the House of Representatives, last December 2023, announced to the nation their plans and actions to support this change. Upon this appeal, many conversations and debates arose about its efficacy, efficiency, and possible results.

The media shocked the Filipinos last December 2023 upon the reports about the pushing of the House Representatives for a Charter Change intended to happen this year, 2024. In a press interview statement by Senior Deputy House Speaker Aurelio Gonzales, they [House of Representatives] are exploring options that will help push their proposals without the involvement of the Senate. According to them, economic provisions will allow a smooth flow of foreign investment, which is a big help to the country's economy. They also insist that

the constitution needs new provisions that will adapt to the needs of the country and its people as it constantly changes. Although this movement aims for a fruitful change, it still received contradictions, especially from Senate members, local business groups, and even Filipino citizens.

The option the House used was people's initiative under the Republic Act No. 6735 or the “The Initiative and Referendum Act ''.

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The implementers must understand what charter change is for, its effects and consequences, right and honest people in the process, and analysis of what must be changed and what is not. It must serve the Filipino’s interest, and the common good, as it should.

This initiative kick started through government (barangay) officials and private persons collecting signatures of people in their respective districts by gaining signatures of at least 12% of registered voters, with 3% within every legislative district. Through the use of signatures, there will be a possibility for amendments. If and only the Commission on Elections allows it to pass to Congress with all the requirements. At the same time, controversy about bribery using ayuda and

money in exchange for a person's signature occurred. This incident gave doubts to the people about the intentions and are guessing about the real agenda behind it. Aside from the issue of signature buying, the Senate is one of its hindrances to success, along with lawyers, especially in the agricultural sector. According to them, this attempt that mainly focuses on the economic provision by letting foreigners own lands, for example, is a big disrespect to locals and the country itself. Also, Charter Change is unarguably prone to exploitation and abuse, and if ever this happens, resources and manpower is needed. That’s why Senators are against it.

Although, there are still no petitions submitted that make this attempt have a lesser evidentiary value, it is still in the process and discussions.

In reality, this charter change is a good move to aim for development in the country. The world is changing as well as the country and its people’s needs and state. The constitution must have a change, too. A bit of change, subtraction, and minus of the laws, and policies. Then voila! It might not be a perfect fit, but will suit the world’s constant change. But, the process needs to take its time. The implementers must understand what charter change is for, its effects and consequences, right and honest people in the process, and analysis of what must be changed and what is not. It must serve the Filipino's interest, and the common good, as it should.

Yzce Toaine Samante

Justifying Jeepney Strike Situation

Transport groups in the Philippines began a 2-week strike against the jeepney phaseout on December 15, 2023. The strike delivered a transportation crisis in the country with alternative ground transport services, such as taxis and buses, reportedly face crowding and long wait times due to increased demand. However, the strike still showcases necessity especially for what these individuals are collectively clamoring for.

When looking at mishaps that the transport strike has caused such as transport crises with employees struggling to reach offices, and institutions literally having to resort to online classes, there can be an initial thought as to how much of an inconvenience their mode of clamor has established. However, there is justification as to why despite such occurrences the strike was still necessary.

Context; transport strikes serve as a mechanism in order for individuals to bargain for better working conditions. In the case of the country, the issue of jeepney modernization and phaseout established the urge as to why jeepney operators and transport groups are holding a strike. Their clamor is simple, the phaseout must not push through because operators

will permanently lose their livelihood, and they can’t conform to the requirements needed in order to operate modern jeepneys. Implications then; the working conditions for jeepney operators within the country are not optimal. This means that the pursuit of transport modernization is too ideal, and has obviously lacked consideration as to what effects in could bring

of implementations pushing through, it does not equate to systemic betterment especially when discussing of livelihood being most affected. Therefore, if the country does indeed believe that jeepney modernization can help the country, then there should be more effective measures as to how the transition cannot damage lives of large masses especially when there

’’Therefore, if the country does indeed believe that jeepney modernization can help the country, then there should be more effective measures as to how the transition cannot damage lives of large masses especially when there absolute consciousness that they heavily contribute to a working status quo.

toward the vulnerable actors within the particular scope. This means, that the system failed to realize that if they pursue such transition, harms outweigh the benefits because people could no longer have jobs in order for them to sustain themselves.

The situation is telling society that no matter the likelihood

absolute consciousness that they heavily contribute to a working status quo.

Embracing modernity can be, and only be effective when its benefits dominate, and harms can be easily dealt. Feasibility should be assured, and the consequence of joblessness should have a contingency plan. If solving a problem

creates a new one, then it is no solution. If transport is an issue, then there should be a focus within the aspects that are causing traffic. The tradeoff that the jeepney phaseout offers doesn’t have the long-term benefits which is harmful for the state at large.