Tak Bai Massacre October
25, 2004
Casts
a dark shadow on Thailand security forces
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday October 13, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday October 2024
|
Re: "Short arm of the law", in
Bangkok Post Editorial, Thursday October 10, 2024.
The Tak Bai incident, which led to the death of 85 unarmed protestors
during the tenure of Thaksin Shinawatra and Gen Prawit Wongsuwon
as the armed forces chief, has resurfaced in public consciousness
and casts a dark shadow on the Thai security forces.
Modern Thai history is replete with the violence and utter disregard
for civilian lives shown by the country's military, whether it be
the massacre of students at Thammasat University or sniper attacks
on the general public protesting in the streets.
How do we reconcile this with the image of a non-violent Buddhist
society?
Vichai,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thailand
most influential Asean member state
To take initiative to solving Myanmar catastrophe
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday October 12, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday October 9,
2024
|
Re: "Thailand floats new plan for Myanmar
crisis", Bangkok Post, Wednesday October 9, 2024.
Finally, as a member of Asean, Thailand has taken a "soft
approach" to address the Myanmar crisis.
It has actually floated the idea of building a coalition of the
willing among the Asean member states to attempt to assuage the
Myanmar impasse.
This is indeed commendable as Thailand is perhaps the most influential
Asean member state to take the initiative to begin solving the Myanmar
catastrophe. Hopefully, in the long run, Thailand may also contribute
to restoring some order in Myanmar by enabling negotiations and
peace initiatives within Myanmar's body politic.
This may be possible by advocating solidarity among all Asean member
states, creating confidence in Myanmar's ability to reach amity
and peace, creating a shared vision for peace and stability, and
ultimately helping to encourage political dialogue towards elections
as soon as possible.
Let us remain optimistic that the 2024 Laos-hosted Asean Summit
will herald a new stable order for Myanmar and solidarity and unity
for Asean.
Glen Chatelier
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
United Nations's malign vilification of carbon
Is
fraudulent and extremely costly
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday October 11, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Wednesday October 9, 2024
|
Re: "Exploring Thai efforts to cut carbon",
in Bangkok Post, Business, October 5, 2024.
Unfortunately, this article is based entirely upon a false presumption
namely, that it is a good idea to "cut carbon."
Since the earth is a closed system, carbon, an element, cannot be
removed from it. The United Nation's malign vilification of carbon
is fraudulent and extremely costly.
There is no reason to support curtailing carbon emissions.
Our food supply depends upon a minimum level of CO2 in the atmosphere,
a minimum which the earth barely exceeds compared to historical
levels.
What is clear, however, is that we must limit the production of
harmful chemicals, poisonous pharmaceuticals, dangerous plastics,
particulates, pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, GMOs, etc., which
are destroying all of the earth's living systems.
Although doing so will severely limit certain multinational corporations'
extraordinary profits, it will preserve the planet's living beings'
right to life and cost the world's population far less than the
required capital spending on physical assets for energy and land-use
systems in the proposed "net-zero" transition between
2021 and 2050.
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
PM
Paetongtarn, past former deputy PM, deputy PM
Declare no more poor in Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday October 10, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday October 5, 2024
|
Re: "Plan won't end poverty", in
Bangkok Post, Editorial, Septeber 30 "Prawit
vows to lift millions from poverty", in Bangkok Post, February
11, 2023 and "Grand plans mean little to the poor",
Bangkok Post Opinion, November 21, 2017.
In the past, former deputy PM Prawit Wongsuwon and then-deputy prime
minister Somkid Jatusripitak's declaration that there would be no
more poor people in Thailand was discussed. Now, the Paetongtarn
government wants to end poverty in three years.
It sounds like a broken record on the same old topic.
Wouldn't it be time for Thailand to structurally overhaul the complete
economy and do something serious about household debts of more than
90 percent of GDP instead of throwing 10,000 baht of short-term
helicopter money at them?
S de Jong,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Certain
Philippines government offices plagued with
Questionable
budget
allocations
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday October 9, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday September
27, 2024
|
The recent budget deliberations at the House of Representatives
revealed information on the misuse of funds by some government offices.
The Commission on Audits issuance of the notice of disallowance
to the Office of the Vice President for the alleged misuse of P125
million in confidential funds left many of us deeply dismayed and
concerned.
It is alarming that certain government offices are plagued with
questionable budget allocations and mismanagement while other key
sectors, such as health, remain underfunded and continue to face
many challenges.
This practice erodes public trust in government institutions.
Worth highlighting is the plight of researchers in the Philippines
who do not only face insufficient funding, but also deal with a
lack of adequate infrastructure and enabling policies.
These issues make it difficult to attract and retain researchers
and innovators in the country who are forced to seek better opportunities
abroad.
This is concerning, particularly in the context of universal health
care and evidence-based policy making, where local expertise is
essential to address todays myriad of health issues.
If the government continues to overlook the needs of researchers
and at the same time ignore questionable budget expenditures elsewhere,
we risk leaving critical sectors to struggle without the necessary
tools for informed decision-making.
It is high time for our policymakers to review research procurement,
hiring, and financing policies to ensure transparency, efficiency,
and accountability.
By reforming these policies, we will create a more robust and equitable
research system that will empower our researchers and allow them
to contribute meaningfully to national development, without worrying
about insufficient financial and institutional support.
Reiner Lorenzo J. Tamayo, Mahps, RN
Manila,
Philippines
Gen Prawit Wongsuwon misses
84 sessions of Parliament
Without
a valid reason for absence
The
Southeast Asian Times Tuesday October 8, 2024
First published in Bangkok Post, Saturday October 5 2024
|
Re: "Call to probe Prawit absences",
in Bangkok Post, Thursday September 26, 2024.
If we treat the parliament as an organisation, Gen Prawit Wongsuwon,
of course, would not qualify for the probationary period given that
he missed 84 meetings without a valid reason for absence.
Perhaps the fact that he has gotten away with this is because whether
or not he attends the meeting makes little difference, or there
are no proper house rules to manage attendance.
How can such a hierarchical institution like the parliament have
no organised, systematic approach to managing its people or employees?
If Gen Prawit were to be evaluated, who would be his manager?
I can only think of the President of the National Assembly and the
House Speaker, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha.
If we adopted a performance evaluation system in the parliament,
it would be ideal to have Members of Parliamentss and senators assessed
by the House Speaker.
By paying taxes for the salaries of these irresponsible individuals,
shouldn't we have the right to remove them and replace them with
someone who truly devotes themselves to working for us?
As of now, despite his widespread absences, he remains in his position
and does not regularly attend parliament meetings.
I am sick and tired of this deep-rooted inefficiency.
A broken-hearted boy who has no time to be sad because of politics.
Weerapatr Lokatekrawee,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thailand Foreign Policy
reflects pitfalls of policymakers
Characteristic middle-of-the-road thinking
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday October 7, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday September 28,
2024
|
Thitinan Pongsudhirak's expert analysis is striking
in that it reflects the lack of a cohesive policy direction in Thai
foreign policy.
While this may be strategic in and of itself, it reflects the pitfalls
of policymakers' characteristic "middle-of-the-road"
thinking.
Keeping in mind Thai foreign policy's efficacy in moving the Bangkok
Declaration of 1967, which heralded the birth of Asean, and the
decisiveness of Thailand's persuasive step in 2006 with which AEC
2020 was moved forward to AEC 2015, Thailand's foreign policy regarding
the Myanmar crisis may be possible through applying soft power to
build a coalition of the willing among Asean members.
This could bring influence to bear upon the Myanmar military junta
and its opposition forces to the negotiating table to begin talking
about ceasefire initiatives while, at the same time, buttressing
global humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of the
Myanmar people.
A first step through soft power persuasion by a few of the Asean
members, with Thailand leading them, may not be seen as "deliberate
interference" by neighbours in offering a possible humanitarian
panacea to an eyesore of a problem within Asean and to Thailand
more so.
Glen Chatelier,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call
for establishment of a Royal Commission of Inquiry
Into child protection services in Malaysia
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday October 6, 2024
First published in the Star, Saturday September 28, 2024
|
The ongoing child sexual abuse scandal has shocked
the nation.
And, it has shaken many of us working in child protection under
civil society organisations.
The duration and scale of the abuse by Global Ikhwan Services and
Business Holdings (GISBH) is horrendous.
It will take many months to uncover the full scope of the abuse
and the possibility of a thousand children that have been severely
traumatised over the decades.
We hope attempts will also be made to identify children who have
previously been in their facilities and offer them the support they
need.
Of serious concern is the lack of oversight and action by the very
agencies that we hoped would be child protectors the Welfare Department
and the police.
We now hear that such a vast business infrastructure has not even
paid taxes, raising concerns about the Inland Revenue Boards
(LHDN) abilities.
It is as though government agencies have had a decades-long blind
spot when it came to GISBH.
A blind spot that placed thousands of children into a deep dark
hell. This may also be true for other organisations in the country.
This child sexual abuse scandal, and other incidents before this,
highlight the large deficits in our child protection services.
Although this scandal involves a religious body, the issue is primarily
one of child protection.
As civil society organizations, we have often been expressing our
concerns about our weak and inadequate child protection services.
This scandal has shown that they cannot be allowed to continue as
is and need a complete overhaul.
We support the call from Childrens Commissioner Dr Farah Nini
Dusuki of Suhakam for the establishment of a Royal Commission of
Inquiry (RCI).
Only a RCI can restore confidence in our child protection services.
Such an RCI should look not just at the disaster involving our services
in relation to GISBH but all aspects of child protection.
Our child protection services require an independent audit, a transparent
assessment of weaknesses and limitations, suggestions for reform
with a workable way forward.
The RCI should involve civil society and be fully available to the
public.
Upon completion of the RCI, the findings must be tabled and debated
in the next meeting of Parliament, because the care and protection
of children must be depoliticised and requires an all-of-society
approach.
The GISBH child sexual abuse scandal is a line in the sand.
This is not a two-week media cycle issue.
Our child protection services cannot continue as they are.
If there is no meaningful action and reform then we will continue
to fail our children endlessly.
We appeal to our Members of Parliament to support the RCI and be
advocates for our children.
The government has overlooked the calls for establishing an independent
Children's Commission accountable to Parliament.
Creating a Children's Department under the Welfare Department does
not address any of the existing challenges or concerns.
Essentially, this is merely a rebranding of an inadequate and inefficient
service, while children continue to endure hardship.
We also ask that the government urgently relook at the Child Commission
Bill.
Any and every space that a child is in must be a safe space. We
must restore public confidence in our child protection agencies.
Only an independent RCI with comprehensive reform will do this.
Signatories:
Dato' Dr Amar-Singh HSS, Consultant Paediatrician, Child-Disability
Activist.Sharmila Sekaran, Voice of the Children.
CRIB Foundation (Child Rights Innovation & Betterment).
The Talisman Project.
Yayasan Chow Kit.
Malaysian Association of Social Workers.
Association of Women Lawyers (AWL).
Women's Centre for Change, Penang (WCC).
Anisa Ahmad - Child Activist.
Pusat Jagaan Kanak Kanak Vivekananda Rembau NS.
Johor Women's League (JEWEL).
Voice of the Children (VoC).
End CSEC Network.
Protect and Save the Children.
Federation of Reproductive Health Associations Malaysia.
Childline Foundation.
Toy Libraries Malaysia.
Persatuan Untuk Anak Kita (PUAKPayong).
Pertubuhan Amal Rumah Melor (Meru, Klang).
Purple Lily Social Association Kuching.
World Vision Malaysia.
Montessori Association Malaysia.
Play Unlimited.
Malaysian Hindu Dharma Association.
Kasthuri Krishnan, Lawyer.
Womens Aid Org (WAO).
Vanguards4Change.
ReHAK (Reproductive Health Association of Kelantan).
Sarawak Women for Women Society.
Lawyer Kamek.
The OKU Rights Matter Project.
Wong Hui Min, President, National Early Childhood Intervention Council
(NECIC).
Is
the Pheu Thai party pursuing plans
To
bring about popular reforms ?
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday October 5, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday October 2,
2024
|
I appreciate Khun Songdej Praditsmanont's chuckling
response regarding Pheu Thai's flexibility on ethical issues.
He usefully cites the Machiavellian view that "the ends
justify the means, so long as the end result is good".
In Pheu Thai's case, unfortunately, the end appears ethically dubious,
albeit not so morally indefensible as overthrowing your own nation's
constitutional democracy primarily to achieve the end of entrenching
a status quo that is itself intrinsically unethical, a fact increasingly
recognised for some decades at least, as reflected in the voting
in May last year.
Or is Pheu Thai secretly pursuing some cunning plan that will suddenly
bring about the popular reforms that Thailand has desperately needed
for even more decades?
I'm not sure that the plight of voters, yet again denied a voice
by a greedy minority diligently serving its own ends by unethical
law and any other means they can, whose end goal is reflected in
Thailand's gross income inequality, is really a laughing matter,
or even one to chuckle over.
Felix
Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Kunming,
Chengdu, Wuhan, Xian
Are
crazy about north-south rail route to ASEAN
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday September 4, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday September 21,
2024
|
Re: "Locals want SEC bills, Land Bridge
axed", in Bangkok
Post, Wednesday September 18, 2024.
Why do we need the proposed Chumphon-Ranong Land Bridge?
A faster or cheaper alternative to the existing all-water Malacca
Strait Route for Asian shipments to Europe, the Mid East, South
Asia, Africa, and vice versa, perhaps?
Let's take a look at the comparative merit of the Land Bridge vis-a-vis
the Malacca Strait Route from the users' perspective by comparing
the transit time and probable costing between Shanghai and Colombo
in Sri Lanka and similarly, Hong Kong-Colombo based on container
vessels with a typical average cruising speed of 20 nautical miles
per hour.
Their pros and cons would reflect those of other Asia-Europe/Mideast
routings.
The all-water nautical distance Shanghai-Colombo via Malacca is
3,804nm against the combined nautical distances of Shanghai-Chumphon
and Ranong-Columbo of 3,278nm.
The proposed Land Bridge scheme indeed helps save 526nm or a sailing
time of 26 hours.
Similarly, the all-water nautical distance Hong Kong-Colombo is
3027nm; whereas Hong Kong-Chumphon and Ranong-Columbo combined is
2630nm, with a Land Bridge saving of 397nm and 20 hours.
In short, the Land Bridge would cut about one day off the Malacca
Route sailing time on these East-West routes.
Nevertheless, the Land Bridge scheme would normally take one day
to discharge containers in Chumphon Port, a half-day to load-rail-discharge
Chumphon-Ranong and on average 3.5 days to await reloading onto
the next connecting vessel westbound based on standard weekly sailing
frequency. Crossing the Land Bridge would thus take an average of
five days not to mention additional vessel port expenses and container
terminal charges at both ends, plus rail freight Chumphon-Ranong
and container costs, to name but a few.
The Land Bridge service may end up costing more and taking four
days longer.
What commercial entity on earth would opt to pay more?
There are many politically motivated but financially unfeasible
projects, especially in developing countries.
After being commissioned, they are invariably plagued by continuous
operating losses and are labelled as 'long-term' investments, implying
only God knows when investors will see their money again.
Even without mentioning inevitable damages to some of Thailand's
best countryside, how would Thai voters and future generations look
at this financial blackhole caused by construction and the billions
needed for upkeep as a means to jump-start the slow economy?
Surely, there are other less expensive ways to do so.
On the other hand, Kunming, Chengdu, Wuhan, Xian, and most Chinese
inland cities are always crazy about a rail north-south route that
promptly rails their cargo to/from more Asean terminals and the
Andaman Sea.
Does this deserve a higher policy priority instead ?
Y K Chan,
Hong Kong,
Southeast Asian countries
Forming a federation-like EU bloc
The
Southeast Asian Times Thursday October 3, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Saturday September 21,
2024
|
Re: "Time to regroup?" Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Tuesday September 17, 2024.
Ken Albertsen, Asean has been a paper tiger for decades. So why
would your utopian idea of Southeast Asian countries forming a federation-like
EU bloc with a common currency work better?
Just look at the EU 27 member states as an example.
It's a bureaucratic moloch, interfering and dictating on many levels
of national member states' policies.
The common currency (euro) has been a huge mistake due to the admission
of Greece and Italy and huge cultural, historical and economic differences
between members.
There is only an economic transfer from the well-off north to the
poorer south, mid- and eastern members.
Even immigration problems cannot be solved nationally anymore.
The EU still wants to expand to Ukraine, Turkey, Moldova, Albania,
and Serbia. But the tide is turning. People have had enough, and
Germany is introducing border controls again.
Need I say more?
S de Jong,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The latest censorship
at Chulalongkorn University
Prompts
allegory on freedom of expression
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday October 2, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Wednesday September 25,
2024
|
Re: "Bangkok's Chula Uni relocates launch
of book critical of military off-campus", Bangkok Post,
Online, Monday September 23, 2024.
The latest case of academic censorship at Chulalongkorn prompts
me to create an allegory about the importance of freedom of expression.
Once upon a time, a wise old farmer lived in a small, peaceful village
in the northeastern Isan.
One day, as the sun slowly set and bathed the fields in golden light,
he gathered the village children around him.
With a gentle voice, he began his story:
"Imagine," he said, "there is a great, mighty
dragon who rules over our land. This dragon only allows things to
be said that he likes.
If anyone says something different, he roars loudly and forbids
it.
The owl, who writes wise books, cannot tell her stories because
the dragon fears that the animals will learn the truth.
"The dragon has many helpers, little dragons, and other creatures
who run around everywhere to ensure that no one breaks his rules.
They fly over the land, listen at doors, and watch the animals to
make sure no one says anything the dragon doesn't like.
"But the animals at the edge of the field, the chipmunks, the
frogs, and the birds, know that they can only be free and happy
if they have the courage to tell their own stories and not be intimidated
by the dragon.
They whisper their stories into the night, share them secretly among
themselves, and dream of a day when they can speak without fear.
"The old farmer looked into the children's eyes and said,
'Remember, children, true freedom comes from the truth and the courage
to tell it. Never let a dragon or his helpers silence you.'"
Nang Tani,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Ecotourism development
on Bugsuk, Balabac in Palawan
Pushed
by Philippines subsidiary of San Miguel Corp
The
Southeast Asian Times Tuesday October 1, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday September
26, 2024
|
The National Land Use Act (NLUA), of which a bill
had been repeatedly filed since the 9th Congress and declared urgent
by several presidents, was closest to becoming law during the 15th
Congress.
In February 2013, before the three-month interruption of sessions
to give way to the campaign period of midterm elections scheduled
in May, then Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. was one of three solons who
blocked the holding of a bicameral session to pass the NLUA bill,
thus reverting it to second reading.
He said he still had 53 amendments to propose.
Yet when asked to present his proposed changes, he said he was not
ready to present that day, nor was he prepared to do so during the
last session days of the 15th Congress that ended in June 2013.
Such failure to enact the law allowed continuing land conversions
and the irrational use of land and water resources.
The worsening effects of climate change, particularly the stronger
typhoons and perennial flooding, have exacerbated the loss of lives
and damage to properties through the years.
One must only remember Supertyphoon Yolanda (2013),
Typhoon Glenda (2014), Supertyphoon Rolly
(2020), and most recently, Supertyphoon Carina
and Typhoon Enteng, and the vast destruction
wrought by these calamities on lives and properties.
Other land-related issues have caused tensions and increasing injustice
to poor communities these past months.
On June 29, 2024, for instance, 16 fully armed masked men came to
the island of Bugsuk, Balabac in Palawan, intending to drive away
the residents in favor of an ecotourism development project being
pushed by a subsidiary company of San Miguel Corp. (SMC).
On June 27, Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) officials reportedly
went to the area to inform the residents that the latters
land was unsuitable for crop production, apparently in support of
the ecotourism project.
Interestingly, land and water issues in these areas in Palawan date
back to the 70s, thousands were displaced when the late Danding
Cojuangco, one of the Marcos cronies during martial law, forcibly
took possession of 10,821 hectares of land in Bugsuk, Pandanan,
and other islands in Palawan.
An affiliate company called Jewelmer Corp. established pearl farms
and closed off two islands, making it difficult or altogether preventing
the fisherfolk from carrying out their fishing activities.
Many ended up moving to other barangays, including the mainland,
where they could not find regular sources of income.
In 2005, certificate of ancestral domain title applications were
filed by the Molbog and Palawan indigenous peoples with the National
Commission on Indigenous Peoples-Palawan, but they remain pending
to date. In June 2014, notices of coverage (NOCs) were issued to
residents of Sitio Marihangin in Bugsuk island under the Comprehensive
Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).
Nine years later or in May 2023, the director of DAR Region IV-B
ordered the recall of the NOCs following a field report that assessed
the soil type in Marihangin as not suitable for crop production.
This was affirmed in September 2023 by DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella
III, who then issued an order excluding the lands in Bugsuk from
CARP.
A notice from DAR in April 2024 upheld the DAR declaration, and
a final order revoking the NOCs was delivered to the sitio in June.
With the help of nongovernment organizations led by Pambansang Kilusan
ng mga Samahang Magsasaka, the Bugsuk residents went to Manila to
seek an audience with concerned agencies, and with no less than
President Marcos himself.
Their specific appeal is to stop the SMC plan to establish the ecotourism
project, and instead reissue the NOC to the indigenous people (IP)
farmers to allow them to till their lands, and the fisherfolk to
continue fishing with ease.
Will the President make himself available to listen to the cries
of the IPs of Bugsuk? The Bugsuk folk have endured being deprived
of land, water, and human rights for the past 50 years.
Can Mr. Marcos now grant their request, and redeem himself from
his past shortcomings?
Will he heed the call of these indigenous farmers and fishers, and
considerably uphold the name of the Marcos family by addressing
these injustices?
Gemma Rita R. Marin,
executive director,
John J. Carroll Institute on Church and Social Issues
Thailand has just shot
itself in the foot
Tourists
have to pay 20,000 baht cash on arrival
The
Southeast Asian Times Monday September 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Saturday September 28,
2024
|
Re: "Explainer: Thailand's new visas",
in Bangkok Post Podcast,
August 5, 2024.
Thailand has just shot itself in the foot and lost tens of thousands
of baht.
The requirement that every foreign tourist has to have 20,000 baht
in cash on arrival has upset my friends who were planning to come
here for holidays.
They find this rule insulting and demeaning, to say the least.
They refuse to carry so much cash on them as they have platinum
credit cards and special travel cards, likewise top-class insurance
and more. So they cancelled their trips!
My friends travel extensively and expensively and would have stayed
in 4-star hotels.
They would have been frequenting expensive restaurants and bars
plus shopping in high-class shops.
They would have spent a minimum of 100,000 baht.
They are business people who work in communications and advertising,
and this ridiculous rule and its negative impact will be widely
disseminated in their country and beyond.
Thailand, if you are greedy and insulting, it will cost you in the
long run.
Miro King, and his friends not amused,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call for Philippine Congress
to enact into law
The Political Parties Development Act of
2015 bill
The Southeast Asian Times, Sunday September 29, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday September
19, 2024
|
This is a reaction to the article by Mr. Segundo Eclar
Romero on Scenarios of the Philippine Future 2050.
On the Move, August 20, 2024 which, in effect, is a call to action
to seriously look to the future in view of the overwhelming problems
facing our country.
The initial call to action must first be the need for genuine reform
in our political party system, as political parties are the backbone
of electoral democracy.
Such parties are meant to build a class of political leaders grounded
on vital issues and exposed to governance that is guided by the
partys platform and vision of what it wants to accomplish.
This, in turn, becomes the basis of the voters reasonable
expectations of what the partys leaders stand for, and whether
the party deserves the publics trust.
In a commentary by Moira G. Gallaga on The demise of PH
political parties Commentary, December 25, 2021, she quoted
Yale University political scientists Ian Shapiro and Frances McCall
Rosenbluth who said: Political parties are the core institution
of democratic accountability because parties, not the individuals
who support or comprise them, can offer competing vision of the
public good.
According to Gallaga, political parties should be deemed as essential
institutions in a functioning democracy and should be the main avenue
by which the collective interests of their leaders, members, and
adherents among the electorate, can be represented to the fullest.
They are the means by which competing visions of governance and
policies can be pursued and offered to the public.
As it is now, there is no true party system in the country.
Our political parties are not solid organizations steeped in principles,
but loose groupings built mainly around personalities, according
to Cielito F. Habito in his column titled The reform we
need No Free Lunch, July 6, 2021.
They exist merely to serve the interest of their leaders, with hardly
any platform of governance or principles and policies to serve the
citizenry.
The challenge is for us to call on our political leaders, especially
the members of Congress, to wake up to the reality that they should
be the change they seek, and must have the political will to institute
reforms by enacting into law the bill Political Parties
Development Act of 2015.
The pending bill seeks to strengthen the party system by upholding
party loyalty and adherence to ideological principles, platforms,
and programs by penalizing turncoatism; reducing graft and corruption
by regulating campaign finances through transparent mechanisms,
and professionalizing political parties through state subsidies
that, in a non-election year, may be used for party recruitment,
civic education, research and policy development, and constitutional
outreach programs.
Without a strong and principled true political party system, we
will remain exactly in the condition we find ourselves today.
Antonio
de Guzman,
Manila,
Philippines
Chulalongkorn University
cancels book launch on Thai military
Control
of TV/radio stations aimed at domestic audience
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday, September 28, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Thursday September 26,
2024
|
Re: "Chula bars author from using venues",
in Bangkok Post, Tuesday September 24, 2024.
By caving in to military pressure and cancelling a seminar and on-campus
launch of an award-winning book authored by one of its scholars,
our renowned Chulalongkorn University is undermining its 2021-2024
master plan to "position the university as a leader in creating
knowledge and innovations from cutting-edge research".
The most effective way to counter misinformation is to prove that
what was presented was in error and how it should be corrected.
Thus, the military's Internal Security Operations Command should
welcome Puangthong Pawakapan's invitation to speak at a Chulalongkorn
University debate and show why her book, Infiltrating Society: The
Thai Military's Internal Security Affairs, is wrong and might "stir
public misunderstanding and damage the image of the armed forces".
The military's noble mission is to protect us from enemies outside
the realm not those within our boundaries. Thus, Thais may ask why
soldiers must control so many TV/radio stations aimed at a domestic
audience, why they're not stationed mainly at our borders to fight
invaders, and why we have the world record for coups against elected
governments.
Chulalongkorn University, stand for creating knowledge.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Bank of Thailand (BoT)
is a juristic person
What or who constitutes that juristic person?
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday September 27, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday September 23, 2024
|
Re: "Central bank legacy", in Bangkok
Post PostBag, Thursday September 19, 2024 and "BoT
urged to reduce interest rates", Bangkok Post
Business, Tuesday September 17, 2024.
Khun Songdej Praditsmanont, who has some expertise in the financial
domain, gave a useful brief history of the Bank of Thailand (BoT).
The BoT is a juristic person which is a state agency, but is neither
a government agency nor state enterprise under the law on budgetary
procedure and other laws. The BoT, as a juristic person, also functions
as an institutional investor.
Clearly the juristic person which is at the root of the BoT serves
as a state agency enjoying the legal protections offered in that
capacity.
However, I found it impossible to discover what or who constitutes
that juristic person.
Is it a corporation, a group of corporate entities, individuals,
trusts or other parties? The 1942 Bank of Thailand Act reveals nothing,
nor does the BoT's website or its balance sheet disclosures. Perhaps
Khun Songdej could shed some light on this matter?
Michael Setter,
Bangkok
Thailand
Call
for Thailand to fence border with Myanmar
With high-teck seismic sensors and high
towers
The
Southeast Asian Times Thursday, September 26, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Tuesday September 24,
2024
|
Re: "Solving the Myanmar migrant surge",
in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Tuesday September 17, 2024.
It's always exciting to read Khun Kavi's articles, which are loaded
with information on committees formed and their purposes within
our parliament.
With due respect to all the recommendations from Khun Kavi, I would
add more to shed light on the root problems behind the illegal migrants
in Thailand.
The root cause of the illegal migration from Myanmar, in particular,
lies in the weak leadership of our Asean countries, including Thailand.
The Tatmadaw Myanmar's junta remains unchallenged by the so-called
world superpowers: USA, Russia, China, India and even the European
Union.
None of them has given an ultimatum to junta supremos that democracy
must prevail in Myanmar.
The United Nations itself has not taken any realistic action against
the junta, aside from issuing warnings.
We must work to reduce inaction on the international stage.
Now we go to the local accomplices in Thailand, who are part of
a transnational human trafficking syndicate.
These culprits are believed to be politicians of all levels, officials,
law enforcers and security personnel.
We can stop illegal migrants if our government is serious.
For example, after the recent political problems in Bangladesh,
thousands fled to India and were shunned at the border as the Indian
Border Security Force stood firm and sent them back to Bangladesh.
Our government should fence the border with Myanmar with high-tech
seismic sensors and high towers, with security personnel equipped
with high-tech night vision tools.
Jayut Jayanandana,
Bangkok,
Thailand
US politics raises concerns
about whether the values
That
once made America a beacon of democracy are fading
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday, September 25, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Saturday September 14,
2024
|
Re: "West's stealthy assault on democracy",
in Bangkok Post Opinion, Thursday September 12, 2024.
In response to the opinion by Indian scholar Brahma Chellaney, it
is true that today, authoritarian regimes outnumber liberal democracies.
Unfortunately, the efforts led by American right-wing extremists
to promote democracy in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, and various countries
in South America and Asia have largely failed.
Meanwhile, the state of democracy in Pakistan, Thailand, Myanmar,
Cambodia, and Vietnam seems to receive little attention in the United
States.
The US also has significant investments in communist China and Vietnam.
A closer examination of US politics raises concerns about whether
the values that once made America a beacon of democracy are fading.
The rise of social media, search engines, and mobile apps innovations
created in the US has led to an influx of fake news, conspiracy
theories, political manipulation, bullying, and shallow commentaries
by the media.
The erosion of fundamental American decency is evident, casting
doubt on the health of democracy itself.
Kuldeep Nagi,
Bangkok,
Thailand
State of South-South cooperation
at 79th session United Nations
Based on South-South and triangular cooperation
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday September 24, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday September 14,
2024
|
Re: "Time
to boost South-South ties", in Bangkok Post,
Opinion, Friday September 12, 2024.
One of the key topics on the agenda of the 79th session of the United
Nations General Assembly, which commenced on Tuesday September 10,
is the State of South-South cooperation.
The debate on it will be based on a report submitted by the United
Nations secretary-general that highlights significant developments
in which South-South and triangular cooperation have played a pivotal
role.
These efforts have been crucial in addressing the collective challenges
of recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic while also building resilience
to climate change and other development issues.
However, an urgent warning accompanies these discussions: a rescue
plan for both people and the planet is needed.
Alarmingly, only 15 percent of the United Nations Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) are on track to be achieved by 2030. If current trends
continue, 575 million people will still be living in extreme poverty
by that year.
There is no doubt that South-South cooperation is vital for building
capacity and advancing shared development objectives.
At the same time, it must not diminish the responsibilities of the
Global North.
It is to be hoped that the upcoming United Nations Summit of the
Future in New York will provide a crucial opportunity for renewal
and reform grounded in genuine solidarity and justice.
Ioan Voicu
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
Malaysian Bar must be applauded
For challenging the King's decision
The
Southeast Asian Times Monday September 23, 2024
|
As someone who keenly followed the Najib Razak corruption
and abuse of office case since I first came to know of it from a
Southeast Asian Times report several years ago, I was flabbergasted
by the news that the King had halved his 12 year jail sentence in
February this year. I thought that was the end of that matter.
So I am pleasantly surprised by the Southeast Asian Times
report Malaysian Bar challenges Kings decision to
reduce prison sentence and fine for former PM Najib Razak
( 20 September 2024 ).
Thats excellent news.
The King is the King and he must be respected for his role in Malaysian
society. But the King as a mortal being is not infallible .
There is a perception that his decision regarding Najib Razak is
wrong and not consistent with upholding the rule of law without
regard to the status of a person. That is a cornerstone of democratic
good governance.
Now we await the High Court of Malaysia decision on the Malaysian
Bar challenge.
The Malaysian Bar must be applauded for mounting the challenge .
Rajend
Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
Call
for members of Philippine Congress to enact into law
Political
Parties Development Act of 2015
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday September 22,
First published in the Philippine Inquirer Friday September
20, 2024
|
This is a reaction to the article by Mr. Segundo Eclar
Romero on Scenarios of the Philippine Future 2050
in ''On the Move,'' August 20, 2024 which, in effect, is
a call to action to seriously look to the future in view of the
overwhelming problems facing our country.
The initial call to action must first be the need for genuine reform
in our political party system, as political parties are the backbone
of electoral democracy.
Such parties are meant to build a class of political leaders grounded
on vital issues and exposed to governance that is guided by the
partys platform and vision of what it wants to accomplish.
This, in turn, becomes the basis of the voters reasonable
expectations of what the partys leaders stand for, and whether
the party deserves the publics trust.
In a commentary by Moira G. Gallaga on The demise of PH
political parties in Commentary, December 25,2021, she
quoted Yale University political scientists Ian Shapiro and Frances
McCall Rosenbluth who said: Political parties are the core
institution of democratic accountability because parties, not the
individuals who support or comprise them, can offer competing vision
of the public good.
According to Gallaga, political parties should be deemed as essential
institutions in a functioning democracy and should be the main avenue
by which the collective interests of their leaders, members, and
adherents among the electorate, can be represented to the fullest.
They are the means by which competing visions of governance and
policies can be pursued and offered to the public.
As it is now, there is no true party system in the country.
Our political parties are not solid organizations steeped in principles,
but loose groupings built mainly around personalities, according
to Cielito F. Habito in his column titled The reform we
need No Free Lunch, July 6, 2021.
They exist merely to serve the interest of their leaders, with hardly
any platform of governance or principles and policies to serve the
citizenry.
The challenge is for us to call on our political leaders, especially
the members of Congress, to wake up to the reality that they should
be the change they seek, and must have the political will to institute
reforms by enacting into law the bill Political Parties
Development Act of 2015.
The pending bill seeks to strengthen the party system by upholding
party loyalty and adherence to ideological principles, platforms,
and programs by penalizing turncoatism; reducing graft and corruption
by regulating campaign finances through transparent mechanisms,
and professionalizing political parties through state subsidies
that, in a non-election year, may be used for party recruitment,
civic education, research and policy development, and constitutional
outreach programs.
Without a strong and principled true political party system, we
will remain exactly in the condition we find ourselves today.
Antonio de Guzman,
Manila,
Philippines
New Thailand PM should
not be allowed
Anywhere near the Bank of Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday September 21, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Wednesday, September 18,
2024
|
Re: "BoT urged to reduce interest rate",
in Bangkok Post, Business, September 17, and "Paetongtarn:
Central bank independence 'an obstacle'?", Bangkok
Post, Business, May 3.
The country's new prime minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has said
that the Bank of Thailand's independence is an "obstacle"
in resolving economic problems.
However, the International Monetary Fund describes quite succinctly
why the Prime Minister should not be allowed anywhere near the Bank
of Thailand, as "politicians face monetary temptations conflicting
with an inflation-averse monetary policy".
The very nature of their position makes it impossible for politicians
to be impartial to the short-term benefits of an expansive monetary
policy. Politicians may also lack qualifications and expertise in
the field.
By leaving it to the discretion of an independent central bank to
conduct monetary policy, the focus can be on long-term stability
rather than short-term monetary temptations.
Although there is no universally accepted legal framework that specifies
the independence under which monetary policy is conducted, central
bank independence is generally a feature of the bank's institutional
structure, ensuring that stable and effective conduct of monetary
policy is maintained.
Finally, it must be understood that central banks are privately
owned and only nominally controlled by governments.
Thus, the whining by politicians over fiscal policy has little to
do with real news and the central bank's policy committee members
could care less about it.
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Open
Zoo public relations overlook the imprisonment
Of gorilla at Pata Shopping Complex for
three decades
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday September 20, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday September 18,
2024
|
Re: "Lessons from 'Moo Deng'?", Bangkok
Post, Editorial, Tuesday September 17, 2024.
The fate of the imprisoned Bua Noi, the grand dowager of animal
superstars, who is a gorilla, that has been caged in a penthouse
zoo at Pata Shopping Complex for over three decades, is overlooked
in this article.
The editorial states that the efforts of Khao Kheow Open Zoo's public
relations team reflect the attempt by Thai public zoos to modernise
themselves by promoting wildlife, and environmental conservation
and education.
This attempt is most certainly not evident in the miserable case
of Bua Noi, the gorilla.
Rose Bellini,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call
for Southeast Asian countries
To
form a federation
The Southeast Asian Times, Thursday September 19, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday September 17,
2024
|
Re: "Asean's united front
amid global shifts", in Bangkok Post Opinion,
Tuesday July 30, 2024.
I have had hundreds of letters posted in PostBag over a 20-year
period since 1998. I kept a scrapbook of clippings over 1,500, but
it burned in a fire. I was giving Burin competition.
Anyhow, here's an idea that's probably not novel: Southeast Asian
countries should form a federation, suggested name: SEA.
It would be stronger than the Association of South East Asian Nations
(ASEAN), which is basically a business organisation.
South East Asia would be about half as strong economically and militarily
as the European Union yet, as it is now, separate Asian nations
are about a 10th as strong as the European. South East Asia could
have a common currency and coordinated military and economic (and
other) institutions.
China would not be as brazen when confronting South East Asia as
it is when bullying individual Southeast Asian countries.
Come on, Asians, quit being so provincial. No Southeast Asian country
or its people is better than any other. Strength in unity.
Ken Albertsen,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call to allow foreigners
to own land in Thailand
To
boost productivity and income
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday September 18, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday September 14,
2024
|
Re: "Thai household debt at record high",
in Bangkok Post, Tuesday September 10, 2024.
The average debt per Thai household is now 606,378 baht, up 8.4
percent from 2023 the most since the University of the Thai Chamber
of Commerce began its survey in 2009.
Ominously, debt owed to loan sharks has soared to 30 percent from
19.8 percent last year as borrowers reached their limits at formal
lenders.
Handouts have repeatedly failed to alleviate the situation, yet
"Ung Ing" Paetongtarn Shinawatra has blindly pushed
ahead with another handout.
We should follow Lao Tze: "Give a man a fish, and you feed
him for a day. Teach a man how to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."
In short, sustainably boost productivity and thus income.
This can be done by allowing foreigners to own land on the same
basis as Thais, giving farmers the funds to get productivity-increasing
training, equipment, etc, by selling part or all of their land.
Many will say that such a step means many of our poor won't be able
to own their own homes.
However, rising land values will boost revenues from land transfer
fees, VAT, and sales income as the land develops.
Part of this rise should go to subsidise first-time homeowner mortgages.
If we fear land speculation, then ban selling within, say, 10 years
regardless of nationality; target the harmful act, not the actor's
nationality.
Subsidise training and equipment that will sustainably boost income
and raise living standards, e.g., high-yield seeds or growing organic
crops.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok Post,
Thailand
Movie
Television Review Classification Board has no right
To
impose ecclesiastical and religious beliefs onstatecraft
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday September 17, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Saturday September
14, 2024
|
I refer to your news report, Dear Satan
offends me as a Christian, says MTRCB chief Lala Sotto,
in Philippine Inquirer September 3, 2024 concerning a controversial
movie and the alleged offense felt by the head of the Movie and
Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB).
I will argue that her use of religious beliefs in giving an
X-rating or was not approved for public viewing by the MTRCB
by virtue of her being a Christian is illegal and unconstitutional.
This is illegal precisely because nowhere in the provisions of Presidential
Decree No. 1986, the law that created the said agency, does it deserve
that rating.
In Section 3, the board is authorized to delete scenes and disapprove
film prints under specific conditions: if they are considered immoral,
indecent, contrary to law and good customs, damaging to the prestige
of the Republic and its people or its duly constituted authority,
or those that have a dangerous tendency to encourage the commission
of a crime or violence.
Further, the decision of Lala Sotto as MTRCB chair is unconstitutional
because it violates the constitutional provision on the freedom
of expression and the aesthetic freedom of our artists and intellectuals.
Sotto cannot use her being a Christian to deny those who are different
or not the same as her. As a public official, she cannot invoke
her religious beliefs in depriving others who do not subscribe to
her views and opinions.
It is well-entrenched in our jurisprudence that the freedom to believe
includes the freedom not to believe.
That freedom to have a religion includes the freedom not to have
a religion and the freedom against or from it.
She and the MTRCB board have no right to impose their ecclesiastical
and religious beliefs on matters of statecraft.
We all know that the separation of the state and the church shall
be inviolable as clearly mandated by fundamental law.
Shimenet like the title of the film, Dear
Satan, but she and her cohorts have no right to deny it
solely on their religious feelings.
