by Harvey S. Keh
Contributor
JUST a few weeks ago, I listened to a National Situationer report given by the Simbahang Lingkod ng Bayan (SLB), the socio-political arm of the Jesuits here in the Philippines.
SLB is known to be one of the most credible institutions who can give an honest to goodness analysis of what is the real state of our country and in their report they emphasized the following:
a.) Yes, the country’s economy continues to grow and, in fact, we have one of the highest growth rates in Asia. However, despite the economic growth, more than 25 million Filipinos continue to languish in poverty.
b.) 62 percent of Filipinos actually die without even having the chance to be seen by a healthcare professional. To make things worse, medicine prices are 5 to 45 times higher here in our country compared to other countries in Asia like Thailand, Pakistan and India.
c.) 3.7 million families continue to be homeless in our country despite efforts being done by non-profit organizations, such as Gawad Kalinga.
d.) P1.2 trillion had been lost to corruption in the last 5 years.
e.) Out of 10 Filipino students who enter Grade 1, less than 2 will be able to finish College.
f.) The brain drain continues in our country as 121 Filipinos leave the country every hour. By the end of this year, we can expect that there will be approximately 8.5 million Filipinos abroad.
These sad realities made me discern the reason why we continue to remain a poor country, despite the fact that we have such a beautiful country blessed with the brightest people in the world. Is it because many of our best people choose to work and live abroad?
Was Conrado De Quiros correct when he mentioned in one of his columns that the middle and upper classes of our country couldn’t care less about what happens because we always have an escape hatch of migrating and living abroad when all else fails in the Philippines? I don’t think that these are entirely correct assumptions since I continue to believe that majority of Filipinos still want to see genuine change and reforms in our country.
Many Filipinos living and working abroad whom I have talked to and corresponded with via email still continue to hope and dream that they will one day be able to come back and live in a Philippines that can provide them and their families with the right opportunities to live a just and prosperous life.
In the end, I think everyone will agree with me that one of the major reasons why we are here is the fact that we continue to elect poor leaders who would rather protect vested interests of their own families and those that have supported them in the last elections.
It’s depressing to note that the reality of Philippine politics is that a good, competent and decent person cannot be elected to power if she or he doesn’t have millions of pesos to use in the campaign.
Of course, we have already seen some exceptions to this “rule,” in the persons of Pampanga Governor Eddie Panlilio, Isabela Governor Grace Padaca and Naga City Mayor Jesse Robredo. All three have clashed with moneyed and well-entrenched political dynasties and have come out victorious. But their victories remain only at the local level and it seems that we will need a more herculean effort to finally elect a President that will not become beholden to a few individuals, interests and families.
According to some friends who have had experience in being part of a national campaign, they say that you need at least P1 billion to have a chance at the Presidency.
Is it impossible then to elect a President that will not become beholden to a few wealthy families and will genuinely serve the interests of Juan dela Cruz?
I don’t think so but if we want that to happen, we should all make that happen starting with the growing Filipino middle class who are mostly living and working abroad.
Imagine if every single Filipino living and working overseas will pledge to donate at least $5 each to support an upright, ethical and God-fearing candidate who has a proven track record in public service, then that would amount to $42,500,000 or a whooping P1.9 billion!
This candidate could then have a fighting chance of being our next President and if she or he wins, she or he can govern properly without being beholden to a few people and their vested interests. As soon as we have enough pledges from Filipinos all over the world, we can then do something similar to a primary process to select the right person whom we can all support.
I propose this idea to every Filipino working or living overseas who still dreams of a new Philippines. I think it’s time that we all invest in choosing the right President for our country. We have less than two years to go before the 2010 National election. Thus the time to act is now. The power to choose our next President should not be in the hands of a few but rather it should be with each and every Filipino.
If you believe in this idea and proposal, please send me an email at harveykeh@gmail.com so we can work together in choosing the right leader for our country who will run a government that will genuinely work towards promoting the common good.
Harvey Keh is Director for Youth Leadership and Social Entrepreneurship at the Ateneo de Manila University-School of Government, and is also the Executive Director of AHON Foundation, a non-profit organization that builds public elementary school libraries all over the Philippines. Harvey also teaches Theology at the Ateneo de Manila University-Loyola Schools.
September 9th, 2008 at 11:02 am
[...] A call to all overseas Filipinos [...]
September 6th, 2008 at 3:11 am
Well said Angelica, kanya-kanya nalang tayong mangampanya sa karapatdapat na ilukluk sa Malacanang. Baka mamaya si Erap pa ang eendorso ni Harvey, Patay ang Pilipinas for the second time around. Yang mga donation donation halos diyan ay corruption in disguise. Baka mamaya ibabayad yan sa mga botante o di kaya sa COMELEC kaya kanya kanya nalang tayo magnampanya kasi baka mamaya iilan lang ang donasyon sigurado deretso yan sa bulsa ng mga recepient. kaya parang panloloko na rin itong humihingi ng donasyon.
