tos@psc70.UUCP (Dr.Schlesinger) (03/09/86)
The rarest of political events, a truly democratic and rather
non-violent revolution took place in the Philippines. What can we
learn from this?
First it's that democracy can't be defended by supporting
oppression. When the military rebels broke with the Marcos regime
they holed up in Camp Aguinaldo. How many Americans knew that
Filipinos named their Manila Pentagon in honor of a man who had
fought against American troops bent on colonial conquest?
With WWII the Filipino people became our close and trusted
allies. We regained their freedom, and then redeemed our promise
of independence. Gone was the bitter memory of Aguinaldo's
struggle against our army's brutal tactics. Education and health
programs of prewar years, and postwar, aid did their part. One
theme was crucial: that America uses its power to secure great
values rather than tangible short term interests.
Then came the Cold War. Who worried about democracy while
containing a Soviet menace? In Southeast Asia as everywhere, the
word was stability at all costs. First suppression, to keep out
Communists, then some day secure democracy. Now those who yearned
for real freedom were led to join communist movements. What other
choice was left them?
To say: "He may be an SOB, but he's our SOB" may sound smart,
but the Philippine experience suggests that it's high time to
discard forever this version of "the end justifies the means."
And, no people can be subverted to democracy with secret
funds and covert propaganda. Nor can the cause of freedom be
advanced by foreign-supported guerrillas who terrorize the
countryside.
What was it then, that won the day there? Despite feudalism
in the provinces, and over rampant corruption, American values
prevailed. They had taken hold in years of teacher training,
school and library projects, university exchanges, Peace Corps
and private development work. A busy two-way flow of investment,
labor migration, Filipino-American connections of all kinds. And
their veterans of our armed forces, as well the close ties
between our military and theirs surely played a part.
Timely political signals from us -- strong words of concern
over the Marcos tyranny -- from dedicated members of Congress
encouraged and mobilized democratic awareness. Support of
respected church leaders was crucial.
Ultimately it was the massive determination of the Filipino
people, their courage and spirit, which overcame the Marcos
tyranny.
tom Schlesinger
Plymouth State College
Plymouth, N.H. 03264
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