Their feelings should have nothing to do with their performance
of their task as public servants.
In the immortal words of George Orwell, If liberty means
anything at all, it means the right to tell people what they do
not want to hear.
Why it is that we allow rubbish and utterly tasteless movies like
Maid in Malacañang and deny Dear
Satan?
Are they implying that our people are so stupid and ignorant that
they will fail to discern that the movie title is not the movie
itself?
Are they so concerned and afraid that our citizens will not succeed
in deciphering the value and message of the film beyond its title?
Do we live in an age where smart people are silenced so that stupid
people wont be offended?
This is a feudal mindset and incontestably antithetical to the vision
of modernity and cosmopolitanism.
Jose Mario Dolor De Vega,
Asian Center,
Manila,
Philippines
Call for paid advertisements
on garbage bags
Purchased
on entry at Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday September 16, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday September 5,
2024
|
Re: "Popular waterfall reopens after two months
of rehabilitation", in Bangkok Post, Tuesday September
3, 2024.
I'm glad that we temporarily closed the popular Thi Lor Su waterfall
in Tak to allow it to recover from the damage we've done to it.
But we should do more so that we can enjoy it for decades to come.
Besides limiting road access to Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary to four-wheel
vehicles, we should also limit the number of such vehicles and people
who can access the falls daily.
Also, require that upon entry, each vehicle's driver must purchase
large biodegradable garbage bags, one or more for each type of garbage.
The bags, whether full or empty, can be returned for a full refund
at the point of exit.
The sides of the bags should be available for paid advertising.
As the sanctuary is heavily subsidised by our taxes, we should charge
for entry to keep it in prime condition. Fee levels should be based
on legal residency - not nationality.
Also, teachers of relevant subjects, students in uniform, the disabled,
clergy, and the elderly should be given generous discounts.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
South Korea seeks to establish
blueprint
For
responsible use of artificial intelligence in military
The
Southeast Asian Times Sunday September 15, 2024
|
South Korea has convened an international summit seeking
to establish a blueprint ( read boundaries ) for the responsible
use of artificial intelligence ( AI ) in the military, though any
agreement is not expected to have binding power to enforce it (
Reuters 9/9/24 ).
That has been the case with existing conventional military weapons
and that will no doubt also be the case with AI use in military
engagement in war.
Responsible use of military weapons is a myth.
Time and again military weapons have been used irresponsibly and
those doing that have got away with it.
It will be no diffent with AI use.
Mark my word on that.
Rajend
Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
Thailand
holds the world record
For
the number of political parties removed by the courts
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday September 14, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Thursday, September 12,
2024
|
Re: "Thai politics has turned upside down",
in Bangkok Post Opinion, Friday August 23, 2024.
I was more than a little surprised by the idea of Thailand calmly
accepting that democracy would one day arrive and that it's getting
nearer as time goes by.
Who was following the mentioned "middle path" when
13 successful and nine unsuccessful armed coups took place in Thailand?
With 20 constitutions in a century, this is not a country in any
way at peace with itself.
Holding world records for the number of political parties removed
by courts and the longest prison sentence for defamation is not
a great sign of an improving democracy, in fact quite the opposite.
If an army killing protesters on the streets is the middle path,
I'm sure glad you have avoided extremism.
Lungstib,
Bangkok,
Thailand
When Hugo Chavev
Nationalised Venezuela's oil industry
The
Southeast Asian Times Friday September 13, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday September 10,
2024
|
Re: "Viva Venezuela", in Bangkok
Post PostBag, Saturday September 7, 2024 and "Venezuelan
opposition under siege", in Bangkok Post ,World,
Friday August 2, 2024.
A few things Colin Roth might not know about Venezuela.
Venezuela now has a national debt of around US$4.2 trillion (142.7
trillion baht) -- and bear in mind the population is only 28 million
because of massive corruption and economic mismanagement.
When Hugo Chávez nationalised the country's oil industry,
many thousands of vastly experienced Venezuelan oil workers were
sidelined, and most left for better jobs overseas.
Key jobs were given to government-friendly military officers who
simply looted the national oil company for their own gain. Most
of Venezuela's oil is heavy crude, meaning that a lot of effort
and infrastructure are required to turn it into an attractive product.
When food became scarce due to this woeful economic mismanagement,
President Nicolás Maduro back then used food as a weapon
to force people to vote for him: No vote, no food coupons.
Much of Venezuela's oil production goes to pay off "debts"
accrued by Maduro to "allies" such as China.
The last Venezuelan election is widely regarded as being fraudulent.
Even former Maduro allies Colombia, Mexico and Brazil have demanded
proof that Maduro won, such is his suspected losing margin.
Not only did he jail opposition members and make it near impossible
for overseas voters to participate in the election for obvious reasons,
he also prevented most independent observers from monitoring it.
"Viva" Venezuela indeed, but for the sake of the
Venezuelan people, I hope not "Viva" Maduro.
Tarquin Chufflebottom,
Bangkok Post,
Thailand
Cannabis
shops are mushrooming
Like
7-Elevens in Bangkok
The Southeast Asian Times, Thursday September 12, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday September 10,
2024
Re: "Anutin sees bright future for cannabis", in
Bangkok Post, Wednesday September 4, 2024.
The way Anutin Charvirakul interior minister and deputy Prime
Minister portrays himself as a "champion of cannabis
use for medical reasons" only raises eyebrows rather
than appreciation. Cannabis, also known as marijuana, is banned
by 35 countries and in some countries, possession or trafficking
of it can even be punishable by death.
Tourists from all over the world travel to Thailand to have
a good time there.
Thailand is the 8th country in the world where cannabis is
allowed for medical use and, in practice, for recreational
purposes. Khun Anutin surely knows Pablo Escobar and Guzman
el Chapo started their lives with cannabis, and later, they
went on to become kings of cocaine.
Now, cannabis shops have been mushrooming like 7-Elevens,
and often, college students have been selling it openly on
the streets not far from schools.
Let's take a walk on Khao San Road. There's a primary school
over 100 years old, and cannabis shops are right there. Local
police officers are patrolling at least 20 times in 24 hours.
The police station is located right at the other end of Khao
San Road. What about the idea of educating kids in schools
on the consequences of smoking cannabis?
Jayut Jayanandana,
Bangkok,
Thailand
|
What's good for Cathay
Pacific
Is
not good for Thai Airways
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday September 11, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday September 9, 2024
|
Re: "No faulty engines, says THAI",
and "Cathay halts flights for A350 checks", in
Bangkok Post, WednesdaySeptember 4, 2024.
Somehow, THAI's assurances about the safety of their A350 engines
do little to instil confidence.
How is it that Cathay Pacific one of the world's best-run airlines
deemed it necessary to ground its entire fleet of A350s for safety
reasons and has "identified a number of the same problematic
engine components that need to be replaced among its fleet",
while THAI, operating the same planes with the same engines, has
found no reason to be similarly concerned?
Samanea
Saman,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thai politicians hardly
use Buddhism
As
a means of attack or defence
The
Southeast Asian Times Tuesday September 10, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday September 8, 2024
|
Re: "Thailand's Dhammacracy", in
Bangkok Post, PostBag, Sunday September 1, 2024.
That is the most thought-provoking of one's views on Buddhism's
role in Thailand's politics.
Though not a scholar of Buddhism or a devout Buddhist, one hardly
reads or hears of politicians using Buddhism as a means of attack
or defence.
It is almost sacrilege to refer to Buddhism in that arena.
It may be that Buddhist tenets that have influenced politics.
One likes to think that the words mai pen rai (never mind) are influenced
by Buddhism as things will be corrected.
One doubts Buddhism is a means of suppressing the thought of democracy.
On the contrary, Thailand may have avoided any civil wars because
of calmly accepting that a democratic time would come.
Our democracy may not be full-fledged, but we slowly achieve a better
degree of democracy as time goes by.
In our democratic movement since 1932 almost one century there has
been only one conflict bordering a civil war, in 1973.
It eventually calmed down and returned to normalcy.
One likes to credit that to Buddhism's belief in the middle way.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Papuans
trekk rugged mountains to Port Moresby
To
see, meet, greet and celebrate Pope Francis
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday September 9, 2024
First published in the National, Saturday September 7, 2024
|
The streets of Port Moresby will be full of people
wanting a glimpse of the head of the Vatican State and the worlds
Catholic order.
Over the past few days, critics have questioned the faith, the role
and titles bestowed upon the Pope and the protocols accorded to
Pope Francis at the political level when he arrives at the Jackson
Airport today at about 7pm.
I will not debate the Catholic faith against other denominations.
Catholics dont waste their time doing so, nor do they debate
the Christs teachings along with the Bible.
Similarly, let those who are doubtful and semi-illiterate on the
Popes various titles and attrbutes remain as primitive as
they have been; no arguments there.
The arrival of Pope Francis this evening will be greeted by crowds
of people, starting at Jackson Airport and along roadsides as he
is driven on a route that will eventually take him to his place
of residence at the Vatican embassy.
Government protocol will also be accorded to the Pope.
For, he is the Head of the Vatican state, make no mistake about
that.
As soon as the Royal Australian Air Force plane that he is on from
Indonesia coming enters Papua New Guinea airspace, Pope Francis
automatically becomes a guest of the Governor-General of Papua New
Guinea, and of the Prime Minister.
Upon landing at the Jackson Airport, he will be accorded a 21-gun
salute.
Furthermore, the importance and recognition given to the Popes
visit were evident in the amount of work and preparations that had
been ongoing through to last night. Two Government departments,
Foreign Affairs and Information Communication Technology, have been
heavily involved, and so was Finance and others.
Looking around the streets of National Capital District, one could
not help but wonder at how Papua New Guineans can come together,
unite and work as one to really and truly clean the
nations capital in preparation to receive such a leader.
From the provinces, people have walked and trekked our rugged and
mountainous landscapes and sailed the dangerous oceans to come to
Port Moresby to see, meet, greet and celebrate the Holy Eucharist
with Pope Francis.
It can be done, and it is the churches that can make it happen.
EastWest
961
Konedobu,
National Capital District
Papua New Guinea
Regenerating
forests naturally has numerous advantages
Over planting seedlings or dropping seeds
from the air
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday September 8, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday September 6, 2024
|
Re: "Seed bomb threat to forest ecology"
Bangkok Post, Editorial, Sunday September 1, 2024.
The Post editorial is spot-on in warning against the simplistic
notion of "seed bombing" for reforestation.
Instead, as the editorial urges, the focus should be on the natural
regeneration of forests and protecting regenerating vegetation.
Regenerating forests naturally by protecting and nurturing seedlings
emerging from seeds and root shoots already existing in the soil
has numerous advantages over planting seedlings or dropping seeds
from the air, including lower costs, growth of tree species that
are better adapted to each site, improved water-retention capacity,
and resulting forest ecosystems that are healthier and more diverse.
The survival rate of planted seedlings is abysmal in many locations,
including in Thailand.
It's long past time for forestry officials to pay greater attention
to the natural regeneration of forests.
In any case, whether trees are planted artificially or regenerated
naturally, success in restoring forests is only achieved when local
people see the benefits of trees and work to protect them.
Reforestation cannot be imposed from above either by dropping seed
bombs from planes or, metaphorically, by office-dwelling officials.
Effective engagement of local people is the key to success.
Samanea Saman,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Dhammacracy
suppresses democracy
Responsible
for dissolution of progressive parties
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday September 7, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday September 1, 2024
|
Dhammacracy the rule of Dhamma is an ideology
that suppresses democracy while justifying an undemocratic regime.
This philosophy influences the political discourse in Thailand in
a way that is deeply rooted in the country's culture and history.
It promotes rule by hierarchy, where a small group of elites, seen
as morally superior, are granted the authority to rule over the
majority.
This concept has implications for the political landscape, particularly
in the way power is exercised and justified.
In practice, dhammacracy has contributed to the traditional establishment,
including the military and nobility, playing a dominant role in
Thai politics.
This is evident in the suppression of the democracy movement and
the dissolution of progressive parties such as the Move Forward
Party (MFP), which were seen as a threat to the nobility.
The dissolution of the MFP and the banning of its leading members
from political office for the next 10 years is an example of how
dhammacracy is used to marginalise political opponents and strengthen
existing power structures.
Dhammacracy has also contributed to the fact that demands for more
democracy and equality often encounter a backlash from the state,
denying people a say in the running of the country.
The disappointment over empty promises of democracy and the drastic
counter-reactions of the conservative establishment have led to
a hardening of fronts, with the political discourse increasingly
determined by a generational conflict.
In summary, dhammacracy influences the political discourse in Thailand
by strengthening the power of the elites and suppressing democratic
aspirations, leading to a political culture characterised by repression
and a lack of genuine democratic participation.
Dhammacracy, Thailand's political philosophy, is the establishment's
strategy for the 21st century and a blatant misuse of Buddhism for
political purposes.
Nang Tani,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Crime
committed outside one country
Is not prosecutable in another country
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday September 6, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday August 23, 2024
|
Re: "What do they mean by ethics?",
in Bangkok Post, PostBag, Wednesday August 18, 2024.
That is an excellent observation on a similar case in which the
judgement was not unethical as it was based on the thin line of
being jailed abroad, i.e., a person's conduct in life can be separated
by territory.
Jailing outside Thailand's jurisdiction is irrelevant to the ethical
grounds of the case in Thailand. Crime committed outside one country
is not prosecutable in another country.
However, the recent judgement indicates that, in appointing a minister,
one has to consider all angles with no excuses, whether not being
a lawyer or a seasoned politician.
It should be based on the feeling of a reasonable man to judge another
in front of him as being ethical or unethical in his past life.
Impliedly, conscientious considerations should be exhaustive when
appointing a man as his minister, especially when the country's
fate is at stake.
One likes to think that if that previous case had been brought before
the Constitutional Court after the recent case, the judgment could
have been different based on the ratio decidendi (rationales behind
the judgement) of the current Constitutional Court.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thai government to be
be sued
For failure to take preventative flood measures
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday September 5, 2024
First published in he Bangkok Post, Saturday August 31, 2024
|
Re: "Chao Phraya River basin raises flood
risk", in Bangkok Post, Monday August 26,
2024.
Given the reports of flooding up in the nation's North, which is
gradually working its way southward, wouldn't it be proactive for
the government to inform Bangkok residents of possible flooding
and where it could occur?
Or is it going to be the same old story of dumping large sandbags
in northern suburbs and letting the people living in Laksi, Don
Muang, and Pak Kret bear the brunt of the flooding as they did back
in 2011 so that downtowners don't get their feet wet?
We need to know now so that we can prepare.
No money will be handed out to flood victims unless the water exceeds
30cm, and even at levels below that, extensive damage can be done
to homes and businesses.
So, I hereby warn the government that if we are caught off-guard
because of their failure to take adequate preventive measures in
advance to minimise damage to our homes, then they can expect to
be sued for gross negligence.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Get the message?
Laksi resident,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Pacific
Island States ready for anything
That
comes their way for free
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday September 4, 2024
|
Congratulations to Australian for assuming the role
of the pied piper in the proposed setting up of a Pacific regional
policing force with a $400m funding for it.
Wonder what China will come up with in the geopolitical chess game?
Pacific island states will of course be ever ready for anything
that comes their way free.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
Chinese textile prices
Are
impossible to achieve in free markets
The
Southeast Asian Times Tuesday September 3, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday August 25, 2024
|
Re: "Chinese red herring", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Sunday August 25,
2024.
New China online retailer "shop like a billionaire"
recently featured parkas for 69 baht and they have a lot of sewn
items in their product line.
Colin Roth asks, "Maybe prices are low because Chinese factories
are efficient?" and "perhaps the price issue is just an
excuse to revive human rights abuse allegations?"
Anyone who understands the textile business will tell you these
prices are impossible to achieve in free markets.
So, Colin, how do we get a new 69 baht parka in Thailand or a 39
baht wallet?
Forced labour and child labour answer that question, perhaps combined
with heavily underwritten fabric costs courtesy of the CCP.
Labour only makes up to 30 percent of costs, fabric 60 percent,
and accessories
8 percent.
Shipping within China, international shipping, packaging, marketing,
profit, duties and taxes add make up the rest.
As to Mr Roth's statement, "Reports from people who have
been there Xinjiang do not support allegations of human rights abuses",
a report released by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for
Human Rights (OHCHR) in August 2022 detailed various human rights
violations in Xinjiang against the Uyghurs.
Let's stop apologising for the CCP, shall we, Mr Roth?
Michael J Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Japan
and Thailand face daunting social challenges
A dwindling birth rate and ageing population
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday September 2, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday August 31, 2024
|
Re: "New realities in Japan-Thailand ties",
in Bangkok Post, Thursday August 15, 2024.
Japan and Thailand share many things in common; in the past, they
were exceptions among Asian and African nations in that Western
colonisation did not happen.
These days, both countries face daunting social challenges, such
as a dwindling birth rate and an ageing population, that will weigh
on economic management.
Japan has long suffered from its ultra-low growth since the 1990s,
and Thailand may follow suit if the government fails to put its
prudent, down-to-earth economic policies in place.
I do believe that the two countries can find ways to further foster
economic partnership hand-in-hand to rise to the challenge ahead.
The world knows that Japan has long been a good friend and a true
contributor to Thailand's transition to an export-driven economic
powerhouse in the region.
Despite being eclipsed by China lately, Japan has consistently been
the No.1 foreign investor in Thailand over the past 20 years, and
this likely will remain so if Japan finds good reasons to invest
in Thailand rather than neighbouring Asean countries.
Ninja kun in Thailand,
Bangkok,
Thailand
There's strong evidence
that China
Is
dumping cheap produce throughout Southeast Asia
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday September 1, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday August 24, 2024
|
Re: "Flood of cheap Chinese goods 'coming
by train'", in Bangkok Post, Thursday August
15, 2024.
The influx of cheap Chinese goods into Thailand presents the full
gamut of globalisation's challenges and benefits.
On one hand, consumers benefit significantly from lower costs and
sometimes higher-quality products.
For example, as reported by many, Chinese fruits and vegetables
"look better than local varieties and are also substantially
cheaper".
Not to mention the availability of far greater variety in the market.
On the other hand, it may be increasingly difficult for Thai producers
to compete successfully in many product categories.
In cases where China or other countries have a clear comparative
advantage, rather than fruitlessly trying to contest market share,
Thai producers would be well advised to shift to other products
or differentiate goods based on higher quality.
That said, there's strong evidence that China is currently "dumping"
excess production selling goods at prices below production costs
throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.
Where there is evidence of such unfair dumping, Thailand should
press anti-dumping claims through the World Trade Organization and
impose anti-dumping duties to level the playing field.
Samanea Saman,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
problem with family dynasties
Is
that new creative outbursts rarely occur
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday August 31, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday August
29, 2024
|
The problem with family dynasties that often determine
the fate of this country is that new creative outbursts rarely occur.
With either family X or family Y in power, ideas from people outside
the family are almost impossible to solicit.
There is stagnation.
How can a country move forward with that?
If these families then fight each other, this becomes a step backward,
with their supporters even being involved in the feud.
At a certain point, you could even talk about a family civil war.
The longer we focus on ourselves instead of on the countrys
urgent problems,
the more time we lose and wed end up lagging behind other
countries.
When I look at Vietnam, Taiwan, China, or Indonesia, which is now
even building a new capital, I am speechless at how quickly these
countries are overtaking the Philippines.
And now theres the threat of another epidemic like monkeypox,
and the possibility of another lockdown.
A military conflict with a neighboring country might be in the offing
as well.
But the Philippines has so much potential and certainly deserves
better.
However, if we do not exploit our potential, it will remain hidden
and forgotten.
We dont want to end up like those failed countries
in Africa where vain generals fight their battles on the backs
of their civilian population until the bitter end.
Lets close our eyes and let our imagination run wild: Where
do we want to see this country in five or, say, 10 years?
Lets assume a positive vision and, opening our eyes, start
working on this vision. Everything starts with a first step.
Together, we will achieve something.
There is enough time until the election to work on this. Sometimes,
history just needs a little push to get rolling.
Jürgen
Schöfer, Ph.D.,
Manila,
Philippines
Thaksin
Shinawatra return to Thailand
Comparable
to Eva Peron's return to Argentina
The Southeast Asian Times, Friday August 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday August 23, 2024
|
Re: "Time to move on", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Friday August 23, 2024
With all due respect to Khun Chavalit Van, one begs to differ that
it is "no time for old men!"
On the contrary, many believe that part of the present scenario
is orchestrated by one "old" man with a young heart
- Khun Thaksin Shinawatra.
After the judicial fall of Khun Srettha's government, his audacity
in calling for a meeting at his home of all coalition leaders that
evening was oddly enough helpful to the nation so it did not have
a vacuum of uncertainty.
It was his foresight and statesmanship in previously naming his
daughter and Khun Chaikasem as eligible for Thailand's premiership
that paved the way for his daughter.
That evening, Khun Chaikasem was named as the proposed prime minister.
The turnaround the next morning was inevitable with the Hobson's
choice of having to instead name his daughter, Khun Paetongtan,
as the next prime minister for parliament's approval.
That was the doing of an "old" man who turned out
to be the real prime minister, with his daughter being so in name
if only one had listened to his CEO speech on Thursday night.
His vision is timely when the economy is in the doldrums.
Hopefully, this man will do it again but with less greed. His previous
downfall was because he cared for his personal wealth too much and,
therefore, had to go into self-exile for 15 years.
His return with a brief period of pretended imprisonment was so
anti-climactic that it was almost comparable to Eva Peron's return
to Argentina, except no song was sung.
But he was welcomed openly by all of his faithful with the enthusiasm
of self-indulgence.
The failure of the former Move Forward Party, now branded as the
People's Party, with a perfect ideology and economic and social
plan from the textbooks, is an example of youngsters being too rash
and careless.
Now, in isolation as the main opposition party, it reminds me of
the song "Where Have All the Flowers Gone?"
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
No
one in Thailand has any idea what they are eating
If it is imported from China
The Southeast Asian Times, Thursday August 29, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday August 26, 2024
|
Re: "State urged to widen tax scheme",
in Bangkok Post, Business, Tuesday August 20, 2024.
It's well known that the three most significant contributors to
poor human health are processed foods, alcohol, and tobacco.
All three are profoundly addictive.
Although they are destroying our health they are not taxed equally,
and the taxes collected are not used by the government in a way
reflecting a duty of care for citizen's health.
A mere and miserly 2 percent surcharge on alcohol and tobacco excise
taxes is allocated to the Thai Health Promotion Foundation ThaiHealth,
or around 4 billion baht annually for alcohol and tobacco control
and health promotion activities.
The government collected a whopping 224 billion baht from tobacco
related taxes in 2020 alone, 11.3 percent of its total budget.
Despite this despicable disregard for people's health, almost nothing
is being done to counter the processed food industry's assault upon
humans and animals.
A number of harmful chemicals are used by food processors, few of
them are restricted and none are tested for on a reliable basis.
Labelling requirements are casually bypassed if not taken for granted.
And no one has any idea what they are eating if it is imported from
China. Meanwhile, the government only focusses on sugar and salt,
arguing with health advocates and industry representatives over
minimal measures that in effect do nothing to help the 40 percent
of children in cities who have a myriad of chronic diseases and
the elderly who have inadequate public health care.
Why are subs and EVs a government priority when reducing processed
food, tobacco, and alcohol use will prolong health, extend lifespan,
and save countless lives? Health education and prevention are key.
ThaiHealth must regularly provide educational information not only
to the public but also require doctors to study the importance of
diet and health in preventative medicine.
To really make a difference they need a far larger budget than the
government is currently giving them.
After all, it is the people's money.
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thaksin
Shinawatra
Should
stop stealing the limelight
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday August 28, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday August 26, 2024
|
Re: "Thaksin
not in control: PM," and "Ex-PM outlines
national vision", in Bangkok Post, Saturday August 24,
2024.
For his daughter's sake, Thaksin Shinawatra should stop stealing
the limelight and let her prove to the nation that "I can
think for myself."
Now, he's hogging the news, as shown by the overflow crowd at the
Nation Group's "Vision for Thailand" dinner.
Prime Minister Paetongtarn's stumbling even at the start of her
tenure, not even knowing who she can rely on at the party.
Thaksin claims Ms Paetongtarn can lead; so, let her show her abilities
without his heavy-handed dominance.
If she cannot decisively guide us, it's best to find that out early,
to minimise the harm for all including Ms Paetongtarn.
Thaksin, it's your daughter's turn to prove her mettle, not yours.
Exit the stage, please.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Studies
found 24 studies of 631 surgical N95 masks
Exceeded established safety levels for humans
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday August 27, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday August 15, 2024
|
Re: "Time to prepare for 'Disease X' ",
in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Tuesday June 4, 2024.
In a review paper published this April in the Ecotoxicology and
Environmental Safety journal, German and Swiss researchers examined
24 studies evaluating 631 surgical, cloth, and N95 masks to determine
their composition and the compounds they released.
The studies found they exceeded established safety levels for humans
and alarmingly high levels of nano and microplastics.
Mask-wearing has also been shown to increase rebreathing of CO2,
reducing the wearer's oxygen uptake.
The Department of Health should provide regular public service announcements
notifying the public that mask-wearing is a high-risk behaviour
similar to smoking.
This is especially true in the case of children.
Michael
Setter
Bangkok,
Thailand
Pita Limjaroenrat, former
leader of the Move Forward Party
Brings
international honour to Thailand
The Southeast Asian Times, Monday August 16, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Saturday, August 24, 2024
|
Re: "Pita to head back to Harvard Uni",
in Bangkok Post, Thursday August 22, 2024
The contrast between not only domestic but global respect for Pita
Limjaroenrat and those who have used unjust laws created for such
anti-democratic purposes could not be more stark.
Pita Limjaroenrat, the former leader of the Move Forward Party,
brings international honour to Thailand.
Could anyone imagine Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prawit Wongsuwon, Thaksin
Shinawatra, or the latter's Paetongtarn, or their like, being invited
to be a fellow at Harvard or at any other top-tier university in
the world?
Thailand's institutions opposing democracy have handed Harvard University
a great opportunity.
It is a shame they robbed Thai voters of justice under democracy
to do so.
Felix
Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Catholic
bishops consistently emphasize
That
there is no such thing as a Catholic vote
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday August 25, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday August
22, 2024
|
Some believe that bishops should avoid politics and
focus on matters of faith and spirituality. Others argue that bishops
have a duty to speak out on issues that impact societys moral
values.
Catholic bishops consistently emphasize that there is no such thing
as a Catholic vote.
They do not endorse candidates or support politicians during elections.
However, they do assert their moral authority on issues that conflict
with Church teachings and Gospel values.
There are certain nonnegotiable issues that bishops refuse to compromise
on due to their conflict with Catholic moral teachings.
As the midterm election approaches, it is important for bishops
to guide Catholic voters on how to wisely use their right to choose
the countrys next leaders. Bishops may highlight the importance
of voting for candidates whose government programs align with Catholic
faith and morals.
However, it is important to remember that the bishops are not telling
Catholics who to vote for, but rather urging them to consider the
implications of their choices on the well-being of society as a
whole.
In a world where political rhetoric can become divisive and polarizing,
the bishops serve as a moral compass, reminding Catholics of the
values they hold dear.
Critics may argue that bishops are overstepping their boundaries
by getting involved in politics.
However, its important to understand that the issues at hand
are not just political, but also deeply moral.
Catholic social teaching emphasizes that every person has inherent
dignity and worth, and its the governments duty to protect
and uphold this dignity.
Is it fair to criticize bishops for trying to protect their followers
from what they view as negative influences in politics?
Is it wrong for them to engage with politicians whose proposals
contradict Church teachings?
Bishops have a duty to speak out against unjust laws or policies
that could harm the greater good or conflict with Catholic principles.
In doing so, they act as guides leading their followers away from
harm.
The bishops stress the importance of voting based on ones
conscience, which aligns with Catholic teaching.
The Church acknowledges the significance of individual conscience
in making moral decisions, including voting.
While the bishops may provide guidance, it is ultimately up to each
person to make their own choices based on their conscience.
However, this focus on conscience can lead to a paradox.
On one hand, bishops and clergy discourage voting solely based on
party affiliation or popularity, encouraging Catholics to carefully
consider candidates and their positions on important issues. On
the other hand, this emphasis on conscience allows individuals the
freedom to choose candidates even if their policies go against Catholic
teachings.
This paradox becomes more noticeable when politicians who claim
to be practicing Catholics support policies that go against Catholic
teachings.
This inconsistency can cause confusion and conflict for Catholic
voters who may struggle to reconcile their religious beliefs with
their political views.
Given these complexities, it is understandable why some may believe
that there is no unified Catholic vote in the traditional sense.
While the Church offers guidance, each person is ultimately responsible
for making their own choices in the voting booth.
This freedom of choice, essential to democracy, can result in differing
opinions and outcomes among Catholic voters.
The concept of voting based on ones conscience is a difficult
challenge for Catholic voters.
The Church stresses the need for careful thought and reflection
when selecting candidates, but ultimately, individuals have the
freedom to make their own choices based on their personal beliefs
and values.
This conflict between guidance and independence highlights the complexities
of balancing religion and politics in a democratic society.
Reginald B. Tamayo,
Marikina City,
Philippines
Royal Thai Army
Kills its own soldiers
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday August 24, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday, August 19, 2024
|
Re: "13 soldiers held over recruit death",
in Bangkok Post, Friday August 16, 2024.
Once again the Royal Thai Army demonstrates what an efficient killing
machine
it is.
Unfortunately, this prowess is again directed at its own soldiers,
not enemies of the state.
Recruit Worapratch Phadmasakul, 18, who died after an encounter
with his drill instructors on August 2, joins a long and growing
list of soldiers killed by their own so-called comrades in arms.
Army spokesman Col Ritcha Suksuwanon offered compensation to the
dead soldier's family.
Just how much compensation does he think will cover the death of
a much-loved son, who volunteered for the army?
Here is a list of some of the other soldiers slain by other soldiers
over the past few years: Pvt Wanyawut Lampapahe, Pvt Songtham Mudman,
Pvt Wichian Puaksom, Pvt Yutthakinum Boonnian, Cadet Pakapong Tanyakan
and Lt Sanan Thongdeenok.
Responsibility for this egregious culture that allows for the continued
abuse lies not just with the 13 drill instructors charged, but right
at the top with army chief Gen Jaroenchai Hintao.
When are you, general, going to take positive action to turn this
culture around?
David Brown,
Bangkok,
Thailand
In-person presentation
at Thailand immigration office
Required for all foreigners to renew 90
day visa
The
Southeast Asian Times , Friday August 23, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Sunday August 18, 2024
|
Re: "Immigration updates 90-day online
reporting", in Bangkok Post, Monday January
22, 2024.
I was thrilled in January this year to hear the Immigration Department
had updated their TM47 90-day reporting system.
To quote your article:
"All foreigners staying in Thailand on various kinds of
long-term visas are required to confirm their address with the Immigration
Bureau every 90 days. An online system has been available for several
years but it was unreliable and most people continued to visit immigration
offices in person.
"The bureau has responded by improving the system in hopes
that more people will use online reporting, leading to fewer visits
and less overcrowding at immigration offices."
I started using this system as the department wished, and even after
overseas visits, was able to do my report online using the same
passport and address as the last report. It has been a reliable
success up until May.
It seems that a change applied for a few months now has the system
rejecting such reports with the message:
"For first-time requests of a 90-day notification in each
country visit, in-person presentation at the immigration office
is required."
There is no need for this change for long-term residents, as there
is usually no new information being entered.
May I ask through your esteemed organ: Why has immigration made
this change, when it worked just fine before, and there was no logical
reason to "fix" it?
Tarquin Chufflebottom
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thailand's education system
should be overhauled
To emphasise vocational education
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday August 22, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday August 19, 2024
|
Re: "Workers 'need skills upgrade to adapt'
to labour market", in Bangkok Post, Sunday
July 14, 2024.s
Post-Covid-19, there is a need for a new set of professional skills.
In developing countries like ours, people often acquire knowledge
and theory that may not be useful in the workplace.
Our education system has over-emphasised the importance of academic
degrees. While there's no doubt that medical students become better
doctors and management students better managers because university
courses are designed to meet sector-specific skills, this approach
is not enough.
The country's education system should be overhauled to emphasise
vocational education.
Many social science subjects and their related universities are
not based on the actual needs of the job market.
Instead, universities should focus on agriculture, fisheries, forestry,
pastoral work, herbal studies, river-based industries, rural technology
with a modern approach, and other relevant fields.
Traditionally, academic degrees were highly valued. However, in
recent years, the focus has shifted towards practical skills.
Major companies like Google, Facebook, and Amazon are increasingly
hiring people based on their skills rather than academic qualifications.
This is because academic degrees do not necessarily guarantee that
individuals can solve real-world problems.
Therefore, in the post-Covid-19 era, it is crucial to develop professional
expertise and skills through education, training, and skill acquisition
to tackle the challenges posed by the pandemic's impact.
Suman Kumar Regmi,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Dynastic rule within democratic
framework
Evident across ASEAN
The
Southeast Asian Times Wednesday August 21, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday August 18, 2024
|
Re: "No happy ending after Sheikh Hasina's
downfall", in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Friday
August 9, 2024.
The persistence of dynastic rule within democratic frameworks is
indeed a significant concern, as it often leads to the concentration
of power within a few families rather than a broader representation
of the populace.
This phenomenon is evident across South Asia, Asean, and other parts
of the world, where political power often remains within certain
families, creating de facto monarchies within democratic systems.
The rise of dynasties in democracies can erode the very principles
of representation and accountability that these systems are meant
to uphold.
Instead of prioritising the public good, these dynasties often prioritise
their interests, leading to corruption, nepotism, and weakened institutions.
As Mihir noted, the political landscape in India has seen a shift
with the rise of the BJP, which has challenged the dominance of
traditional dynastic powers.
However, the battle against dynastic politics is far from over.
As seen in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and even in more established
democracies like the USA and parts of Europe, the allure of power
and wealth continues to draw individuals into politics, often with
the backing of family legacies. In Pakistan, the governance has
become a family affair.
Thailand also suffers from the same malaise.
The public must remain vigilant and demand stronger democratic institutions
that prioritise merit and accountability over lineage.
Only then can democracies truly serve their intended purpose of
representing the will and welfare of the people.
Kuldeep Nagi,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Royal
Thai Army demonstrates
What
an efficient killing machine it is
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday August 20, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday August 18, 2024
|
Re: "13 soldiers held over recruit death",
in Bangkok Post, Friday August 16, 2024.
Once again the Royal Thai Army demonstrates what an efficient killing
machine it is.
Unfortunately, this prowess is again directed at its own soldiers,
not enemies of the state.
Recruit Worapratch Phadmasakul, 18, who died after an encounter
with his drill instructors on August 2, joins a long and growing
list of soldiers killed by their own so-called comrades in arms.
Army spokesman Col Ritcha Suksuwanon offered compensation to the
dead soldier's family.
Just how much compensation does he think will cover the death of
a much-loved son, who volunteered for the army?
Here is a list of some of the other soldiers slain by other soldiers
over the past few years: Pvt Wanyawut Lampapahe, Pvt Songtham Mudman,
Pvt Wichian Puaksom, Pvt Yutthakinum Boonnian, Cadet Pakapong Tanyakan
and Lt Sanan Thongdeenok.
Responsibility for this egregious culture that allows for the continued
abuse lies not just with the 13 drill instructors charged, but right
at the top with army chief Gen Jaroenchai Hintao.
When are you, general, going to take positive action to turn this
culture around?
David Brown
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call to make the Myanmar
crisis
A win-win for Myanmar and Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday August 19, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Sunday, August 18, 2024
|
Re: "Act to defuse depopulation timebomb",
In Bangkok Post, Opinion, Wednesday August 14, 2024.
Thailand should move quickly to enlist those fleeing Myanmar's civil
war to slow our ageing problems especially in the farming sector.
Farmers are one-third of our labour force, but their income totalled
just 8.57 percent of 2023 GDP.
They are poor, swamped with toxic debt, elderly, and poorly educated.
The average farmer had a household income of 57,032 baht a year
and average household debt equals 7.89 years' household annual income.
Young Myanmar men and women, plus older engineers and medical staff,
are fleeing the Tatmadaw's draft en masse.
They are precisely those we need to kickstart our farm productivity.
Repurpose the digital wallet funds to boost farmer productivity,
such as planting high-yielding rice strains or organic crops.
Give these immigrants an acculturation programme and a merit-based
path to citizenship so they'll help us develop for years to come.
Make their crisis a win-win for them and us.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thai
students demonstrate commitment
To
democratic principles and the rule of law
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday August 18, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Thursday, August 15, 2024
|
Re: "Guest lecturers under fire for MFP dissolution
ruling", Bangkok
Post, Tuesday August 13, 2024.
The actions of student activists are of great importance for several
reasons.
Firstly, they demonstrate the students' commitment to democratic
principles and the rule of law.
The campaigns against the charter court judges involved in the dissolution
of the Move Forward Party reflect concerns about the independence
of the judiciary and the integrity of the legal education process.
Secondly, these actions represent a form of civil disobedience necessary
in a democratic society to highlight injustices and effect change.
By holding the judges accountable, the students promote a culture
of transparency and dialogue.
Thirdly, the actions have the potential to initiate a broader discussion
on the role of the judiciary in politics and the significance of
the constitution for democracy.
The planned live discussion and the invitation to the judge to face
questions are crucial steps in raising awareness and understanding
of these issues.
Finally, the students' actions could also affect future legal decisions
by showing that the public is vigilant and takes the judiciary's
accountability seriously.
This could help to build trust in the legal system and improve educational
standards for future law students.
Overall, the students' actions send an important signal for the
preservation of democracy and legal principles.
They encourage critical engagement with the judiciary and foster
commitment to a just and transparent society.
Nang Tani,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Welcome
to Thailand
Province of China
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday August 17, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday August 15, 2024
|
Re: "PM orders tougher rules for imports",
in Bangkok Post, Tuesday August 14, 2024
If Thai manufacturers already feel overwhelmed by the influx of
cheap Chinese goods at this juncture, just wait until the high-speed
rail link to China via Laos is completed.
Any Thai producers who doubt the impacts of a fully functioning
high-speed rail link with the northern behemoth should urgently
consult with their Lao neighbours.
Welcome to Thailand, province of China.
Samanea Saman,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Manila
is the fifth riskiest city for tourists
Out
of 60 international cities
The Southeast Asian Times, Thursday August 15, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Wednesday August
14, 2024
|
It saddens me to read the result of a recent survey
by media company Forbes Advisor stating that Manila is the fifth
riskiest city for tourists out of 60 international cities included
in the study.
The studys composite ranking is based on the ranks Manila
registered under each of the following metrics: personal security
risk, health security risk, crime and infrastructure security risks,
and digital security risk.
In 2017, there were also equally concerning reports such as that
of Zipjet which listed Manila as one of the most stressful cities
in the world, and that of Londons The Economist magazine which
rated Manila as one of the most unsafe cities in the world.
Whatever their levels of accuracy, I would like to consider the
above reports as wake-up calls for us to intensify our efforts in
effectively solving the informal settlers problem in our capital
city.
However, in the case of the Zipjet report and its negative comments
on Manila, then Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada dismissed the report
as fake news.
But in fairness to him, he set up the Dubai Village Project for
225 informal settler families (ISF) in Baseco, Port Area, in 2016
and was planning to do more projects. In the case of succeeding
mayor Isko Moreno, with his soft spot for the poor as a former informal
settler himself, he even set up more housing projects such as the
20-story condominiums in the slum areas of Binondo, Santa Cruz,
San Andres Bukid, and Quiapo. He also initiated a city-wide clean-up
of illegal vendors on the citys sidewalks.
In the case of incumbent city mayor Honey Lacuna, she is fast-tracking
the completion of three housing projects in North Harbor, and in
Tondo, San Miguel, and Santa Mesa districts under the governments
4PH housing program for ISF. President Marcos also declared last
June an ISF area in Tondo measuring 2.2 hectares as a location for
his 4PH housing program for which he targets the nationwide completion
of six million homes within his term.
It is a common observation among Metro Manilans that the highest
concentration of informal settlers in Manila is in the North Harbor
and Smokey Mountain areas of Tondo, Baseco in Port Area, and the
San Andres Bukid district. It is in these areas where most urban
social ills are observed.
However, the prospect of house ownership under the 4PH program is
expected to address these ills.
Its good to see that our government officials have given attention
to Manilas most socially problematic areas and that the Department
of Tourism has been promoting eco-, sun and beach, dive, and adventure
tourism which are the growth engines of our vibrant tourism industry
that accounted for 8.6 percent of our GDP in 2023.