September 3rd, 2008 at 11:34 pm
pahabol po…tyempo na binabasa ko ang ‘aklat ng kandidato sa USA sa pagka-Pangulo,Sen.Barack Obama’at sana e mabasa nyo rin at maganda ring i-reflect ang mga naka-sulat dito na mga karanasan at nakita niya na tuloy basehan ng mga desisyon at pagkilos niya.”The Audacity of Hope”.Tayo man diyan e maaaring marami ng pag-aaral at sana e ganon din o pati na ang panukalang ito,na alam kong maganda,ngunit kailangan din nating maging mas-malawak pa at maging bukas sa mga pwedeng gawin o tamang mga stratehiya na dapat sundin.’Maganda yung mga topics- tungkol sa Political Party o mga matagal na sa mga ganitong labanan o mga pulitiko,Values,Our Constitution,Politics,Opportunity,Faith,Race-siguro sa atin e yang Regionalism,The World Beyond our Borders,Family,at sana e makatulong sa atin sa alam kong matagalang gawaing ito.Ngunit alam ko kailangan ang pera,kahit konti-konti muna upang makalakad o me pang-gasolina ika nga.’So sige po at tingnan natin at sana e tuloy ang diskusyon at ng matuto tayo.(hindi ko pa tapos ang aklat at alam ko me natutunan at sana e mabasa nyo at mai-share natin at mapag-usapan.’Alam ko marami na tayong nabasa,mga lahat e pagsisikap makatulong sa pagsulong.At sana lahat ito ay makatulong sa ating lahat.At pati na ang ating pakikitungo at pakikipagtalastasan sa isa’t-isa.At syempre patuloy na pagdarasal…Habang wala pa o alam kong me mga kumikilos na e,eto,suporta sa GK walk ngayong weekend-at iba pang mga gawain na nakatutulong sa isa’t-isa.’ KaPinoy ko-Lakas,Tibay at Katatagan ang ating ipagdasal.’
September 3rd, 2008 at 7:41 am
ngayon ko lang po nabasa ito,”sali po ako”,and let’s pray na mapag-isipan din ng malalim ng ating mga kababayan na nasa ibayong dagat ang magandang panukalang ito…,
August 25th, 2008 at 3:34 am
Hi Harvey, first of all you have a very good idea and I commend you for that, but the BIG question is who and what will be the basis in choosing this presidentiable that we will be supporting? Are we sure that this person is not corrupt as well? How could we possibly be sure that the person who holds the money wouldn’t be blinded by the huge amount of 1.9 billion? Above all, how can we possibly be sure that the money we contributed is really chaneled to the right candidate we support to win? There is really no guarantee and to think that most Philipinos are corrupt, who else can we TRUST now a days? To be really honest with you, if we really want our candidate to win, there is really no need of our contribution if only EACH & EVERY ONE of us will DO our share by EDUCATING our voters from our friends up to our relatives and help CAMPAIGN for our candidate, the internet alone is a great tool to reach out to all of those we know whether in the Philippines or abroad, there is no doubt in my mind we will end up victorious.
August 15th, 2008 at 9:21 am
We are ready, we have now a candidate just in case.
August 8th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Even in my high school and college days, I have always volunteered to help educate the less fortunate children in our slum areas. Thus, I agree with anseljr’s comments to rehabilitate/build good public schools using the money/contribution sent by OFWs and by Pinoys who are now residents/citizens of another country. Let’s not waste the donation by using it to finance a political dream because CORRUPTION is already in the blood of these politicians who make themselves richer but make the poor even poorer. You have a very good intention Mr. Que but the only peron I know who can change the lives of Filipinos and restore Philippine image had passed away - Mr. Raul Roco. It’ll be a better idea if we donate the $$$ to some worthy NGOs who can manage with transparency, the building of modern schools, all the way to the most remote cities/towns of the country, so that our youth can compete globally in their adult life, and of course, administer extensive training to teachers who need higher salaries too. We can also use the money to provide medical care to people who can’t afford (in the squatter & provinces.) I know a lot of our doctors there who volunteer & provide services for free. God has given us so many resources, but the leaders opted not to use them for the good of the people but for themselves & their families only.
Good luck Mr. Harvey Que, we are with you. God bless us, God bless the Philipines!
August 8th, 2008 at 12:12 am
Hindi niyo kasi binoto ang Kapatiran candidates. Handa dapat natin bigyan ng pagkakataon ang mga kababayan nating handang maglingkod. Hindi na lang basta puro mga trapo.
August 7th, 2008 at 4:34 pm
Thank you very much to all those who responded to this appeal! Please email me at harveykeh@gmail.com if you want to join us in helping elect a President who is not beholden to the interests of a few people.
August 6th, 2008 at 9:57 am
This is a feasible idea that has potential to make needed changes for our country. We are currently ruled by the so called elites, moneyed and powerful who would like to maintain status qou because this is the system which perpetuates them or their relatives and friends to power. When in power their main aim is to protect their own interests and to recoup their expenses -of course with a big big profit via corruption. The projects are then subtandard or not even the one that is needed. The main priority is how much they could milk out from that project. The people I am sure know that but can’t do anything individually as he is poor and has no power.
I believe that the OCW like me should and could become the catalyst for change in our beloved country. We have the numbers and some money to spare. What is 5 USD to us when it could mean a chance for a better Philippines where we could finally go home and enjoy our retirement? But we need to act as a whole group. We need to have a party with a platform to change our political system and many other systems in our government.I am sure many of us who are living or working in different countries of the world could compare our country and learn where the defects in our systems are. I think that no matter who you put in a defective system the outcome will be defective. We probably had the brightest and the dumbest President of our country but it didn’t make much difference. Our country continued to deteriorate and had progressively over the years. Time and again it has been proven that many Filipinos behave and excel well in foreign countries with the right environment or systems. What we need are proper systems that we need to identify and adopt as a platform of government of our party. And since its the congress and senate which makes and changes laws/systems, there is a need that we finance the campaign ( not the traditional politician way please) and elect the majority to these legislative bodies who adopt and support our platforms. People who will not be beholden to a few with vested personal interest but beholden to our party whose main goal is a better Philippines. If there is enough contribution, we can then also consider supporting our own Presidential candidate. I am sure there are many skeptics and suspicious amongst us but who would’nt be? We have heard so much of scams thru the internet and could this be another one? No wonder only a few so far have shown interest-at least based on the number of comments submitted to date. But as I have mentioned earlier, what is five USD or even ten for an OCW in exchange for a chance for change in our country.
Lastly, I must commend Harvey for his good ideas and the way he is trying to convey and gain our support. But Harvey, I think you need to give more details on who you are (are you or your group the people we can trust?) and how this will work. I also suggest that you should think of better ways to propagate your ideas. I must admit that I have never read blogs in the newspapers in the past and it was just accidental that I clicked on your blog today. Is there a way how you can make your blog more eyecatching or interesting so that more OCW will read it?
August 6th, 2008 at 8:37 am
MR. HARVEY,
THIS IS A GREAT IDEA. ALTHOUGH SOME IMPORTANT ISSUES ARE,
1. WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF THE 1.9 BILLION PESOS THAT IS NOT CORRUPT.
2. IS THIS BIG AMOUNT INTENDED FOR VOTE BUYING?
3. A MERE BRILLIANT PRESIDENT COUNDN’T SOLVE THE PHILIPPINE PROBLEMS AT THIS MOMENT WITH SEVERAL ISSUES TO RECKON. A) POVERTY, B) REBELLION BY THE NPA, MILF-MNLF, GANGSTERS AND MAFIAS. C) CORRUPT GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS, MILITARY AND EMPLOYEES. D) OVERPOPULATION.
IF WE START NOW, WE NEED TO EDUCATE OUR VERY OWN CHILDREN FROM THE ELEMENTARY GRADES TO HIGH SCHOOL REGARDING OUR PRESENT PROBLEMS AND HOPEFULLY BY THE END OF A DECADE WE WILL SEE A MORE DISCIPLINE AND PROGRESSIVE PHILIPPINES. MY FIVE DOLLARS IS WORTH BUYING BOOKS TO OUR CHILDREN THAN BUYING VOTES. YOU WILL NEVER WIN IN ELECTORAL PROCESS WITHOUT BUYING 80% OF THE VOTERS. ONLY FEW HAVE PRINCIPLES AND ARE AFFLUENT. PLEASE JUST CONTINUE TO BUILD LIBRARIES AND EDUCATE OUR CHILDREN FOR A BETTER FUTURE.
August 5th, 2008 at 7:59 pm
As long as voters continue to be stupid (people voting for unqualified candidates or sell their votes to the highest bidder), corrupt and useless public officials will always be in office!
August 5th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
I still think that what we have in government is just a reflection of the citizenry’s mental state. When Juan dela Cruz stops throwing candy wrappers on the street, or stops crossing through those barricaded streets, then we can really change. I really think change in the Philippines should both come from the people and the leadership. BTW, we can really start by stop putting the tambays and tomadors as part of our barangay council.
August 5th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
Finally. I have always prayed for this. Something that we can all look forward to - a leader with a vision, a leader with integrity.
I fully support this move and I am very much willing to be a part of it. Let me know if there is anything I can do - I am in Singapore right now.
August 5th, 2008 at 2:11 pm
I commend you for thinking that way but it seems, it would never happen as long as Erap has the gut to run again for President. What kind of morons will re-elect an ex-President who was charged of plunder and got away with it? there was no justice for the entire Filipino people he betrayed!!!W/ the present politicians in our country, we have never known anybody who possess a genuine heart & integrity to help our country prosper. Those politicians will always be politicians! All they want is fame & more money for themselves & their families and friends. Our country is so blessed with all the resources we have but she is so unlucky to have people who are so corrupt deep to the bones! an ordinary Juan dela Cruz will never make it to the political arena because anywhere you turn, it is lurking with super corrupt and hungry old politicos. God bless the Philippines for people like us who care & extend help through some NGOs like Gawad Kalinga. If only each of the highly paid movie stars in our country wld extend their help, share a portion of their earnings, and sponsor a poor family, many Filipino families will have a better quality of life. God bless us, God bless the Philippines!
August 5th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
Why don’t we just inject this fund directly into projects that will benefit the Filipino people rather than waste it on election campaign paraphernalia? I mean, if all OFW’s will pool in $5 each ANNUALLY, think of all the schools that we can build or rehabilitate!
August 5th, 2008 at 1:05 pm
Yea i agree with that. $5 is not much ok lang kung wala sanang corruption…kung para lang sa sariling bayan ok lang para sa akin but the question is…Can we trust them( those who are in authority)??? lalo na kung pera ang pag uusapan?? As i observe sa mga politicians this time..sariling interest ang iniisip..power and evil ambitions..(not all…2% are good..98% are evil politicians)
August 5th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
Great idea and greater if pursued. Why not make it happen!!! Count me in this crusade.
Nasa Saudi po ako.