However, there is also a need to develop our cultural, heritage,
and religious tourism that should be promoted first in our history-rich
capital which should serve as the microcosm of these neglected sectors
of our tourism industry.
The President has started this with his Pasig River Esplanade project
which is connected to our old Walled City of Intramuros in the south
and to the Jones Bridge in the north.
But I suggest that, aside from beautifying this old bridge rendered
in neoclassical style, the project should continue the promenade
concept to the adjoining historic Escolta CBD with its art deco
and art nouveau buildings which, incidentally, should be protected
against mindless gentrification.
Meliton B. Juanico,
Manila,
Philippines
Call for Thailand to recognise
and value
Expatriates contribution to the economy
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday August 15, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday August 13, 2024
|
Re: "Quest for clarity", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Thursday August 8, 2024.
There are approximately 300,000 Western expatriates residing in
Thailand, with a guesstimated average annual expenditure of 1 million
baht per expat.
This results in a total spending of about 300 billion baht annually.
In comparison, foreign tourists typically spend around 5,000 baht
per day and stay for about 14 days.
Therefore, it would require approximately 15 tourists to match the
annual spending of a single expatriate.
Beyond direct spending, expatriates also contribute economically
by purchasing items such as motorbikes, cars, and condominiums.
Additionally, some expatriates provide financial support to Thai
families in good and bad times, further amplifying their economic
impact.
If new Thai tax regulations lead to a significant reduction in the
expat population potentially halving it and if attracting new expatriates
becomes challenging, Thailand could lose a substantial economic
benefit.
To mitigate these risks and harness the full economic potential,
it may be prudent for Thailand to adopt an inclusive expat strategy.
This could involve recognising and valuing the contributions of
expatriates while developing a premium tourism strategy.
The latter might include implementing a tourist fee that supports
the enhancement of infrastructure and could attract higher-spending
visitors.
A worried expat.
Peter Haenni,
Bangkok,
Thailand
For HM The Queen Mother
of Thailand
On her Birthday Monday August 12, 2024.
The
Southeast Asian Times Wednesday, August 14, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday August 12, 2024
|
In a kingdom graced with immeasurable joys
The generosity of your giving
Fills our minds with thanksgiving
Across the kingdom art and artistry flourish
Touched by your generosity
Caressed by artisan effort and zeal
Cultural gifts our minds nourish
As years accumulate from valued days
And time is spent in meaningful ways
Your support we remember with joy
Your praises we employ
Thus on this your birthday we invoke in thanksgiving
Blessings and strength for you, unending
Glen
Chatelier,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Ask
yourself why so many Christian priests
Have
been accused of engaging in homosexuality
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday August 13, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday August 9, 2024
|
Re: "Khelif proves too strong for Janjaem",
in Bangkok Post, Sport, Thursday August 8, 2024.
I must say that all the arguments about the politics of sexuality
in the Olympics and other competitive sports are symptomatic of
human conditions polluted by faith and religion.
The real world is not based on binary logic.
Only computers use binary logic 0s and 1s for convenience.
It is difficult to say which is a male or female bit.
In nature, specifically in the plant and animal kingdom, sexuality
is not binary.
Plants and animals reproduce in a variety of ways sexually and asexually.
For unknown reasons, nature also exhibits the law of exceptions.
Let us look at nature carefully.
Hermaphroditism is a condition of having both male and female reproductive
organs.
Hermaphroditic plants most flowering plants or angiosperms are called
monoecious or bisexual.
Hermaphroditic animals mostly invertebrates such as worms, bryozoans
(moss animals), trematodes (flukes), snails, slugs, and barnacles
are usually parasitic, slow-moving, or permanently attached to another
animal or plant.
In human beings, the phenotype is not completely controlled by XY
chromosomes. Social environments (including religions) are key factors
in developing human sexuality.
Ask yourself why so many Christian priests have been accused of
engaging in homosexuality.
Which chromosome determines homosexuality?
Olympics or any other competitive sport must recognise shades of
human sexuality carefully and put contenders in groups beyond binary
classification, male or female.
Kuldeep Nagi,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Warm-blooded
animals living on tropical islands
Are more prone to extinction
The
Southeast Asian Times Monday, August 12, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquiry Wednesday August
7, 2024
|
The title of the paper could not be more daunting
to the layperson, but the publication contains golden nuggets for
our country: Convergent evolution toward a slow pace of
life predisposes insular endotherms to anthropogenic extinctions,
authored by Ying Xiong and others. It was published last month
in the journal Science Advances.
In essence, the startling conclusion of the paper based on new evidence
is that warm-blooded animals living on tropical islands are more
prone to extinction than their mainland counterparts.
Turns out that these animals have adapted to cozy island life by
having slower metabolic rates.
Its like people, too, as we can glean from social media quotes
like On island time, nothing is urgent or Island
life is simple, slow, but full of sunshine and sea.
Xiong and co-writers assessed the metabolic rates of more than 2,000
island mammals and birds.
Then they compared their findings with the conservation status of
each animal as contained in the International Union for Conservation
of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Through correlation analysis, they demonstrated
that the slower the metabolism, the higher the risk of extinction.
In other words, tropical island animals are more vulnerable to environmental
changes, primarily those caused by humans.
Because they cannot adapt fast enough, they are in greater danger
of extinction due to habitat destruction brought about by deforestation,
over-exploitation, and climate change, among others.
The study highlights the need to redouble our efforts in conserving
our biodiversity resources since the Philippines is composed of
thousands of small islands.
The Philippines has one of the richest biodiversity resources in
the world.
The country harbors two-thirds of the earths biodiversity
and between 70 percent and 80 percent of the worlds plant
and animal species. But sadly, more than 700 species are under threat
of extinction.
All sectors of society must collaborate to stave off a catastrophic
loss of our rich plants and animal life.
The governments efforts, ably led by the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources, and specifically the Biodiversity Management
Bureau, must be supported and expanded.
A number of civil society organizations are valiantly trying to
conserve our remaining natural resources.
The private sector is also becoming more engaged in conservation
efforts, as exemplified by the BINHI program of the Energy Development
Corp.
The science is becoming more apparent every day. Humans have altered
the earths face in ways that could only be described as irresponsible.
As stewards of Gods creation, we should do a far better job
conserving our rich natural heritage.
Dr. Rodel Lasco,
Author,
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
Sixth assessment report,
Manila,
Philippines
Has justice been seen
to be done in the MFP case?
I suggest not
The
Southeast Asian Times Sunday August 11, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday August 9, 2024
|
Re: "MFP takes ruling in stride",
in Bangkok Post, Thursday August 8, 2024.
The Constitutional Court's verdict dissolving the MFP and banning
its top executives again reminds us of HM King Bhumibol the Great's
carefully considered opinion on Section 112.
"Thailand's law of lèse-majesté has one very
prominent critic: King Bhumibol
In 2005 King Bhumibol used his annual televised birthday address
to convey three concerns:
'The King,' he said, 'is a human being and as such should be subject
to criticism.
Charges against those accused of lèse-majesté should
be dropped, and those held in jail for lèse-majesté
should be released, and the use of the lèse-majesté
law ultimately damages the monarchy'" in Grossman and Faulder,
in their palace-approved book.
Has justice been seen to be done in the MFP case?
I suggest not.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call for Olympics to go
back to
Ancient
Greek Olympic tradition
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday August 10, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday August 8, 2024
|
Re: "Fair play achievable?", in Bangko
Post, PostBag, Wednesday August 7, 2024.
Michael Setter outlines well the case for sticking with the traditional
gender categorisation at the Olympics: it is simple and binary.
He is certainly correct that "the concept of fairness is suspect
on many levels".
He is also right that a more sophisticated approach than simple
sex discrimination is in fact complex; sophisticated even.
Who would want to be sophisticated when a simple binary option exists?
But sex-based discrimination glosses over a host of dirty little
secrets.
For a start, the athletes tend to keep the most explicit sign of
their sex concealed under layers of fabric as if it were a dirty
little secret.
What is needed is a simple black-and-white divider, one that is
clearly seen. Exactly such a traditional marker for dividing humans
exists.
That discriminator is the one being revitalised by the current Trump
election campaign in the US, namely, identity according to skin
colour.
Unlike sex, this is not treated as a dirty little secret.
People in most cultures do not conceal their faces or significant
other bits of skin, making it a publicly revealing marker of who
someone is, to the delight not only of politicians looking for a
coloured card to play to their base.
Rather than making sex the basis for creating categories to allow
the less naturally gifted by Mother Nature to have their bit of
glory in the shadow of the other category, a better choice for dividing
athletes is skin colour.
Of course, there will still be problems: there are murky grey cases
that are not plainly, wholesomely, black or white.
And some will doubtless try to pass as white to compete in that
category rather than the statistically stronger black category.
There will, accordingly, need to be tests for bleaching and like
deceitful practices. Would such an easy black-and-white division
of athletes be any less fair than the current system?
If we must stick with sex-based discrimination, at least go back
to respecting the ancient Greek Olympic tradition of athletes competing
in the nude rather than concealing the bits society deems dirty
little secrets.
That respect for venerable tradition might even tempt myself and
others to even watch a boxing match.
Felix Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
No record breaking temperatures
By August deadline
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday August 9, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday August 6, 2024
|
Re: "Climate change: the August deadline",
in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Saturday August 3, 2024
Climate crier Gwynne Dyer reports noted climate modeller Gavin Schmidt
has claimed, "By August, if we're still looking at record-breaking
temperatures, then we really have moved into uncharted territory."
Well, here it is, August, and everything seems the same.
No record temperatures except in the fake data which is generated
by 20 years' worth of climate modeling feeding upon itself, generated
by no new measurements, but rather ever new constants inserted into
always changing mathematical models designed to predict the doom
we are causing by, among other things, breathing.
Such people are never accountable, always promising to get better
at spewing scarier news.
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Unfairness
in the Olympic boxing match
Between
Angela Carini and Imane Khelif
The
Southeast Asian Times Thursday August 8 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Tuesday August 6, 2024
|
Re: "Gender woes in sports", in
Bankok Post, PostBag, Sunday August 4, 2024.
Miro King, in support of real women, is right to be upset about
the Olympic boxing matches.
There seems to be unfairness in the match between Angela Carini
and Imane Khelif, who was born a woman, albeit with male-genetic
XY chromosomes.
The solution once used is to ban female boxers with such genetic
advantage that leads to greater strength, higher testosterone levels,
greater muscle mass, and the like.
It is this set of natural physical characteristics, rather than
the accident of sex, that are argued to constitute unfairness.
That solution sounds reasonable and right.
Yet, the solution should extend the categorisation system to include
the full set of measurable physical characteristics held to be relevant.
Sex is no more one of those characteristics than it is for competing
in business, academia, or employment.
Indeed, it is time to end sex-based discrimination in sports and
improve the criteria for deciding who can compete against whom.
Therefore, athletes, whether natural-born males or females, should
be able to compete fairly against other humans who meet the same
qualifying criteria for the category.
Biological females and males will then have an equal chance of defeating
their competitors of either sex.
This will resolve the current disputes about who should be allowed
to compete against whom by neatly dissolving sports clinging to
the old habit of treating women as being so inferior to men as to
require a separate category to compete in.
Felix Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Whopping
double standards
Enshrined
in Thai law
The
Southeast Asian Times Wednesday August 7, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday August 3, 2024
|
Re: "Srettha defends integrity in court",
Bangkok Post, Wednesday July 31, 2024.
In challenging Prime Minister Srettha's ethical standards in court
related to his appointment of a former convict to his cabinet, senators
appointed by the Prayut junta spoke of "good morals"
and "ethics," while Prayut's cabinet allowed
a drug-related convict who'd been jailed in a foreign cell to sit
happily in cabinet.
That alone shows a whopping double standard enshrined in the law.
It is unethical.
Also citing the need to suppress peaceful speech, those same senators
denied the Thai people the government for which they voted.
That was neither just, nor moral, nor democratic, merely legal:
again, the double standard that legalises such bad morals, such
unethical practices, is glaring.
Meanwhile, the fact of Prayut being where he is having done what
he did, highlights as nothing else does the extraordinary double
standards written into the law when it speaks of "good morals"
and "ethics".
The pending court cases only emphasise those double standards enshrined
in the law.
Such are the messages being consistently sent by the conservative
old guard.
Is it any wonder that support for Move Forward and its popular policies
continues to grow? I daresay all those who realised so soon after
the event that they had wasted their vote by voting for Pheu Thai
are looking forward to correcting that mistake.
Felix Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call for Thailand to follow
principle of non-refoulment
And
not return activist Y Quynh Bdap to Vietnam
The
Southeast Asan Times, Tuesday August 6, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday August 4, 2024
|
Re: "Govt can't meddle in Vietnamese activist
case", in Bangkok Post, Thursday August 1,
2024.
In the court case of Vietnamese activist Y Quynh Bdap, who's overstayed
his visa but has been granted refugee status by the United Nations
High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHC), we must follow the principle
of non-refoulement.
This "prohibits States from returning refugees to where
their lives or freedom may be threatened on account of their race,
religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or
political opinion. It is a part of customary international law and
is therefore binding on all States, whether or not they are parties
to the Geneva Refugee Convention and Protocol" (source:
EU Glossary).
Mr Bdap seeks freedom of religion for Vietnamese Montagnards, and
Vietnam requests his extradition for launching campaigns that break
Vietnamese law but evidently not Thai law.
Critics say that Christian Montagnards have long been persecuted
by the Vietnamese government, and US Congress members have asked
Prime Minister Srettha to release Bdap.
We seek a United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHC) seat
in this October's elections.
We should show the United Nations (UN) that we follow international
law's core principles.
If we extradite Mr Bdap, it must be to a country where his life
or liberty will not be threatened, such as the US.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailands
Human
rights do not arise under Thailand military Prayut government
Or
democratic elected Srettha government
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday August 5, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday August 3, 2024
|
Re: "Govt can't meddle in Vietnamese activist
case", in Bangkok Post, Thursday August 1,
2024.
Whether under an army-ruled government under Prayut or the current
so-called democratically elected Thai government under civilian
Prime Minister Srettha, the issue of respecting human rights does
not arise at all.
Lest we forget, the Thai government handed over 109 Muslim Uyghur
refugees in 2014 to China under tremendous Chinese pressure, knowing
the fate of these poor Uyghurs.
They were blindfolded, handcuffed and forcibly put on a China-bound
plane and handed over to Chinese authorities.
Their families and children were separated and were deported on
a separate plane.
The world does not know the consequences or their fate.
Again, against the request from the UN and human rights organisations
across the world, the Thai embassy in Istanbul was attacked and
had to close down our consulate.
We had handed over political activists and members of opposition
parties from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Hong Kong to their brutal
and repressive dictators.
The question of respecting human rights sounds like an alien concept
to us, especially when we Thais treat our unarmed Thai brothers
and sisters so cruelly by sending them to jail for violating Section
112.
One was arrested for expressing an opinion on inconvenience from
a royal motorcade.
Now, is Thailand allowed to stay a member of the UN, or would it
be fair for the UN to include Thailand as a member of its human
rights committee?
Jayut Jayanandana,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Philippines once again
fails to exit
Financial
Action Task Force (FATF) gray list
The
Southeast Asian Times Sunday, July 9, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday July
29, 2024
|
I refer to the commentary published in this paper
about the Philippines once more failing to exit the Financial Action
Task Force (FATF) gray list in Exiting
the gray list, July 17, 2024.
A country in the gray list means it is under
increased monitoring.
As of June 2024, the Philippines counts itself as one of the 21
countries or about 10 percent of countries in the world under the
gray list.
Being placed on this list has tangible consequences for a countrys
economy and financial system such as restricted cross-border transactions,
leading to difficulties for a state obtaining credit, and limiting
inward foreign investment.
In other words, they hurt the economy impacting the poor the most.
In January last year, then Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor
Felipe Medalla, who chaired the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC),
noted the lack of action on easing the bank secrecy law, resulting
in the low number of cases filed against violators of anti-money
laundering and terrorist financing and their eventual conviction
as may be gleaned from most if not all of the blue ribbon committee
investigations going nowhere.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) added that the Philippines
is one of three remaining countries in the world with ultra secrecy
in bank deposits.
Republic Act No. 1405 or the bank secrecy law prohibits any person
from disclosing to any person any information relating to the funds,
assets, or properties belonging to a depositor except on either
of two conditions, when waived by the depositor or when a court
order is issued.
A third exception, recommended by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
(BSP), involves cases where the inquiry or examination is made by
the central bank, provided that, there is a reasonable ground to
believe that fraud, serious irregularity, or unlawful activity has
been or is being committed by persons, and that it is necessary
to look into the deposit to establish such fraud, irregularity,
or unlawful activity.
Simple.
We need to realize we have far more serious threats internal to
our country over and above external threats such as Chinas
encroachments and near acts of war in the West Philippine Sea.
The revered Douglas MacArthur once said in his speech before the
Texas State Legislature in 1951: Talk of imminent threat
to our national security through the application of external force
is pure nonsense.
Our threat is from the insidious forces working from within.
He may have been referring then to deceptive and powerful organizations
within the United States using potential global threats as an excuse
to put aside founding American principles.
We have deceptive and powerful persons in and out of our institutions
who erode the safety and security of Filipinos and taint the countrys
image in the eyes of the global community by opening up offshore
gaming operations in the country, accommodating Chinese illegal
and criminal activities, and by aiding Chinas creeping invasion
in the form of acquisition of massive chunks of real estate with
dummies and assisting the influx of thousands of Chinese, some taking
up residence and citizenship and taking over businesses.
This involves corruption on a grand scale and illicit money passing
through banks that cannot be investigated.
Worse still, we have institutions that ignore their sworn constitutional
duty to establish a government with which we can build a just and
humane society by failing to stamp out corruption, which is possibly
the biggest bane in our life as a nation and the most pernicious
obstacle to our achieving of full human development.
Money always leaves a trail.
Congress must do its part and pass the long-languishing bill easing
the bank secrecy law to first and foremost promote the common good
and, once and for all, address the preeminent gap in the Financial
Action Task Force (FATF)
Norman V. Cabrera,
President,
Manila,
Philippines
Persistence of female
genital mutilation
Under Monotheistic religious ideologies
is no accident
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday August 3, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday July 27, 2024
|
Re: "Female genital mutilation and the need
for Islamic scholars", in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Saturday
July 20, 2024.
In his opinion piece on the evil that is female genital mutilation,
Gwynne Dyer usefully observes that the traditional practice was
endemic to the region long before the Abrahamic religions took hold.
Those religions, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, merely enshrined
the cultural norms of that time and place.
They had no concern for good or bad, right or wrong, just or unjust,
except to use talk of such things to entrench their despotism.
Although Mr Dyer is correct that a clear statement from Islamic
religious leaders and scholars of the Koran that their religion
does not, in fact, teach any such thing as a need or even acceptance
of female genital mutilation is still not enough.
Even if the Koran explicitly commanded it, that would not make female
genital mutilation one whit less evil.
No more does the Bible's explicit command to commit genocide, to
kill and to sexually use children make that acceptable to any morally
decent human being.
And contrary to the solidly Bible-based arguments of the pro-slavery
South in the US Civil War, that book's consistent endorsement of
the venerably traditional institution of slavery did not and does
not make slavery morally acceptable.
As Mr Dyer also notes, those things are in the ancient sacred texts
because they were part of the cultural context at the time the texts
were written to serve the ideology of their societies' reigning
masters.
It is no accident to take a different example that the first four
of those infamous Ten Commandments given to Moses just after the
slaughter of the innocent children of Egypt and as a reminder before
the imminent genocide of the Canaanites, including the divinely
commanded slaughter of their children, the divine one handed over
those commandments.
And they were commands.
They were not reasoned moral arguments.
Monotheistic religion, as both its sacred texts and its well-known
history consistently attest, is no place to look for decent moral
guidance.
The persistence of female genital mutilation in areas still under
the thrall of such religious ideologies is no accident.
Felix Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Your
trash
Your
responsibility
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday August 2, 2024
First Published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday July 30,
2024
|
President Marcos recently did an ocular inspection
in the affected areas of Metro Manila after the onslaught of Supertyphoon
Carina.
He pointed out that the main cause of the flooding is the improper
garbage disposal on top of climate change.
The President stressed that we have more flood control now than
before increased number of pumping stations, Pero talaga
you have to put it trash somewhere, he said Marcos:
People should learn as climate change, trash caused flooding,
Inquirer.net, July, 26, 2024.
He reminded Filipinos to properly dispose of their garbage to keep
the drainage system free from clogging and hence prevent flooding.
I remember, as a Grade 1 student, our school principal would stand
in front of the flagpole to make her announcements and reminders
to everyone.
This had been her habit after every flag ceremony.
I could no longer remember the rest of what she said, except for
this: Basura mo, pananagutan mo
Your trash, your responsibility.
As the principal leaves the stage, we would then pick up the flowering
plastic on the grounds, throw them in the trash can, then
go inside the classroom.
The principle from the principal is simple, but practical.
If every Filipino knew their responsibility including distinguishing
biodegradable from non-biodegradable waste nabubulok
vs hindi nabubulok then they would be prepared to
meet the responsibilities as a youth, later as a parent, and a leader
in the community.
Every Filipino should be responsible for their choices, in what
course to take, who to marry, and what role to play in building
the nation.
While inside the jeepney with my mother, as a little child, I once
threw a cellophane out the window after Id consumed my bread.
But my mother told me that it was not good and threatened me that
the policeman might catch and reprimand me.
How thankful we are to our parents and teachers!
A pumping station is what the government can provide, but a clogged
drainage is what the people can prevent.
People can do more, for prevention is better than cure.
We get to choose what to plant: real flowers, fruits, nuts, and
vegetables that will benefit our health, or plant
plastic or throw garbage anywhere in the city street and clog the
drainage system.
Your choice.
Ham
Geg G. Manggasang,
Manila,
Philippines
Chinese
are thriving
In
the West Philippine Sea
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday August 1, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday July 30,
2024
|
Territory is very important to every nation.
As James Garfield, 20th American president quotes, Territory
is but the body of a nation. The people who inhabit its hills and
valleys are its soul, its spirit, its life.
I am a pure-blooded Filipino and proud to be one.
My husband and I work in the United Kingdom as nurses and are currently
on vacation in Laguna. Filipinos are peace-loving, friendliest,
the best, and warmest people on the planet.
While we are working in a peaceful country, I cant help but
be boggled and somewhat scared by news about the Chinese activities
in the Philippine waters which to me are an infringement on our
territory.
The Chinese have been thriving in the West Philippine Sea as they
claim it is their territory.
The West Philippine Sea consists of islands and islets that are
very rich in marine life natural gas, and oil reserves, among others.
News revealed their creeping invasion in the country as they have
built infrastructures, stolen fish catch from our fishermen, and
exploited and harvested our marine fauna.
This year, a series of unlawful activities were perpetrated by the
China Coast Guard purportedly to have their footing in the West
Philippine Sea.
How many more of this aggressive behavior will these Chinese nationals
lodge against Filipinos?
How long can Filipinos endure their infringement on our territory?
While we Filipinos are peace-loving people, are we going to allow
Chinas infringement on our sovereignty which was won through
decades of hard struggle?
I appeal to our lawmakers and policy planners to defend our territory
peacefully with the intervention of other international states who
also stand for peace.
Name withheld on request,
Manila,
Philippines
Primate, Bua Noi, deserves
a better life
Than
behind bars in a Thailand department store
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday July 31, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday July 27, 2024
|
Re: "A new zoo vision?", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Wednesday July 24, 2024.
While most people are repulsed at the conditions under which primate,
Bua Noi, has lived for the past 30-odd years, Rose Bellini should
not try to impress us by using obscure words.
An oubliette from the French "oublier", meaning
to forget is a dungeon accessible only through a trapdoor in the
roof.
It was a particularly evil form of imprisonment and torture used
in the Middle Ages, with prisoners thrown down through the trapdoor
into a dark and airless cell and often left to starve to death.
Having said that, let us not forget that primate, Bua Noi, is a
sentient being and deserves a better life than to be confined behind
bars in a department store, gawked at daily by human apes.
David Brown,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Long-stay
expats in Thailand
Are
not the lynchpin of the Thai economy
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday July 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Saturday July 27, 2024
|
Re: "Expat explains", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Sunday July 21, 2024.
First, Phil Cox misrepresented my view on a mass exodus of expats.
Never in my mind, irrespective of the outcome of the issue, could
there be a mass exodus.
The view of the mass exodus came from those expats who wished for
that result because of the thought of the Revenue's head of taxing
world income to follow the global trend of closing tax loopholes.
Secondly, even when world income is applicable, in my humble opinion,
there could only be a trickle of outward-bound expats, only a drop
in the ocean because of prior commitments, attachments to the land
irrespective of the country's faults, and easy solutions to the
hassle of its rules by googling on the treaty of the country that
income is originated from or paying a small fee to any respectable
international tax advisers in town.
Thirdly, the property market in Phuket is already tilted mainly
towards buyers from Russia and Eastern Europe. In Bangkok, from
the business pages of the Bangkok Post, surprisingly, China and
Myanmar are two big buyers.
Just like Russia, because of authoritarianism, they seek to protect
their assets by taking refuge in the safe land of Thailand.
Both property markets are flourishing, and their citizens need not
fear a world income rule since its effectiveness depends on the
cooperation of signatory members on disclosing income to each other's
tax territories.
China, Russia and Myanmar are not signatory members.
Finally, long-stay expats are not the lynchpin of the Thai economy.
They are important, but not to the degree that some expat writers
have claimed.
If one has to choose either the inward funds per year from 40 million
tourists or from a few hundred thousand long-stay expats in Thailand,
a sane man will always pick the 40 million tourists anytime.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Rotenone
to control invasive fish species
Is
not feasible due to its toxic properties
The
Southeast Asian Times Monday July 29, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday July 27, 2024
|
Re: "Chemical solution", in Bangkok
Post PostBag, Thursday July 25, 2024 and "Halting
tilapia invasion 'a priority'", in Bangkok
Post, Tuesday July 23, 2024
First let me say that the use of rotenone to control invasive fish
species is not feasible due to its toxic properties, it is harmful
to humans, animals, and lethal to fish and insects, while remaining
active for up to four weeks in the environment.
Second, after reviewing Thailand's Department of Fisheries website,
it is apparent that its primary focus has been on illegal, unreported,
and unregulated (IUU) fishing for decades, and its capacity to use
modern genomic methods to control invasive species has not been
developed.
Compare this with the US National Fish Hatchery System, which raises
and stocks 100 million fish each year "to support the recovery
and restoration of imperilled species, recreational fishing, and
Tribal subsistence fisheries. National fish hatcheries use aquaculture
to raise threatened, endangered, or at-risk species in a safe captive
environment for eventual release into a natural setting. This work,
along with habitat restoration and other federal protections, can
help boost and support wild populations of fish and aquatic wildlife."
The fish and seafood market in Thailand is valued at US$8.57 billion
(300 billion baht) in 2024.
Surely, this would justify the Thai Fisheries Department's establishment
of a state-of-the-art aquaculture and genomics facility on a large
site capable of adequately fighting the ever-present hazards of
invasive species and protecting national resources.
Michael
Setter,
Bangkok.
Thailand
Call
for the Philippines Presidential Action Center
To be expanded to the United Arab Emirates
The
Southeast Asian Times Sunday July 28, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Monday July 22,
2024
|
How about expanding the Presidential Action Center
or PAC under Executive Order No. 15 in regions where there is a
large concentration of overseas Filipinos (OFs) such as Europe,
Middle East, and Africa,( EMEA), North America, Southeast Asia,
East Asia, and Austraila-New Zealand-United States territories (ANZUS0?
Presidential Action Center (PAC) serves as the command center and
liaison unit of the Office of the President with various agencies
on all requests for assistance, complaints, and grievances from
the general public.
Lets face it, almost all OFs will not be reintegrating back
into Philippine society as overseas opportunities are better than
living and working in the Philippines.
OFs have significant contributions in every country they are in.
Every host country and every employer will tell the world that OFs
are excellent, talented, friendly, and, most of all, caring skilled
workers, artists, professionals, or entrepreneurs.
As so-called modern-day heroes because of the remittances that have
helped keep the country economically afloat, OFs should also be
heard where they are.
The presence of embassies, consulates, and migrant workers offices
in the major countries that host OFs does not guarantee that all
requests for assistance, complaints, and grievances will reach the
presidents ears or his inner circle at Malacañan Palace.
President Marcos can first start establishing the global PAC in
the United Arab Emirates, either in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, covering
the EMEA region which has over three million OFs, who are mostly
migrant workers compared with the OFs in North America who are considered
immigrants.
It will make a lot of sense to have the PAC in the United Arab Emirates
(UAE) where there are two international aviation hubs. Dubai and
Abu Dhabi are eight flight hours to London and Johannesburg, seven
flight hours to Milan, more than five flight hours to Kenya, four
flight hours to Cairo and Tel Aviv, three flight hours to Jeddah
and Amman, two flight hours to Riyadh, almost two flight hours to
Kuwait, and one flight hour to Doha. This would be practical in
case of an emergency response to any major incident involving OFs
in the region.
Art Popoy Los Banos,
Manila,
Philippines
US Constitution's Second
Amendment
States the right to bear arms in an organised
militia
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday July 27, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday July 21, 2024
|
Re: "Trust deficit", in Bangkok
Post,
PostBag, Sunday July 21, 20224 and "Guns on US streets",
in Bangkok Post, PostBag, Thursday July 18, 2024.
Michael Setter seems to have forgotten that the US Constitution's
Second Amendment, influenced by the English Bill of Rights of 1689,
states the right to bear arms in an organised militia.
At the time of writing the Constitution, the US had no army or navy,
so an organised militia was needed for defence.
The founding fathers were concerned about external threats and could
never have foreseen the military might that the US now has.
I would suggest that Michael downloads the Letter from America of
Alister Cooke (1993) to see how far the bearing of arms and the
power of the National Rifle Association (NRA) has led to the carnage
in the US relating to gun ownership with no organised militias in
sight!!
KMAC,
Bangkok,
Thailand
State
intolerance and repression in Hong Kong
Since
China's takeover from British
The
Southeast Asian Times Friday July 26, 2024
|
We read in The Southeast Asian Times 25 July
that Hong Kong
spectator at volley ball match found guilty for covering his ears
against Chinas national anthem.
Wow!
Has it reached that level of State intolerance/ repression in Hong
Kong since Chinas takeover?
Well clearly the people of Hong Kong are free no more the way they
once used
to be.
We from the outside can only empathise with them for their predicament
under Chinas control.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
Thailand police often
committing horrific crimes
While
bearing arms legally
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday July 25, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday July 22, 2024
|
Re: "Guns on US streets", in Bangkok
PostBag, Thursday July 18, 2024
Dennis Fitzgerald wants to restrict "gun access to those
protecting us, mainly the military and police".
The right to bear arms is enshrined in the US constitution for a
reason.
Those "protecting us" in Thailand however, in case
Dennis may not have noticed, have overthrown duly elected governments
13 times and tried nine additional times to do so without success.
The police seem to be in the news frequently for all the wrong reasons,
often committing horrific crimes while bearing arms legally.
The constitution of the US is a truly remarkable document which
at root presumes adults are capable of being fully responsible for
themselves and their families and so provides a governmental structure
under which they are enabled to exercise that responsibility lawfully.
It is children who cry for protection from "authorities"
because they are not capable of being responsible for themselves.
This is the European Union model of "woke" government.
How is that working out, Dennis?
Try a visit to Canebière, Noailles, and Belsunce, in Marseille
at night, or how about a stroll around London's Westminster which
had 463 crimes per 1,000 people last year?
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
UPIHR
report showes former president Rodrigo Duterte's
War
on drugs has not yielded any notable success
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday July 24, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer Thursday July 18,
2024
|
The editorial of the Philippine Daily Inquirer last
July 14, 2024, about the Philippine Drug Policy and Law Reform Summit
in 10-12 July 2024 detailed a significant occasion for human rights
defenders and drug reform advocacy groups nationwide. The event
was jointly hosted by the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ)
and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime under the UN Joint
Programme for Human Rights in the Philippines with the University
of the Philippines (UP) College of Law serving as academic partner.
Many of the participants, especially those who faced demonization
under the previous administration, claimed that they could not have
imagined the event a few years ago.
Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) executive director Earl Saavedra and
DOJ Undersec.
Jesse Andres went through the UP Law Center Institute of Human Rights
(UPIHR) prepared Rapporteurs Outcome Report that included
the lived experiences covered by national dialogues that showed
the perspectives of over 434 who participated in various sectoral
and regional dialogues across the country and 23 position papers
and studies from chief security officers and drug policy experts.
It was explicitly provided that former president Rodrigo Dutertes
war on drugs has not yielded any notable success.
Instead, it only resulted in grave human rights violations, limited
access to drug treatment programs, and severe jail congestion.
The 2024 forum was in sharp contrast to the UPIHR and Free Legal
Assistance Groups Policy Forum called Drug Issues,
Different Perspectives on May 5-6, 2017, where then President
Duterte sacked DDB chair Benjamin Reyes after sharing government
statistics that contradicted the presidents unsupported figures.
Dr. Carl Hart, a neuroscientist who also spoke in the forum, was
then insulted and cursed by Duterte. Meanwhile, the keynote speaker,
UN special rapporteur for extrajudicial executions, Agnes Callamard,
was banned from entering the Philippines.
The gathering allowed the participants to echo the Outcome Report,
as they urged the government to put an end to the prohibitionist
drug policy in favor of a rights-based approach that treats drug
use as a health issue starting by repealing Oplan Tokhang,
abolishing the arrest-based and quota system used by the police,
and ensuring accountability. Instead of focusing on street-level
peddlers and nonviolent users, they called on the government to
focus on the socioeconomic roots of the issue and divert funds to
poverty alleviation.
While remaining critical, the participants recognized that the forum
is the crucial first step toward transforming the carceral and punitive
drug policy.
Raymond Marvic
C. Baguilat,
Manila,
Philippines
Call to shift Thai auto
parts manufacturers
Towards
medical device production
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday July 23, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday July 16, 2024
|
Re: "Auto parts makers nudged towards medical
devices", in Bangkok Post, Business, Friday
July 12, 2024.
I strongly agree that shifting Thai auto parts manufacturers towards
medical device production is a strategic and wise move. Leveraging
their existing manufacturing capabilities, these companies can efficiently
enter a growing industry, offsetting the decline in automotive demand
and boosting Thailand's self-sufficiency in essential medical equipment.
The Covid-19 pandemic highlighted vulnerabilities in global supply
chains, making domestic production of items like ventilators and
PPE crucial.
With government support and incentives, this pivot allows auto parts
makers to diversify revenue streams and ensure long-term sustainability,
aligning with Thailand's economic interests and market adaptability.
Boonyisa Pamonbut,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Survey conducted by Thailand's
Department of National Parks,
Wildlife,
and Plant Conservation is worthless
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday July 22, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Saturday July 20, 2024
|
Re: "Residents slam survey result on Thailand's
Thap Lan National Park", in Bangkok Post,
Monday July 15, 2024 and "'Save Thap Lan' campaign just
a ruse", in Bangkok Post Opinion, Friday
July 12, 2024.
As the Post's well-informed columnist Sanitsuda Ekachai explains
in her excellent opinion piece "'Save Thap Lan' campaign just
a ruse", the online survey done by that highly interested party,
the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation
(DNP) is as flawed as is that department's ill-considered plan to
maintain another traditional area of unjust state control over people.
The way the survey was done makes it worthless.
No one expects, no one should suspect, a self-selecting group to
be unbiased.
It is too unsurprising that a Thai government department would think
that conducting such a survey might be of some worth.
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation
(DNP) should apologise for conducting such a silly survey, and admit
that they might be seriously in the wrong to oppose the proposal
to turn a chunk of the national park into farmland that its traditional
residents have a legally protected right to use.
Putting the adjective "national" in front of a
noun does not magically confer on the thing that noun phrase points
to any magical right to override considerations of what is just.
No adjective has that magical power; however, often state authorities
wielding bad law presume it.
Felix Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thailand's Koah Chan Island
Will sink
under tourist invasion
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday July 21, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday July 20, 2024
|
Re: "Koh Chang bridge 'likely to cost B10bn'",
in Bangkok Post, Wednesday July 17, 2024.
I read the proposal to build a bridge to Koh Chang with utter dismay.
Starting with the enormous financial and environmental cost, it
is a disaster in the making. I have been a regular visitor to this
once tranquil, pristine and most beautiful island for over 25 years.
In that time, the island has been overrun by hordes of tourists,
uncontrolled building, beach encroachment by holiday resorts and
above all, rubbish.
Plus, the dangerous macaque monkeys!
Koh Chang, like most Thai islands does not have a proper waste disposal
structure.
There are many enormous heaps of rubbish that are hidden in the
once pristine forest.
The beaches are polluted.
The road and transport infrastructure is woefully inadequate, with
deadly extremely narrow roads with numerous hairpin bends, upon
which there are countless accidents, many fatal, every year, never
reported in the press.
Even the proposed terminal at Koh Chang Hospital is ridiculous as
it is so far from the main beaches and would exacerbate the traffic
problem even more.
Please scrap the plan to build the bridge to Koh Chang.
Otherwise, it will sink under the tourist invasion and become rubbish
like Venice and Barcelona!
Miro King, loves Koh Chang,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Philippines
vaunted attachment to religion
Has
been a death blow
The Southeast Asian Times, Saturday July 20, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday July
11, 2024
|
Eleanor Pinugus What
hinders creativity in Undercurrent,
June 24, 2024 describes the invisible gorilla as not just an interesting
experiment but a crucial metaphor for the countrys current
regressive path.
This experiment, which demonstrates selective brain attention
demands our attention and engagement.
Our vaunted attachment to religion has been a death blow to our
natural innovative capacity and vision.
The Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) results
show that even our young people are beginning to exhibit signs of
falling into the abyss of religious paralysis, unable or unwilling
to find answers beyond what the padre says on a Sunday morning.
Generations before have forsaken them to be submissive and accepting.
Deep in his hippocampus, a voice says, Stifle yourself!
As a boomer who has experienced 14 years of Catholic education,
I can attest that critical thinking skills were never a priority.
It has never been in the interest of the ruling class (aka government)
and the Church to encourage clear and rational thinking among the
citizenry.
Our institutions, like our undernourished school children, have
long suffered from the stunting effects of a
fixed mindset.
Pinugus article rightly points this out, but she doesnt
address the source of this ongoing national decrepitude.
It all started when Ferdinand Magellan planted a cross on the shores
of Cebu in 1521.
Why do we fall to a single spiritual narrative and immediately take
it to the bank?
We take all kinds of time, listen to all views, and study the opposition
on the most mundane issues but would not spend a minute to question
what the padre is saying. He tells you, You are going to
hell, and without batting an eyelash, you are down on
your knees, asking for forgiveness.
Think about it: how did humanity cease to be rational at the mere
mention of spirituality?
Why do we behave so differently as soon as Joe puts his collar
and a giant cross around his neck?
So now, besides showing our youths illiteracy, Pisa also indicates
a fallback on our intuitive affinity for ingenuity, one of many
adverse consequences of dogmatic overexposure.
Absolutism and fixed religious ideology are a bane to creativity.
Our movers and shakers are tone-deaf to the realities of a sectarian
influence. Many things we dislike in our country today are a cumulative
fallout of generations of our preoccupation with an afterlife, an
intersubjective reality at best.
Our childhood attachment to theological fantasies has tenaciously
clung to our consciousness.
We cannot learn from the ongoing volatility of the intolerant Abrahamic-inspired
Middle East.
It takes seeing the elephant in the room and witnessing a populace
determined to rid itself of this albatross to bring us to a forward-thinking
mindset.
Are we too dense to learn from Scandinavia, or now, how about a
secular Vietnam?
Edwin
de Leon,
Manila,
Philippines
Not
too many Americans surprised by
Assassination attempt on former President
Donald J Trump
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday July 19, 2024
|
Many important figures in American politics and leadership
have said quite categorically that violence of the kind in the shooting
attack on Trump has no place in Americas democracy.
Every right thinking person anywhere would agree.
But with the kind of gun possession and access available to American
citizens gun violence is to be expected.
I believe at one level not too many Americans would be too surprised
by what happened.
Its happened before with far worse outcome.
Gun violence is a logical extension of the American gun culture
.
Thats the fundamental problem that needs to be addressed.
Rajend Naidu
Sydney,
Australia
Is
suspended mayor Alice Guo
A
Chinese spy ?
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday July 18, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday July 16,
2024
|
Suspended mayor Alice Guo has become the center of
attention for Filipinos due to her questionable identity.
Senate hearings gradually answered the questions that fed our curiosity
about her. But how did she become so powerful in Bamban, Tarlac?