August 4th, 2008 at 9:30 pm
Your proposal is great but I do believe that we really need to educate those electorates whom they exchange their votes just for a meal or two. In fact during 2004 national election, God has given us the right person to vote. A man of integrity, of moral ascendency, incorruptible person and above all a God fearing individual. However, we just let slip the very opportunity we have to have the rightful president for our beloved country. I do believe God let this happen for us so that we would realize our mistakes. I do hope we have at this point in time. If by 2010 we can have a presidential candidate who is not just visionary, full of integrity but above all else God fearing, then you can count on me though I may not be able to give any amount, I will campaign for such a candidate not just to my families and relatives but as well as to other people so that the change that we all longing for would come into reality.
August 4th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
I would totally support your idea and let others know about it. However, most of us may not know the candidate. I hope that you have the guidance and wisdom to discern and recommend a good candidate to lift the country out of corruption and poverty.
August 4th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
I definitely support the idea. Whatever is good for my beloved Philippines, you can count on me to support it. I will be forwarding this to each and every one of my friends here in the middle east and in other countries abroad.
We really need a change in our political system, where in a good man cannot win in an election for presidency without that big amount of money (1 billion?). I do believe if the majority of the Filipinos will not allow their vote to be bought by any candidate then maybe financial matters might not be so significant for a candidate to win as president.
Count me in.
August 4th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
this is a great idea and do support at all means
August 4th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
I do agree with your cause. But choosing poor leader is not the fault of Filipino people. Ang tanong e may pagpipilian ba? Choosing the less evil na lang ika nga.
Kahit sino man ang umupo sa gobyerno natin, matino man o hindi, kung yung mga subordinates nya naman ang gagawa ng kalokohan pareho din ang kalalabasan. Kung susunod lang lahat sa 10 commandments di na natin kailangan ng kung anu-anong batas para tumino ang Pilipinas nating mahal.
August 4th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
This is a good idea…! But this early, do you have anybody on the “block”? I think, more will answer your call if the “guy” is already known…lastly, where do we send the money?
August 4th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
All OFW and their loved ones in our home country should choose a leader that is god fearing.
We have a great country but being run by corrupt officials which was voted (kuno) by majority of Filipinos.
I will support any endeavor that would make our country regain our honor and pride in Asia and beyond.
August 4th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Harvey,
It is an excellent idea and it is doable. Count me in. You do need to develop the structure in as far as managing the funds is concerned. Please advice the bank account details when ready.
At this stage, I am helping drive away a family political dynasty in Biliran.
Best regards.
August 4th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Dear Harvey,
I heard your call. It’s a great idea and I have thought about it too, with a small variance. I believe that if there will be a real change in Philippine politics and governance, it should start from every Juan Dela Cruz who wants change and vote for a change. Majority of our countrymen wants change, many wants change but don’t vote, some complains and wants change but don’t vote, some just wants to complain. If you are eligible to vote, there is no excuse for not voting! The usual “Kasi parepareho lang naman ang mga politiko.” is not an excuse. It may be really hard to choose if there is no good candidate who is running, so the adage “Choose the lesser evil.”, I guess, is better than not voting at all. I believe that if you don’t vote, you don’t have the right to complain.
I believe in the idea of investing in choosing the right next President of country, but not the way as you have proposed. Asking overseas Filipinos to invest $5 in order that we can fund a campaign is not the proper way to do it. Monetary investment in an election is wrong. What we need is an emotional and investment in principle. A principle, commitment, and conviction that can not be bought at any price. You said it yourself, there has been exceptions to the rule, you mentioned Gov. Eddie Panlilio of Pampanga, Gov. Grace Padaca of Isabela, and Mayor Jesse Robredo of Naga City. Money is not everything. If we make monetary investment in an election, we would be just like them. One way or another, everyone will be asking for a return of their $5 investment.
Of course we need money to roll out a campaign, but it should not be construed as an investment, but a pure donation to the cause without expecting a return in any form. I am pretty sure there are a lot of people out there who are willing to give more than $5 just to support for the cause. Besides, we really don’t need a billion pesos to have a shot at the Presidency. We already have the money, the OFW remittances alone accounts for 13.5% of our Gross Domestic Product.
Here’s how we can win the Presidency. There are around eight million OFWs all over the world. If we can only convince at least two of our family members back home who are eligible to vote to support our candidate, we will get a whopping 16 million votes. That’s three million more than what President GMA garnered in the 2004 Presidential election. Wait, we haven’t counted the votes of the OFWs yet. We can increase this margin if the OFWs themselves will register and vote as an absentee voter.
Now the only problem is, who are we going to support?
Best regards,
SimonJohn Corocoto
Miami, Florida USA
P.S.
I plan on voting in the next Presidential election in the Philippines. I will be going home after six years of working as an Occupational Therapist in the United States and finishing my MBA in Health Administration and Policy at the University of Miami School of Business this December.
August 4th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
Dear Harvey,
I would like to tell you that I support your idea. Your idea hinges on the practical side of how do we really put a good person in the governance of our country, particularly the Presidency. It is indeed a fact that to face the formidable machinery of the well entrenched Political party we have now such as Lakas or Kampi, a presidential candidate should have at least 1 Billion Pesos to finance his candidacy. Had the late Raul Roco had that amount of money when he lauched his presidential candidacy, for sure he will have won the presidency and we could have seen a good governance than what we have now with Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. On his death Raul Roco was euligized as the best president the Philippines could have been. But he was not elected because he has no billions to speak of and his machinery was not well oiled for lack of funds.