Are influential figures involved in the falsification of her papers?
Are the claims of her being a Chinese spy true?
Its alarming to think that some undesirable aliens can freely
roam the Philippines without legal and proper documents.
This involves falsification.
There are illegal Chinese workers in Philippine offshore gaming
operators, an unexpected boom of Chinese students in Cagayan, and
Guos questionable identification.
These instances emphasize that the Chinese presence has been gradually
creeping into the Philippines - perhaps it is connected to the disputed
waters in the West Philippine Sea?
However, these underground Chinese plans can be prevented if those
in service have the integrity to stand by what they have pledged.
Why do they exchange the Philippines safety for wealth that
will put us in danger? It is selfish and disheartening to see these
people betray the Philippines. I hope this is not the case.
As we slowly grasp the concept of Chinas mystery, we can anticipate
combating the challenges were facing right now.
This is not a drill or a joke.
This situation threatens our national security and puts us on the
edge of a cliff.
Let us not despise the country that crafted our identity.
Moreover, let us remain vigilant, for the traitor may be among us.
Philippines, wake up!
The ongoing challenges call for a reevaluation of our immigration
policies and border control measures.
Strengthening these systems can prevent the infiltration of individuals
with questionable motives.
Additionally, promoting transparency and accountability among public
officials is crucial.
Corruption not only undermines national security but also erodes
public trust in the government.
Education and awareness are also key in combating these issues.
By informing citizens about the potential threats and encouraging
a sense of national pride and vigilance, we can create a united
front against those who seek to exploit our nation.
Encouraging community involvement and fostering a culture of patriotism
can serve as a powerful deterrent against internal and external
threats.
In conclusion, this situation is a wake-up call for Filipinos.
It is a reminder of the importance of national unity, integrity,
and vigilance.
By standing together and addressing these challenges head-on, we
can ensure the safety and sovereignty of our beloved Philippines.
Let us remain awakened and proactive in safeguarding our nations
future.
Crixus Cai,
Manila,
Philippines
Philippines embarrassed
and freaking out that students
Are in the 10 lowest in maths, reading and
science
The
Southeast Asian Times Wednesday July 17, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday July 12,
2024
|
Economists say that you wouldnt know individuals
by their race or the environment they grew up in.
They can be greatly influenced by the institutions and culture in
their new place of adaptation.
The late Mancur Olson Jr., an American economist in a 1996 lecture
entitled Big Bills Left on the Sidewalk, noted
to what extent cultural practices in a society affect human behavior,
and mindsets can be changed quickly in a new environment.
He made a profound observation of an individual coming from a poor
country, Haiti, who migrates to a richer country with no carried-over
acquired skills, becomes more productive overnight, and earns a
far higher wage than before.
The individuals cultural attributes remained the same so this
cannot account for the improved performance, except for the influence
and demands of his new environment.
Now, were embarrassed and freaking out that our students are
among the 10 lowest ranking in math, reading, and science, based
on new findings of the Programme for International Student Assessment,
with recent test scores showing no significant improvement from
the countrys performance in 2018.
Compounding our embarrassment is that most of us, senior citizens,
were taught by the products of the American Thomasites who taught
sixth and seventh graders after the war to be our teachers in the
elementary grades in the 50s.
And look at how many have become today, not mindful of what their
beginnings were, but what they have made of themselves in society.
New Education Secretary Sonny Angaras priority first and foremost,
we suggest, is skills training for the teachers.
Marvel K. Tan,
Manila,
Philippines
The antipolitical dynasty
law in the Philippines
Has become ill-fated if not doomed
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday July 16, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday July 12,
2024
|
One way to sap the greed or the propensity of corrupt
politicians to amass excessive wealth, ill-gotten or otherwise,
that can be handed down and used from one generation to another
to perpetuate themselves and their families in power is to finally
get rid of political dynasties as mandated by the 1987 Constitution.
Unfortunately, the legislative branches of government tasked to
enact the enabling laws required to enforce the Charters antipolitical
dynasty provision have been teeming with family dynasts and trapo
traditional politicians, if not crooks, who naturally would not
give up their hold on power and easy access to public funds and
perks to the detriment of good governance and peoples empowerment.
Thus, the antipolitical dynasty law in this country has become ill-fated,
if not doomed.
Manuel A. Collao,
Manila,
Philipines
Small
and medium-sized enterprises
Make up 99 percent of business in Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday July 15, 2024
First Published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday June 26, 2024
|
Re: "Loans, guarantees part of 'Ignite' vision",
Bangkok Post, Business, Friday June 12, 2024.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Thailand are in urgent
economic overview.
Despite the fact they make up 99 percent of businesses in the country,
SMEs in Thailand receive only 18 percent of outstanding credit from
commercial banks and contribute 35 percent of Gross Domestic Product
(GDP).
This is an outcome of insufficient credit disbursement in the economy.
In other countries, commercial banks, with the direction of central
banks, limit credit access in the non-productive sectors to stabilise
the economy.
The commercial banks concentrate on rural investments for the extremely
poor, especially women.
Regmi Suman Kumar,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Does
the predominantly Catholic Philippines
Have particular neo-Confucian values as in tiger economies
The
Southeast Asian Times Sunday July 14, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer Monday July 8,
2024
|
Looking at the pattern of our development after our
independence from American rule, we had one of the highest real
per capita GDP levels and growth rates among our neighboring countries
in East and Southeast Asia from 1950 to the 1960s. During the period,
the real GDP of the Philippines expanded 1.68 times.
Between the 1950s and 1990s, the economies of South Korea, Taiwan,
Singapore, and Hong Kong underwent rapid industrialization and high
growth rates of more than 7 percent a year. By the early 21st century,
these countries had developed into high-income (HI) economies and
came to be called tiger economies.
All along, however, the Philippines experienced an economic downturn
in the 70s and 80s when the gains we made earlier were
lost to corruption, cronyism, and mismanagement.
The good news is that from 1987 when the World Bank started its
current economic classification system up until 2023 the Philippines
has rebounded and has been assigned a lower-middle-income category
with a gross national income per capita of some $3,950.
A study by Mathur et al. released this year by Australias
ANZ Research, pointed out that the Philippines can attain an upper-middle-income
(UMI) status after seven years if it accelerates reforms such as
allowing more investments, reducing red tape, and eliminating non-tariff
barriers.
However, even as our neighboring tiger economies keep on enhancing
their development, it is still conjectural if we can soon attain
and maintain a upper-middle-income UMI status unless we consider
the political and cultural dimensions of economic development that
also factor in the development of the tiger economies.
An article by Yap and Balboa in 2008 pointed out that the constraints
on economic development are not purely economic.
There is the political dimension where there is an inability to
establish a credible, strong, and selfless political leadership;
then there is the cultural-religious dimension where long-held social
values have adversely affected economic growth in less tangible
ways.
Studies done by Kaplan in 2003 and by Gyawali in 2020 have also
echoed the above observation that the rise of modern Asian states
was marked by strong leadership that was also guided by cultural
values particularly contained in the Confucian rulebook.
Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam are
sometimes referred to as the tiger cub economies
because, while they have developed more slowly than the four
Asian tigers in the decades since the 1950s, they have nonetheless
grown generally at a steady rate.
But do they have - especially in the case of predominantly Catholic
- Philippines - the particular neo-Confucian values that are seen
among the tiger economies?
We will see if the years ahead will bear this out.
The economist Robert Nelson pointed out in 2007 that the Confucian
ethic that is analogous to the secular Protestant ethic is largely
missing in the Philippines predominantly Catholic culture
where there was Latin American feudal hacienda mentality, poor leadership,
pervasive political oligarchy, and a value system based on harmony
instead of mastery over man and nature.
A promising way to counter these persistent failings is to embrace
the neo-Confucian values that stress the following: frugality and
savings that can lead to expanded investments and entrepreneurship;
high educational attainment that equips one with wealth-creating
skills; and work ethic that stresses creativity, achievement-orientation
and seriousness about tasks.
To reiterate, we need to protect and enhance our current economic
gains by always considering the desirable political and cultural
dimensions of development.
Meliton B. Juanico,
Manila,
Philippines
The
Sangguniang Bayan plays a quasi-judicial role
To
check on the power of elected officials
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday July 13, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday July 5,
2024
|
The Sangguniang Bayan plays a crucial role in local
governance in the country, performing three key functions.
These functions include the legislative function, the quasi-judicial
function, and legislative inquiry in aid of legislation.
Each of these functions serves a unique purpose in ensuring efficient
and effective governance at the local level.
The legislative function of the Sanggunian involves the authority
to draft and pass local laws through ordinances or resolutions.
These laws have the force of law within the jurisdiction of the
Sanggunian and are essential for regulating various aspects of community
life.
By creating ordinances, the Sanggunian can address specific issues
affecting the community, such as public safety, health regulations,
and environmental protection. Through this function, the Sanggunian
can respond to the needs and concerns of the local populace, creating
laws tailored to the unique circumstances of their jurisdiction.
The quasi-judicial function of the Sanggunian allows it to preside
over administrative cases involving elected local officials who
have committed offenses. This function is crucial for holding public
officials accountable for their actions and ensuring ethical behavior
in government.
By adjudicating cases involving misconduct or violations of law,
the Sanggunian upholds the principles of good governance and maintains
public trust in the integrity of local government officials.
This quasi-judicial role serves as a check on the power of elected
officials, ensuring that they are held to account for their actions.
Legislative inquiry in aid of legislation empowers the Sanggunian
to gather information to make informed decisions when creating or
amending ordinances. This process, known as remedial legislation,
allows the Sanggunian to conduct research, hold hearings, and gather
input from stakeholders to inform their legislative decisions.
In order to carry out these functions effectively, the Sanggunian
must establish internal rules of procedures (IRP) that align with
their responsibilities and guide their proceedings.
By adhering to established internal rules of procedure IRP, the
Sanggunian can ensure transparency, fairness, and efficiency in
their decision-making processes, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness
of local governance.
By establishing and adhering to internal rules of procedure IRP,
the Sanggunian can carry out these functions effectively and contribute
to the improvement of governance at the local level.
Reginald
B. Tamayo,
Manila,
Philippines
No
appearance of army tanks
In the change of government in Britain
The Southeast Asian Times, Friday July 12, 1014
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday July 8, 2024
|
Re: "Sunak poised to leave office",
in Bangkok Post, Saturday July 6, 2024.
The speed of the recent change of prime minister in Britain is a
model for any democratic country to emulate.
After tendering his resignation to King Charles as the UK's prime
minister, Rishi Sunak had to vacate the Prime Minister's Office
at 10 Downing Street just a few hours before the arrival of the
new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.
Within 24 hours, under the label of the mother of parliamentary
democracy, the change of government in the United Kingdom was complete.
No haggling, no excuse not to go, or the appearance of army tanks!
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Maritime
dispute between Philippines and China
Must
be resolved through diplomatic dialogue.
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday July 11, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday July 5,
2024
|
Recently, supporters of the Reserve Officers
Training Corps (ROTC) program have been poking fun at those who
are using the slogan Atin ang West Philippine Sea,
while also opposing the ROTCs revival.
What I find funny if not disturbing, though, is how some people
are led to believe that the West Philippine Sea issue with China
can be resolved through armed confrontation, and that asserting
our sovereign rights is futile without preparing for war, i.e.,
having a mandatory military training that teaches students blind
obedience and instills in them a culture of violence.
The maritime dispute between the Philippines and China can, and
must be resolved in a peaceful manner through diplomatic dialogue.
But first, we must reject the notion that the Philippines is under
the protection of the United States, whose business is to preserve
its hegemony and dominance in the Asia-Pacific region.
Allowing the US to intervene would only escalate the situation.
Instead, the Marcos administration, if its not really in the
business of instigating wars, should demand that both China and
US withdraw their military presence in the country, and call upon
China to abide by the 2016 ruling of the international arbitral
tribunal.
The last thing we need is to be led into a war situation not of
our own choosing - a war between two imperialist powers.
Daniel Aloc,
Manila,
Philippines
PM Srettha Thavisin welcomes
non-Thai long-term
Land ownership too boost the real estate
sector
The
Southeast Asian Times Wednesday July 10, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday June 27, 2024
|
Re: "PM allays foreign lease fears",
in Bangkok Post, Monday June 24, 2024.
The report covers well, in brief but comprehensively, the controversial
issue of the rights of non-Thai ownership of land and condominium
units. Immediately, the words of former prime minister Chartchai
Choonhavan, a proponent of foreigners' right of ownership in 1988,
that the land once sold still remains in Thailand; so, why object?
That logic seems to hold true, but it survived only a few years.
Words of traitors and a large portion of poor Thais still without
landownership have returned with full force.
PM Srettha Thavisin is courageous enough to welcome non-Thai long-term
lease ownership to boost the real estate sector. Long-term leases
are also offered in some Asean countries.
However, his proposal of increasing the proportion of non-Thais
buying condominium units from 49 percent to 75 percent is the least
objectionable since the land situated thereon is relatively insignificant.
But the objectionable part is the increased portion of 26 percent
who shall not have voting rights - that is not democracy in a community.
It is somewhat distasteful, similar to the two-tiered pricing of
entrance fees for Thais and non-Thais, or the cry of the settlers
in America when taxed by King George III in "being taxed but
without representation".
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call
for urgent job review of performance
Of
UN permanent security Council members
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday 9, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday June 27, 2024
|
Re: "Job reminder for the 'permanent five'",
in Bangkok Post, Opinion,
June 26, 2024.
Kasit Piromya commendably outlines the deep crisis of a polarised
world today. He aptly calls for an urgent job review of the performances
of the United Nations five permanent security council members.
By whom?
The United Nations?
I doubt the United Nation's capacity or capability, as its current
role is that of an aged corporate-style bureaucrat with grandstanding
speeches and little else to show in crisis situations.
On the other hand, angst seems to be gripping the world when the
rich can do whatever they fancy and the oppressed slouch in silence
in multitudes of scenarios where the "might is right"
ethos thrives.
Humanity owes it to itself to discover a new moral voice to speak
up and speak loud against the plagues of injustices and misdeeds,
or else in the seemingly never-ending wars, deterioration of nature
and with death and depravation rampant, we might find ourselves
ending in a whimper of woe.
Glen Chatelier,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
inability to sell leasehold property or pass it to heirs
Will limit foreign buyers' interest in Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday July 8, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday June 26, 2024
|
Re: "PM allays foreign lease fears",
in Bangkok Post, Monday June 24, 2024
Given that attempts by previous governments to allow foreign land
ownership and the moribund condition of the property market, Prime
Minister Srettha's initiative to introduce 99-year leases as an
alternative to freehold is laudable.
This development would probably benefit far more Thais than foreigners
and could make financing of leasehold property more attractive to
lenders.
However, I see several caveats.
Firstly, Thai leasing laws are rather basic and do not allow for
automatic transferability of leases, which means there can be no
secondary market in leasehold property and that heirs have no automatic
right to inherit leases.
Lease contracts can deceptively be made to look as if lessees have
these rights, but since they are not supported by statutory law,
they cannot be enforced by the Land Department without the lessor's
consent at the time of transfer.
Even the lessee's rights under the original lease are not binding
on a new lessor if the freehold has changed hands.
This means that banks cannot be expected to offer mortgages on leasehold
property, even with 99-year leases.
The inability to sell leasehold property or pass it to their heirs
will limit foreign buyers' interest.
While I consider this a step in the right direction, the announcement
by the Revenue Department in September 2023 of a tax on foreign
remittances, followed up more recently by another announcement that
it will introduce a tax on global income, whether remitted or not,
is utterly counterproductive to the government's efforts to attract
more foreign investment to the property sector.
In conclusion, 99-year leases with appropriate supporting legislation
would definitely be a positive for Thais, but it might not be enough
to offset the destruction of foreign demand for Thai property caused
by new tax laws on foreign remittances and income.
George Morgan,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The quasi-judicial function
of the Sanggunian Bayan
Is to uphold the principles of good governance
The
Southeast Asian Times Saturday July 6, 2025
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday July 5,
2025
|
The Sangguniang Bayan plays a crucial role in local
governance in the country, performing three key functions.
These functions include the legislative function, the quasi-judicial
function, and legislative inquiry in aid of legislation.
Each of these functions serves a unique purpose in ensuring efficient
and effective governance at the local level.
The legislative function of the Sanggunian involves the authority
to draft and pass local laws through ordinances or resolutions.
These laws have the force of law within the jurisdiction of the
Sanggunian and are essential for regulating various aspects of community
life.
By creating ordinances, the Sanggunian can address specific issues
affecting the community, such as public safety, health regulations,
and environmental protection. Through this function, the Sanggunian
can respond to the needs and concerns of the local populace, creating
laws tailored to the unique circumstances of their jurisdiction.
The quasi-judicial function of the Sanggunian allows it to preside
over administrative cases involving elected local officials who
have committed offenses. This function is crucial for holding public
officials accountable for their actions and ensuring ethical behavior
in government.
By adjudicating cases involving misconduct or violations of law,
the Sanggunian upholds the principles of good governance and maintains
public trust in the integrity of local government officials.
This quasi-judicial role serves as a check on the power of elected
officials, ensuring that they are held to account for their actions.
Legislative inquiry in aid of legislation empowers the Sanggunian
to gather information to make informed decisions when creating or
amending ordinances. This process, known as remedial legislation,
allows the Sanggunian to conduct research, hold hearings, and gather
input from stakeholders to inform their legislative decisions.
In order to carry out these functions effectively, the Sanggunian
must establish internal rules of procedures that align with their
responsibilities and guide their proceedings.
By adhering to established internal rules of procedures, the Sanggunian
can ensure transparency, fairness, and efficiency in their decision-making
processes, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of local
governance.
By establishing and adhering to IRP, the Sanggunian can carry out
these functions effectively and contribute to the improvement of
governance at the local level.
Reginald B.Tamayo,
Manila,
Philippines
Coups cause more drawbacks
Than positive results
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday July 6, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday July 3, 2024
|
Re: "Bolivian general arrested after coup
attempt", in Bangkok Post, Thursday June
27, 2024.
I am grateful to the Bolivians for the failed coup and for maintaining
the democratic system in the country.
Once again, I am really happy that they have such great officers
to enforce the rule.
There are many places on earth where coups are common.
Throughout generations, it has been proved that coups cause more
drawbacks than positive results, and residents are the victims of
it.
Have these people ever thought of civilians before committing them?
As a Thai who has lived through two coups and with my belief more
will happen in the near future, I never want such a thing to corrupt
the system.
If only they could let the prime ministers do their job as they
were elected by the people, our country's citizens would see democracy
as a reliable system rather than a title to name our political system.
Karawat Saijanyon,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Philippines President
Marcos urged to certify
The Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity
and Expression Equality bill
The
Southeast Asian Times Friday July 5, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer Monday July 1,
2024
|
June is universally recognized as Pride Month, a colourful
time of the year dedicated to celebrating and acknowledging the
multifaceted journeys, contributions, victories, and ongoing fight
for civil rights of the LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender,
queer, intersex, asexual plus) community.
While Pride Month has been progressively celebrated in the Philippines,
there remain reports of discrimination, mistreatment, and the need
to bear the brunt of societal attitudes that persist in the country
where tolerance is widespread but full acceptance remains difficult
to achieve.
Over 200 groups have urged President Marcos to certify the Sogie
bill, or the Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression
Equality bill, as urgent Marcos urged to certify SOGIE bill
as urgent, Inquirer.net, Friday June 14, 2024.
This initiative is especially vital as it aims to secure fundamental
rights and protections for the LGBTQIA+ communityrights and
protections they rightfully deserve, just like any other community
across the social spectrum.
I fervently hope for its enactment into law as soon as possible
so that Filipinos do not have to wait for another Pride Month for
this bill to be realized. As articulated by Harold Sarmiento (Pride,
and how allies can help LGBTQIA+ fight for equality, fair treatment,
Letters, 7/14/23): To delay the passage of the Sogie bill
is to do injustice to Filipinos who deserve a better life.
Jhon Steven C. Espenido,
Surigao City,
Philippines
Most expats in Thailand
would belong to one of 61 countries
That have a treaty with Thailand to avoid
double tax
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday July 4, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday June 25, 2024
|
Re: "Ease foreign tax burden", Bangkok
Post, Editorial, Monday June 24, 2024.
That is an excellent call for the authorities to ease fear among
expats.
It will be sad for them to move elsewhere because of misinformation.
It is not because of their wealth but more of their wisdom and reflection
on us that we will miss.
The normal excellent presentation needs three corrections.
First, the revenue head believed that taxing world income on tax
residents was to lift up the Thailand tax regime to the level of
the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD's)
tenet and not about budgetary concerns.
Secondly, with 61 countries having a treaty to avoid double taxation
with Thailand, one can almost say that most expatriates in Thailand
belong to one of these countries except for income coming from tax-haven
countries.
Thirdly, claiming for double taxation relief is simple.
The Thai tax system on individuals is based on self-declaration
of income and relief.
One simply fills in the self-declared income tax form.
The declaration can be challenged subsequently by the Revenue Department,
legally within ten years but in practice far less than that and
less frequently.
One can forget the idea of bankers conducting examinations on behalf
of the Revenue Department.
It is not based on an examination on the spot, as customs officials
and Thai bankers have many times ruled out this irrational idea.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Lack
of focus on critical problems in the Philippines
Is holding back Philippine societys
development
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday July 3, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday June
27, 2024
|
The excitement surrounding the highly anticipated
2025 election has set in, with many politicians and their family
members announcing plans to run.
This early campaigning takes attention away from their important
work to serve the public, as these politicians are more concerned
with election strategies.
Starting such political posturing early is harmful to our nations
progress.
Instead of addressing urgent issues like the situation in the West
Philippine Sea, concerns about Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators
(POGOs), the declining quality of education, inflation, unemployment,
and traffic congestion, politicians are more focused on securing
their position in the upcoming election.
This lack of focus on critical problems is holding back our societys
development.
For instance, the situation in the West Philippine Sea is a critical
national security issue that needs immediate attention.
The ongoing territorial disputes in the region have major implications
on our countrys sovereignty and economic well-being. Politicians
who prioritize campaigning over addressing this issue are putting
our nations security and prosperity at risk.
Similarly, the operations of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators
(POGOs) have been a contentious issue for years.
The increase in the number of Chinese workers in the online gambling
industry has raised concerns about national security, money laundering,
and the exploitation of workers.
Despite the need for decisive action to regulate this industry and
implement necessary reforms, politicians choose to prioritize their
electoral campaigns.
The declining quality of education in the country is another urgent
issue that should not be overlooked, given such problems as overcrowded
classrooms, outdated textbooks, and inadequate facilities.
By neglecting this crucial sector, politicians are putting the future
of our youth at risk and impeding the countrys progress.
Poverty, inflation, and unemployment are other significant challenges
that need immediate attention.
The wealth gap is widening, prices of basic goods are rising, and
job opportunities are scarce, making life harder for many Filipinos.
Moreover, the constant traffic congestion in Metro Manila is a daily
struggle for millions of daily commuters.
The inefficient public transportation system, lack of infrastructure
development, and poor urban planning have led to long hours stuck
in traffic and decreased productivity.
By not prioritizing solutions to these problems, politicians are
neglecting the well-being and economic productivity of the people
they should be serving.
In sum, the cycle of stagnation caused by early election campaigning
is blocking progress and development in our society.
If politicians would only shift their focus to the needs of the
people and address the urgent challenges facing the nation, they
can work toward creating a better future for us Filipinos.
Reginald B. Tamayo,
Manila,
Philippines
Visa application to South
Korea from
Thailand
Rejected without explanation
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday July 2, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday June 27, 2024
|
Re: "Thai tourists to continue shunning South Korea",
in Bangkok Post, Wednesday June 19, 2024 and "S
Korean govt advised to heed threat of Thai boycott", Bangkok
Post, Monday June 24, 2024.
While recognising the right of South Korea to protect its borders,
and acknowledging the problem of Thai "little ghosts",
the South Korean immigration department needs to examine its visa
application protocols.
A Thai friend and I recently were interested in a small group tour
of South Korea, and we duly applied for what is known as K-ETA ,
an online authorisation to enter South Korea.
In the Thai application, we provided details of previous travels,
in which we had been to Australia together three times, to China
twice, countless times to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar, to
Indonesia, the Philippines, Taiwan, India, Sri Lanka, and even Bangladesh,
without any transgression of visa rules or overstaying in those
countries.
We also provided details of his employment and financial status,
including the fact that he owns a house without a mortgage and a
new car and has parents and siblings who depend on him for support.
The application was rejected without any explanation, and the US$100
(3,680 baht) application fee went down the drain.
Instead, we took a two-week holiday to Japan, spending all the money
that would have been spent in South Korea there instead.
And we returned to Thailand on time.
David Brown,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Double
taxation in Thailand
Detrimental to economic growth
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday July 1, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday June 20, 2024
|
Re: "New overseas income rules", in
Bangkok Post, Business, Wednesday June 5, 2024.
Isn't it about time the Ministry of Finance got a handle on the Revenue
Department, whose statements concerning foreign taxation are damaging
the country?
Thailand told the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development
(OECD) last year that it planned to increase the number of bilateral
tax treaties from 61 to 150 countries.
These treaties normally include the avoidance of double taxation,
something which is widely regarded as detrimental to growth.
The Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Global Forum made
a number of recommendations about Thailand's taxation performance
regarding companies and partnerships.
It appears that there is still much work to be done.
Ian Cruickshank,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Income from wherever the
sources
Should
not be taxed twice in Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday June 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday June 20, 2024
|
Re: "Taxing times" and "Retirees
seek clarity", in Bangkok Post, PostBag, Wednesday
June 19, 2024.
The new tax law applicable to those who are in Thailand for 180 days.
Tax residents are subject to tax on any overseas "income"
brought into the country.
That change has caused havoc among expats due to a lack of adequate
clarifications.
The situation has become more aggravated by the news of a proposal
to tax Thai residents on world income, irrespective of whether it
is being brought into Thailand or not.
The latest is only a proposal and is subject to the approval of the
cabinet and eventually ratification in parliament.
It is meant to be equitable and applicable more to Thais investing
abroad.
However, regardless, it is known that income from wherever the sources
should not be taxed twice.
Thailand has treaties for the avoidance of double taxation with 61
countries, of which some provided for the tax to be taxed at the source,
to be deductible against Thai tax or completely exempted from Thai
tax again.
It is most likely that the nationalities of all expatriates in Thailand
are covered under one of the treaties.
The commercial attache of each embassy should be of help.
The alternative is to consult tax advisers in Thailand.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Australians proud of role
of PM Albanese
To get the US to set Assange free
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday June 29, 2024
|
Australians can be proud of the role PM Albanese played
to get the US to set Assange free.
It has come late after Assange had to endure so many years of torment
at the hands of the worlds leading democracies.
That was a crying shame and an indictment on them.
It is absolutely fantastic that good sense has prevailed and Assange
set free even if so belatedly .
Hope good times will roll for Assange and his loved ones for the future.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney
Australia
Call
for Singapore-style road pricing scheme
For Bankok
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday June 28, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday June 16, 2024
|
Re: "20-baht rail network cap by 2026",
in Bangkok Post , Friday June 14, 2024.
Congrats to Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, who has pledged
to roll out the 20-baht cap across the Greater Bangkok rail network
by March 2026. This is meant to ensure the city's rail network is
accessible to all.
Very laudable indeed.
However, don't get too excited.
Implementation of the pledge appears to rest in the sclerotic hands
of the Common Ticketing System Policy Committee, which can boast of
absolutely zero progress in the last 10 years, and the Office of Transport
and Traffic Policy Planning (OTP), which is still studying various
common ticketing systems, fare structures, and fare collection methods.
Of course, the major challenge for the 20 baht fare cap will be the
total subsidy demanded by the multiple mass transit concessionaires,
each of which will work hard to maximise their construction and operating
costs to justify excessive subsidies.
Here's where Mr Suriya needs to do some serious head bashing (read
subsidy negotiations).
Legally, the fares and regular inflation-linked increments are all
specified in the multi-decade concession agreements, so concessionaires
all feel protected.
But as we all know, all these concessions have been subject to multiple
manipulations at various times, so some little retroactive concession
adjustments in the public interest seem only fair.
And to fund some reasonable level of subsidies, let's not continue
with the current government's addiction to debt. Let's introduce a
road pricing scheme for Bangkok, Singapore-style, so that motorists
foot the bill for affordable mass transit for all. A virtuous circle
indeed.
Sad Optimist,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call
for Fifth Freedom to follow
Roosevelt's Four Freedoms
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday June 27, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday June 14, 2024
|
Re: "Still haunted by Wahington Consensus",
in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Tuesday June 11, 2024
Another excellent analysis and a challenge to "link the dots"
across articles.
Prof Antara Haldar, Cambridge and Harvard, formulates existential
questions on the new leadership of the South and an outdated Washington
Consensus.
We need to take a step further than the Seoul (Development) Consensus
agreed upon in 2010 toward a "Soul Consensus that accommodates
ordinary people's psychic needs, in addition to the country's aggregate
material needs".
What the Washington Consensus should have done was shape a pathway
to fulfilment of the "Freedom from Want", one of
Roosevelt's Four Freedoms. These provided a foundation for the UN
Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Instead, the Washington Consensus anchored an economist's formula
and institutions to facilitate corporate interests and neo-colonial
development.
A Soul Consensus should not be guided by a narrow understanding of
spirituality, like organised religion.
Rather, in addition to the other three of Roosevelt's freedoms, freedom
from fear, freedom of expression and freedom of worship, the need
to recognise a "fifth freedom" emerges: freedom to
co-exist by means of mutual care for Nature as a living system, and
humanity which is part of it.
This new relationship of mutual care between humanity and nature should
be protected from extractive and exploitative economic interests.
It will require earth trusteeship, which recognises global citizens
as equal trustees. Hence, liberation from business abuses, which necessitates
a new anti-trust doctrine, Opinion, June 11.
In China maybe a revival of secular TAO spirituality?
Above all, a unique Thai pro-active neutrality a Middle Path)beyond
purely opportunistic double membership of the OECD and Brics+.
Hans,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Getting an appointment with
Gulf conglomerates
Is always a challenge for Filipinos
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday June 26, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday June 20,
2024
|
On June 4, President Marcos appointed Kathryna Yu-Pimentel,
the wife of Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, as special envoy to the United
Arab Emirates (UAE) for trade and investments.
In September 2023, Malacañang announced the appointment of
W Group president Norman Vincent Wee as special envoy of the president
to the UAE for trade and investments.
The Department of Trade and Industry also has a commercial attache
in Dubai representing the Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC),
which is involved in promoting increased investments from Middle East
and African investors and overseas Filipinos.
The Philippine Trade and Investment Center (PTIC) -Dubai also contributes
to increasing and sustaining Philippine exports to the Middle East
and Africa.
On Jan. 26, 2023, I emailed Rafael Jose Consing Jr., who was just
appointed a leading member of the Office of the Presidential Adviser
for Investment and Economic Affairs (OPAIEA), to have a Philippine
liaison officer with the private sector in the UAE, Saudi Arabia,
and Kuwait.
The liaison officer, who should be based in Dubai, can start by approaching
UAE companies to set up presentations.
I mentioned that it is a given that every major company in the Gulf,
be it locally owned or a multinational, always has a Filipino staff
such as receptionist, personal assistant, secretary, finance, and
human resource officers, and of course a technical staff like engineer,
quantity surveyor, draftsman, etc.
These people serve as the backdoor to get appointments with decision
makers and owners.
Getting an appointment with Gulf conglomerates is always a challenge
not only for Filipinos but other nationalities as well.
If this is addressed by the liaison officer, then any member of the
Office of the Presidential Adviser for Investment and Economic Affair
(OPAIEA) could simply fly in and make a presentation on why the Philippines
is a viable country to invest in.
Im writing this as a recommendation to the special envoys.
Art Popoy
Los Banos,
Manila,
Philippines
Thailand's 2023 Pride month
Generated US$4.7 trillion in cash flow
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday June 25, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday June 16, 2024
|
Re: "Govt to chase pink baht after Pride nets B4.5bn",
in Bangkok Post, Sunday June 16, 2024.
Thailand's 2023 Pride Month celebrations demonstrate the substantial
economic benefits of promoting diversity, generating 4.5 billion baht
in cash flow.
By positioning itself as a "pride-friendly destination,"
Thailand attracts LGBTQ+ tourists with significant purchasing
power, reflected in the global market worth US$4.7 trillion (173 trillion
baht).
However, sustaining these gains requires more than annual events.
Countries like Canada with policies like nationwide same-sex marriage
and Germany with anti-discrimination laws protecting sexual orientation
and gender identity demonstrate that inclusive policies protecting
LGBTQ+ rights foster long-term economic benefits by attracting diverse
talent and businesses.
Thailand can build on Pride Month's success by implementing comprehensive
anti-discrimination laws and collaborating with LGBTQ+ organisations
to address community needs.
Expanding Pride activities nationwide aligns with the "Ignite
Tourism Thailand" policy, ensuring wider distribution of
economic benefits.
While Pride Month's immediate economic impact is significant, Thailand's
long-term prosperity hinges on sustained inclusivity and equality.
By embracing diversity as a core societal value, not just an economic
strategy, Thailand can become a global beacon of inclusive prosperity.
Pakakul Trithepchunlayakoon,
Bangkok,
Thailand
All Falun Dafa teachings
Were reduced by China
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday June 24, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday June 20, 2024
|
Re: "Tale of 2 sides", Bangkok Post,
PostBag, Saturday June 15, 2024 and "Success story",
in Bangkok
Post PostBag, Tuesday June 18, 2024.
There is a lucrative business operating in China.
Part of its success is due to the healthy quality and amazing freshness
of its products and the fact they are readily available.
Of course, it is controlled by the Communist Party of China.
But let's go back in time to when a spiritual group began to grow
in numbers and popularity.
In fact, so popular did this group become that it reached an estimated
100 million followers.
The group practised meditation, yoga-like exercises, and moral discipline.
The Communist Party grew fearful of this group and began to treat
it as they had done with Tibetan Buddhists, Christians, and Muslims.
Persecution, legal action, imprisonment, and censorship of all Falun
Dafa teachings were systematically undertaken until Falun Gong had
been reduced.
Songej Praditsmanont claims in his recent apology for China that "when
one is less hungry, based on history, those shortfalls will be rectified,
pressuring (sic) by incessant criticisms".
Really?
By all appearances, Mr Xi has been "less hungry"
for quite some time, yet there is no rectification in sight.
It must be another one of those "quaintnesses" which
Mr Sondej refers to.
Michael
Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Philippine's
is more convinced than ever
That
legalization of divorce is a pressing necessity
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday June 23, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday June 18,
2024
|
After thoroughly examining lawyer Joel Ruiz Butuyans
two-part article Ban on divorce is creating criminals, sinners,
June 6, 20246 on the potential criminalization and sinning due
to the ban on divorce in this unfortunate country, we are more convinced
than ever that its legalization in the Philippines is a pressing necessity.
From a legal standpoint, the prohibition of absolute divorce in cases
of unworkable and irreparable marriages does more harm than good to
all parties involved.
Contrary to the solid resistance to absolute divorce in the past,
there are now clear indications of a significant shift in attitudes
among the adult and educated members of the Church.
According to a recent survey by the Social Weather Stations, half
of Filipino adults support the legalization of divorce.
This change in public opinion, also evident in mainstream media, is
a significant development.
Just like the heated debates that preceded the enactment of the Responsible
Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act of 2012, it is not a matter
of hardening of hearts against the hierarchys
magisterial hermeneutics about the sanctity of marriage and family
life, always in continuity yet constantly maturing across time. Its
a matter of recognizing the changing needs of our society and giving
couples whose marriages were not made in heaven a fair chance at a
better life.
In our increasingly secular and pluralistic society, the religious
doctrines against absolute divorce may seem outdated and counterproductive.
However, its crucial to respect the significance of these beliefs
in the lives of many Catholics and those similarly situated.
Striking a healthy balance between religious freedom and the need
for a legal solution to societal issues is paramount. Pope Francis
approach to the medicine of mercy over principles, which could be
a potential solution, should be considered by those who, as one pundit
said, should not make the rules because they do not play
the game.
More importantly, Francis, the compassionate shepherd, has encouraged
the Churchs leaders to venture beyond universal principles and
doctrines.
His synodal approach, emphasizing discernment and dialogue to serve
better couples whose marriages are beyond repair, presents a model
for the pastoral care of marriage that could be adopted in their specific,
rarely, if ever, black-or-white conjugal contexts.
We all pray for this.
Noel Asiones,
Manila,
Philippines
China's
arbitrary regulations in South China Sea is one for ''Ripleys
Believe It or Not''
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday June 22, 024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday June 7, 2024
|
Chinas appetite for imposing unscrupulous regulations
with regard to the South China Sea is one for Ripleys
Believe It or Not.
For instance, its publicized rule authorizing its coast guard to arrest
and detain up to 60 days without the benefit of a trial anyone caught
trespassing at the South China Sea, whether a person,
vessel, or aircraft, was generally received with deep skepticism.
The rule, set to take effect on June 15, only demonstrates the proclivity
of a non-democratic state to lay down rules as it pleases.
It can be recalled that China came out with this new regulation a
day after Atin Ito, a civilian-led coalition, had a successful resupply
mission delivering food and fuel to fisher folks at the Panatag Scarborough
Shoal, during which it laid symbolic buoy markers at the West Philippine
Sea near the Philippines 200-nautical mile limit. This action
was similar to what it did when it unilaterally declared a potential
air defense identification zone covering the entirety of the South
China Sea after the Permanent Court of Arbitration upheld on July
12, 2016, the Philippine position on the South China Sea and invalidated
Chinas sweeping nine-dash claim which later became 10 dashes.
Chinas arbitrary regulations cover a broad swath of the South
China Sea, overlapping the airspace of coastal states and encroaching
on their territorial seas and exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
As pointed out in The Diplomat shortly after China came out with the
announcement, air defense identification zone can only be
legally applied in relation to preventing the unauthorized entry of
aircraft into the national airspace.
The journal added, air defense identification zone's cannot
be used to control foreign aircraft not intending to enter the national
airspace. States only enjoy exclusive sovereignty over the airspace
above their territory, a right which ends at the 12-nautical mile
border of the territorial sea. Beyond this territorial belt, all states
enjoy the high seas freedoms, including freedom of overflight, a customary
principle memorialized in the United Nations Convention on the Law
of the Sea.
As if adding insult to injury, China did not stop its provocative
actions with the air defense identification zone and coast guard rules.
It imposed a fishing ban on the entire South China Sea that, like
its outrageous airspace and maritime responses, overlaps the Philippines
12-nautical mile territorial sea where it exercises sovereignty, and
the 200-nautical mile EEZ where the country enjoys sovereign rights
to, among others, exclusively exploit marine resources.
While bearing Chinas name, the South China Sea is not owned,
much less, controlled by it.
If names automatically confer vested right, India, too, might get
emboldened to claim ownership of the Indian Ocean and declare prohibitive
and self-serving rules over its entirety.
Other states might follow suit thereby sparking dispute and driving
global peace at the edge of the precipice.
President Marcos was on point when he said at the recent Shangri-la
Dialogue in Singapore that the South China Sea issue is a world
issue, in much the same way that Ukraines and Israels
wars are.
In this age of intercontinental, ballistic, and long-range weaponry,
these issues are no longer a mere spat between neighbors.
China risks painting an image of a crabby neighborhood toughie, a
recidivist, or a laughing stock if it keeps coming out with rules
it cannot muster international support for, and legally enforce.
Establishing rules and regulations, especially if these will adversely
affect other sovereign nations, have to have prior consultation, and
often starts with consensus building to avoid a diplomatic backlash.
But China, when it comes to the West Philippine Sea and South China
Sea, keeps coming up with bizarre rules that extend way beyond its
legal border and seem meant to project its supremacy agenda which,
in todays global context, are far from being open and transparent.
If anything positive has come out of these obscene actions, it is
that they only serve to galvanize the Filipinos stand against
Chinas incessant harassment and intimidation.
And at the rate that nations condemn and ignore, though implicitly
for some, Chinas deplorable actions in the South China Sea,
those regulations and any more that will follow, would just be all
sound and fury, signifying nothing.
Ted P. Penaflor II,
Manila,
Philippines
Thailand
PM blames decline in stock market
On
recent court proceedings
The
Southeast Asian Times Friday June 21, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday June 14, 2024
|
Re: "PM blames court case for SET",
in Bangkok Post, Tuesday June 11,
2024.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin placing the blame for the decline
in the stock market on recent court proceedings seems a feeble attempt
on his part to create political capital out of what is a very serious
situation of the government's own making.
It would be surprising if international investors had full knowledge
of, or really care about, the current political discourse in the country.
After all, such crude political posturing is part and parcel of investing
in emerging markets.
What is critical is government policies and their impact on the Thai
economy.
It is a healthy economy that allows companies to grow their earnings,
which in turn lifts stock prices and drives the stock market higher.
The blame for the poor performance of the Thai stock exchange rests
not with recent political maneuvering but rather poor policy choices
adopted by the government.
Of most concern is the government's disregard for inflation.
Rather than introducing fiscal policies that reduce inflation, the
government seems to want to add stimulus programmes, such as the digital
wallet and poorly timed wage hikes.
To make matters worse, the government has embarked on a perilous course,
challenging the Bank of Thailand's independence in an attempt to force
interest rates lower.
To investors, this signals the government's preparedness to engage
in meaningless populist actions even when they come at a very high
price to the economy.
The government's record on the economic growth side of the equation
is equally poor.
Its recent obsession with aggressive taxation seems inept, poorly
targeted, and more concerned with raising revenues for its reckless
stimulus programmes than it is with long-term economic growth.
Investors are not fooled by the narrative that such measures are needed
for OECD membership or an EU trade deal, etc.
It is clear to investors that policies such as worldwide taxation
are likely to deliver a crushing blow to Thailand's long-term economic
growth, which is already being borne out by faltering capital inflows.
Far from the court proceedings causing market volatility, investors
have passed judgment on the government's own policies.
The government's inability or unwillingness to appreciate what the
market is telling it and gradually change direction is indeed most
concerning and will merely confirm investors' negative perceptions.
MP Foscolos,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The current economic climate
in Thailand
Is widely
perceived as a state of stagflation
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday June 20, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday June 1, 2024
|
Re: "Current account deficit of $40m reported",
in Bangkok Post, Business, Friday May 31, 2024.
It is undeniable the national debt has increased significantly in
Thailand and the United States since March 2020.
In the case of the US, the national debt has risen by $11 trillion,
reaching a staggering $34.5 trillion.
Experts predict the US national debt will reach 116 percent of the
country's GDP within the next 10 years.
From the perspective of the undergraduate student demographic in Thailand,
the current economic climate is widely perceived as a state of "stagflation".
This term refers to a situation characterised by slow economic growth,
and high inflation.
The prices of consumer goods and services have been steadily rising,
while the incomes of many individuals have remained relatively stagnant.
As a result, the younger generation will have to face rising inflation
while their minimum income is low.
So, saving is not an option, but it is the mandatory way to escape
a future financial crisis.
Jadenipat Yenjai,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The small compensation offered
by Singapore Airlines
Will satisfy most passengers and court cases
will be avoided
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday June 19, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday June 14, 2024
|
Re: "Singapore Airlines to pay injured passengers",
in Bangkok Post, Wednesday June 12, 2024.
Following the flight SQ321 turbulence event, Singapore Airlines offered
$10,000 (366,900 baht) in compensation for minor injuries and $25,000
for serious injuries, but is this enough?
There are also refunds for their trips.
Turbulence is hard to detect beforehand, so is it their fault?
The legal points will be decided by others, but it is similar to driving
where some unforeseen event causes a driver to run into the back of
a car, and almost always, the following driver is responsible.
From a cynical viewpoint, the small compensation offer will satisfy
most passengers and court cases will be avoided.
The real cost of an injury over the following years is hard to determine.
The best offer would be for any current costs and an ongoing commitment
for any future costs, including loss of wages.
Dennis Fitzgerald,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thailand working to dump
US dollar
And join BRICS monetary system
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday June 18, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday June 1, 2024
|
Re: "PM pitches Thai, US partnership",
in Bangkok Post, Saturday June 1, 2024.
I find it rich that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Thai economic
players have a glowing, joyous meeting encouraging a strong Thai-USA
economic partnership while at the same time working to dump the United
States dollar and join the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South
Africa (BRICS) monetary system.
Ben
Levin,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
new administration in Hong Kong
Is under
the political sway of China
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday June 17, 2024
|
When I read in the Southeast Asian Times of 15 June
2024 article British Hong Kong Court Judge resigns saying
Hong Kong is beginning to resemble a totalitarian state
I was not surprised. Pro-democracy activists and free media people
have known this to be the case since the Chinese takeover of Hong
Kong.
Oppressive reform laws have been enacted to
suppress the rights and freedoms the people of Hong Kong enjoyed previously.
The new administration in Hong Kong is under the political sway
of China.
The resigning judge Jonathan Sumption 75 says judges were meant to
operate in an almost impossible political environment created
by China and that the citys atmosphere was oppressive.
That has always been the modus operandi of the totalitarian state.
As a man of integrity the judge did not want to be party to such an
oppressive system.
Many in Hong Kong would understand just where the judge was coming
from.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
South Australian premier
plans for clean government
Plans to ban all political donations
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday June 16, 2024
|
South Australian premier has announced plans to ban
all political donations.
Thats a plan which goes beyond paying lip service in ensuring
integrity in the political system and governance to giving concrete
form to it.
I recall reading a letter writer say political donation was euphemism
for political bribery.
That is what it really is and no amount of sugar coating can cover
up that reality.
It damages good democratic governance.
I suspect it is a major factor in the public perception of dirty politics.
I therefore applaud the premier for his bold plans for clean governance.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
Real
estate speculation by Thais
Can be
just as harmful by non-Thais
The Southeast Asian Times, Saturday June 15, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday June 11, 2024
|
Re: "Bad property idea", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Saturday June 8, 2024.
I thank Khun Vichai for finding my "suggestion to open up
Thailand's real estate sector to foreign buyers to be extremely short-sighted",
for that gives us a rational, rather than emotional, discussion of
the issue.
We should seek solutions to land ownership problems that both reduce
potential harm to society while retaining the benefits of investment;
in short, win-win remedies targeting the problem - not at the purchaser's
passport.
For example, to curb excessive speculation, which makes homes unaffordable
to locals, heavily tax real estate sales or leases that occur within
10 years of purchase regardless of nationality, as speculation by
Thais can be just as harmful as that by non-Thais.
To make homes affordable to local youth, subsidise mortgage payments
for the first homes of local residents regardless of nationality;
to discourage absentee owners, we could limit eligibility to residents
of the province the property was in.
How could my suggestions be improved upon, to be even more of a win-win?
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
Philippines
Needs
a rebirth
The Southeast Asian Times, Friday June 14, 2024
First published in the Philippines Inquirer, Monday June 10,
2024
|
As we commemorate our so-called independence from Imperial
Spain after more than a century, we reflect once again on the perennial
question: Are we really free?
We have witnessed the highs and lows of our history; a few, we celebrate,
and the rest, we regret.
Past is past and we always say, Just move on.
We always want to console our frustration by asserting that we learn
from history, from our past.
Another perennial question arises: Have we really learned?
These two critical questions underlie fundamental truths that liberty
and education are mutually cohesive with each other; to be free one
should be enlightened; and freedom is only guaranteed when one is
willing to learn.
This triad of social concepts encapsulates why our country remains
poor and corrupt.
We have never learned.
Or worse, we refuse to learn.
If we look at our poor fellow Filipinos with no access to quality
education, health, food, housing, and employmentwe feel hopeless
for our country but at the same time we feel sorry not only for them
but for ourselves because we cannot do anything to help them.
For decades we have lost hope.
We feel there is nothing we can do for our country.
Yes, we are free but we remain poor.
And for how long?
That is the biggest question. Until when will our country suffer?
Will we get the chance to wake up one morning and see our precious
land transform into a prosperous country where Filipinos no longer
need to live and work abroad?
Sadly, many of us will die without witnessing the greatness of our
nation.
The Philippines needs a rebirth.
To be born again with a new breed of passionate people who have great
vision and dreams for our country, who are incorruptible and brave
enough to change the status quo, whose objective is to selflessly
serve the people, and who are competent to lead.
As we celebrate the independence of our country: we know, but we deny,
that we are not truly free.
It is a dishonest celebration we do every year.
We can never genuinely celebrate it with glee and pride as we see
our country poor and corrupt.
In the 1950s, our country was richer and more advanced than many Asian
countries like South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and even Singapore.
But we have seen how our Asian neighbors progressed significantly
while our very own Philippines regressed like a sick hopeless land
with no opportunities.
Year after year when we celebrate our nations independence,
we live like the walking dead with nowhere to go.
Thus, many of us find opportunities in foreign countries.
Let us be honest: we leave our country because we can only fulfill
our dreams if we live and work in foreign lands.
Many of us have become numb to seeing the difference between good
and bad, between right and wrong; we just accept everything that happens
in our country:
It is what it is and normal.
In our collective subconscious, we have accepted corruption and
poverty as a status quo because there is nothing that we
can do.
Do we lack visionary leaders who can make our country better?
Perhaps the answer is that we have never learned.
We even use our state of poverty as an excuse to be accomplices of
corruption and incompetence.
But how can we blame our poor Filipinos for selling their votes when
stomachs are more vital than morals for survival?
Like a malignant disease, we recycle incompetent and corrupt leaders.
The cure is to educate our people to end the cycle of poverty.
When we become better Filipinos, we can help the Philippines become
a better country.
Lets fight corruption!
Lets fight poverty!
Then, when we succeed in this battle, we can all celebrate our Philippine
Independence Day with genuine joy and pride.
Rado Gatchalian,
Manila,
Philippines
China's ills
Blamed
on human development
The Southeast Asian Times, Thursday June 13, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday June 11, 2024
|
Re: "More to China's Story", Bangkok Post
PostBag, Sunday June 9, 2024 Historically, Michael Setter was correct
in blaming the cause of China's ills during the Qing dynasty on pervasive
corruption.
However, ML Krisdakorn is also correct that China's ills were aggravated
by foreigners who took advantage of its weaknesses and exploited them
during the 20th century.
During this time, there was allegedly a sign in a park in the foreign-administered
Shanghai that read: "Chinese and Dogs Not Admitted".
Prior to that, there was the use of opium during the Qing as exploited
by the West and the two Opium Wars.
But when it comes to exploitation, neither side can be exclusively
blamed for China's ills, which some recognise as human development.
Imperialism was started by the Portuguese in their search for the
new world. There were also structural benefits to being colonised.
However, to state the present ruler of China as negative to human
rights and destructive to the human soul is extreme when China has
now become a country that the West, especially America, has to reckon
with.
The West may have its own standards, and China has different standards.
As one of China's diplomats said, the West may use a fork and spoon,
but the Chinese use chopsticks.
Do call me a China apologist, but not a habitual one.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
International Criminal Court
and International Court of Justice
Claim there are cases to be made against the
state of Israel
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday June 12, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday June 4, 2024
|
Re: "Hamas is responsible", in Bangkok
Post, Wednesday May 29, 2024.
Some of the best legal minds in the world work in the International
Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
They have determined that there are cases to be made against the state
of Israel, genocide, and its leaders, war crimes and crimes against
humanity.
The whole world has been able to witness these crimes despite Israel
refusing to allow international journalists access to Gaza and having
murdered more than 140 journalists who were already in Gaza.
Jews, distinguished by their achievements, their intellect, their
intelligence and their integrity, have been outspoken in their criticism
of the state of Israel.
It is important to name only a few of these whose speeches can easily
be accessed online: Prof Avi Shlaim, Prof John Mearsheimer, Phyllis
Bennis, Prof Norman Finkelstein, who describes Gaza as the world's
largest concentration camp, Ilan Pappe, Noam Chomsky, Naomi Klein.
Additionally, many Orthodox Jews have demonstrated on behalf of the
Palestinians, including Rabbi Elhanan Beck and Rabbi Yisrael David
Weiss, who argues that the existence of a Zionist Israel is antithetical
to Judaism.
Yet, EL Wout has the arrogance and impertinence to describe these
and others as ignorant protesters. Readers will make up their own
minds about who the ignorant one is.
Keith Barlow,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The Filipino flag flies
from May 28
To national
independence celebrations June 12
The
Southeasr Asian Times, Tuesday June 11, 2024
First published in the Philippine Star, Wednesday May 22, 2024
|
May 28 is Day One of the Flag Days when all government
offices, corporations, agencies including local government units all
over the country are to prominently display the Filipino flag until
the celebration of national independence on June 12, per Executive
Order number 179, series of 1994.
May 28, 1898 or 126 years ago is to be remembered as
the first time Filipino soldiers led by General Emilio Aguinaldo overran
a rather big contingent of superiorly-armed Spanish soldiers manning
the fort in Alapan, Imus, in the province of Cavite.
Moments after the battle, the triumphant Aguinaldo instructed a soldier
to take out from one of his followers the newly minted Filipino flag
on a pole, held the pole himself and began waving the flag in the
usual motion from the left to the right, repeating the action several
times until he decided to hoist it atop some high point or flag pole
of the former Spanish garrison amidst the shouting of the Filipino
crowd, including the nearby villagers who quickly went to cheer the
winning troops.
Then president Fidel V. Ramos signed EO 179 on May 24, 1994 as part
of remembering the victory at Alapan as well as to create awareness
for June 12 in celebrating the nationhood of the Philippines, the
first in Asia to declare its independence from a colonizer.
Until the Independence Day celebration on June 12, establishments
and facilities owned, operated or used by the government are mandated
to prominently display in their respective areas the Filipino flag,
something normally expected only in schools and government offices.
Previous to 1994, May 28 every year was declared as National Flag
Day by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 374, series of 1965,
to commemorate the national emblem that was unfurled the very first
time after the Philippine Revolutionary Army defeated the Spanish
forces.
Some of the countrys prominent national officials will join
Cavite officials as well as history and culture enthusiasts at the
flag raising ceremonies in an area near the battle site in Barangay
Alapan.
Sewn in five days in Hong Kong by Marcela Agoncillo, her sister Lorenza
Agoncillo and Delfina Herbosa, the flag was made of 100 percent silk
and became known as The Three Stars and a Sun Flag.
On June 12, Aguinaldo, along with other leaders of the revolution,
declared independence before a crowd of Filipino natives and foreign
guests in his Kawit, Cavite residence and the Filipino flag flew on
a pole while the San Francisco de Malabon Marching Band played the
Marcha Filipina Magdalo, later to be known as the national anthem.
The independence declaration was written and read by Ambrosio Rianzares
Bautista. Ninety-eight persons signed the declaration, including an
army officer of the United States.
Manly Garcia,
Manila,
Philippines
The Thai legal system has
no creditibility
And Thais
do not trust it
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday June 19, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday May 30, 2024
|
Re: "Justice at stake", in Bangkok
Post, Wednesday May 29, 2024 and "Yingluck upbeat
on democracy", in Bangkok Post, Thursday May
23, 2024.
Samcharoen writes: "It is crucial for the credibility of our
legal system and the trust of the Thai people that all individuals,
regardless of their connections, are held accountable for their actions."
Fine words indeed, Khun Samcharoen.
But the sad reality is the legal system has no credibility and Thais
do not trust it.
This is the result of almost daily demonstrations of how the legal
system can be interpreted or manipulated to favour the entitled, while
ordinary Thais rot in jail without bail, on charges that no free and
democratic state would have as legal statutes anyway.
David Brown,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Paetongtarn
Shinawatra has no political future
Without her father's connections
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday June 9, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday June 5, 2024
|
Re: "Conservatives still wield 'lawfare' axe",
Bangkok Post, Opinion, Saturday June 1, 2024.
The deal Thaksin is believed to have made with the coup leaders is
wearing thin, and cracks are starting to appear.
Not unexpected when you turn your back on loyal supporters and make
a deal with the devil. Recent polls suggest the deal makers and the
public are not fooled by Thaksin's quest for self-promotion while
on parole and banned from politics, and may also be sceptical of his
countless ailments.
In the coming weeks, Pheu Thai may lose both its prime minister and
de facto leader, but Paetongtarn Shinawatra says she is not worried.
Well, she should be because, without her father's connections, she
has no political future.
Peter Jeffreys,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call for Thailand to look
at other Asean countries
For valuable
insights on how to protect sex workers
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday June 7, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday June 5, 2024
|
Re: "Sex workers in peril in Thailand: Fear
of police silences assault victims", in Bangkok Post Sunday
June 2, 2024.
Sex workers deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, just like
any other members of our society.
It is imperative that they are protected by the country's laws, ensuring
their safety and well-being.
Sex work is a demanding profession within the service and entertainment
industry. It is essential that we acknowledge the challenges sex workers
face and work to eliminate any forms of discrimination against them.
In Thailand, the situation is dire as sex workers cannot report cases
of assault to the police without fear of being prosecuted for prostitution.
This fear of legal repercussions silences many victims, allowing perpetrators
to act with impunity.
Looking at other Asean countries can provide valuable insights on
how to protect sex workers better.
For example, in Singapore, sex work is legal, but soliciting in public
for the purposes of sex work is criminalised under Section 19 of the
Miscellaneous Offences Public Order and Nuisance Act.
Singapore operates a two-tier system where workers in approved brothels
are free from police attention, whereas "illegal"
workers are heavily targeted in police crackdowns.
While this system has its own challenges, it highlights the need for
clear legal frameworks that distinguish between different contexts
of sex work and offer protection accordingly.
In Cambodia, the government has introduced measures aimed at reducing
violence against sex workers by working closely with non-governmental
organizations to provide safe spaces and support services.
Additionally, in the Philippines, advocacy groups collaborate with
law enforcement to ensure that sex workers can report crimes without
fear of reprisal.
These initiatives have significantly improved the safety and rights
of sex workers in these nations.
Thailand must follow suit by enacting comprehensive legal reforms
to protect sex workers from violence and exploitation.
This includes ensuring they can seek help from law enforcement without
fear of arrest or harassment.
By implementing such protections, we can create a safer and more just
society for all.
Hong Sin Kwek,
Bangkok,
Thailand
On foreign land ownership
in Thailand
What's
to fear ?
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday June 7, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday June 1, 2024
|
Re: "Phuket targets nominees", "PM
pitches Thai, US partnership", and "?'Illegal' British
guide nabbed", in Bangkok Post , Saturday June
1, 2024.
Prime Minister Srettha has emphasised worldwide that we welcome foreign
investors, yet several of our key laws repel those whose help we sorely
need and don't benefit Thailand.
Notably, the US, UK, and EU have very few restrictions on foreign
ownership by companies of land, or occupation with exceptions for
national security.
For example, Mohamed Al-Fayed acquired Harrods department store in
London in 1985 by controlling 51 percent + of House of Fraser shares.
Or, our Central Group owns 50.1 percent of Berlin's KaDeWe Group department
store. Buyers give great importance to having control, which we deny
to others.
On foreign land ownership - what's to fear?
Thaksin bought a home in Hong Kong for a reported US$27 million (995
million baht) in 2007 and sold it for a 41 percent profit in 2023.
If we fear foreigners will turn their companies/land to uses which
we disapprove of, then we should ban those acts regardless of the
nationality of the actors.
If non-Thais could own land here, they'd drive up prices, benefitting
the Thai owners, and they would pay Thai taxes on the sale.
The new owners would want to add value to their purchases, raising
the prices of the neighbourhood in the process.
Why would we stop them from doing so?
Review and reform our laws so they lead to win-win investment solutions.
Burin Kantabutra,s
Bangkok,
Thailand
To Her Majesty the Queen
of Thailand
On the occasion of her birthday
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday June 6, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday June 1, 2024
|
Dear Editor,
Kindly publish my attached poem to greet Her Majesty
the Queen on the occasion of her birthday this year.
At the dawn of a new day
Heralding the anniversary of your birth
We your subjects, fairest queen greet you
With blessings of the heavens and the earth
Gift to the kingdom in rarest array
You mark your reign in a benevolent way
Bestowing on your people due care and concern
Gifts of royal design through generosity woven
Blessed thus your life in no small way
Your judgements hold wisdom's sway
Blessing those to whom you bestow
The true value of queenly gifts in radiant glow
May this birthday, fair majesty
Be with infinite joy and happiness' felicity
Glen Chatelier,
Director of the Office of International Affairs,
On behalf of the Assumption University of Thailand community,
Bangkok,
Thailad
Thailand
Election Commission accepts court ruling
That candidates release profiles to the public
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday June 5, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Thursday May 30, 2024
|
Re: "EC to respect court Senate race ruling",
in Bangkok Post, Tuesday May 28, 2024.
I'm glad the Election Commission (EC) decided to respect the court's
ruling that candidates may release their profiles to the public.
As they stand, the Election Commission (EC) rules are designed to
give voters whether they be the candidates who must choose from among
their number or the constituencies they are supposed to represent,
minimal information.
This is madness.
To make an intelligent choice, voters must have as many facts as possible.
For example, instead of being banned from presenting their visions
of what they'll accomplish if chosen, each candidate should be required
to present their plans, posted online, followed by televised debates,
with studies to show that his/her visions are not hallucinations.
Otherwise, we might have cases like Pheu Thai's promised B10k handout
to each Thai, which could put every taxpayer in debt for many years
so big business and their billionaire owners can get richer.
Promote informed selections, Election Commission (EC).
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Marriage in the Philippines
is not an ordinary contract
That can
be negotiated,
amended or terminated
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday June 4, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday May 31, 2024
|
Article XV, Section 1 of our Constitution recognizes
the Filipino family as the foundation of the nation.
It also mandates the state to strengthen its solidarity and actively
promote its total development.
Section 2 further states: Marriage, as an inviolable social
institution, is the foundation of the family and shall be protected
by the State.
The passage of the divorce bill in the House of Representatives last
week reminds us citizens that families have a social role to see that
the laws and institutions of the state not only do not offend but
support and positively defend the rights and duties of the family.
Just as the family must be open to and participate in society and
in its development, so also society, specifically the state, should
never fail in its fundamental task of respecting and fostering the
family.
The marriage bond is not an ordinary contract that can be negotiated,
amended, or terminated.
Marriage is a covenant with God in the middle of the union of husband
and wife. This gives marriage a divine function, elevating human love
to a supernatural order. For marriage to work under Gods plan,
it needs the characteristics of unity and indissolubility.
The state must protect and defend that.
Each marriage is imperfect because the persons within the marriage
are imperfect themselves. Married people realize the difficulties
and the challenges they go through, especially in this culture of
the ephemerala throw-away culture, where things and people are
disposable, substitutable, and replaceable, which prevents a constant
process of growth.
Pope Francis in Amoris laetitia inspires married
couples to accept the challenges and make their love grow as time
passes.
The quality of a society is only as good as the quality of its families.
A French saying goes, you can tell the quality of a society by the
quality of its women.
Here the state should work on the real problem of families: poverty,
education, health, violence, pornography, and immoral lifestyles promoted
by media.
We already have legal separation for impossible marriage unions.
There is available nullification of invalid married unions.
Why go further to legalize divorce that will cheapen the marriage
bond?
Wasnt the 48 percent rate of divorces to total marriages in
the United States in 1975 likely to spiral and be assimilated into
the Filipino culture?
If in divorce societies half the number of persons who marry fail
to find happiness in marriage, will they find happiness in a second
marriage?
Studies by Fr. Cormac Burke, a noted authority on marriage and the
family, say the divorce rate is three to four times higher among divorcees
than among those who marry for the first time.
Divorce in the case of battered wives ends up in abusive husbands
beating up other women.
And in our poor country, how can the average divorced man afford to
maintain children from a previous marriage if he has a second family?
We pray our senators will protect and defend the Filipino family and
not pass the divorce bill.
Lella M. de Jesus,
Diocese of Parañaque,
Manila
Philippines
Africans
would not buy 10-year-old
Imported rice from Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times Monday June 3, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday May 30, 2024
|
Re: "African countries want answers over
old rice sale", in Bangkok Post, Tuesday May 28,
2024.
Frankly, I don't think self-respecting and canny citizens from African
nations would ever buy imported 10-year-old rice that is getting mustier
by the day while it moulders in warehouses here.
Apart from weevils, let's not forget the possibility of bird and rodent
droppings entering the mix.
Any order would be a significant test of the purchasing government's
probity in the context of disseminating information about the rice's
age and origin to the public sector and its welfare.
Ellis O'Brien,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Folks,
The light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming
train!
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday June 2, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday May 31, 2024
|
Several articles from the latest Programme for International
Student Assessment results again highlighted the terrible state of
our education.
Our Department of Education assessment states that we have a five-
to six-year learning level deficit.
It says that our 15-year-olds Grade 10 have a learning level equivalent
to Grade 5. We were one of only three countries in the world with
10 years of mandatory schooling and for some time, the only one in
Asia without a K-12.
In 2012, we finally added Grades 11 and 12, two years of senior high
school.
We could not see beyond the tip of our noses, content with a populace
with innate
talent and diligence to put us as one of the leading powerhouses in
Asia in the 60s. But the same dynamism and energy of our people
began the countrys decline. Rampant corruption and cronyism
created a cynical and disaffected middle class. The pent-up energy
of these great, talented masses saw no outlet to create wealth and
better themselves.
What started as a trickle became an exodus of the best and the brightest.
People wonder why we dont attract the manufacturing behemoths
of the world as well as Vietnam and Singapore do.
Why would we?
How, for example, can Honda or Volkswagen start an electric vehicle
plant in any part of the Philippines?
We dont have enough workers with STEM training to run high-tech
manufacturing in the Philippines.
In the coming artificial intelligence (AI) industrial revolution,
we will not see the Philippines anywhere close to South Korea population,
51 million or Taiwan population, 23 million, and now even Vietnam
population, 99 million.
While the world is preoccupied with AI, 6G the sixth generation of
cellular networks, and quantum computing, we are still mired in the
same ongoing crisis of bad governance, corruption, poverty, education
woes, and bureaucratic infighting dominated by political dynasties.
The poor are powerless to affect reforms.
Those who can bring change are part of the ruling class and have a
self-serving agenda that preserves the status quo. Still, others are
too busy preparing to exit the country.
The most disappointing assemblage of eldership in this country is
stuck in an outdated bias of a Christian worldview that, to put it
mildly, has immobilized the masses into subservient sheep encapsulated
in an antiquated box.
Our power brokers ignore a new generation of people who are products
of social media, educated with a more left of center
outlook and an information technology wind on their backs.
Our pseudo padres and influence peddlers, which abound in the Philippines,
cannot understand and assimilate a progressive mindset.
As if thats not enough, we even have a self-declared appointed
son of God in our midst.
The Vatican no longer calls for a World Day of Prayer
for all the ills that beset humanity because they know it doesnt
work and it further ruins their credibility. Why?
The Vatican runs on myth and superstition.
Why do our ecclesiastic elders never learn from the successes of others
who took the bull by horns and said enough?
Look at Vietnam.
Coming out of the war and the Christian French influence, Vietnam
declared sectarianism passé.
From one of the worlds poorest to the fastest economic growth
in Southeast Asia achieved in a single generation, Vietnam has redirected
sectarian energy into a path of productivity.
And here we are, with an educationally challenged youth, politicians
pointing fingers at each other, and archaic religious ideology weighing
us down like a grounded child.
Folks, the light at the end of the tunnel is an oncoming train!
Edwin de Leon,
Manila,
Philippines
Hundreds
of thousands protest against WHO-proposed
Pandemic
treaty
in Japan, EU and around the world
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday June 1, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday May 28, 2024
|
The WHO-proposed pandemic "treaty"
is satisfying to neither the left nor the right.
Human Rights Watch noted the current draft fails to enshrine core
human rights standards protected under international law, most notably
the right to health and the right to benefit from scientific progress,
risking a repeat of the WHO's tragic Covid failures.
A recent New York Times story, "Countries Fail to Agree on
Treaty to Prepare the World for the Next Pandemic", pointed
out that talks were stalled and "negotiators were scrambling
to ratify the treaty before elections in the United States",
because presumptive US President Donald Trump would never accept any
agreement that compromises national sovereignty.
Though less publicised, hundreds of thousands have protested against
the so-called treaty in Japan, the EU, and around the world.
The reasons include a deep-rooted mistrust of the UN's corrupt elitist
leadership and their planned pandemics, which coincided with illegal
bioweapons research funded by governments while the UN turned a blind
eye.
Remember what happened at the Wuhan Institute of Virology?
Or how about the BSL-4 labs on the Ukraine-Russian border operated
by the CIA?
This is how advocates for the treaty express themselves: "One
can only hope the next pandemic wipes out the anti-vaxxers
in one heavenly swoop so we don't have to keep listening to this laughable
rot."
The choice is an important one.
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
PM
Strettha showing favouritism
Towards
Thaksin Shinawatra
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday May 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday May 29, 2024
|
Re: "Yingluck upbeat on democracy", in
Bangkok Post, Thursday May 23, 2024
I am writing to express my concern regarding the relationship between
our current prime minister, Srettha Thavisin, and convicted ex-prime
ministers, Yingluck and Thaksin Shinawatra.
Yingluck, who lives in self-imposed exile to avoid serving a prison
term in Thailand, is the sister of Thaksin.
Thaksin, also a convicted ex-prime minister, maintains a close friendship
with Mr Srettha, meeting him frequently.
Given the prime minister's duty to uphold the law and ensure justice,
it is imperative that Mr Srettha uses his position and connections
to facilitate Yingluck's return to Thailand to serve her sentence.
The Shinawatra family, particularly Thaksin, likely knows Yingluck's
whereabouts. By failing to leverage his close relationship with Thaksin
to bring Yingluck to justice, Mr Srettha is not fully committing to
his responsibilities and appears to be showing favouritism toward
his friend and his family.
This situation raises questions about the sincerity and integrity
of our prime minister's commitment to justice and the rule of law.
It is crucial for the credibility of our legal system and the trust
of the Thai people that all individuals, regardless of their connections,
are held accountable for their actions.
Samcharoen,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call
for royalist to present best case
Why lese
majeste laws are not morally indefensible
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday May 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday May 28, 2024
|
Re: "Srettha distant fourth in popularity poll",
in Bangkok Post, Monday May 27, 2024 and "Move
Forward MP gets 2 years on lese majeste charge", Bangkok Post,
Monday May 27, 2024.
As confirmed by the latest poll, it is no surprise that the popularity
of Move Forward Party (MFP) and its leadership have continued to rise.
The conviction of Move Forward Party (MFP) member of parliament, Ms
Chonthicha Jangrew, on a lese majeste charge will only further boost
support for the party.
Meanwhile, the assault on Ms Chonthicha Jangrew listed by Time magazine
on its 2024 list of Next Generation Leaders, will further stain the
reputation of every person and institution actively or tacitly associated
with such legalised rights violations.
Perhaps the Bangkok Post could invite a royalist to present their
best case and explain why those laws are not morally indefensible
rejections of justice that go against basic democratic principles.
Perhaps that is to ask the impossible, but they deserve the chance
to peacefully speak their case.
It really is time a few polls are conducted to discover the truth
about what Thais actually think on these issues, but to be fair, that
would threaten the unsubstantiated fancies being regularly uploaded
to computer systems there for many years.
Felix
Qui,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Must read Nic Maclellan
analysis of the disaster
Waiting
to happen in 'Civil unrest in New Caledonia'
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday May 29, 2024
|
Anyone interested in acquiring a deeper understanding
and insight into the misreading of Frances colonial agenda in
New Caledonia, without taking proper cognisance of the aspirations
of the indigenous people, must read Nic Maclellans illuminating
analysis of the disaster which was waiting to happen in Civil
unrest in New Caledonia ( The Fiji Times 21 May 2024 ).
Hope the relevant state parties and the UN decolonisation body will
heed the inherent problems Nic Maclellan identifies and address them
accordingly and not make the kind of mistake that was made regarding
West Papua.
Rajend Naidu
Sydney,
Australia
Thailand
constitution requires that the head of state
His Majesty
the King be Buddhist
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday May 28, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday May 26, 2024
|
Re: "Why an alcohol ban?", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Saturday May 25, 2024
"Cheers Grumpy" declares that Thailand is secular,
and questions why alcohol is banned on Visakha Bucha Day.
Yes, in theory Thailand is secular and there is freedom of religion.
Buddhism represents 93 percent of the population, Islam 5 percent
Christianity 1.2 percent and Brahminism, Hinduism, Sikhism and other
minor religions and atheism make up the rest.
The constitution requires that the head of state, His Majesty the
King, be Buddhist in a similar way that the King of England must be
Church of England.
So putting ideas of secularism aside, by sheer weight of numbers the
reality is that Thailand is a Buddhist state.
In short, Buddha Rules. Okay!
So, "Cheers Grumpy": Stock up on a few bottles of
beer or wine before the next Buddhist holy day rolls around and enjoy
them at your leisure.
David Brown,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Urgent need for majority
of Filipinos
To develop critical thinking
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday May 27, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday May 17, 2024
|
In about a year from now, we will once again be electing
officials for local government units and both houses of Congress.
It is essential that our mayors and governors take responsibility
for ensuring that local and national laws are beneficial to all Filipinos
and our country.
Similarly, our senators, House representatives, board members, and
councilors have the crucial task of crafting legislation that is in
the best interest of their constituents.
I have previously emphasized in a newspaper article the urgent need
for majority of Filipinos to develop critical thinking.
Without this fundamental shift, we will continue to be at the mercy
of elected officials who rely solely on popularity and political connections,
instead of necessary qualifications such as education, experience,
and expertise.
Our electorate, especially those from the socioeconomic classes C,
D, and E, must become discerning, analytical, and capable of identifying
unqualified candidates, many of whom come from political dynasties.
Otherwise, governance will remain mediocre, and favor only the rich
and influential.
Legitimate nongovernment organizations, which have the wherewithal
and capacity, must take the lead in promoting critical thinking.
Unfortunately, due to various circumstances related to their existence,
they find themselves preoccupied with urgent issues such as protecting
children from online abuse and combating climate change.
While these efforts are commendable, they only address superficial
needs in society and do not bring about transformative change.
Intellectuals, who should ideally be leading societal transformation,
often focus on pursuits such as the arts, literature, and culture.
While these endeavors are enriching, they have limited direct relevance
to the pressing economic, social, and political challenges our nation
faces.
In both urban and rural areas, many heads of poor households, mostly
men, engage in risk-taking through various forms of gambling.
This diverts a significant amount of time, money, and effort away
from entrepreneurial endeavors and into activities like cockfighting,
bingo, jueteng, lotteries, and the like.
The majority of the population, referred to as ordinary people,
disengage from politics, opting instead for leisurely activities
such as watching movies, dining out, and so on, especially during
weekends and holidays.
The forthcoming May fiestas, sponsored by entrenched political families
in preparation for the 2025 local elections, further highlight this
detachment from political realities.
The political circus for the upcoming local and national polls has
already begun more than a year in advance.
Unfortunately, the legitimate opposition appears ill-prepared, as
recent polling data show significant leads for Vice President Sara
Duterte and Sen.
Raffy Tulfo for the presidency.
Notably absent from the top senatorial posts are opposition stalwarts,
with the list being dominated by administration and pseudo-opposition
loyalists.
It is widely acknowledged that big corporations strategically support
candidates from both sides, ensuring influence regardless of the election
outcome.
This symbiotic relationship extends to corporations associated with
the administration due to family connections or lucrative government
contracts.
Despite hopes for internal conflicts within the ruling elite, as seen
in the feud between the Marcoses and the Dutertes, genuine change
remains elusive as these powerful factions engage in power struggles.
Given this disheartening reality, it is understandable that many Filipinos,
particularly critical thinkers both in the country and abroad, seem
helpless in confronting this bleak state of affairs.
Nono Felix,
Manila,
Philippines
Thailand's
chance of winning a place
On the United Nations Human Rights Council
is good
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday May 26, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday May 20, 2024
|
Re: "Thai Human Rights Council aspirations",
in Bangkok Post, May 1, 2024 and "Amnesty panel
to mull inclusion of S112 cases", in Bangkok Post,
May 16, 2024.
Thailand's chances of winning a prestigious United Nations Human Rights
Council slot this October are good but could be made a lot better
by a few steps:
A flood of Myanmar citizens is fleeing the Tatmadaw'.
Rather than confining the Myanmar citizens to a refugee camp, we should
offer them an acculturation programme, rural jobs at market rates
and a merit-based path to citizenship.
Our application of Section 112, known as lese majeste law, should
be brought in line with His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great's
advice.
As His Majesty noted in his 2005 birthday broadcast, he would have
dropped charges against those accused of the lese majeste and released
those jailed for lese majeste
Let's show that we belong on the Human Right Council.
Burin
Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Laugh of the year
Senators want to
impeach PM and Minister Pichit
The
Southeast Asian Times Saturday May 25, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday May 20, 2024
|
Re: "Senators ask charter court to impeach PM,
new minister Pichit", in Bangkok Post, Friday May 17, 2024
The laugh of the year came from reading this news in which senators
ask the charter court to impeach the Prime Minister and new minister
Pichit "based on Section 170 (4) and (5) of the charter which
deal with moral and ethical standards of a cabinet minister".
What could possibly not meet that established standard?
How about the blatant "moral and ethical standards" of
the senate itself?
How about using the lese majeste law as the pretext to deny the clear
outcome of the May 14 election last year?
Felix Qui,
Bangkok.
Thailand
Proper
utilization of blood and blood products
Poorly regulated in the Philippines
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday May 24, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday May 7, 2024
|
In 2010, the World Health Organization called for global
action toward 100-percent voluntary blood donation.
It aims to phase out family blood donation, replacement donation,
and paid donation which are prone to donor abuse.
This vision has been adopted by the Department of Health by issuing
policies that call for rational blood use and 100-percent voluntary
blood donation.
However, replacement donation has not been fully eliminated and remains
one of the sources of blood supply in the Philippines.
The blood demand and supply imbalance remains a concern.
Several factors have been identified that contribute to this issue
such as decreased blood donors, decreased operational capacity of
blood banks, consistently high demand for blood products, and irrational
blood use.
Despite strategies to ensure rational blood use in the hospital, evidence
shows that the proper utilization of blood and blood products remains
poorly regulated. Therefore, the imbalance continues to exist affecting
the health systems capacity to equitably allocate blood supply.
These issues present a challenge in maintaining a sustainable supply
of blood that will meet the demand while complying with existing policies
on voluntary blood donation.
Hence, there is an urgent need to look at evidence-based measures
to improve current strategies that can effectively ensure rational
blood use and the availability of blood and blood products.
Addressing the persistently low supply of blood will entail more resources
and is challenged by systemic issues that cannot be immediately or
easily resolved.
It is then imperative to ensure that the health system can properly
allocate the limited blood supply to patients who need it most.
Thus, strategies must be instituted to ensure that the supply of blood
products that barely meet the demand is given to the right patient,
at the right time, and for the right indication.
Reiner Lorenzo J. Tamayo,
Manila,
Philippines
Rice stored in Thailand
for ten years
Worth more than price of gold
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday May 23, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday May 21, 2024
|
Re: "Lab tests show rice 'edible'?",
in Bangkok Post , May 20, 2024 and "Push to
sell old rice raises questions", in Bangkok Post,
May 19, 2024.
With due respect to that private lab's finding of 10-year-old rice
stored in Surin as free from aflatoxins and other chemical residues,
an internet search with the words "expiration of rice"
said otherwise: "Dry white rice has a shelf life of up
to 2 years ... Mould contamination in expired rice may lead to
mycotoxin intake, which may be detrimental to your health."
In a prior Sunday front-page report, "Push to sell old rice
raises questions", it was stated that 17.8 million tonnes
were sold for 146 billion baht 8,200 baht/tonne in 2018.
Now, the hope is to auction these 15,000 tonnes of "expired"
rice for a price of 270 million baht 18,000 baht a tonne.
Am I missing something that the expired rice after five years could
fetch 120 percent more than the price in 2018 even gold could not
rise that much!?
In addition, for 10 years, the storage cost of 380,000 baht per month
has amounted to 45 million baht, not to mention the fumigation costs.
The key questions are why it has been kept as a hot potato for so
long by officials in the early government and why it is being highlighted
now by this government?
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Where have all the Manhole
covers gone
Smelters
picked them, every one
The Southeast Asian Times Wednesday, May 22, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday May 17, 2024
|
Re: "No surprises", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Monday May 13, and "Accident waiting
to happen", in Bangkok Post, Sunday May 12.
I agree with Shane's letter and would like to add to the Bangkok Metropolitan
Administration (BMA) article that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
(BMA) should review and improve its own performance, not just blame
other agencies.
In Lumpini Park, all the manhole covers of the sewer network are in
poor condition.
On top are out-of-shape thin steel plates apparently borrowed from
some other facilities.
Some are placed over cracked concrete covers; some have plywood planks
sandwiched beneath.
The manholes are surrounded by plastic string tied on makeshift sticks
at the four corners, with signs in Thai and English: "DANGER".
It is obvious these things are old must be months or years old, and
some of the string has loosened.
These deteriorated facilities should take days or weeks to correct,
not months or years.
The facilities are under the full control of the Bangkok Metropolitan
Administration (BMA).