So your suggestion is just being practical, to fund the election of an honest and a morally upright candidate. If indeed all OFW throughout the world would contribute at least $5 or say $10, that would give a fighting chance to that good candiate, say the Hon. Jesse Robredo of Naga City. It is person like him that we have to elect as our President. But we know that he will not be drafted by Lakas nor Kampi or any party as he is “too clean” for them. The big politicians will surely not like such kind of candidates because they will be restrained in amassing their wealth, their pork barrels and every penny that they can get from the government.
The only hard part on your idea is who will control the funds. When it comes to money so many will have a piece to say. If it is indeed your advocay to elect good people in our government, I would suggest that we put up a Movement or a Party that would support such politicians not only the Presidency but right down the line up to the local governments. But this will be a herculian job and this will need a collective political will from the 9 million OFWs throughout the world. IF INDEED IT IS OUR OBJECTIVE TO PUT HONEST AND MORAL PERSONS IN GOVERNMENT, WE SHOULD UNITE AND MOVE AS ONE TO REALIZE THIS DREAM. LET US CALL IT THE PHILIPPINE DREAM!
Count me in Harvey. I am one with you in your dream!
Rey S. Orbon
Dammam, KSA
August 4th, 2008 at 8:23 am
I am here in New Zealand. I am definitely going back to the Philippines. For all its faults, I love our country very much. I hope we can come up with a list of potential candidates and a bit of a write up on each of them. Then from there, we can provide our own unbiased inputs and thoughts without the usual 2nd hand comments.
August 4th, 2008 at 7:28 am
I fully agree with this idea. I believe it’s not just the OFWs who are supportive of this idea. There are countless nameless faces among the middle class who are yearning to have a dramatic change in our countyr.
It was done in Pampanga where Kapampangans from all walks of life banded together to support a moral and righteous leader. It was a phenomenon like no other where people readily shelled out their own money to support in whatever way a candidate.
If it can be done in Pampanga, ( as it was done in Naga and in Cagayan), then we can do it 2010.
Let’s start the ball rolling now!
August 4th, 2008 at 3:29 am
More power to you! Indeed an excellent active step. I did e-mail your article to my friends to get more support
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:45 pm
I definitely support the idea. What ever is good for the Philippines, you can count on me to rally behind it. I will be forwarding a copy of this to each and everyone of my friends here abroad.
We really need a change in our political system where-in a good man cannot win without that big amount of money. I do believe if the majority of the Filipinos will support the idea, financial matters may become irrelevant for a candidate to win.
Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.
August 3rd, 2008 at 8:17 pm
Great Idea but who will be the OFW’s candidate? with (Ethical and God-fearing candidate who has a proven track record in public service). Vic P. is right start at local & campaign for the wise voting with the OFW’s & their family.
August 3rd, 2008 at 7:20 pm
Mr Keh,
This is a good idea. $5 is not as big amount for Filipinos working abroad you can count on me. But there are some ideas that I can share or something like a wake up call to all Filipinos. I’m not too good in English but I can express wisely what I have seen the real picture of the Philippines.
Before I gone abroad I was an ordinary employee as an Engineer working in a multimillion company in Philippines. You know in a personal daily life working from Monday to Friday, wake up at 5am to be not late at 8:30 am of office hours went back home at 8:00 pm seems I did not mind what really is in our country because of course I can sustain my family and I don’t mind what happenings as long as I can feed my siblings. But opportunity comes so I go abroad and my income is much higher or almost 10x in my Philippine salary.
Now, working abroad is not only earning much but also can enhance the growth of mind in every Filipino. As an OFW we can compare the Philippines to other nations in terms of infrastructure, discipline, way of the governance, politics, cultures, socio-economics, orderliness, zoning, waste materials management, and many others ,etc. I am almost 7 years here in one of the most ASEAN countries. I don’t want to mention it. But really I can compare and magnify our mother land, I pity Philippines. We are now the number 1 corrupt nation among the ASEAN countries and top 10 among the world most corrupt nations. Imagine, working abroad dealing with other races, ethnics, other cultures are very shame on them because what they think if they know that you are Filipino? “Do not deal much of them they have a blood of corruption”. I did not here that but it is just comes to my mind, you see we are number 1 corrupt nation, what do you think of other nations think of us? It is very shameful. Other countries also have that problem corruption but they can manage it by doing the people and nation first before their pocket. I am not a politician here in this country where I am working but I am one of the observer, besides you can see their nation is going up. What happen in the Philippines is (especially politicians), “My (referring to politicians) pocket first before the people and nation”. There are a lot of projects being corrupted by our beloved government officials, no need to mention all of those projects everybody knows it and thanks to our media they are really a big help. Because if they don’t exist, wow our country will be worst than like some African countries. Why? They (politicians) even more doing that (corruptions) because no one is highlighting it or broadcasting it. I don’t want to talk too much of it, all what we can do is to pray for our nation.
Psalms 85:12 says “The Lord will make us prosperous, and our land will produce rich harvests”, If we put our trust in God.
Jeremiah 17:7 – I will bless the person who puts his trust in Me.
Ladies and Gentlemen do not be angry with me I am not a priest nor a pastor. Can you imagine, how many OFW now around the world is about 8.5 millions meaning 8.5 millions a day are praying and calling to our God for the restoration and healing of our beloved homeland.