Lumpini Park is a popular place, with thousands, or tens of thousands,
of visitors each day.
Yet, it receives such poor attention from the Bangkok Metropolitan
Administration (BMA).
Thanin Bumrungsap,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Majority of Thai ministers
support Thaksin Shinawatra meeting
With anti-Armed Forces (Tatmadaw) of Myanmar
groups
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday May 21, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Thursday May 16, 2024
|
Re: "Hard to justify", Bangkok Post
PostBag, May 9, "Thaksin met with Malaysia's Anwar",
Bangkok Post, May 9 and "Thaksin in Myanmar rebel talks",
Bangkok Post, May 8.
Comments by Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang that publicly support
Thaksin's move to talk to Myanmar's rebels are shameless.
I found Thaksin to be a second-rate actor.
He should have taken professional training at a proper drama school
where they teach breathing techniques, facial expressions, body language,
and to act naturally.
What is worse is the majority of the ministers supporting Mr Thaksin
in meetings with Myanmar armed rebel groups and Anwar Ibrahim, who
is the prime minister of Malaysia. So scary!
Jayut Jayanandana,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Animal cruelty
Is common in the Philippines
The
Southeast Asian Times Monday May 20, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer Wednesday May 8,
2024
|
Animal cruelty, such as violence and neglect, is still
common in the Philippines.
Not only does this stem from a lack of knowledge and awareness of
animal welfare, but there is a blatant lack of compassion and humanity
for living creatures.
Last March, Killua, a golden retriever, was brutally killed in Camarines
Sur.
Other dogs have also been victims of abuse.
A puppy was thrown from a pedestrian overpass by a security guard
in Quezon City.
A tourists dog was found butchered by fishermen in Sariaya,
Quezon.
How many more cases of animals being killed and butchered would it
take to stop animal cruelty once and for all?
Changing a mindset of a person can be very difficult, we
can only inform them the proper ways of handling dogs or pets,
said Nelfe Joy Tagarian, an eight-year small animal practitioner and
veterinarian when asked how people can change their negative minds
about animals.
Tagarian explained that it is not an option to kill an animal, whether
rabid or not, without first going to the local authorities to hold
the owners accountable.
Pet owners under Republic Act No. 9482, or the Anti-Rabies Act of
2007, are mandated to have their pets vaccinated against rabies.
This is to ensure the safety of the pets, owners, as well as the public.
Killuas case has highlighted concerns regarding pet care and
the responsibilities of pet owners.
Owning a pet could be financially hefty, and an aspiring owner must
be prepared to cater to their potential pets needs.
Getting vaccination shots, checking for possible diseases, maintaining
the pets diet and nutrition are just among a pet owners
responsibilities.
Frances Zipagan,
University of the Philippines Baguio,
Manila
Philippines
No
need to cement riverbanks to stabilize them
Plant
cash crops bamboo, nipa, malunggay, katmon
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday May 19, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday May 3, 2024
|
I recently visited Nueva Ecija and saw two riverbanks
being cemented unnecessarily: First is the Labong River in Barangay
Santa Clara, Quezon, Nueva Ecija, and the second is the river in Barangay
Cavite, Guimba.The first one is being done by R.A. Pahati Construction
and Supply, Inc., with the Department of Public Works and Highways
(DPWH) as the implementing agency.
The cost is a staggering P47 million, as shown in the Commission on
Audit advisory board which also says that the project is the rehabilitation
of the riverbank slope protection structure.
There is actually no need to cement riverbanks to stabilize them.
Theres a better alternative planting cash crops like bamboo,
nipa, malunggay, katmon, and kalumpit, to name a few. Riverbanks can
also be stabilized with dao, hagimit, and
tangisang bayawak.
Dao has edible fruits like santol; hagimit has anti-rheumatic properties,
while tangisang bayawak has edible fruits and a sap that relieves
toothaches.
Local legislators can enact ordinances to compel the planting of indigenous
trees along riverbanks instead of them being cemented.
Another heart-wrenching sight on this trip is the unnecessary construction
of the Talugtug-Umingan Road which connects Talugtug, Nueva Ecija
to Umingan, Pangasinan.
The otherwise perfectly paved road is being dug up, a waste of peoples
money since in 2021, this same road was already repaired. Now, construction
is again ongoing from the start of the Talugtug sidein Barangay
Patola and extends to close to two kilometers.
Congress should really look hard at the national budget and check
if a lot of leakage is due to DPWH repairs. Let us be guided by the
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: 1. no poverty; 2. zero
hunger; 3. good health and well-being. The way Congress allocates
the budget for DPWH, we are going the opposite way in slashing poverty
incidence.
Based on the Department of Social Welfare and Developments 2023
data, Nueva Ecija has a poverty rate of 28 percentthe highest
in Region III, although the Philippine Statistics Authority pegs it
as between 10 percent to 14 percent for the first semester of 2023.
Instead of unnecessary DPWH repairs, Nueva Ecija can focus on export
items like mangoes, native tree timber, and agarwood which can sell
for half a million pesos a kilo. This they can intercrop with native
livestock. What is the value of one mango tree? According to Ramon
Barba, father of mango flower induction, he has seen families send
kids to college with just one mango tree!
Instead of cementing and recementing our country, our legislators
and leaders should plan to alleviate poverty and hunger starting in
the country side.
Chester C. Chang,
Manila,
Philippines
Forest fires in northern
Thailand
Can't be seen from a gilded tower in Bangkok
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday May 19, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday May 15, 2024
|
Re: "Clean air comes before animal feed",
Bangkok Post, Editorial, Sunday May 12, 2024.
I read with interest in Sunday's editorial that "field burning
in corn plantations" is "the main source of toxic haze in
the North."
Only last week, the Thai government's Geo-Informatics and Space Technology
Development Agency (Gistda) released data that shows that forest fires,
including conservation forest and national forest, accounted for 94
percent of the burn area in Chiang Mai between January 1 and April
30 this year.
The data used by Gistda is based on data from the US National Aeronautics
and Space Administration. Is the Bangkok Post suggesting that Nasa
and the Thai government are lying and making data up?
Around a week ago, a spokesperson for the Northern Breath Council
was quoted in the media saying that along with the main cause being
forest fires, not agriculture, the main problem with dealing with
fires is that they are often difficult to reach.
Is the peak body for tackling PM2.5 in the north lying, and does the
Bangkok Post believe that space aliens or cargo helicopters are bringing
corn out of difficult-to-reach forest areas that can sometimes take
3-4 hours on foot for firefighters to reach?
Going back a year or two, Chiang Mai University presented data on
emissions from fires in Northern Thailand in 2019 at an air quality
conference supported by the US Consulate General in Chiang Mai.
The study found that between February and April of that year - burning
season, PM2.5 emissions from corn/maize accounted for 2.8 percent
of the smoke in the air in the north of Thailand (not just Chiang
Mai) versus 96.87 percent from the burning of forests.
Did they make that up as well?
People in the North, myself included, who have two eyes can see what
the overwhelming majority of forest fires are about -something you
clearly can't see from a gilded tower in Bangkok.
The reality on the ground, not Greenpeace talking points, is that
the fires are primarily related to forest products ranging from hed
thob mushrooms, pak whan, red ant eggs, honey, illegal logging, animal
hunting and more.
Duncan Riley,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call for China to be held
accountable
For destructive use of its coast guard water
cannons
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday May 17, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday May 9,
2024
|
China must be condemned and held accountable for the
wrong and destructive use of its coast guards water cannons.
Recompense must also be levied for the structural and mechanical damages
suffered by the Philippine vessels, including injuries to passengers,
if any, when they sailed to conduct a civilian humanitarian mission
at Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal recently.
There are ethics even at sea.
Though still unwritten, proper and ethical use of a ships water
cannon ought to be covered by protocols to put a stop on its use for
hostile purposes.
They are designed specifically for putting out fires hobbling other
ships in the vast ocean, where means of traditional firefighting are
unavailable.
It is uncommon to utilize it to cause harm, or as a tool for harassment
and, above all, to endanger lives.
There are already a number of treaties and conventions covering almost
every facet of human activity that, for centuries, were tied to peoples
use and enjoyment of the oceans and the seas.
Among these is the 1972 Convention on the International Regulations
for Preventing Collisions at Sea, which provides guidelines governing
sea collisions. Then followed the 1974 International Convention for
the Safety of Life at Sea, as amended.
Thereafter, in 1988, the Convention for the Suppression of Unlawful
Acts against the Safety of Maritime Navigation, initiated by the International
Maritime Organization (IMO), was institutionalized and ratified by
participating nations.
Interestingly, China ratified the latter treaty in 1991 that took
effect the following year.
Its Chapter V pertains to navigational safety with regard to an operational
nature applicable in general to all ships on all voyages.
It includes the general obligation for shipmasters to lend assistance
to those in distress not add or cause stress on any or to an already
distressed ship at sea.
The whole world watched in horror when supposedly responsible coast
guards ran amuck and blasted high-pressure waters that nearly crippled
a Philippine Coast Guard vessel and a chartered civilian craft.
To paraphrase a Biblical injunction: What does it profit
a country in grabbing an entire piece of the sea yet loses its repute?
In light of the indiscriminate use of water cannons and blinding devices
like military lasers by the China Coast Guard (CCG), it behooves responsible
states to craft regulations that will govern their use of similar
steps taken by the governments of Austria, Egypt, and Italy in 1986
when they successfully urged International Maritime Organization (IMO)
to undertake a convention on the subject of unlawful acts against
the safety of maritime navigation.
This was meant to provide a comprehensive suppression of unlawful
acts committed against the safety of maritime vessels and those that
endanger human lives, including those performing their duty in connection
with their work, such as among others, the coast guards, other mariners,
journalists, and media practitioners.
We cannot fall, hook, line, and sinker, for the populist clamor of
some, including a senator, for a tooth for a tooth
approach in response to the thuggery shown by the China Coast Guard
(CCG).
It will only exacerbate the already tense situation; it will not make
us any different from those whose behavior we object to.
What the times call for is the crafting of a rules-based solution
in the form of a treaty that will govern the use of water cannons
and other harmful vessel-bound devices at sea.
The Philippines, together with similarly minded nations, could initiate
a move at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) or before
other relevant international treaty organizations to, once and for
all, address the lack of rules and regulations on these areas of grave
concern in a civilized manner.
Ted P. Peñaflor II,
Manila,
Philippines
The only explanation for Rosmah Mansors
behaviour
Is pure greed
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday May16, 2024
|
We learn from The Southeast Asian Times report
New 1MDB Management charge Rosmah Mansor, wife of incarcerated former
PM, with embezzlement ( 13 May 2024 ) that the charge
relates to 320 payments totalling US $346,010,489 for the
purchase of luxury brand name handbags, watches and jewellery
( read details in the report ).
Why would a 70 year old woman do such a thing?
Of course the opportunity was there during the reign in power of her
husband Najib Razak who is doing jail time for over US $1.8 billion
siphoned from the state development fund .
The only explanation for Rosmah Mansors behaviour is pure greed.
That is not an uncommon thing when the husband is a rogue ruler with
his hands on state funds.
Its disgraceful.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
Refugees
from Myanmar
Can be a win-win opportunity for Thailand
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday May 15, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday May 3, 2024
|
Re: "Protect rights of refugees", in
Bangkok Post Editorial, Tuesday April 30, 2024.
Refugees from Myanmar can be a win-win opportunity for Thailand if
we have the vision to see it.
We endanger winning the highly-prized UN Human Rights Council seat
we want by falling short of our trumpeted vows to treat Myanmar refugees
in line with humanitarian principles.
For example, we're only able to accommodate 3,000 people in five temporary
shelters but hundreds of thousands are headed our way.
Also, we're one of the world's fastest-ageing societies and face an
acute skills crisis.
We should offer refugees acculturation workshops, rural jobs at market
rates, and a merit-based path to citizenship, inducing them to help
us grow in the long term.
Act now for a win-win outcome.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Vietamese-French woman challenges
US corporation claim
To immunity from Agent Orange warfare in Vietnam
The
Southeast Asian Times Tuesday May 14, 2024
|
Whatever the outcome of the Paris Court of Appeal decision
regarding jurisdiction it is still absolutely fantastic that Vietnamese-French
woman Tran Ta Nga 82 has taken court action to hold the multinational
chemical companies that supplied the US military to conduct chemical
warfare in Vietnam responsible for their action in pursuit of profit
taking no cognisance of the serious human health and environmental
degradation impacts ( The Southeast Asian Times 12 May 2024 ).
History must be remembered so that we do not repeat the atrocities
of the past.
This court action by the 82 year old woman reminds us to do that.
She is to be applauded for her courage to challenge the purported
claim to immunity by the powerful multinational companies.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
The West Philippine Sea
Is one of the vital trading routes in the world
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday May 13, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Wednesday May 8,
2024
|
Defending a states territory is one of the significant
roles of the government.
The Italian philosopher Niccolo Machiavelli mentioned in his book,
The Prince, the importance of sovereignty and the
autonomy of the state, as he described it as a superior entity of
the land.
The state has the responsibility to preserve its territory and resources,
as well as protect the welfare of the people.
The Philippines has played a massive role in implementing these mandates
in accordance with international law and the 1987 Constitution.
The West Philippine Sea is one of the vital trading routes in the
world.
Billion-dollar worth of cargo passes this route coming from big economies
of East Asia, China, Japan, and South Korea. This area is known for
its abundant natural resources.
Maritime countries in Southeast Asia, like the Philippines, have exploited
the region as a traditional fishing ground ever since.
In addition, this particular area has untapped billion barrels of
oil reserves and trillion cubic feet of natural gas.
These discoveries in the area and their significant role in the global
market made the countries in the region want to assert their claims,
sparking regional tensions.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines has buffed up its capabilities
by acquiring new weapons and armaments through a modernization program
and strengthening partnerships with traditional allies like the United
States, Japan, and Australia.
The Philippines won at the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague
and that decision only affirmed the Philippines sovereignty
and significantly bolstered its jurisdiction over the resources within
its exclusive economic zone.
Territory is one of the pillars of the state.
Without it, we cannot govern and create laws for the nation, and there
will be no sustenance for the population to survive.
Defining a territory also signifies autonomy, away from the control
of the external force, and recognition in the international arena.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), led by the commander in
chief, President Marcos, is the custodian of our territory and sovereignty.
Ceddie Carlos,
Manila,
Philippines
Philippines yet to hear
of Open Government Partnership role
In eliminating
extensive corruption in the bureaucracy
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday May 12, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday May 3, 2024
|
Open Government Partnership (OGP) is a global initiative
promoting transparency, fighting graft, and improving governance at
both the national and subnational levels, of which the Philippines
is among the eight founding nations alongside Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico,
Norway, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States.Budget
Secretary Amenah Pangandaman chairs Open Government Partnership (OGP)
in the Philippines.
Until now, however, we have yet to hear of the Open Government Partnership
(OGPs) role in eliminating extensive corruption in the countrys
bureaucracy under the auspices of the Department of Budget (DBM),
which dispenses budgets and funds.
We should congratulate, however, a dozen or so of our cities and towns
that, according to the Department of Budget (DBM) secretary, were
accepted into the ranks of transparent and accountable governance
for promoting transparency and fighting graft.
But what about the more than 300 other government offices and agencies,
which in total suck an estimated 20 percent of the national budget?
Unless Department of Budget (DBM) has a game plan to end these corrupt
practices at source, here and now, lets stop lulling ourselves
with the isolated performance of a few government units that have
a conscience, lest we become a laughingstock in our helplessness.
Marvel K. Tan,
Manila,
Philippines
Call
for humanitarian assistance in conflict zones
For Myanmar citizens on Thai-Myanmar border
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday May 11, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday April 10, 2024
|
Re: "?'Brain drain' follows military coup",
in Bangkok Post, Monday April 8, 2024.
Humanitarian assistance to citizens in conflict zones on the Thai-Myanmar
border must be carried out without discrimination. Myanmar refugees
are being forced by the Tatmadaw to kill their fellow countrymen.
Thailand must not send them back to be jailed or killed but give them
humanitarian aid on our soil.
Also, it appears that anti-Tatmadaw groups are taking control of Myawaddy,
and 617 people have surrendered to the Karen National Union.
The Tatmadaw sent an aircraft to bring an initial group back but none
apparently showed up to be repatriated.
They, like any other refugees, must be given free choice as to whether
they wish to stay in Thailand or be repatriated.
If the latter, they must be sent to an area where they feel safe,
under the principle of non-refoulement.
Refugees electing to stay in Thailand are a golden opportunity for
Thailand.
We are one of Asia's fastest-ageing societies, with an increasingly
heavy burden on our workers to support us elders.
The Myanmar refugees are the exact age groups and professions needed
to slow our ageing society and kickstart our lagging economy.
We should help them find jobs with an acculturation programme and
merit-based route to citizenship.
But we must move quickly. They are literally knocking on our doors
as we speak.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Former PM of Thailand Thaksin
Shinawatra
Is on
record saying ''The United Nations is not my uncle".
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday May 19, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday May 2, 2024
|
Re: "Parnpree stuns govt with move to
quit", in Bangkok Post, April 29, 2024 and "Rights,
freedoms hang in balance", in Bangkok Post Opinion, Saturday
December 30, 2023.
I refer to the resignation of the Minister for Foreign Affairs Parnpree
Bahiddha-Nukara.
How sad.
Mr Parnpree was a supporter of Thailand applying to join the United
Nations Human Rights Council (UNHR) for 2025-2027.
I had to time travel back to December 2023 to find anything substantive
in your publication relating to Thailand's hopes to be admitted to
this organisation: an opinion piece titled "Rights, freedoms,
hang in the balance" by Prof Emeritus Vitit Muntarbhorn,
a human rights law expert.
Surely a successful application to the UNHR would be a source of pride.
There is, however, a sour note; the effective leader of Pheu Thai,
Thaksin is on record as saying that "The UN is not my uncle".
I guess that means we can kiss goodbye to joining the real world,
since it is beyond the imagination of one man.
Don McMahon
Bangkok,
Thailand
Philippines
call for new follow-up arbirtration in Hague Court
Against China for reclamation of West Philippine
Sea
The
Southeast Asian Times Thursday May 8, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday May 7, 2024
|
In addition to filing routine diplomatic protest, I
fully support the ongoing recommendation of retired Supreme Court
justice Francis H. Jardeleza for President Marcos to file a new follow-up
arbitration case against China on its large-scale reclamation of parts
of the West Philippine Sea (WPS), including areas within the Philippines
exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
If we fail to do this, then, surely China will continue its very aggressive
encroachment stance into our territorial jurisdiction and the continuing
harassment of our Filipino fishermen in the West Philippine Sea WPS.
On a similar note, I fully agree with lawyer Ancheta K. Tans
prodding to show crucial widespread support for Mr. Marcos foreign
policy.
As stated by Tan in his Letter to the Editor on May 1, 2024 President
Marcos has embarked on a courageous but logical and pragmatic shift
from the servile stance of his predecessor to a multilateral partnership
with other nations to enhance, not only our own, but regional peace
and stability. Among others, if we do not show our support
to this move, Tan opines: Lest we will be caught off guard,
and wake up one day with our neighbor entering our door without firing
a shot.
Definitely, the filing of a new arbitration case will entail costs
but I suppose it is more than worth it considering the very high stakes
and concomitant risks of losing our sovereignty and territorial jurisdiction
and becoming a pitiful vassal of China.
Therefore, let us put our money where our mouth is.
Our nationalistic and patriotic posture in this regard is hereby exhorted.
Emiliano
M. Manahan Jr.,
Manila,
Philippines
The power problem in the
Philippines is complex
''We cannot point to a single solution''
The Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday May 8, 2024
First pubished in the Philippine Inquirer Thursday May 2, 2024
|
The Luzon grid has been practically under yellow alert
for most of the day for weeks now.
The Visayas grid experiences the same deficiency in reserve.
The prevailing explanation has been due to the simultaneous plant
outages.
It is important to stress that an outage does not automatically result
in power interruption.
To use a more relatable analogy, if youre running a laundry
service, the loss of one washing machine does not mean the whole shop
would close down.
The loss of two or more should keep you worried.
A power plant may be allowed to be on planned outage for maintenance
but it does not mean the reserve will be thin; the reserve does not
necessarily have to be thin.
This is because there is a schedule to be followed and planned out
ahead of time when and how long power plants should be on shutdown.
Therefore, we know if the schedule is followed and when generators
will be on outage.
But why do generators shut down in the first place?
Generators are made up of many parts which may be moving or not.
These generator parts need to be maintained because the cost of having
a fault is usually higher than the cost of preventive maintenance.
In other words, there is an allowable time for generators to be on
outage for the upkeep.
Any exceedance of this allowable time is penalized because they are
expected to be already synchronized to the grid to supply power.
The Department of Energy (DOE) declared early on that there would
be no power crisis. It was a bold and sweeping declaration that was
eventually found to be not true.
At the grid level, that means we are not talking about power interruptions
at the distribution such as those caused by maintenance of lines,
substations, or localized power interruptions caused by faults, we
can quantify how many hours in a year there will be brownouts because
of the probability of simultaneous plant outages.
The very nature of plant outage is probabilistic.
This means there is a chance that plants will be on outage at the
same time which will lead to insufficient generation.
The question that needs to be answered is this probability, the likelihood
of occurrence that many power plants will be on outage.
The more plants that are on outage, the greater the chance of having
power interruption.
I make a distinction here that power plants, for whatever reason,
are on shutdown. The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) can sanction
generating units that will exceed the allowable shutdown.
This means that the ERC can legally ask generators to pay if they
are already more than the planned outages.
So, what is the solution?
We need to build more power plants.
If we are targeting increased renewable energy penetration, we need
to study how this can affect the stability of the grid, given that
we want to phase out thermal power plants providing inertia.
Modifying end-user behavior, which is what the DOE is gearing toward,
will take some time to take off.
It will not be easy to tell consumers to lessen the use of appliances
given that the heat mitigating measures heavily involve the use of
cooling appliances which use up much energy (read: higher electricity
bills).
The power problem of the country is a lot more complex and we cannot
point to a single solution.
Edward Joseph H. Maguindayao,
University of the Philippines Los Banos,
Manila,
Philippines
Call
for Philiipines to convert the status
Of contractual
employee to permanent employee
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday May 7, 2024
First pubished in the Philippine Inquirer Friday April 26, 2024
|
Per Civil Service Commission (CSC) data in June 2023,
there are about 1.97 million government personnel in career and noncareer
positions and more than 832,000 were hired as contractual or job-order
workers.
Contractualization is one of the most controversial labor practices
in the Philippines. After all, employees under contractual or casual
appointments are entitled to the same benefits enjoyed by regular
employees.
Meanwhile, CSC chair Karlo Nograles has urged top graduates (summa
cum laude, magna cum laude, and cum laude) to consider joining the
government to infuse new talents into government service.
This is provided under Presidential Decree No. 907 or the Granting
Civil Service Eligibility to College Honor Graduates.
Sometime in November 2022, the Department of Budget and Management
reiterated that there are more than 160,000 unfilled positions in
the national government, while 62,000 workers hold nonpermanent positions.
We are aware that regular positions in government require civil service
eligibility for professional and nonprofessional levels.
In this regard, I would like to propose that the CSC seriously consider
a special form of equivalent eligibility considering, among others,
educational qualifications and length of service/tenure that a contractual
had continuously worked with the government, i.e., professional eligibility
could be replaced by eight years service tenure and subprofessional
eligibility by five years service tenure.
If doable, the CSC could recommend to the President to issue an executive
order regarding this special form of eligibility, the objective of
which is to convert the status of contractual employee to a permanent
one as well as fill up the numerous unfilled positions in the government.
If successfully implemented, the government will send a strong signal
to private companies to likewise reconsider the hiring of regular
rather than contractual employees.
In this regard, the government can still become a model employer.
Emiliano M. Manahan Jr.,
Manila,
Phlippines
Malaysia's Indian community
want their fundamental rights
To be acknowledged and fulfilled
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday May 6, 2024
First published in the Star, Friday May 3, 2023
|
Malays, Chinese, Indians and other races that
wish to be loyal, live together, defend the nation and work together,
live in harmony, because the situation in this country is different
from other countries in the world.
Because of this, one race cannot take everything for itself.
'' In order to set up an independent government, we must compromise
and make sacrifices,'' Tunku Abdul Rahman, speech at the Sungai Besi
Airport after returning from London, June 3, 1957.
One year and five months ago, the nation witnessed Datuk Seri Anwar
Ibrahim taking the oath as the 10th Prime Minister of Malaysia.
It was a moment etched in memory with one particular scene standing
out an Indian man, overwhelmed with emotion, stood in the middle
of a highway, tears streaming down his face as he witnessed his idol
ascend to the highest office in Malaysia.
This wasn't just a political event; it was a symbol of resilience
and triumph.
Anwar, once hunted and harassed, had returned with greater strength,
now poised to lead Malaysia as its prime minister.
As a prominent figure in the opposition, Anwar had captivated the
Indian community with his impassioned speeches and promises, reminiscent
of the charismatic moves of the legendary Indian superstar, MGR, from
the 70s.
He spoke of lifting the Indian community from the shadows, addressing
their long-standing grievances and advocating for their rights.
However, since assuming office, his actions have fallen short of expectations,
particularly concerning the Indian community.
There have been instances of insensitivity and disregard, such as
when he dismissed concerns about the quota system and matriculation,
or when he brushed off pressing issues raised by a minister pertaining
to the Indian community.
His recent call for Indians to "stab him" if they
felt he wasn't doing enough for them only exacerbated tensions.
Such remarks not only lack statesmanship but also fuel resentment
within the community.
Most recently, his statement urging the Indian community not to harbour
jealousy or resentment towards the bumiputra community has stirred
controversy.
Contrary to his assertion, the Indian community isn't envious of the
progress made by others; rather, they want their fundamental rights
to be acknowledged and fulfilled.
Financial loans/grants, such as RM100mil from Mitra (Malaysian Indian
Transformation Mitra, RM60mil from Tekun (Tabung Ekonomi Kumpulan
Usaha Niaga), and RM50mil from AIM (Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia), are
not new.
They were given by Datuk Seri Najib Razak who also allocated equally
enough to the bumiputra, Chinese and Indian communities.
The former prime minister gave Malaysians hope of equal opportunity.
By framing the Indian community's legitimate concerns as jealousy,
Anwar risks deepening racial divisions and perpetuating misunderstandings.
Instead of fostering unity, such rhetoric only serves to widen existing
rifts and sow discord.
What the Indian community seeks is not preferential treatment but
fairness and inclusion, a sentiment echoed by many across Malaysia.
Viknesvaran Goppal,
Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
Philippines
call for a think tank to monitor
All activities
of China's impingment on the Philippines
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday May 4, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Wednesday May 1,
2024
|
More than any initiative of his two-year-old administration,
President Marcos foreign policy, specifically as it involves
our relationship with China, is shaping up day by day as the most
consequential and eventful course of action impacting various levels
of our national life.
He has embarked on a courageous but logical and pragmatic shift from
the servile stance of his predecessor to a multilateral partnership
with other nations to enhance, not only our own, but regional peace
and stability.
The focus on China, an erstwhile friend when it suits its agenda,
is neither random nor a form of racial profiling, but a hard-nosed
reality that the Asian superpower poses the gravest threat to our
national security.
For this reason, every Filipino, including those in the Left, must
wake up and fully support Mr. Marcos diplomatic thrust.
As a renowned American diplomat said, No foreign policyno
matter how ingenioushas any chance of success if it is born
in the minds of a few and carried in the hearts of none.
This is especially crucial because of hostile forces undermining the
Presidents actions at every turn, not only from beyond our borders
but among our countrymen.
Externally, the threat to us is real. Our powerful neighbor, with
its awesome military and economic capabilities, is crouching just
500 nautical miles from the shores of Palawan and Batanes.
It is the only nation that has intruded into our territory, constructed
artificial islands inside our exclusive economic zone, and mounted
aggressive actions against our assets and people in the West Philippine
Sea.
It is therefore a strategic and inevitable option for the administration
to forge mutual assistance with the United States, Japan, Australia,
France, and even India on maritime affairs.
It must be assumed that a predator, with billions of hungry mouths
to feed, will not spare a prey floating alone in the open sea.
To be clear our country will never engage, and is incapable of engaging,
in warmongering and aggression.
Whatever we do is defensive because we are a peaceful people and our
Constitution renounces war as an instrument of national policy and
adopts international law as part of the law of the land.
But we cannot say the same thing of China, which has openly refused
to comply with the 2016 arbitral ruling and continues to display a
cavalier attitude to the rules and principles of international law.
If this is not enough to alarm us, internal subversion by the China
strain of Makapili among our businessmen, government officials, and
media personalities will be wrenching.
This is why we should not treat lightly reports about ''sleepers,''
the influx of Chinese students in Cagayan province which the Bureau
of Immigration placed at 1,516 in 2023, and an earlier post that quoted
Cagayan Gov. Manuel Mamba as opposing the Enhanced Defense Cooperation
Agreement and pushing for stronger ties with Beijing.
At the very least, there must be a comprehensive and thorough investigation
of this situation to uncover the facts. Better still, I suggest a
special body under the Office of the President, akin to The Russia
House of British Intelligence, not a spy agency but a think tank to
monitor all activities of China impinging on the Philippines, lest
we will be caught off guard, and wake up one day with our neighbor
entering our door without firing a shot.
Ancheta K. Tan,
lawyer,
Manila,
Philippines
China's
fast economic growth
Is over
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday May 4, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday April 8, 2024
|
False China stories
Much of the Western press, for some time, has been filled with stories
about the Chinese economy and how it's faltering.
There, we are told regularly that China's fast growth is over, that
China's economic data is often manipulated, that a Chinese financial
crisis may be looming, and that China will suffer the same stagnation
as Japan starting in the early 1990s.
This is mostly US propaganda, not reality.
Surely, the Chinese economy faces headwinds but mainly created by
the United States with multiple sanctions, which could even be illegal
under WTO rules.
Yet many, like me, believe China can overcome US-EU-created headwinds
and continue on its path of rapid economic development.
Paul A Renaud,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Enlightenment is not a trait
Transferable
by genetic inheritance
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday May 3, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday April 29, 2024
|
Re: "NOB to investigate case of 'son of Buddha
reincarnate'", in Bangkok Post, Friday April 26,
2024
I don't know why anyone should imagine the National Office of Buddhism
(NOB) might require assistance with their deliberation about the authenticity
of Nong Nice. Perhaps because they indicate a thorough investigation
is necessary?
One point to consider is that enlightenment is not a trait transferable
by genetic inheritance.
Therefore, whether one is a long lost family member of Gautama Buddha
or Thaksin Shinawatra makes no difference in spiritual potential,
despite what Jesus said about rich men being barred from the kingdom
of heaven.
And surely telepathic phone calls with Vladimir Putin don't count
for much either. By now National Office of Buddhism (NOB) should have
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP's) from the flying saucer temple
scam, the 747 flying-high monk debacle and hundreds of others, shouldn't
they?
In summary all these scams are absurdly, self-evidently obvious.
But this is how people learn, and they should be allowed to learn
it seems to me.
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Outgoing
Solomon Is PM Manasseh Sogavare
Has millions
in property
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday May 2, 2024
|
Solomon Islands PM has millions in property : Questions
raised around wealth
( The Fiji Times 27/4/24 ).
Would the Solomon Islands PM have that kind of personal wealth without
being PM?
Personal wealth amassment is a phenomenon in third world politics.
Some African political leaders become so wealthy they buy up market
properties and mansions in UK, France and other first world countries
even when their own people live in grinding poverty!
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
Chinese
in the Philippines could be spies
Or advanced occupation troops
The Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday May 1, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday April 26,
2024
|
This is in reaction to the article Govt
panel to meet amid influx of Chinese students in Cagayan
in Philippine Inquirer, Thursday April 22, 2024.
In the face of Chinese militias aggressive actions using water
cannons in the West Philippine Sea, which has already resulted in
the injury of some Filipino fishermen and Philippine Coast Guard crew
members, the reported influx of Chinese nationals who pose as students
is reasonable cause for apprehension.
This, in addition to reports about the entry of many Chinese nationals
allegedly aged about 35 years who were applying for special resident
retiree visas and employees of Philippine offshore gaming operators
who have long been in the country.
The latter has been reported to even have a practice firing range
somewhere in Parañaque City.
We have reason to believe that these Chinese could be veritable spies
or advanced occupation troops.
In one of your editorials, you mentioned the Trojan horse.
My late grandfather used to tell us about many Japanese nationals
who were engaged in the business of buying old newspapers, bottles,
and scrap iron before World War II.
It turned out that those Japanese men were intelligence officers who
would later don military uniforms when the Japanese Imperial Army
invaded the Philippines.
Those Chinese who are already in the country are potential agents
engaged in gathering human intelligence in addition to the information
supplied by Chinese transmitters that can collect signal intelligence
that the Philippine government allowed to be built right in military
bases.
I cringe in horror at the specter of a Chinese invasion that can easily
conquer us as a result of thousands of Chinese already deployed in
our country.
Ramon Mayuga,
Manila,
Philippines
In
1947 the UN divided the British mandate into two parts
One for Israel and one for the Palestinians
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday April 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday April 18, 2024
|
Re: "Historical context", in Bangkok
Post, PostBag, Saturday April 13, 2024.
PostBag column has published letters condemning the Jews for the Gaza
war.
The pro-Palestine protests in the world use the same arguments as
these PostBag contributors, ie, the Jews occupied Gaza for the last
75 years, a Palestinian territory.
This statement is a lie, and it is about time the truth be known!
The fact is there is no occupied Palestinian territory.
In 1947, the United Nations divided the British mandate into two parts:
one for Israel and one for the Palestinians.
Israel accepted the start of the Israeli state.
However, I know it is difficult to accept the truth when this doesn't
confirm with pre-conceived opinions, as people in general are too
lazy to inform themselves and like to wallow in the warm mud with
the other ignoramuses.
Megon,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Air quality in Chiang Mai
Much worse than in Bangkok
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday April 29, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday April 8, 2024
|
Re: "3 more areas on disaster list",
in Bangkok Post, Monday April 8, 2024.
Living in the very far north of Chiang Mai province, where at this
time of the year, our air quality is much worse than in the city,
I feel it's time the blame was laid on the correct place.
Government officials could possibly be responsible for some of our
mountain and forest fires, but without doubt, most fires are purposely
lit by citizens from amongst the local population.
Certain individuals from the local community are removing weeds, extending
their cropland into forest areas and destroying the bamboo wastelands
that are the result of previous logging to create new fields.
The effort to halt this burning and the harm it causes to people's
health has to take place in the local community.
Schools need to teach the young that their parents' decision to burn
is destroying their health, and neighbours need to approach their
farming brothers and ask just why they are creating this polluted
atmosphere.
The 50,000 individuals need to be brought to task by their fellow
citizens and made to understand the dangers they are creating.
Enforcement within your own society is the answer, and if you must,
report the errant farmer to the headman or the government office if
the fires continue.
Blaming officials sitting at desks in the far city is nothing but
a waste of time.
The problem is in your own community, and that's where it needs to
be tackled.
Lungstib,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call for President Marcos
to allow the ICC
To investigate
former President Duterte war on drugs
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday April 28, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Wednesday April
24, 2024
|
I cannot understand President Marcos continued
refusal to allow the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate
former president Rodrigo Dutertes alleged crimes against humanity,
for causing the death of thousands of Filipinos in his failed drug
war.
As president, he has the weighty responsibility to uphold the rule
of law and to see to it that justice is served.
His namby-pamby stand proves him to be just your regular traditional
politician who thinks only of his own vested and selfish interests.
A real statesman would have a utilitarian mindset; hed be someone
who knows that the best actions are those that result in the greatest
good for the greatest number of people.
He chooses the actions that will result in the best overall consequences
for his people.
If Mr. Marcos believes that Duterte is innocent, he should convince
the former president to face the music.
Coddling and protecting him would just be sending the message that
you are, after all, birds of a feather flocking together, crows that
ravage the cornfields in unity and band.
How would the victims feel that you two are performing the danse macabre
over the graves of their dearly departed?
Before the first visit of Pope John Paul II to the Philippines, on
January 17, 1981, the Presidents father Ferdinand Marcos Sr.
lifted martial law through Proclamation No. 2045.
The Pope, who was a staunch advocate of human rights and used his
position and influence to effect positive political change in the
world, wrote an essay titled Reflections on Working Toward
Peace.
The President should listen to what this great religious leader and
statesman said: An offense against human rights is an offense
against the conscience of humanity, an offense against humanity itself.
The duty of protecting these rights therefore extends beyond the geographical
and political borders within which they are violated. Crimes against
humanity cannot be considered an internal affair of a nation. The
ICC was established to try such crimes, regardless of the place or
circumstances in which they are committed. We must thank God that
in the conscience of peoples and nations there is a growing conviction
that human rights have no borders, because they are universal and
indivisible.
The indisputable fact remains that many people died during Dutertes
war on drugs and someone must have caused their deaths.
Can there be a crime without a criminal?
Let the ICC come in and let Duterte prove his innocence its
that simple!
If Duterte is the BFF of no less than the living Son of God himself,
then why is he afraid of appearing before what for him is merely a
court run by lowly mortal kangaroos?
Our world has become a dangerous place to live in, not just because
of the people who are evil but also because of the people who wont
do anything about it.
To ignore evil is to become an accomplice to it.
The President is invested with the power to do what is right and to
impose and implement justice though the heavens fall.
When a man cannot choose good over evil, he ceases to be a man, let
alone a president.
The dark period of Dutertes war on drugs will live in infamy
and time, history, and God Himself will judge its perpetrators, enablers,
and abettors according to what they did or did not do at the height
of the conflagration.
This is no time to dillydally.
The President should choose to do what is right and good.
Antonio Calipjo Go,
Manila,
Philippines
Elections
in India to reaffirm sovereignty
And dispell fears of democratic erosion
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday April 27, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday April 21, 2024
|
Re: "Modi 'top pick' for election",
Bangkok Post, World, Wednesday April 17, 2024.
The essence of a robust democracy is evident when leaders are elected
through fair and open elections by the populace.
With Mr Modi securing two landslide victories, it's indicative that
he has garnered widespread support through effective governance.
The legal scrutiny faced by some of his opponents underscores adherence
to the rule of law.
Doubting the integrity of the Indian judiciary seems unwarranted given
its pivotal role in upholding justice.
Moreover, among India's 31 states, 12 are governed by opposition parties,
a testament to the diversity of political representation within the
nation's democratic framework.
Addressing historical context, the demolition of a 16th-century mosque,
often depicted as an act of "Hindu zealotry", was
viewed by many as reclaiming a sacred site, the birthplace of the
Hindu deity Ram, steeped in religious significance. There was enough
evidence to prove the existence of a Hindu temple at the site which
was demolished to build the mosque in the 16th century and the judiciary
decided to allow Hindus to build a temple at the place.
Critics often assail Mr Modi, yet the presence of a vocal opposition
underscores the vitality of press freedom.
Recent revelations of tax discrepancies by organisations such as the
BBC underscore the need for impartial scrutiny.
The Pew survey indicating widespread public approval of Mr Modi, including
among minorities, challenges narratives of exclusion.
The Modi government's focus on socio-economic upliftment, rather than
tokenism, has resonated even among marginalised communities.
Ultimately, the upcoming elections will reflect the true sentiments
of the Indian public, reaffirming their sovereignty and dispelling
unfounded fears of democratic erosion.
The so-called intellectuals must respect the diversity of opinions
within the electorate, a hallmark of genuine democracy.
VB,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Filipinos
stuck in out-of-date thinking
Of homosexuality being a ''sin''
The Southeast Asian Times, Friday April 26, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Monday April 22,
2024
|
In our continuously growing culture, art has been a
huge platform where people show their opinions and beliefs or simply
express themselves like how LGBTQIA+ members express themselves through
the art of drag.
Although many have been raising awareness of being queer, there are
still some stuck in their out-of-date thinking of homosexuality being
a sin even though it is not.
The performance of drag queen Pura Luka Vega, real name: Amadeus Fernando
Pagent,where they are dressed as Jesus Christ while the remix of a
liturgical song Ama Namin is used has caused chaos
in the Christian community and has led people to choose sides.
Their statement brought light to a variety of viewpoints toward art.
Art has no boundaries; it can be illicit or not.
An artist like Pagente is a testament to this; they push boundaries,
go beyond social standards, and pose provocative issues.
Art is fascinating and influential because of this, giving art the
ability to educate.
While some people understand its message, some have been offended.
Negros Occidental declared Pagente persona non grata.
According to the 1987 Philippine Constitution, the separation
of church and state shall be inviolable.