My fellow OFW let us pray for our nation and do not lost our hopes because someday will be coming back to our homeland whatever it takes.
thanks.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:59 pm
I am an OFW but I have to disagree with your idea no matter how good the intention is. To spend a whooping 1.9 billion pesos for a candidate hoping that if he wins he will govern properly because he is not beholden to anyone is plain wishful thinking. It sounds nice but it’s a very very long shot. I would favor a direct approach to helping our impoverished kababayans. Imagine doubling the amount you suggested and making it as seed capital for a bank that will give microfinancing to the urban poors and the farmers. The benefits will be direct and many lives will be changed.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:33 pm
I am certain all OFWs agree to join not as bandwagon. It is the prudent thing to do. I will disseminate this call to my friends and classmates via email and to my compatriots in our company via intranet. Let’s restore the dignity of the office of presidency by electing only the morally upright and uncompromising. No more trapos. No more political dynasties. No more capitalists. It is hightime the leader should care not only for themselves but even more for the welfare of our people.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:04 pm
Your idea is great and I fully support it. I believe that we filipinos especially those OFW’s are hoping that someday the Philippines will experience the rapid growth that economies like China and India perform today. Lead on.
August 3rd, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Harvey, contributing $5 is NOT the problem (or even $10, or even $100), rather WHO will this presidential candidate be? I migrated to Sydney, Australia in 1987. Regards, Perry (Ateneo de Manila, AB Psychology 81, HS 77)
August 3rd, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Mr Harvey I am so sorry not to buy your idea. Ika nga money-politics. Para bang pera sa pera na ang labanan. Iyan lang ba ang sulosyon. Hindi ko alam kung naglabas ng 1 bilyon si Cory para maupo. Sana meron pang magandang paraan para may taong matino na maupo sa pwesto. God bless sa yo at sana hwag mawalan ng pag-asa na meron pang mangyayari mabuti sa pinas sa ating natitirang panahon
August 3rd, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Maganda ang panukala at can afford ang mga nasa abroad to part with the $5.00.
The question is, sino ang karapat dapat na ikandidato na susuportahan ng nakararami. Assuming that the movement collected enough funds to support a candidate, hindi ito assurance na sigurado na ang boto sa ikakandidato ng kilusan. Unahin muna kung SINO SIYA? Kapag mayroon nang napili, sa palagay ko, ang magaambag ng $5.00 or more will not stop at that but will further work and campaign for the said candidate.
Sa kaso ni Governor Panlilio, hindi base sa salaping gamit sa kampanya ang nagpaigting ng kanyang kandidatura. Nakita nila sa katauhan ni Governor Panlilio ang sensiridad, may kakayahan at may pag-asang manalo kung kaya nabaling sa kanya ang suporta ng mga independent voters. Ganyang din ang pangyayari sa kandidatura nina Governor Grace Padaca at Mayor Jessie Robredo nang una silang sumabak sa pulitika.
Alamin natin na kahit makalikom ng bilyones itong bagong kilusan, kaya ring tapatan ni Gloria Macapagal Arroyo ang ganyang kalaking halaga o mas higit pa para suportahan ang isang kabig niya.
August 3rd, 2008 at 11:00 am
Good and bad Politicians alike have always been taking advantage of the ‘masa’ who
unfortunately comprises the majority of our voters.These politicians just have to trick / entice the ‘masa’ into gaining their votes as have always been the case. This is also the reason why actors/actresses who are not really qualified but famous gets to be elected.
Inhibit the ‘masa’ from voting then you can hope for a somewhat intelligent voters. Who can make at least sensible decisions and choice. But of course, politicians will almost certainly be the first to come to their defense. They certainly would not want to lose the benifit they get from the ‘masa’ come elections.
Can we not sort of revise the qualifications of voters so that only those with enough sense and intellect can vote? The problem is, we are letting the ‘masa’ practically decide the future of our country by giving them the power to select our leaders. I think this is the biggest contributor to the plight of our now. By the way, you can count me in your idea.
August 2nd, 2008 at 3:32 pm
For me I think we should support again the candidacy of Ptr.Eddie C.Villanueva if he is still willing and let us set aside all our religious affiliation irregardless of our status we should be united for a good cause , a battlecry for righteousness as the word of God says …Righteousness exalteth a nation…
August 2nd, 2008 at 2:41 pm
It is easy to give $5 for this cause but this would also mean that we are also supporting the ways the system of politics is doing in our country, are we going to play the same tricks the playing field have played to deliver reforms? We can’t correct a mistake by doing another mistake, but i do believe that support from OFW’s can deliver the kind of change for our country. Is this the only posible option for us OFW? Robert, South Korea.
August 2nd, 2008 at 7:29 am
I will grab the chance for anything that can change where our politics is stucked. The least I can do is give your idea a chance. Count me in and will enjoin others. Keep those youthful hopes young man!
Prof Mac
August 2nd, 2008 at 5:27 am
Your idea is great but if we really want genuine change for our country, let’s vote and campaign for Bayani Fernando for president!
August 2nd, 2008 at 12:25 am
bottom line is we need people to represent us and be our voice in the government. let’s not focus on the warchest, although every candidate needs money to run a campaign. take lessons from padaca, panlilio, rebredo and their constituents how they did it… good thing is that somebody is starting it now, this early.. we must keep trying, look for solution, never give up…i believe the group kapatiran did not do well in the last election for lack of time… yes, if OFW’s and their families back home would be united, our voice will certainly be heard… let’s get the ball rolling, harvey!
August 1st, 2008 at 11:17 pm
The first time I visited the Our Lady of Angels Cathedral in Los Angeles to hear Mass a few days before the July 29 Chino Hills quake, my wife Nancy and I came upon a lady from Mindanao inside the Cathedral Gift Shop. And right to our face she said she didn’t like it in LA because Filipinos here were preoccupied with intrigues and showing off flashy clothes and cars than living true community spirit.