Pagentes issue is connected to religion, thus, the government
should not meddle in the said issue.
Declaring Pagente a persona non grata shows that the Philippine government
is still a slave to the churchs conservatism.
Their intention was not for the people from the religion to be offended
by what they had done. Pagente also said that the issue will not end
their way of expressing and practicing faith.
For them, Pagentes way of dressing up like Jesus Christ is like
how Catholics do it during Holy Week for the Senakulo. Judging by
the aggressive reactions the performance received, it shows that people
of the faith are fine when a straight person dresses the same way
as Jesus Christ with the purpose of deliberately ridiculing Him, but
not if a queer person does it as an expression of their faith.
Taking everything into consideration, art can be used to express yourself.
Pagentes intention in their performance was to bring honor to
the Catholic faith and worship God in a queer way.
The issue making it to the national government shows that they would
rather debate over a drag performance than tackle more pressing issues.
Catholics should be able to understand other peoples points
of view when it comes to practicing the faith. As Pagente said,
You may like a particular work of art but somebody else doesnt.
You cant force anyone to accept or reject. Art may provoke;
it may also soothe; it may spark joy or rouse anger, regardless of
the artists intent. Appreciation may not necessarily match the
intent.
Art is a controversial matter. Faith, even more so. Both have the
power to provoke, motivate, and educate. People do not need to stop
making art just because some people dislike it. We as citizens should
respect and understand others, and not be so quick to judge and criticize
when a certain belief doesnt resonate with ours.
Chandynee Domingo,
Wesleyan University
Philippines
The
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
Is the central diplomatic forum in Southeast
Asia
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday April 25, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday April 15, 2024
|
Re: "Asean juggles triangular power game",
in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Tuesday April 9, 2024.
Asean foresees and expects tougher times and unpredictable circumstances
ahead.
However, solidarity plays a crucial role in Asean's diplomacy with
other powers by providing the organisation with a unified voice and
great negotiating strength.
It fosters regional integration within this organisation, strengthening
economic ties, cultural exchanges, and political cooperation.
Acting in solidarity contributes to Asean's credibility and influence
in its dialogue with big powers.
As Asean is the central diplomatic forum in Southeast Asia, solidarity
serves as a cornerstone of regional diplomacy, enabling it to navigate
complex geopolitical dynamics at the continental and global levels.
Ioan Voicu
Bangkok,
Thailand
Stray
dogs locked up in dog pounds have more space
Than
inmates in Thai prisons
The Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday 24, April 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday April 11, 2024
|
Re: "Overcrowded prisons need reforming",
in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Wednesday April 10, 2024.
Have you ever seen a photo of sleeping conditions at Thai prisons?
You haven't.
You may have seen pics of other countries' prisons' sleeping conditions,
but you have never seen the same for Thailand because Thai prisons
don't allow such photos.
Granted, there are a rare few photos taken within Thai prisons, but
they're highly staged.
In other words, a few select inmates are given clean, new matching
t-shirts to be given back after the photo and everyone, including
perhaps a few dignitaries from town, is shown in the best light, in
a non-sleeping area during the day.
Most prisons worldwide are very crowded, but only in Southeast Asia
and parts of Africa do inmates have no beds or cots.
In Thai prisons, it's not unusual for an inmate to have a sleeping
space as narrow as 33cm, on a concrete floor with no pillow nor mattress,
overhead lights on 24/7.
One thin blanket per inmate in southern regions is standard, or two
thin blankets for inmates in northern regions.
At some prisons, inmates are confined to sleeping areas for up 72
hours at a time but most often, inmates are confined in their narrow
spaces for 16 out of each 24-hour cycle.
Stray dogs locked up at dog pounds have more space than inmates at
Thai prisons. In some prisons, an inmate doesn't even have enough
room to stretch his arms or legs, without thumping into another inmate.
Nek Nestrebla
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thai embassies should scan
for doubtful visa applicants
Including for Koh Samui and Pattaya
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday April 23, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Sunday April 21, 2024
|
Re: "Cops up ante on foreign criminals",
in Bangkok Post, Wednesday April 17, 2024.
The government should instruct the Foreign Affairs Ministry to set
up new rules for Thai embassies around the world to scan for doubtful
visa applicants in vulnerable countries, apart from instructing the
Royal Thai Police and the Interior Ministry to take measures to deal
with the "crackdown on foreign criminals".
Investigate applicants' personal and criminal records in advance at
the embassies. Rejecting visas will lower the burden on local and
immigration police in Thailand.
The Commerce Ministry should draw up new strategies and execute them
accordingly in investigating applicants' history.
It's not necessary to approve visas within a day.
It may take a month.
The idea is making rules and the screening process watertight before
any damage is done.
The article focuses on Phuket and in the southern borders of Thailand,
but places like Koh Samui or Pattaya, where transnational mafia set
up their regional head offices and operate schemes, are left out.
Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, list Member of Parliament from a United
Thai Nation Party, emphasised that "Thais should not be misled".
I like to stress that Thais are not misled.
The ones who agreed to be nominees are not normally misled.
They know the illegality and voluntarily accepted with greed.
It's the grid that works in their brains; they should be severely
punished.
Jayut
Jayanandana,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Cults
and Sects operate under the cloak
Of
religious freedom in the Philippines
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday April 22, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday April 18,
2024
|
It is with great interest and pleasure that I read Ma.
Ceres P. Doyos column about ASOG
or Appointed Son of God in Human Face, Thursday April 4, 2024.
My profession is more inclined towards science, philosophy, and medical
history, but this topic is certainly interesting.
It surprises me that a country like the Philippines is very conservative,
and influenced by both the Catholic Church and Islam.
Yet there is still room for such types of sects and cults.
I know that the United States, especially the south, is teeming with
and, sometimes bizarre, Protestant TV evangelists that are a peculiarity
of American conservatism, much like McDonalds and KFC.
As the columnist correctly writes, former president Rodrigo Duterte
who calls God stupid which is, of course, covered by freedom of expression
in a free country but now claims to be the Appointed Son of God (ASOG)
spiritual advisee, is one development quite far from any logic. Why?
Because cults and sects under the cloak of religious freedom seem
to operate here under the radar. This is completely unthinkable in
atheist/agnostic countries such as China, Vietnam, North Korea, Laos,
and Cuba, and Islamic countries like the Arab States, Iran, and elsewhere.
Even in Western democracies, stricter laws are now being passed after
previous incidents of mass suicides, tax evasion, or manipulation.
The Church of Scientology, popular with Hollywood stars in the US,
is being monitored by the police in Germany because of unfair practices.
If people end up on social welfare or in poverty for their faith,
intervention must be made. Jesus lived a life of poverty without women:
what a contrast to other cult leaders!
Serious Catholic and Protestant churches are also called upon to warn
people about sects. Contact points and information centers could offer
help and set up exit programs. Bhagwan or Hare Krishna play almost
no role today, thanks to the Enlightenment.
Jurgen Schofer, Ph.D.,
Manila,
Philippines
PM2.5 in Chiang Mai is not
good
Whether it causes cancer or not
The
Southeast Asian Times Sunday April 21, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Wednesday April 17, 2024
|
Re: "Three more areas on disaster list",
in Bangkok Post, Monday April 8, 2024.
This article on Chiang Mai's air quality left me scratching my head.
The second-to-last paragraph quoted a renowned doctor as saying there
is "no clear evidence" that PM2.5 is a "main
cause" of lung cancer.
Then the last paragraph had the same doctor saying PM2.5 particles
cause free radicals and inflammation "and it is this process
that leads to cancer."
So what can be concluded from this apparently conflicting information?
That PM2.5 may be a main cause of lung cancer but there is no clear
evidence proving that?
That it has been proven that PM2.5 is a contributory factor to lung
cancer, though not the main cause?
That PM2.5 contributes to other cancers but not lung cancer?
Let's face it: PM2.5 is not good for one, whether it causes cancer
or not.
As I continue scratching my head with one hand, I am donning my mask
with the other.
Klongurchin,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Hard-working overseas Filipino
workers
Turning into working poor of New Zealand
The
Southeast Asian Times Saturday April 20, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday April 18,
2024
|
Nearly four months after hundreds of Filipino workers
lost jobs when labor hire giant ELE workforce went into receivership,
our worst fear is happening now: Every week, dozens of Filipino workers
are seeking assistance to avail of emergency financial aid from the
Philippine government.
Migrante Aotearoa New Zealand has been calling on the Philippine and
New Zealand governments to avoid another ELE mess but it seems that
they just allow labor hire and recruitment agencies to keep spreading
false promises of jobs in New Zealand and elsewhere.
Philippines President Marcos and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher
Luxon can do better to ensure Filipinos in New Zealand will not be
out of work and left in limbo.
With Luxon set to meet Mr. Marcos, they should be talking more about
their state responsibility to investigate and stop the labor hire
practice of recruiting hundreds of Filipino laborers that results
in an oversupply of labor and leaving the Filipinos in insecure jobs
and below 40 guaranteed hours.
Hundreds of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in New Zealand are voicing
their concerns about widespread redundancies, limited working hours
(often 30 hours or less), and the resulting struggle to make ends
meet. Despite coming to New Zealand for work opportunities, many find
themselves facing financial hardship due to the low guaranteed hours
and insufficient work provided by labor-hire companies.
These challenges are turning hard-working OFWs into the working poor
of New Zealand.
We have seen the extreme hardships of displaced ELE workers and many
others in similar situations. Migrante Aotearoa reiterates the call
for Mr. Marcos to immediately instruct the Department of Migrant Workers,
Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, and all relevant agencies
to fast-track the release of emergency aid for the families of displaced
OFWs in New Zealand and all our distressed compatriots around the
world.
Mikee Santos,
chair,
Migrante Aotearoa New Zealand,
Philippines
Not all tourists in Thailand
Are there to sunbathe
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday April 19, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday April 8, 2024
|
Re: "Phuket
court responds to surge in tourist-related cases",
in Bangkok Post, Thursday April 4, 2024.
I well remember the first time I read, while relaxing in Phuket, of
the Tourism Authority of Thailan (TAT) and government's desire to
attract "better quality tourists".
I was lunching in an idyllic laid-back tree-shaded beach restaurant
on the paradise island that was Phuket some 30 years ago.
Like everyone from that era, I've watched how the desire for "better
quality tourists" has changed the "Pearl of the Andaman"
into the "Costa del Crime" of the East or as it's
more generally known: "Little Moscow".
The search for better quality tourists has, in recent times, focused
on package tourists from New Delhi and Wuhan and long-stay tourists
soon-to-be residents with the VIP bonus of a 90-day visa on entry
to smoke-filled oligarch meetings and mafia dens of Russia.
Apparently, it has come as a shock that thousands of Chinese have
not been staying in Thailand for the sunbathing, but to set up scam
centres and indulge in other crimes.
Murder, kidnapping, extortion, fraud and illegal businesses are regular
news items in the Phuket press. This island was once raunchy but relaxing,
but is now corrupt, greedy and manic.
Chang Louie.
Bangkok,
Thailand
Tsunami
warning in Northern Cagayan, Philippines
Followed earthquake in Taiwan
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday April 18, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Wednesday April
10, 2024
|
Last April 3, some of my provincemates from Northern
Cagayan came across a tsunami warning issued by the Phiippine Institute
of Volcanology and Seismology on social media following an earthquake
in Taiwan.
This advisory caused widespread concern among the public, as the threat
of tsunamis is always accompanied by the potential for significant
destruction and loss of life.
As a natural reaction, parents, concerned for the safety of their
children, immediately went to fetch them from schools without waiting
for instructions from the school and government authorities.
Some even took it upon themselves to leave their homes and head to
higher ground, while workers abandoned their public and private offices
without hesitation.
This level of proactivity displayed by the public is commendable,
as it shows a sense of responsibility and awareness of the potential
dangers posed by natural disasters like the Taiwan earthquake.
However, amid these commendable actions, there were concerns raised
about the lack of clear protocols and guidelines in place for such
situations.
One friend expressed her worry about the delay in coordinating efforts
between municipal and barangay disaster risk reduction and management
(DRRM) councils, highlighting the importance of having predetermined
protocols for the public to follow during emergencies.
It is crucial to have established protocols and guidelines in place
to ensure that everyone knows what to do during a disaster.
This can help minimize confusion, prevent panic, and ultimately save
lives.
By having a clear set of instructions on where to go, what to bring,
and how to stay safe during a tsunami threat, people can act quickly
and decisively without needing to wait for the municipal and barangay
DRRM councils to meet and rely solely on their official advisories.
Let us engage in regular drills and exercises to supplement our preparedness.
The public must become familiar with these protocols to ensure readiness
for any situation.
Just as fire drills are practiced in schools and workplaces, it is
just as important to conduct exercises for natural disasters like
tsunamis.
By educating and training our people on emergency procedures, we can
empower them to act swiftly and protect themselves and their families.
The uncoordinated response to the tsunami advisory serves as a reminder
of the necessity to be prepared and proactive during crises.
While social media serves as a valuable tool for disseminating information
and providing guidance, there is still a need for clear protocols
and regular drills to ensure everyone knows how to respond effectively
in emergencies.
Let us not wait for a crisis to strike before taking action. Instead,
let us be proactive, prepared, and united in our efforts to safeguard
our communities and prioritize our safety and well-being.
Reginald B. Tamayo,
Manila,
Philippines
Simple
action of registration of motorcycle
Is
200k away from Chiang Mai
The Southeast Asian Times Wednesday April 17, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday April 4, 2024
|
Re: "The next two-wheel revolution",
in Bangkok Post , Business, Wednesday March
6, 2014.
What is it with the Dept of Land Transport (DLT) that they take the
simple action of registering a motorcycle and make it difficult?
Chiang Mai may be a big province, but we're well into the computer
age, though sometimes you'd never know it.
From my home, it's 40km to the Fang Dept of Land Transport (DLT) but
for certain actions, such as registering a bike coming from another
province, you are required to go 200km to the main office.
And it gets worse.
My old bike was registered in my son's name in Chiang Mai eight years
ago and has just been bought by a neighbour who seldom leaves the
district but needs transport to deliver some food supplies.
My wife inquired about what was needed, and we were staggered to find
that Fang district is now considered different to Chiang Mai, and
the bike and documents would need to be presented at the city's main
office to change ownership.
The new owner will never ride a motorbike 200km on roads he has never
travelled on, and we can't do it for him.
Being way out in the hills, we don't have agents who do these tasks
for a fee, so it's most likely we will all be breaking the law by
not fulfilling these silly tasks, and the bike will never have insurance
or the tax paid.
When will these people ever enter the 21st century?
Lungstib,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Rumors of 3-day darkness
in Surigao del Norte
Example of lack of scientific literacy
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday April 16, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday April 11,
2024
|
I found the story, Rumors of 3-day darkness
sent people buying rice in Surigao del Norte, by Chris Panganiban,
April 8, 2024, relevant.
It is a striking example of a far darker problem in our society: the
widespread lack of scientific literacy.
It is quite worrisome to see people simply give up on critical thinking
when confronted with such an absurd assertion.
It is not for us to assign blame to the terrified locals.
When one lacks information, fear is a normal human reaction.
The system is to blame for not providing them with the necessary resources
to safely traverse the dangerous waters of internet knowledge.
We are submerged in a sea of false information, and even the most
well-meaning people might be carried away in the absence of scientific
knowledge, which serves as a life preserver.
This is also a reminder that in education, a paradigm change is needed.
Science shouldnt be just a boring list of facts to commit to
memory.
Inquiry, critical thinking, and knowledge assessment should be ingrained
in daily life.
Children need to be trained to read critically about the scientific
environment in which they live, just as we educate them to read.
But knowledge on its own is insufficient.
It is the duty of organizations like the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical,
and Astronomical Services Administration to convey difficult scientific
ideas in a simple and understandable manner.
They must gain the publics trust by becoming dependable information
pillars amid a deluge of exaggerated claims.
Social media sites must also do more to combat disinformation, which
spreads like a disease.
Stricter moderation and fact-checking procedures are essential to
stop the spread of lies.
But ultimately, each of us must take responsibility for the other.
We need to develop a healthy distrust of internet sources of information.
Dont use fear as your sole guide.
Take a minute when you share that frightening headline because of
a popular post. Obtain confirmation from reliable sources.
Though it wasnt the end of the world, the three-day
darkness story is a serious warning.
May this be the moment of change.
Lets make investments in science education, equip individuals
with media literacy, and work together to drive out disinformation
with reason.
Lemuel L. Barola,
Surigao City,
Surigao del Norte
Philippines
Philippines
on the right side of the conflict
With China in the West Philippine Sea
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday April 15, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday April 9,
2024
|
In the West Philippines Sea (WPS) conflict, China brazenly
usurps Ayungin Shoal through a display of military might, despite
the 2016 arbitral ruling that favors the Philippines claim.
How has it become so emboldened as to defy the arbitral ruling and
throw blatant accusation at our former presidents, while demanding
that we abandon our claim over the shoal?
If this is canard spun by China and its paid media trolls here, both
former presidents should vehemently deny it.
That former presidential spokespersons recall no such verbal commitment
but only lame casual accounts, without categorical statements from
both former presidents Joseph Estrada and Rodrigo Duterte, leave doubt
on its veracity.
The commitment of a leader is a sterling and reliable virtue, whether
written or spoken.
I remember in grade school what I thought Americans were like through
the image of a military officer, sporting dark glasses under the blazing
Philippine sun, with a Pershing cap on who waded ashore in Leyte to
fulfill a commitment, a promise, to return.
Gen. Douglas MacArthur was forced to abandon the Philippines in 1941,
and dejectedly left behind 90,000 American and Filipino troops in
Corregidor on the Bataan Peninsula.
Besieged and overpowered by the Japanese army, their spirits were
buoyed by Macarthurs parting words: I shall return.
On October 20, 1944, after Japan capitulated, General MacArthur triumphantly
reached Philippine shores with his troops and declared: People
of the Philippines, I have returned.
What impresses us most about the generals leadership was his
strong sense of commitment that he put above self-interest.
In the West Philippines Sea (WPS) conflict against China, we are on
the right side; the territorial waters are within the UN-defined 200-mile
exclusive economic zone, and theyre ours.
People expect our national leaders, past and present and across political
lines, to show the same strong commitment to uphold our national interest
and self-respect as an independent nation against a bully.
Marvel K. Tan,
Manila,
Philippines
Indonesia supports Palestinian
human rights
But denies West Papuans their human rights
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday April 14, 2024
|
Vanuatu Daily Post newspaper has demonstrated bold journalism
with its criticism of Indonesias contradictory stance in supporting
the human rights of the oppressed Palestinians in Gaza on the one
hand and denying the human rights of the West Papuans on the other
hand ( VDP 4/4/24 ).
The Indonesian governments response that it has not colonised
West Papua is a self serving appraisal. Indonesia cannot be the judge
of its own case.
There needs to be an independent authoritative determination on the
question of West Papuas struggle for sovereignty and the right
to live as a free people and not under the yoke of Indonesian colonialism
which is the prevailing perception among the West Papuans.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
The Move Forward Party seeks
What King Bhumibol wanted
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday April 13, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday April 1, 2024
|
Re: "Don't shift the blame", in Bangkok
Post, March 23, 2024 and "MFP still wants S112 offences
included in amnesty", Bangkok Post, February
6, 2024
Khun Vint Chavala asks "Knowing that to amend the Section
112 law is unlawful, why did the Move Forward Party (MFP) leaders
try to mislead their junior members and the public to break it?"
I suggest that Move Forward Party (MFP) recognises our beloved national
father as our outstanding expert on protecting the monarchy and seeks
to follow his advice.
Pol Gen Sereepisuth Temeeyaves, a former national police chief, noted
that Section 112 was amended in 1997, and emphasised that when he
was top cop, "the royal institution instructed against the
inappropriate use of Section 112, as it could lead to harassment under
the pretext of protecting the royal institution".
So, there's precedent for amending S112, and we should, for Thailand's
law of lèse-majesté has one prominent critic: His Majesty
King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great.
In 2005, King Bhumibol used his televised birthday address to note
that the King is a human being and as such should be subject to criticism;
that charges against those accused of lèse-majesté should
be dropped, and those held in jail for lèse-majesté
should be released; and the use of the lèse-majesté
law ultimately damages the monarchy.
What the Move Forward Party (MFP) seeks seems to be what His Majesty
King Bhumibol wanted. Move Forward Party (MFP) wanted to use democratic
means to implement changes to Section 112, which channels our father's
desires to protect the highest institution.
Shouldn't they be encouraged?
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
China Coast Guard uses water
cannons
On Philippine
boats underway to Ayungin Shoal
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday April 12, 2024
First published in the philippine Inquirer, Wednesday April
3, 2024
|
For the ninth time, the China Coast Guard (CCG) used
water cannons on a Philippine boat going to Ayungin Shoal to supply
the needs of our personnel manning the BRP Sierra Madre, our long-lived
outpost which conforms to our exclusive economic zone boundary.
Our response to all these provocations, harassment, and aggressions
is to lodge diplomatic protests emphasizing that the China Coast Guard
(CCG) injured our men and caused damage to our boats.
Why not provide our supply boat with escort ships equipped with water
cannons?
Aeric P. Bernardino,
Manila,
Philippines
It
is no fluke that Vietnamese students do better in reading
Science
and mathematics than
Filipino students
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday April 11, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday April 5,
2024
|
The gulf between the education systems of Vietnam and
the Philippines is starkest in the lopsided performances of their
students in reading literacy.
In the 2019 Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics, 82 percent of
Vietnamese Grade 5 pupils reached the highest reading proficiency
band versus 10 percent for the Philippines.
In the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa),
77 percent of their students attained the minimum reading proficiency
level against our 24 percent.
The wide gap in the reading proficiency of the students of the two
countries is hardly surprising because Vietnams Ministry of
Education and Training (MOET) endeavors to make learners read in Grade
1.
The article in the PubMed Central website states: According
to the benchmarks outlined by the Ministry of Education and Training
in Vietnam, children by the end of first grade are expected to recognize
all letters and rimes and to read aloud at a rate of 40-50 words per
minute with appropriate phrasing, to answer basic comprehension questions,
summarize the main idea and details of a story, and identify key features
such as dialogue and characters actions.
Based on Vietnams pre-COVID-19 learning poverty rate of 2 percent
and its impressive reading literacy performance in international assessments,
the MOET is meeting the target.
On the other hand, apart from setting the target for all learners
to be readers to Grade 3 which is two years later than Vietnams
standard, the DepEd blatantly disregards its grade level reading standards,
inviting this unprecedented reading crisis.
In a desperate bid to address the crisis, in what could be a first
in the world, DepEd just set aside half a day each week for Grades
1-12 learners to read.
Thus the recent study tour of the Second Congressional Commission
on Education (EdCom II), the body tasked to assess Philippine education
and recommend needed reforms thereto, in Vietnam could have been a
golden opportunity to learn the secrets to competitive reading literacy.
Alas for the country, however, benchmarking on reading literacy was
not in the declared purpose of the trip which was to look
at the areas of improving access, equity, and opportunity among learners;
attracting and supporting qualified teachers; strategic use of its
assessments; and its effective governance and efficient financing
of education.
Apparently, EdCom II does not yet realize that it is no fluke that
Vietnamese students do not only do well in reading but also in science
and mathematics while Filipino students are miserable failures in
all three domains. EdCom II does not yet accept the 2002 finding of
the Pisa that there is a very strong correlation between reading competence
and academic performance.
In 2022 Pisa, among the Top 15 countries in reading, only two countries
were not in the Top 15 overall.
Among local regions, the Top 5 in reading namely National Capital
Region (NCR), Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR), Region IVA,
Region XI, and Region III also formed the Top 5 overall.
On the other end, Region IX, Caraga, and Region XII which were Bottom
3 in reading literacy and overall standings in 2018 repeated the performance
in 2022.
The Pisa data and the contrasting basic education experience of Vietnam
and the Philippines show that the latter can never kick off its education
recovery unless it could make all its learners read starting in Grade
1 like the former does.
Estanislao C. Albano Jr.,
Manila,
Philippines
Filipinos are more vulnerable
to cults
They tend to be very trusting and gullible
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday April 10, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Monday April 8,
2024
|
Recent and widespread media coverage of probes into
criminal suits alleging human rights abuses brought by individuals
against a pastor and his cohorts has triggered a great deal of discourse
unraveling the complexities of the cult phenomenon.
In this context, but without delving into the truth of the cults
beliefs and practices, analysis and explanation of the many issues
involved might contribute to better informing the discourse.
In addition, exploring the socio-psychological factors that induced
some people to join cults and eventually adopt radically novel beliefs
and practices might help.
Amid the cacophony of voices, some questions need to be asked about
the cult phenomenon:
How did cult members become entangled with them and adopt behaviors
they never otherwise would?
Are only crazy, stupid, needy people joining cults?
What factors contribute to their joining or refusing to leave despite
threats to their well-being?
I turned to the literature on the social psychology of cults to understand
the cult members, hoping to find some answers and insights on how
to help us deal with it.
First, one of social psychologys big lessons is that attitudes
follow behavior (D.G. Myers, 1994:83).
People, Myers observed, usually internalize commitments done voluntarily,
publicly, and repeatedly.
Perhaps knowing that people tend to act themselves in a way of thinking,
recruiters of cults waste no time shaping their recruits into active
members.
Eventually, the activities become more demandin, leaving their families,
soliciting donations, tithing, and proselytizing.
Such behaviors further strengthen and deepen their commitment, making
it much easier not to look back to their past.
Second, the commitment is induced by a persuasion strategy called
the foot-in-the-door principle.
Potential recruits are invited to gatherings and stay-in weekends
of warm fellowship and indoctrination on the cults beliefs and
disciplines.
The recruiters encouraged potential converts to join in prayers, bible
studies, songs, dances, and games during the encounters.
Once the recruiters identified qualified converts, they urged them
to sign up for more extended training programs.
Third, social psychologists also made sense of the cults power
to persuade in terms of three factors: who communicator said what
the message and to whom the audience.
Successful cults have a charismatic leader who attracts and directs
the members. Myers noted that sometimes, all it takes to persuade
an unsuspecting individual is a credible communicator, perceived as
expert and trustworthy.
There is a high chance that family members, relatives, and friends
whom they trust have played a vital role in the recruitment of many
cult members. In this respect, we wonder whether Filipinos are more
vulnerable to cults because they tend to be very trusting and gullible.
The message also plays a crucial part in the recruitment process.
To lonely and insecure people, those who need belonging and acceptance,
the vivid, emotional messages and the warm welcome with which the
cult showers them can be irresistibly appealing.
The message is simple: Trust the master and join us; we have
the answers to all your needs and problems.
For good measure, the message is delivered intensely and intensively
for long periods, with testimonial support from previous converts.
In this light, mainstream churches have their work cut out for them.
There is a need to listen well to victim-survivors who might need
a platform where they can share their traumatic experiences without
judgment.
They can offer counseling and emotional support to them in rebuilding
their lives. They can also raise awareness about the dangers of cults
and educate their members about the tactics used by cults to lure
and recruit them.
They can also collaborate with government agencies and nongovernmental
organizations specializing in cult awareness and victim support.
Noel G. Asiones,
Manila,a
Philippines
392
negative votes and seven approvals
For dissolution of Move Forward Party
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday April 9, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday April 5, 2024
|
Re: "Court accepts petition for dissolution
of Move Forward Party", in Bangkok Post, Wednesday
April 3, 2024
As a guest of the kingdom for the past 28 years, I enjoy reading your
publication.
I refer to the news item of today's date, headlined "Court
accepts petition for dissolution of Move Forward Party".
This is one of the most critical political issues facing Thailand
right now.
I concede that it is a factual and not an opinion piece.
Why would you deem it necessary not to allow for a public forum?
At the time of writing, there are 392 negative votes and seven approvals.
One would think that makes it a topic worth prompting a debate.
Surely that is part of your responsibility to your readers?
Don McMahon,
Bangkok,
Thailand
United Nations member states
are encouraged to recognise
The expansive impact of the care economy
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday April 8, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday April 5, 2024
|
Re: "Gender
gaps in politics and business", in Bangkok Post, Opinion,
Saturday March 30, 2024.
Professor Vitit Muntarbhorn's article warrants significant global
attention.
In line with recent United Nations recommendations, all governments
are called upon to prioritise addressing care needs across the lifespan
and ensuring universal access to paid maternity, paternity, and parental
leave, as well as social protection for all workers, irrespective
of their employment status.
Member states are encouraged to recognise the expansive impact of
the care economy.
This includes boosting labour participation, facilitating the shift
from informal to formal employment, and establishing decent working
conditions.
Crucially, according to the United Nations, there is a pressing need
to invest in family-centric strategies and programmes that foster
robust intergenerational connections.
Initiatives such as promoting intergenerational living arrangements,
offering parenting education, and providing support for grandparents,
particularly those serving as primary caregivers, are essential.
All of these efforts aim to cultivate inclusive urbanisation, promote
active and healthy ageing, and nurture intergenerational solidarity.
They will also bolster social cohesion.
Ioan Voicu,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call
for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
To extend the skywalk
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday April 7, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday April 1, 2024
|
I would like to thank the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
(BMA ) for the increase in green space all over the city, with beautiful
parks that are well maintained at all times.
I also would like to extend my gratitude for skywalks around the city,
which make walks more enjoyable, allowing pedestrians to get a better
view of the city and the cool breeze, as I have experienced many times
before entering the city's malls.
Can the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) now extend the skywalk
from Phrom Phong station to Phloen Chit station, so people can walk
from Emporium all the way to Siam station, Platinum and Bangkok Metropolitan
Administration (MBK) malls?
That would be a wonderful way to keep tourists happy.
Liloo Jiwatram,
Bangkok,
Thailand
To arrive at a conclusion
such as ''drag is sacred''
Is a
great leap of logic
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday April 6, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday April 4,
2024
|
A Facebook post by a certain Rev. Joseph San Jose of
the progressive Metropolitan Community Church has
been making the rounds on social media.
San Jose argues that Holy Week is nothing more but a drag festival.
He likens Christian liturgical expressions and the tradition of adorning
santos, with their often elaborate vestments, as drag.
In his post, San Jose also appropriates religious terminology such
as incarnate and sacred to contextualize
drag within Christianity.
However, the roots of Christian sacred art predate drag by millennia,
with some of the oldest Christian sculptures dating back to the second
century.
On the other hand, the santero culture, to which San Jose also refers,
traces its origins to the colonial era in the Philippines, with the
earliest recorded instance being the Santo Niño brought by
Magellan in 1521.
Holy Week processions and dramas also have roots in the 15th century.
The origins of drag are less clear.
While some historians point to instances in ancient Greek and Roman
theater where men portrayed female characters due to restrictions
on women onstage, these instances seem incidental to the essence of
drag itself.
The term drag has been used since the 12th century,
but its contemporary meaning, referring to dressing up and performing
as another gender, is more recent, emerging in the 1860s, with the
first drag competition recorded in 1867.
Rafael Japón, in his article Holy Week and the Theater
of Art: Sculpture, Retables, and the Spanish Baroque Aesthetic,
explores how social and political changes in the 16th century influenced
visual culture, particularly among Catholics. The realism depicted
in Spanish art during Holy Week processions served not only as a tool
during the counter-reformation but also aimed to instruct the faithful
about the transcendental mysteries of the Christian faith.
While a case can be made against the flamboyance of some of the images,
the artworks are meant to convey the sacred to make visible what cannot
be seen.
The processions, on the other hand, persist in contemporary Filipino
religiosity because they are seen, not as mere performances or sources
of entertainment, but as a contemplation of the history of salvation
that has managed and continues to overcome scandals, heresies, and
blasphemies.
San Jose also seems to imply that custodians of the santos could be
anything other than gay, given it requires dressing up
the images.
For a so-called progressive church, he seems more intent
on perpetuating gender stereotypes.
Moreover, San Joses reductive reading relegates Christianity
to one, big costume party.
While Christianity has always been countercultural, that is, it has
always gone against the grain of social norms, to conflate this nonconformist
characteristic of Christianity with drag, which belongs to a disparate
historical period and persuasion, is to ignore entire histories of
martyrdom and sanctity that have marked the lives of great men and
women that have contributed to, among other things, civilization from
East to West.
The problem of a reductive point of view is that it cherrypicks and
fails to account for contradictions.
Its like looking at the world after Sigmund Freud where everything
is sex and the fault of the father, or after various feminisms where
everything is a womans issue or the failure of men, or after
Jacques Derrida where everything is a text and therefore, open-ended
and unstable.
To arrive at a conclusion such as drag is sacred is a
great leap of logic, as it simplistically explains and glosses over
what are, in fact, oppositional in origins and futures.
Francis Harvey de Leon,
Manila,
Philippines
The
pursuit of gender equality to include
Protection of men in LGBT relationships
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday April 5, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Wednesday April
3, 2024
|
Sad to say, the pursuit of gender equality in our country
is still a work in progress. UNICEF says gender equality means
that women and men, and girls and boys, enjoy the same rights, resources,
opportunities, and protections.
In reality, domestic violence knows no gender.
Earlier, several legislators in the Senate and the House of Representatives
have filed separate bills regarding anti-domestic violence against
men/husbands/partners in LGBT relationships but to no avail.
Our lawmakers are somehow lackadaisical in supporting the enactment
of laws in this regard allegedly since there are no conclusive data
regarding abuses perpetrated by women/wives against their husbands
based on the survey initiated by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
Seemingly, the survey format is just focusing on physical and/or verbal
abuse but not considering the other forms of psychological/mental
violence, economic, and sexual abuse.
Hence, the emergence of limited data in this regard.
Since there is still no special law protecting men in LGBT relationships,
an abused man who files a complaint case of domestic violence or abuse
against his partner, despite the supporting medical certificate of
contusions signs of physical abuse, etc., in barangay police desk,
fiscal office, court since said agency, if woman is able to also show
some marks of contusion in her wrists, etc. could easily overturn
said complaint in favor of the woman per Republic Act No. 9262 or
the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004.
However, various cases filed in family courts seem to reveal instances
arising, among others, from domestic violence allegedly initiated
by either partner that affects marriage and family unity, relations.
To level up the playing field, there is a need for a law to protect
men in LGBT relationships from cases of domestic violence perpetrated
by their partners.
It is only when a counterpart law aimed to protect the men in LGBT
relationships is enacted that we can say, among others, that gender
equality is already present in our society.
Emiliano M. Manahan Jr.,
Manila,
Philippines
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin
term
Is not
dependant on Thai's
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday April 4, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday April 1, 2024
|
Re: "Smarter than you think", in Bangkok Post,
PostBag, Sunday March 33,
2024.
I'd like to support Yingwai Suchaovanich's wishes that Prime Minister
Srettha Thavisin might complete his four-year term.
It is not only because of his seven months of incessant overseas visits
to market Thailand abroad and the ability to untie the knot that besets
the Royal Thai Police, but also his towering height and fluency in
English that do not cause one to cringe.
However, despite having a successful CEO for a leading public company
managing our nation for the first time, there are still concerns surrounding
his longevity.
His term is not dependent on most Thais, but on his party members
and the de facto leader.
One can only hope that the excellent manoeuvrability he showed in
his former business would be enough for him to survive Thailand's
traditional politics.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Democracy is about governance
by laws
Not people
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday April 3, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Pos,t Friday March 29, 2024
|
Re: "Fueling opposition" and "Voter
intelligence" in Bangkok Post PostBag, Friday
March 26, 2024
If Buddhism was established in Thailand centuries ago, Thailand would
be the perfect democracy.
Buddhism teaches unenhanced self-assessment and awareness of reality.
Were people aware of their true selves and the truth of what is, they
would not be swayed by falseness and propaganda.
Reading both letters of David Brown and Felix Qui once again shows
there is little understanding of democracy.
Democracy is about governance by laws, not people.
Democracy is not the right to vote.
The paramount law is the constitution, which states that the monarchy,
since 1932, has been constitutional and the apolitical head of state.
The lese majeste law is perfectly democratic.
An attack on the monarchy is an attack on the constitution and, thereby,
an attack on democracy.
In 1932, when the monarchy changed from being absolute to constitutional,
people were given the right to vote for their lawmakers; universal
suffrage was established. However, the basic principle of democracy,
the rule of law, was not established. This gave Thaksin carte blanche
to do as he wished, relying only on gaining votes, and he proved very
successful at winning votes.
Until democracy is understood by the electorate, it will not exist.
The electorate must understand the constitution and the laws for which
they are voting.
The electorate must judge those for whom they are voting into office.
They must ensure they are voting for democracy and not against democracy.
It is democracy alone that establishes universal suffrage.
The only truly democratic voter is one who learns and understands
themselves and for what he/she is voting.
Above all, their vote must be for democracy; otherwise, democracy
will cease to exist.
J C Wilcox,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Philippines
Senate seeks to revise
Animal Welfare
Act
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday April 2, 2024
First published in the Philippines Inquirer, Tuesday March 26,
2024
|
On March 19, I had the opportunity to witness in person
Sen. Grace Poes privilege speech on Senate Bill No. 2458 which
seeks a revised Animal Welfare Act (AWA) to strengthen animal
welfare standards, policies, rules and regulations, implementation
and enforcement as well as provide tougher penalties to violators.
The session hall was packed with fellow animal welfare advocates and
some popular AWA groups like Animal Kingdom Foundation which initiated
the invitation to other AWA groups like ours.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri commented that it was the first
time that animals of the four-legged kind were
allowed in the session halls of the Senate, drawing hearty laughter
from the audience.
He said that seeing his wife Audrey with their dog inside the session
hall brought his blood pressure down, again drawing a hearty response.
Poe gave a 30-minute privilege speech which hopefully will progress.
This was followed by valid points raised by Sen. Risa Hontiveros.
As a solo rescuer and member of a low-key Animal Welfare Act (AWA)
group, Save Animals of Love and Light, our hopes are boosted once
again as efforts on the amendments to the landmark Animal Welfare
Act of 1998 Republic Act No. 8485 are spotlighted.
On the ground, it takes mental strength to take in the abuses and
cruelty to animals, the abandonment of newborn kittens particularly
on busy streets where they are sure to be run over, hoarding of pets,
puppy mills, dog meat trading, and other chest-pain triggers.
The Animal Welfare Act (AWA) of 1998 has weak fangs thus the amendments
up to the present.
My wish list is as follows:
Cooperation from the local government units;
A more regular spay-neuter program in each barangay to curb the overpopulation
of cats and dogs (that are subsequently abandoned or sacked);
Higher penalties for AW offenders especially those who shoot and kill
animals with impunity;
And most important of all, education and more awareness on responsible
pet ownership and animal treatment provided to all citizens. I see
kids maltreating kittens.
Maybe they see adults doing the same.
A subject on humane animal treatment should be included in the school
curriculum of elementary students.
Start them young, mold them young as they say.
Pamela Claveria, M.D.,
Manila,
Philippines
Thailand's Les Majeste Law
Does not align with democratic principles
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday April, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 29, 2024
|
Re: "Voter intelligence", in Bangkok Post,
PostBag, Tuesday March 26, 2024.
Felix Qui wrote: "The root problem with the lese majeste law
is it does not align with democratic principles."
I agree with his reasoning.
No laws are perfect.
However, there is a way to remedy this by changing the law through
the proper constitutional process.
To start, the Move Forward Party (MFP) should have gathered support
from a majority in parliament.
If successful, the process will proceed to a nationwide referendum
and a change of law by parliament, as per the constitution.
As it has been, the Move Forward Party (MFP) did not only abandon
proper legal proceedings, but has been encouraging people to break
the law and when caught, accused its critics of "foul play
and intimidation!"
Hence, it was the Move Forward Party's (MFP's) action that did not
align with democratic principles.
Vint Chavala,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Apollo Quiboloy spared from
accountability
By his friends
in the Philippine senate
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday March 31, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday March 28,
2024
|
Senators Robinhood Padilla, Bong Go, Cynthia Villar,
and Imee Marcos seek to spare Apollo Quiboloy from accountability
for his crimes.
By blatantly undermining a long-honored legislative process, they
betray their fake understanding of its value to the jobs they were
elected to perform.
Not much substance can be expected of amateur senators like Padilla
but what about Villar?
She beats Padilla in the brazenness of her misplaced sympathy for
Quiboloy.
She said Quiboloy is good to her family so he couldnt possibly
do bad to others.
If Villar honestly believes with all her heart and soul that Quiboloy
is innocent, she should have pushed for an investigation if only to
prove that his accusers are liars.
This is what should be done out of loving concern for a friend unless
she is wary of ugly truths that might uncovered.
Fernando Garcia,
Manila,
Philippines
Earth Trusteeship aims to
transcend
Historic ownership contradictions
The Southeast Asian Times, Saturday March 30, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 22, 2024
|
Re: "It's ideal thinking", in
Bangkok Post, PostBag, Friday March 22, 2024
It's kind of Michael Setter to characterise my world as a "spiritual
one".