I found her observation so unfortunate, but I say every other race and people has each own unique way of putting their kind down. The human race’s history is a credible witness to that. I say, however, that it took a wounded man on the cross to show the world that if we want to rise over our human frailties, we must learn to look more on what we could do to build.
If the idea behind the $5 contribution is to unseat the present administration, then our sight is off tangent. But if it is for building up a greater Philippines by whoever takes the helm and whoever is on the other side of the fence, then I’m all for it. Caution though, money blinds even the most honest and sincere. So I suggest you begin by agreeing on how the money should be handled, so that whoever is being propped up would not be stained by the assurance of a billion peso fund cushion under his or her seat.
August 1st, 2008 at 8:43 pm
I’ve read with interest your views. I agree that it does not cost much (5 dollars) to support an honest and earnest candidate who has the heart for the poor. I wonder who is this candidate! I also wonder who will handle the funds honestly and with tranparency.
It is true we desire a progressive and safe Phil. to live in. I agree with the views of columnist De Quiros, a former classmate. But it has remained an illusive dream! The people themselves have a duty not sell their vote! Why do we need billions to run for President? It just perpetuate corruption!Money corrupts you know!
Many friends of mine in the academe believe GMA was it! I thought she was professor in Ateneo & UP! Many banked on her but she just brought the whole country beyond redemtion! Can’t election ever make a difference? If it can’t, no use for election and no use for election money! It is TIME for the church leaders, Catholic universities and schools to act but many are still in favor of the present situation. That is my frustration!
August 1st, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Your idea has good intentions.However, there is no mechanism in place to choose the right candidate. will we be voting? will a council of elders be voting? we do not have to limit it to those abroad. Surely some who are here will also contribute.Lets use the funds to create a culture of accountability. pag umupo ang isang matuwid na presidente sa gitna ng malalaking buwaya, hindi tatagal. There should be an army of upright officials, not just the president. Lets install the framework so that there is a critical mass of upright government officials in important positions. The rest will follow.
August 1st, 2008 at 11:28 am
mabuhay ka harvey, suportado kita sa kilusan mong ito,ako dito sa canada ay isa sa magsusulong sa planong ito.
August 1st, 2008 at 8:17 am
I do agree 100% and you can count on me.
August 1st, 2008 at 7:17 am
I am sorry to say that this move is a capitulation to the ensuing money politics - a grievious evil we also want to remove from our electoral and political systems together with many others.
July 31st, 2008 at 7:33 pm
Mr. Harvey,
I’ve been here in Qatar for more than 4 years now and of course I don’t have any plan to stay here for the rest of my life. Life is hard to be away with our love ones but life is harder seeing them die in hunger.
Your proposal is great. $5 is not that much to give in exchange for a better future of thePhilippines. But even without giving a single centavo if all OFWs including their relatives back home unite to support a single candidate who has the integrity and genuine interest to serve the Filipinos, then something will really happen.
But a president can not do it alone. Let’s start from the local candidates up to the presidency. What’s really important is for a genuine change of every voter. To be wise in choosing the right candidate. Not to allow to be used by “trapos” for a mere $5 (P 200) in exchange of their future.
July 31st, 2008 at 6:34 pm
Excellent idea, I fully support it. All OFW’s should support this
July 31st, 2008 at 5:33 pm
Hi. This idea is impressive. Nice effort. I am just thinking whose gonna hold the funds in case this proposal will push through? I believe this is another scenario which needs to be considered.
July 31st, 2008 at 5:21 pm
Cheers to your idea Mr. Keh. I am joining you in this endeavor. I made copies of this article and already sent to all my OFW friends.
God Bless you!
July 31st, 2008 at 4:25 pm
To whom it may concern:
I am Chrisben who is currently working here in Japan on a ship management company.
I would love to support your idea of renewing the Philippine’s political status in which this is the one blocking our way to improvement and success of our mother land.
However, what I am concerned about is how could we beat those who are in power now if they can manipulate the election process itself?
I know that in every oppurtunity there is a risk and in every risk there is a preventive measure. So I am seeking your preventive measure taking into account our vast community.
Sorry if some of my English is wrong for I have lost it while living here in Japan.
Sincerely,
Chris
July 31st, 2008 at 1:56 pm
I think the current situation is like this :
“Like the lioness hunting for food to feed her cubs she will dare to brave new teritories notwithstanding the dangers ahead, however desolate and wild the place is, for food she will risk her life ,hoping that in time she will return home happily with something for her cubs”
The Philippines now is like the kalahari dessert
cheers!
July 31st, 2008 at 1:01 pm
As an OFW I definitely agree with the proposition of partaking small bucks of my earning which could benefit not only us (OFW) but the whole nation.
I belong to millions of Filipino who wish to change the governance of our country.
July 31st, 2008 at 11:48 am
Good day!
Well, if 50% of those 8.5 filipinos abroad plus 2 members of their family will solidly support and vote for a single presidential canditate in 2010, the CHOSEN ONE will surely get votes more than the number of votes that Erap got in 1998, di po ba?
July 31st, 2008 at 11:22 am
Nice suggestion although it smacks of ‘let us join the bastards’ admission. You have just helped bury the sentiment that the citizenry when united can get rid of much (not all) corruption in our nation.