Indeed, secular spirituality is not outlandish but an inherent capability
of everyone. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recognises it, in
addition to physical, mental and social health, as spiritual health.
An example is the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) Conscious
Food System Alliance (CoFSA) enabling system transformation open to
"food spirit".
That is, the spirit of sharing and food as a "commons".
Earth Trusteeship is a new concept which aims to transcend historic
ownership contradictions that hinder regeneration.
The foundation for this governance paradigm is provided by the Earth
Charter (The Hague, 2000) as "community of life"
which includes all sentient beings.
It refers to the Rights of Nature.
This is 21st-century law and governance innovation in progress.
A challenging perspective will be added once a United Nations Special
Envoy for Future Generations is appointed, a planned outcome of the
United Nations Summit of the Future to take place in New York in September
2024.
This innovation will add new perspective to the category "secular
spirituality" and restoration of the local and global environment
to tackle climate change.
Future generations are unborn and infinite, so they are not determined
by national citizenship, race, seniority or gender.
In Thailand, even when they are already born, and peacefully assemble
as a political party or manifest as a democratically elected majority,
they are wiped from the political landscape.
Hans van Willenswaard,
Bangkok,
Thailand
To resist the evolution
of the Thai language
Is short-sighted
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday March 29, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday March 21, 2024
|
Re: PostBag, "Literacy hurdles", in
Bangkok Post, PostBag, Thursday March 5, 2024.
F oreigners and others have been discussing the advisability of simplifying
the Thai language.
As a non-speaker, I don't understand its intricacies, but to resist
its evolution is short-sighted.
English is perhaps the nearest we have to a common language and it
changes constantly and always has.
Woke, Google, umami, and crypto-currencies were not words our parents
would have recognised.
If we were sitting in the Globe Theatre 400 years ago, we would have
understood precious little of Shakespeare's plays.
Education is the important thing, not conservation.
Phil Cox,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Millions participated in
annual Earth Hour
On March
23, 2024
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday March 28, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday March 25,
2024
|
Earth Hour has passed.
Did you switch off nonessential lights?
If yes, thats great!
While millions have participated in the annual Earth Hour activity,
which took place this year on March 23 from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.,
many argued that switching off lights for an hour or Earth Hour itself
does not significantly help and is no longer relevant.
That is saddening.
However, it is imperative to recognize that switching off lights for
an hour is a global movement to benefit the environment and the future.
Moreover, there are actually a myriad of actions as well as counterparts
for Earth Hour that individuals can take to contribute to a more sustainable
environment, such as reducing energy consumption overall, advocating
for and supporting conservation efforts alike, joining clean-up drives,
and spreading environmental education.
While Earth Hour has passed, it is not passé.
Jhon Steven C. Espenido,
Surigao City,
Philippines
There are many solid or
reputable companies
In Thailand
worthy of responsible investing
The
Southeast Asian Times Wednesday March 27, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Wednesday March 20, 2024
|
Re: "SEC urges trading probe", in
Bangkok Post Business, Friday November 27, 2023 and "Regulator
to ban Thais from trading NVDRs", in Bangkok Post
Business, FridayNovember 24, 2023.
Authorities just do not seem to realise that most rational individual
retail investors in the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) seek out
quality growth companies with low valuations which are likely expanding,
hence the very ones that may issue new warrants, a key financial tool.
Not this trading galore around overvalued speculative stocks, often
based only on rumours or punting, which invariably leads to a losing
retail investor experience. And once burned, they won't return.
Perhaps they will even badmouth the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET)
for life, even though their losses are a result of a speculative strategy
so often encouraged by inept brokers.
This is a contentious issue well-known and often frowned upon in the
United States, which has almost a century of experience in such ill
over-trading, with serious fines meted out to brokers who break the
rules.
What is sad is that there are many solid or reputable companies here
worthy of responsible investing.
But alas they are mostly ignored due to the poor but well-disguised
practices of brokers, left unchecked by management and regulatory
agencies.
Paul A Renaud,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Call for Thailand's Anti-Money
Laundering Office
To investigate
California WOW fitness outlet
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday March 26, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 22, 2024
|
Four years ago, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo),
in one of their rare communications with us, said they were getting
a court order to pay us the claims filed against California WOW, a
former popular fitness outlet that closed down. Members who had paid
in advance sued to get their money back.
The lawsuit came in 2016 after Amlo in January froze 88 million baht
of Cawow's assets, accusing its executives of cheating members and
siphoning huge amounts of money from the company.
Since our last contact from Amlo four years ago, we have not heard
a word from them, let alone received our court-ordered judgment payment.
The only response is from their pet bot who responds weeks later saying
it is being turned over to an unnamed person who will never do anything.
So, in my opinion, the Office of Attorney General should start an
investigation into Amlo and determine where our money is.
It is also my opinion that Amlo is guilty of malfeasance since they
admitted they were getting an order to pay us money awarded by the
court.
The public prosecutor should look into the allegations.
And finally, it is my opinion that Amlo not only owes us the judgement
amount, but also 7.2 percent interest calculated in a yearly basis
until we get paid.
I wonder if Amlo will respond to this?
Probably not.
You Know Who,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Royal
Thai Armed Forces produce result
At odds
with election result
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday March 25, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday March 21, 2024
|
Re: "Pita power", Bangkok Post,
PostBag, Wednesday March 20, 2024.
Like many foreigners here, I was amazed to see the legacy of the past
military rule having such a devastating effect on the recent election.
The very people who received a minuscule amount of the popular vote
have managed to produce a result completely at odds with the election
result.
Worse still is the fact that it's not stopped, and selected courts
are now ensuring that a popular choice of the electorate will no longer
be available.
Unlike Vint Chavala, who appears to applaud this outcome, I feel sure
the majority of Thais know exactly what has taken place and who is
responsible.
Lungstib,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Chiang
Mai not declared a disaster zone
Despite
dangerous levels of air pollution
The
Southeast Asian Times. Sunday March 24, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday March 20, 2024
|
Re: ''Disaster zone label will hurt tourism",
in Bangkok Post, Tuesday March 19, 2024.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's admission that he decided not to
declare Chiang Mai a disaster zone because it might hurt the province's
tourism industry demonstrates monumental and shameful duplicity.
Chiang Mai currently has dangerous levels of air pollution, some of
the highest in the world. But PM Srettha prefers to risk the health
of tourists so Thailand can continue to collect their tourist dollars.
How does he think those tourists are going to react when they have
to breathe filthy air and fall ill with respiratory diseases?
Not to worry, says Prime Minister Srettha, because we have not declared
Chiang Mai a disaster zone, the tourists' insurance policies will
not be affected!
It is frightening that this is the thinking of the man in charge of
the country.
David Brown,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Flood
of Myanmar youths to Thailand is opportunity
To show that Thailand deserves seat on UNHRC
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday March 23, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Tuesday March 5, 2024
|
Re: "Seminar on Myanmar opens as junta objects",
in Bangkok Post, Sunday March 3, 2024.
The impending flood of Myanmar youths and professionals fleeing the
Tatmadaw draft gives Thailand a major opportunity to show the world
that we deserve the United Nations Human Rights Council seat that
we're striving for.
Instead of confining these refugees to camps, we should add Myanmar
to the list of visa-optional countries that now send us 80 percent
of our tourists and help them find jobs that jump-start our productivity,
including an acculturation programme to ease them into our labour
force.
We should also offer them a merit-based path to citizenship so that
they can help us grow for decades.
At the same time, we should offer Thais subsidised training and products
like high-yield seeds and agricultural machines to accelerate productivity.
These steps will lead to win-win results both for the Myanmar people
and Thailand. By being innovative and acting fully in line with humanitarian
principles, we will significantly lessen doubts about our qualifications
for the prestigious Human Rights Council seat that we seek.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Pita
Limjaroenrat has not indicated regrets
To amend
Lese Majeste Law
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday March 22, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Wednesday March 20, 2024
|
Re: "Pita says Move Forward preparing to battle
Election Commission", in Bangkok Post, Sunday
March 17, 2024.
Pita Limjaroenrat, former leader and current chief adviser of the
Move Forward Party (MFP), said his party was unfazed by the Election
Commission's push for its dissolution.
He said the Move Forward Party (MFP) is ready to defend itself against
any allegations. I have some observations:
Firstly, it is possible the court will allow the Move Forward Party
(MFP) a chance to defend itself before giving the verdict.
If that is the case, the ball will be in the Move Forward Party's
(MFP) court to offer new evidence to cancel out the accusations or
give convincing assurances that such an alleged criminal act will
not occur again.
Secondly, Mr Pita has never given any indication that he regrets the
fact that he had led his party executives and members, 43 of them
besides Mr Pita, to co-sign with him the Move Forward Party's (MFP)
proposal to amend Section 112 in parliament.
And if found guilty, all of these party members will face a political
ban for life.
It looks like Mr Pita has a lot of explaining to do to satisfy the
Thai public.
Vint Chavala
Bangkok,
Thailand
Analyses
question financial feasibility of proposed
land bridge 0ver Isthmus of Kra
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday March 21, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 1, 2024
|
Re: "A B1tn bridge to success",
in Bangkok Post, Sunday February 25, 2024.
Considering that most independent analyses have questioned the financial
feasibility of the proposed land bridge across the Isthmus of Kra,
it appears there are primarily only two groups of supporters.
The first group for obvious reasons includes the "fifteen-percenters"
the politicians and administrators who would be in charge of awarding
construction contracts to build the land-bridge infrastructure.
The second group comprises Chinese entities eager to set a debt trap
for Thailand. As demonstrated in several other countries, these salivating
wolves are not really interested in the success of such megaprojects.
If truth be known, they actually prefer that such projects fail, allowing
them to squeeze major concessions from the country unable to repay
hefty loans and gain control over large swaths of the debt-ridden
country's economy.
Samanea Saman,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Clearing immigration at
Suvarnabhumi airport
Is
a chocking point for arrivals
The Southeast
Asian Times Wednesday March 20, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 8, 2024
|
Re: "PM aims high for airport: Premier outlines
aviation ambitions", Bangkok Post, Saturday March
2, 2024 and "Srettha orders faster immigration, baggage claim
at Suvarnabhumi", in Bangkok Post, Monday February
5, 2024.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's unannounced checks at Suvarnabhumi
airport revealed that clearing immigration has been a choke point
for the arrivals we sorely need to resurrect our stagnant economy.
The Immigration Bureau should follow the lead of the Passport Office,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which outsourced the entire passport
renewal process years ago while staying in overall charge to maintain
quality.
Over a decade ago, it took me several hours and a two-week wait to
renew my passport at the Passport Office at Central Mall, Bang Na,
Bangkok.
But recently, when I went to the Passport Office's new branch on Srinakarin
Road, Bang Na, it took me just 20 minutes in-office and two days for
my new passport to arrive.
Question is, what is the difference?
The proactive Ministry of Foreign Affairs had outsourced the procedure
- with compensation evidently based on output.
The sole Ministry of Foreign Affairs person on-site was the supervisor,
who efficiently ensured that all went smoothly and quality was maintained.
Applied to immigration, an outsourced supplier might require that
prospective immigrants email proof of return ticket, in-country accommodation
and fund availability a week or so in advance instead of reviewing
the actual documents on arrival - saving cost, time and tempers.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Philippine
government at top of the heap
In making
public transactions miserable
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday March 18, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday March 7,
2024
|
Trust the government to be on top of the heap at making
the public transacting business with any of its agencies more miserable.
Republic Act No. 11032 aka An Act Promoting Ease of Doing
Business and Efficient Delivery of Government Services, Amending
the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007 is such a big joke.
Take for instance, the Land Transportation Office (LTO).
The main office at East Ave., Quezon City, is always bursting at the
seams at any given business day with the sheer volume of vehicles
that have to be brought in for compliance with all kinds of requirements.
The drive-around for a space anywhere there to park ones vehicle
is an unmitigated nightmare.
Setting up branch offices in many other places to promote
ease in doing (LTO) business has seldom helped since in
most of those places chosen by the LTOs bright boys,
parking slots are just as woefully inadequate.
Dont they ever use some common sense?
Vehicle owners are often put at risk of getting their vehicles towed
away while being parked on the streets.
Theres simply nowhere else to go as whatever parking slots intended
for public use are already reserved for its glorified personnel holding
office there.
Public service demands that they should be the ones parking on the
streets to feel what these LTO planners really are.
And now comes this ridiculous idea of forcing owners of e-bikes and
e-trikes to register them under pain of stiff fines or outright impoundment.
Whats next?
Require plate numbers and/or stickers on them when LTO has up to now
failed to provide many regular vehicles with the much-vaunted new
plates despite being already pre-paid eons ago?
And where are the stickers for the windshields and the plates which
used to serve as the visible proof of current registration to stop
traffic enforcers from harassing motorists about the status of their
vehicles registration?
The backlog in the LTOs issuance of those items is horrendous
with no end to the public frustration in sight.
The LTO should first get its act together before imposing more requirements
to burden taxpayers with.
Steve L. Monsanto,
Manila,
Philippines
Philippine
President Marcos' economic team
Has failed
to stir excitement in foreign investors
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday March 18, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday March 7,
2024
|
Newly appointed Finance Secretary Ralph Rectos
assurances to foreign capitalists on the ease of doing business in
the country comes as a welcome whiff of fresh air. President Marcos
erstwhile economic team had failed to stir excitement among foreign
investors after more than a year in office.
Credibility seems to be our biggest problem because other countries
in the region are getting a bigger share of foreign direct investments
(FDI).
The sudden interest of local industrialists, led by San Miguel Corp.s
(SMC) Ramon Ang, to go into long-term investments in infrastructure
and natural gas exploration is cause for optimism.
An estimated trillion pesos worth of natural gas beneath the
Liguasan Marsh in Maguindanao can now be tapped as part of our gradual
transition from coal/oil-based power sources to alternative fuel,
a goal in which 75 nations, the Philippines included, have signed
on as they pledge to completely turn to green fuel by 2050.
Local taipans are now putting their moneys worth into the countrys
long-term economic development.
San Miguel Corp.(SMC) has a good track record in its public-private
partnership (PPP) with the government, notably in road infrastructure
projects.
The consortium of San Miguel Corp. (SMC) and South Koreas Incheon
International Airport Corp. also won the contract for the Ninoy Aquino
International Airport (Naia) rehabilitation project with its bid that
gave government 82.16 percent of gross revenue, excluding passenger
service charges.
This is more than triple that of the next best bid.
On the horizon is the projection that with a refurbished Naia, the
airport would surpass the 45.39 million visitors it hosted in 2023.
The influx of more tourists into the country could well exceed the
pre-COVID-19 figure of six to eight million a year.
Complementing this are the bridges and highways being built to connect
most of the tourist destinations in the country, making travel by
land faster, easier, and more practical.
San Miguel Corp. (SMC) is also negotiating with the Oriental Mindoro
and Batangas provincial governments a deal to construct a 15-kilometer
pontoon bridge costing P18 billion that will take five years to build.
A floating bridge design was adopted to avoid damaging the seabed
of the Verde Island Passage which is considered a center of biodiversity.
The bridge is planned to span the Verde Island Passage in two parts.
The first part is 6.4 kilometers long and extends from Barangay Ilijan
in Batangas City to Verde Island.
The second component spans 4.4 kilometers from Verde Island to Barangay
Sinandigan in Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro.
The Batangas-Mindoro bridge is touted to be the first floating bridge
in Asia that will allow tall ships to pass through. In addition, the
bridge will have pedestrian and bicycle lanes.
The bridge will also be designed to withstand typhoons with winds
as strong as 350 km/h.
The shorter travel time on the bridge as compared to going by sea
is a big boon to tourism in these parts.
For the longest time, entrenched businesses backed by political dynasties
have effectively blocked foreign direct investments (FDI) as some
families keep lucrative businesses for themselves, such as banking,
electricity and power supply, telecommunications, agribusinesses,
and mineral resources.
Few long-term infrastructure in power and energy generation have been
undertaken.
Our country is known for year-round festivities that tourists love;
if we can double the number of tourists from eight to 16 million,
tourist-related businesses can solve our unemployment problem.
Hopefully, this new thrust in economic development by local industrialists
under the public-private partnership (PPP) program would usher in
a new era for the countrys development, and wean our government
from incurring more foreign debts.
Marvel K. Tan,
Quezon City,
Philippines
Taylor Swift plays only
in Singapore
Hurtful to neighbouring cities
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday March 17, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 1, 2024
|
Re: "PM impressed by Singapore's Swift deal",
in Bangkok Post, Wednesday March 6, 2024.
The exclusive deal for Taylor Swift to play only in Singapore may
not be unfriendly, but it is clever.
However it is more of self-interest and lack of empathy.
This may be hanging on to the political treatise of Nicola Machiavelli
of the end justifying the means but likely hurtful to neighbouring
cities.
Generally, there is a stigma in being Machiavellian for anyone associated
with that standard and it is monumental and not erasable.
Songdej Praditsmanont,
Bangkok,
Thailand
We should be happy
With
the color of our skin
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday March 16, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Thursday March 7,
2024
|
Glutathione is an antioxidant capable of preventing
damage to important cellular components, like free radicals.
A prominent side effect is hypopigmentation or loss of skin pigment
or color (nakakaputi).
The Philippine Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings on
its use for cosmetic purposes, especially intravenously.
Seeing the photo of a senators wife having her IV infusion in
her husbands Senate office for cosmetic enhancement is shocking.
Mariel Padilla looks very healthy so her IV drip is meant to make
her skin whiter.
I really dont know whose idea it was to put that photo on social
media, which a lot of Filipinos are apt to believe in.
So this is a bad influence.
We used to elect officials who are statesmen/stateswomen, but I guess
we just have to blame the electorate.
Too sad that our culture still believes in colorism,
and that the lighter your skin, the higher your status is in the community.
We should be happy with the color of our skin.
As brown people or people of color, we dont develop wrinkles
earlier than those in the West so we look younger, and the incidence
of skin cancer is low.
Maganda ang balat na kayumanggi.
Ida M. Tiongco, M.D., FAAD,
Manila,
Philippines
Former PM Najib Razak reputataion
Has gone
down the toilet
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday March 15, 2024
|
We read in The Southeast Asian Times 13 March, 2024
that the new management of state funds has accused ousted Malaysian
PM Najib Razak of breach of trust and abuse of power.
So Razak is back in the news. And again for the wrong reason. I am
reminded of the Shakespearean quote in Julius Caesar : The
evil that men do lives after
them
.
It certainly does in Razaks case. When he was PM he pocketed
RM42 million from a state development fund ( read details in The Southeast
Asian Times article ). For that he was put away in jail for 12 years
which I gather has now been reduced to 6 by Malaysias new king.
It does not matter . The fact is Razaks reputation has gone
down the toilet.
Rajend Naidu,
Sydney,
Australia
11th
anniversay of murder of Dexter Condez
Acquired certificate of ancestral domain title
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday March 14, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Tuesday February
26, 2024
|
Last February 22 was the 11th anniversary of the murder
of Dexter Condez.
The Ati spokesperson and youth leader was shot eight times and killed
in Barangay Manoc-Manoc in Boracay, Aklan.
At only 26, he has done so much for his community as he was instrumental
in acquiring their certificate of ancestral domain title (CADT).
As a youth leader, he was an integral generational bridge who transformed
indigenous knowledge from community elders to the language embraced
by younger generations, who have increasingly been exposed to the
ways of the dominant society.
Before he died, he busied himself developing an educational program
for his community.
He was such a big loss.
While a suspect was eventually apprehended, the mastermind remains
unknown and has eluded justice.
The Ati are a peaceful people, and they were simply fighting for their
ancestral domain the land they have owned beyond the reach of memory.
The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples awarded them their CADT,
but this only intensified the threats against them.
Consequently, the community could not peaceably enjoy ownership over
the land. The communitys fears came to life with Condezs
murder.
Many changes happened on the island since Condez died over a decade
ago.
In 2018, Boracay was closed for six months, and the pandemic restrictions
hit and slowed down tourism.
For the Ati, however, the same trepidations persist.
Just recently, the community was again enveloped in a similar land
conflict in another part of the island.
Ati families face eviction despite previously being awarded certificates
of land ownership award (CLOAs).
The Department of Agrarian Reform, which previously awarded idle agricultural
lots, is canceling the CLOAs because the lots are now claimed not
to be arable but instead are suited for ecotourism and commercial
use.
This is an insult to the Ati, who exerted indigenous knowledge and
transformed these idle lands into fertile grounds.
Now they are being forced out.
Condezs death should have been a threshold moment.
It should have paved the way for the government and society to recognize
and act on the plight of the Ati. Sadly, the continuing struggle and
injustice show otherwise. Worryingly, the Ati are not alone.
There are several reports of the Kankanaey and Tuwali in the Cordilleras
being politically vilified, the Dumagat-Remontado in Quezon Province
deprived of their right to free, prior, and informed consent, and
Tedurays being forcibly relocated in Mindanao.
Much needs to be done to change the realities of numerous indigenous
peoples, not only in Boracay but throughout the country.
We can all do something.
Unlike Condez, we can still wake up and start grasping the stark realities
faced by indigenous peoples.
With the requisite empathy, we should learn more and work with indigenous
peoples in whatever way possible.
Then, we give justice to the life and sacrifice of Dexter Condez and
those who fought for the recognition of indigenous rights in the country.
Raymond Marvic C. Baguilat,
Manila,
Philippines
President
Rodrigo Dutertes presidency
Was characterized by unwritten dictatorial
rule
The
Southeast Asian Times, Wednesday March 13, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday March 1,
2024
|
Edsas idealism right after deposed President Ferdinand
Marcos Sr. left was dead in the water, with continued patronage politics
under the presidential system. President Cory Aquino was strong, morally,
but politically weak.
Her six years term was characterized by economic doldrums.
President Fidel Ramos leadership stride was different.
His rolled-up barong Tagalog sleeves symbolically said he was breaking
away from the traditional failure syndrome and into novel approaches.
His solution to the crippling power and electricity problem was strategic,
short of a military coup of sorts.
But came President Joseph Estrada, followed by President Gloria Macapagal
Arroyo, and the personality syndrome again lorded it over in government.
President Benigno Aquino IIIs turn brought a spark of economic
success because he allowed his technocrats to run the government.
Our GDP rose to more than 2 percent for the first time in years.
The debacle returned with President Rodrigo Dutertes presidency
which was characterized by unwritten dictatorial rule.
Youre either on his side or the wrong side.
Media behemoth ABS-CBN, because of a personal tiff with him in the
2016 presidential elections, could not renew its franchise despite
its impeccable financial records and no unpaid obligations to the
government.
All because Duterte vowed that renewal would never happen under his
watch.
His Davao business cronies became the new guys on the block.
Patronage politics worsened because he acted like the mayor of the
Philippines. Micromanaging the crises all over the country with billions
of pesos in dole-outs made him immensely popular and made people dependent
on dole-outs, which were found to have been siphoned from the unspent
budget of government of offices.
Then President Marcos came and micromanaging was back in fashion,
with ayuda for every disaster coming from P9 to P10 billion in discretionary
funds.
Thats why no people in their right mind would believe that Charter
change will get us anywhere.
Foreign direct investments are not coming in because they want special
attention. The United States Department of Commerce International
Trade Administrations Investment Climate Statement on the Philippines,
dated Jan. 24, 2024, tells us why: Poor infrastructure.
High power cost.
Slow broadband connection. Regulatory inconsistencies.
A cumbersome and corrupt bureaucracy.
The countrys complex, slow, redundant, and sometimes corrupt
judicial system that decides commercial disputes.
Traffic congestion in ports.
This is the gist of our economic woes.
The reasons we hear for amending the Constitution are mostly self-serving
and political.
We may overhaul the Constitution, but achieve nothing beneficial for
the general public because the flawed dynastic patronage politics
under the presidential form of government does not allow it.
Marvel K. Tan,
Quezon City,
Philippines
Swiss
elephant sanctuary in Phuket
Under investigation
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday March 12, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Monday March 4, 2024
|
Re: "Phuket couple apologises for beach steps
incident", in Bangkok Post, Friday March 1, 2024.
The news and video clip of a Swiss man kicking a young Thai doctor
who was relaxing on the steps near the man's Phuket villa has gone
viral on the internet.
The video clip appeared to have been recorded by the man himself.
The gentleman has audaciously recorded himself committing the brutal
attacks on the young doctor.
The video is now self-incriminating.
The steps on the beach front have been ordered demolished since the
company which owns the villa occupied by the couple built them on
public land.
One charge of trespassing on public property has been pressed.
If the young doctor has to undergo treatment for more than 20 days,
the man could be charged with assault with intent to cause severe
bodily harm.
The punishment will be harsher.
The man's wife allegedly berated the young doctor with foul language.
She later sent two policemen she had called on the phone to pressure
the doctor at the scene saying if the doctor pressed charges she would
face a four-year jail term, while the woman would only face a fine
for simply assaulting her.
Investigations are being carried out whether the couple's elephant
sanctuary business is in line with the law.
Since police have learned the couple rented the villa for around 1
million baht a month, inquiries over whether their landlord acquired
the villa in a legitimate manner will be carried out as well.
Finally, criminal proceedings aside, the Swiss gentleman might find
it hard to extend or renew his visa in Thailand.
Vint Chavala,
Bangkok,
Thailand
In
a democracy
A successful
leader must also be popular
The
Southeast Asian Times Tuesday March 11, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Tuesday February 13, 2024
|
Re: "A 14th century warning for the 21st
century", in Bangkok Post, Opinion, Monday February
12, 2024.
Max Hastings suggests studying 14th-century history "can be
a big help to understanding our own times".
Clearly, this premise is hard to accept given the advent of gunpowder,
and AI happened subsequently, but Mr Hastings manages to take it into
the realm of extreme nonsense.
After rambling on to add historical stuffing to his turkey, he finally
makes the embarrassing leap to his unsurprising purpose - bashing
Trump.
No doubt Hastings imagines that to criticise Trump for being a demagogue
is a righteous accomplishment, but let's see how he does it.
The Oxford Dictionary defines demagoguing as "rhetorically
exploiting an issue for political purposes in a way calculated to
appeal to the desires and prejudices of ordinary people".
Every thinking person immediately recognises when someone uses the
very thing they habitually do to blame others for their own selfishness.
Mr Hastings' opinion piece is readily seen as merely one more silly
excursion into the indulgence of exactly that kind of thinking, despite
its cloak of pretentious historicity.
In a democracy, a successful leader must also be popular.
This does not mean he or she is, therefore, illogical and thus a demagogue.
Michael Setter,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thailand's
parliamentarians should be lauded not deplored
For seeking to end the Myanmar conflict
The
Southeast Asian Times, Sunday March 10, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Thursday March 7, 2024
|
Re: "Thai MPs hold Myanmar seminar over junta's
objection", in Bangkok Post, Saturday March 2, 2024 and "Myanmar
now an 'endless nightmare'", in Bangkok Post, Sunday March
3, 2024.
Thailand's parliamentarians, including House committee on national
security chairman Rangsiman Rome (MFP), should be lauded - not deplored
- for seeking to work with all parties to end the Myanmar conflict.
Myanmar's junta objected to exploring such avenues at parliament's
"Three Years after the Coup" seminar, saying it would
"create negative impacts" on bilateral relations.
The junta asked the government to tell our parliament not to hold
"any activity that could hinder cordial ties."
But the Tatmadaw's overthrow of Myanmar's freely and fairly elected
government at gunpoint and as UN Human Rights High Commissioner Volker
Turk said "three years of military rule have inflicted - and
continue to inflict - unbearable levels of suffering and cruelty on
people in Myanmar".
Myanmar men and women are increasingly fleeing there before they're
drafted and forced to kill their fellow countrymen. Thus, our parliamentarians
are duty-bound to seek and solve the root causes of the problem together
with the main parties to the conflict - including the Tatmadaw - and
for this, the peacemakers should be highly commended. The Tatmadaw
is in error in decrying our efforts; in fact, it should work with
us to bring peace and prosperity to our peoples.
Also, the Myanmar junta misunderstands the role of the various branches
of a democratic government.
The executive branch cannot order the legislative branch, though of
course any branch may and should seek the cooperation of its co-equals.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
For
years, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia)
Has been a hotbed of flight delays and cancellations
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday March 9, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Monday March 4,
2024
|
The Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) will finally
be privatized.
For years, the airport has been a hotbed of flight delays and cancellations,
subpar service, and generally poor passenger experience.
The government hopes to resolve this by relinquishing control to the
SMC-SAP and Co. Consortium in a P170.6-billion, 15-year concession
deal.
I am less optimistic about the prospect of improvement under this
new management.
A 2023 preprint published in the National Bureau of Economic Research
suggests that the type of privatization matters a lot. Private equity
(PE) fund ownership exhibits the best improvements in airport performance.
Non-private equity ownership, as in the Naia deal, is found to be
no better than public ownership.
Looking into specific performance metrics, Private Equity (PE) privatization
increases per-flight passenger traffic driven mostly by increases
in domestic flights, indicating improvements in efficiency and capacity.
Non-Private Equity (PE) privatization does not exhibit this effect
and is merely at par with public ownership. Flight routes and the
number of airlines also increased under both PE and non-PE privatization.
In the latter, however, the trend already existed before Private Equity
(PE) the change in ownership, which means that the increase in routes
and airlines cannot be attributed to the privatization.
Flight cancellations also decreased under both Private Equity (PE)
and non-Private Equity (PE) privatization, though the latter already
exhibited the trend prior to change of ownership.
Flight delays actually increased under non-PE privatization while
no change was observed under Private Equity (PE) privatization.
Meanwhile, passenger service quality such as security wait times,
restroom cleanliness, store quality, and lounge amenities improved
under both kinds of privatization.
The fate of airport employees also factor into the decision of privatizing
Naia.
Both kinds of privatization see improved airport profitability but
in two different ways.
Private Equity (PE) privatization increases profit through growth
and efficiency, with no evidence of cost reduction and employee layoffs.
The same cannot be said of non-Private Equity (PE) privatization.
In sum, privatization works only if the new management is not just
any private firm, but a private equity firm.
The state of Naia is so bad that any change in management would likely
be better than its current one.
But the benefits of privatization would be better extracted if a private
equity firm spearheaded it. It makes me wonder if the Marcos trips
were a lost opportunity to convince foreign PE firms to take over
Naia instead.
Julan Omir P. Aldover,
Leyte Normal University,
Philippines
Waving visa fees for tourists
to Thailand
In stark contrast to treatment of 500,000
foreign nationals
The
Southeast Asian Times Friday March 8, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday March 2, 2024
|
Re: "Tourism, trade MoUs to bolster Kazakh
ties", in Bangkok Post, Monday February 26, 2024.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is focused on attracting foreign tourists
from China, India, and Kazakhstan by waiving visa fees, aiming to
boost spending in the kingdom.
However, this stands in stark contrast to the treatment of the 500,000
foreign nationals, mainly from the West, India, Korea, China, and
Japan, who reside and work in Thailand.
These individuals, who are significant taxpayers and contribute to
the country's progress through various sectors, such as education,
technology, and manufacturing, face numerous challenges.
Foreign workers in Thailand are burdened with hefty exit and reentry
fees, with charges of 1,200 baht for a single entry and 3,800 baht
for multiple entries.
Additionally, they are required to report to immigration police every
90 days, and their landlords must report their movements, risking
fines ranging from 2,000 baht to 10,000 baht if not complied with.
These regulations impose undue hardships on foreigners, deeply affecting
their morale.
Ironically, it was Prime Minister Srettha's mentor, Thaksin Shinawatra,
who implemented these anti-foreigner policies, significantly raising
entry fees during his tenure.
Thaksin's eventual exile from the country can be seen as poetic justice
for his actions.
Mr Srettha must rectify this injustice by reversing the measures enacted
by the previous government.
It is imperative to treat local foreigners with respect and recognise
their valuable contributions to Thailand's development and social
security system, even if they do not fully utilise it.
As a crucial initial step, Mr Srettha must prioritise the abolition
of re-entry fees, a burdensome charge absent in many other countries.
Secondly, it is imperative to eliminate the cumbersome 90-day reporting
requirement imposed on foreign residents, as well as the unnecessary
obligation for landlords to report their tenants' movements, which
only serves to waste time and resources.
By implementing these reforms, Mr Srettha can demonstrate a commitment
to fairness and inclusivity, ensuring that all residents, regardless
of nationality, are treated with dignity and respect in Thailand.
George,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Is
the Edsa 1986 Philippines People Power Revolution
Intentionally
left out of this years list of holidays?
The
Southeast Asian Times, Thursday March 7, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer, Friday March 1,
2024
|
Perceptual selectivity is a basic concept in philosophy
that explores how we selectively perceive and process sensory information
from our environment.
A crucial aspect of perceptual selectivity is the limit to our attention.
It is impossible for us to perceive every stimulus in our environment
simultaneously. Therefore, we must prioritize certain sensory information
over others based on factors such as relevance, familiarity, and other
considerations.
Lets explore the concept of perceptual selectivity through an
example.
Imagine being in a crowded room where we are engaged in a conversation
with a friend.
Despite the noise and distractions around us, we are able to focus
solely on our conversation, filtering out everything else to maintain
our connection.
On the other hand, there are times when we intentionally ignore our
friend in a crowd because we are not in the mood to interact with
him or her.
This is known as perceptual defense.
Additionally, there are instances when we may perceive things in an
exaggerated or understated manner.
For example, when we describe our friends pink dress as beautiful,
though in reality we see it as flashy.
This is an example of perceptual exaggeration.
Conversely, when we comment about a friends jewelry as looking
cheap even though we know it is actually expensive, we are engaging
in perceptual understatement.
Is the Edsa 1986 People Power Revolution intentionally left out of
this years list of holidays?
The omission can be attributed to perceptual selectivity and defense
mechanisms by individuals in positions of power. If they choose to
minimize the historical importance of this event through their biased
viewpoints, they are engaging in perceptual understatement.
Moreover, if they insinuate that the Edsa 1986 revolution, which ultimately
resulted in the drafting of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, is responsible
for our current economic difficulties, they are guilty of perceptual
exaggeration.
In other words, perceptual selectivity suggests that our perceptions
are not objective reflections of reality, but rather subjective interpretations
shaped by our biases and mental filters.
When examining current events through this lens, it becomes evident
that our understanding of history can be distorted, leading to the
perpetuation of myths, stereotypes, and misinformation.
Reginaldo B. Tamayo,
Manila,
Philippines
Thai's know best
The
Thai's that are patriots
The
Southeast Asian Times Wednesday March 6, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 1, 2024
|
Re: "For the record", in Bangkok Post,
PostBag, Tuesday February 27, 2024.
I almost fell off my chair with mirth and laughter when I read the
part of Felix Qui's recent letter that read, "Unlike the patriotic
Thais being unjustly imprisoned in strict accord with the law created
for that purpose, Vint Chavala has been able to peacefully express
his opinion".
One reason why I came back to contribute to PostBag is the inability
of the expat community living in Thailand to confine its criticism
of my country in accordance with its limited knowledge of the whole
truth.
Ask yourself this question: If my opinions were untrue and based on
falsehood, would they have been allowed to be published on this page?
And in fact, I know better the Thais that are "patriots"
and those who are just "ingrates" - because this is my country,
the country that I should know best.
Vint Chavala,
Bangkok,
Thailand
Thailand calls for exemption
for Myanmar
From approval for visa on arrival
The
Southeast Asian Times, Tuesday March 5, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Friday March 1, 2024
|
Re: "Myanmar influx 'no cause for concern'?",
in Bandgkok Post, Saturday February 24, 2024.
We should very quickly add Myanmar to the list of countries whose
citizens don't need prior approval or visas on arrival.
About 80 percent of international travellers to Thailand now enter
on 30- or 90-day visa exemptions, and those from Myanmar should be
at least as law-abiding as the others.
The Tatmadaw's surprise announcement of a military draft starting
next month and covering men, women and some professionals will cause
a massive surge in those seeking to avoid being forced to kill their
countrymen.
As the draft gets underway, people will be pressured to cross our
porous border without documentation, causing multiple problems.
Thailand is one of the world's fastest-ageing societies, increasing
the burden on working-age Thais to support their elders.
Those whom the Tatmadaw is after are precisely those who can most
help slow our ageing, giving Thais breathing room to upgrade our productivity
and reproduction rates.
We can enroll the new arrivals in an acculturation program, perhaps
based on that of the US Peace Corps, and including language training,
to ease their integration into our workforce while we simultaneously
improve our own output rates.
We must act now on this win-win opportunity.
Burin Kantabutra,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
requirement in Thailand is to transfer shares
To an
independent management company
The
Southeast Asian Times, Monday March 4, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post, Saturday March 2, 2024
|
Re: "EC asked to probe minister's shares",
in Bangkok Post, Monday February 26, 2024
This news report refers to the alleged subterfuge by Tourism and Sports
Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol in shuffling company ownership
shares to the value of 459 billion baht in exchange for loan papers.
On the surface, I have no problem with this kind of estate trust /planning.
In my former profession, as a CPA, the normal thing to do is to set
up a trust as a juristic entity. The requirement in Thailand is to
transfer the shares to an independent management company. This ensures
that not only does it appear that the law is complied with but that
it has actually been done.
The reason I feel compelled to write this is with regard to the staggering
amount of wealth reported; a single, relatively young Thai as compared
with that of the average Thai. Recent reports indicate that approximately
50 percent of Thai youth are illiterate. I suggest that if they could
read, they would find this "revolting". Viva!
Don McMahon,
Bangkok,
Thailand
The
legalisation of marijuana in the Philippines
Is manifest
colonial mentality
The
Southeast Asian Times Sunday March 3, 2024
First published in the Philippine Inquirer Friday March 1, 2024
|
No, we are not losing the opportunity to legalize marijuana,
as one letter writer has said.
If at all, we are simply looking at its bane, not just its boon, if
any.
I hate to say this, but to readily emulate whats happening now
in other countries, like Germany and Thailand, is manifest colonial
mentality.
Yes, some medical researches, especially in the West, have revealed
a number of ailments for which medical marijuana has been recommended
and its use as anti-nauseant and appetite stimulant, anti-spasmodic,
anti-convulsive, analgesic or pain reliever, and anti-inflammatory,
anti-immune system.
The problem is, these ailments have long been known to be equally,
if not more effectively, treatable by many other well-known drugs
that are accessible either over the counter or via a doctors
prescription.
Why take the risk of legalizing an otherwise highly prohibited drug
when such risk can be reasonably avoided?
That is how simple and commonsensical this controversial issue is.
Rudy Coronel,
Batangas City,
Philippines
A certain party has shown
time and again
To have supported changing Thailand into a
republic
The
Southeast Asian Times, Saturday March 2, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday February 26, 2024
|
A certain party consisting mostly of young and starry-eyed
Member of Parliament's has been racking up political points and popularity.
This party has gained so much support from its fast-growing fan base
that most people predict it will become Thailand's next government
after the next election.
There are two reasons for this upsurge.
Firstly, this party utilises online and AI technologies that enable
it to gain Member of Parliament's quickly and cheaply -unlike old-style
parties that keep spending hundreds of millions of baht yet win relatively
few Member of Parliament's.
Secondly, and this is a moot point.
This party has shown time and again to have supported the idea of
changing Thailand into a republic, with its leader installed as the
next head of state.
Such an action would start a civil war in Thailand.
Since this party is so sure of its strength, it is up to nation-loving
Thais to do something to show their love and gratefulness for their
beloved country.
Allow me to add: whatever we do, it must be in the name of peace and
camaraderie.
Vint Chavala,
Bangkok,
Thailand
PM
Strettha Thavisin's outlines his vision
To make
Thailand great again
The
Southeast Asian Times, Friday March 1, 2024
First published in the Bangkok Post Monday February 26, 2024
|
Re: "PM maps out economic vision",
in Bangkok
Post, Friday February 23, 2024.
The headline concerns our Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's vision
to make Thailand great again and boost the economy with policies ranging
from tourism to digital economy.
He spent more than 70 minutes outlining his dream without focusing
on any policies.
The event seems like a salesman's pitch to customers who happen to
be government officials.
Considering that he has only four years in his administration, would
it be more productive if he concentrated on the biggest priorities,
and certain timelines and action plans as to how to achieve his goals?
Otherwise, it just sounds like fanfare and fireworks, all of which
will simmer and fade away.
In the eyes of the public, some of the most urgent issues which the
government must tackle are grassroots structural problems: bureaucratic
and military, police, judicial reform; education; and corruption,
without which, no matter how rosy his dream is, Thailand will remain
as it is.
The Insider,
Bangkok,
Thailand
|