The $5 call is good. But rather than focusing the fund to a single person, it will be better spent in funding a national ‘clean candidates’ committee whose members could be vetted by the clergy, a left faction, a right faction, a student faction, chairman of the association of all municipal mayors or his/her designate, chairman of the association of all barangay captains or his/her designate, etc.
The committee will accept nominations of candidates wishing to be admitted to a ‘roll of candidates’ to be endorsed or campaigned for by the committee to the masses.
Membership to the committee must be like a ‘jury’ duty. All of them will be confined in a place for a length of time and be incommunicado until the official roll of endorsed candidates is announced.
There you go. I must work now. It is still possible for a candidate to win on his/her merits not his/her money.
July 31st, 2008 at 10:36 am
The vote cast by a Filipino is not nor will it ever depend on the size of the political war chest a candidate possess. It is whether the voter is educated and conscientious enough to not waste the vote to a no good SOB who will no doubt reap the benefits of the colonialist influenced modus operandi of stealing and enslaving from the massess and protecting the elite infrastructure that will ensure and supress any initiative to dislodge the status quo. In short, he/she will not do anything different from those before him from Marcos to GMA..they’re all guilty…they all had a hand in the cookie jar.
Also, by inference you are suggesting that a worthy candidate would only complete his/her candidacy and win with a sizeable financial coffer??…if so, ask yourself is that candidate indeed worthy when the corner stone of their candidacy is money! That is SUSPECT!!
Our people are so enslaved that they either readily surrender to the fake reality of the oppressive elite, or are themselves active members within their own social heirarchy sustaining the status quo (really what is the difference between GMA and a corupt barangay tanod..nothing it’s just scale!!…this cancerous way of life in the Philippines has metastesized into every corner and at every level of society.)..the innocent rest are victims, too meek, too blind, too subservient, too tired to wage the battle to effect change and make it count.
I have a love/hate relationship with our country, I know I too will retire there someday..mostly by force since I will not have the financial independence to live in a country not ravaged by greed, corruption, indefference, apathy and arrogance. The only consolation is knowing that I can spend my last days helping to educate and bring hope to a few oppressed who are not yet suffering from terminal cancer of the soul and perhaps liberate a few of them..enough to get them out of the country to witness how a properly functioning society ought to be…..and perhaps they can return someday to repeat the cycle.
Last, what is with this incessant use of this misguided saying/label “God Fearing” we Filipinos love to quote. How is it possible to love a God you are then suppose to fear? There is no room for fear in love. Do you mean that you only revere and love God because you fear his wrath and punishment? This is really a contorted way of seeing the truth of our religion…it’s all based on love…nothing else! By the way, this is one of the reasons why it is possible that our country is predominantly Christian and seemingly devout yet have such a damaged culture.
Just as it is with the cancer of our nation we all seem to be looking at the wrong side of the coin for the cure to our nations ailment…the cure isn’t money or having an annointed one rule…the cure is in every Filipino…stop selling your souls to the devil and do good by your countryman…pay the right wage..increase the living standard of the masses and you will see that they will drive the nation forward why they will invest in the Phillippines because they’re forced to by necessity, where as the praised idiot elite bying another chedeng or whatever is the current fancy in doing so would not be adding a single centavo to the economy all it does is it provides more fuel for the cancer to spread.
So where do we go from here? Who should run for the next election? What is the path for the Filipino to take?..no one and everyone has the answer.
July 31st, 2008 at 7:48 am
I strongly share your sentiments. I would propose the following:
1. Identify agricultural lands and build more irrigation projects to boost rice production, vegetable production, our country being an agricultural economy.
2. Build more farm to community roads, build more roads so farm produce can be transported to the markets thereby boost production and marketing.
3. Subsidize farmers to buy fertilizer, tractor farm equipments to incentivize them to work in their farms, on a regular basis., not just on a one shot -deal. Rural banks can help in the dessimination of govt funds for this.
4.Develop the fishing industry. Subsidize fisherman to buy fishing boats, subsidize gasoline expenses through rural banks per # 3.
5. Identify fish generating communities and establish govt run- cold storage to store freshly catch fish.
6. Encourage set-up of community based cooperatives, funded by the inhabitants and with counterpart funds from the municipal govt/national government. If people are involved with their hard earned money, it will succeed.
6. Establish socio-economic livelihood for the community.
7. Upgrade salaries of medical practisioners, such as doctors, nurses.
8. Build more community hospitals, rural clinics.
9. Electrify the rural areas.
10. Upgrade salaries of teachers.
11. Convert high schools to community colleges.
12. Establish regional community/labor intensive training centers for workers. It is important to establish housing facilities for the workers to reside during their training.
13. Establish regional labor intensive recruitment centers/placement centers for workers qulaified to work abroad.
14. Develop tourism potentials in Luzon, being near Manila.
15. Set-up regional buying centers for fruit export projects.
16. Incentivize/ Subsidize gas/oil expenses of industries heavily dependent on oil, so as not to stop production.
15. There are lots of work to be done, what we need is a system to be established that is fool-proof to establish what I have enumerated above.
July 30th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
That is a great idea, let us push it.
July 30th, 2008 at 5:56 pm
What we need is a true Christian, who do the will of God. (2 Chr 7:14) if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
July 30th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Politicians and government officials in the Philippines never had a sense of professionalism and pride in executing their task a public officials. Unless things change, which I doubt it will ever change, people will continue to suffer.