Uncles Sam’s Here To Stay

For more than seventy years or so, America has cemented its claim to the seat of hegemony. The Second World War made sure of that, even offering its land as the primary seat of the United Nations. Merriam-Webster would define hegemony as “the social, cultural, ideological, or economic influence exerted by a dominant group”. It is a term used by social scientists to describe leadership within a system of competing states. Hegemonic influence surpasses one international aspect, such that power ranges from international security to economic embargoes. The Soviet Union was the most recognized, if not the only, rival of the United States during the bitter years of the Cold War, and although war never occurred during these times, the most pressing issue was between the rivalry these two had and their desire to expand their respective ideologies: communism for the Soviet, and democracy for the United States. The Soviet Union never produced more than about half of America’s total national output, establishing the idea that economy is an important factor in statecraft and, ultimately, in transcending state to hegemonic level. The Soviet Union had the power to dismantle America, but it did not have the power to dismantle it.

            When the Cold War ended during the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the United States of America solidified its hegemonic status. It stood above the rest of the world, becoming a sort of “unipolar ruler” of the world. However, it took only less than ten years to shake America’s roots as a new form of threat emerged in the international scene in the form of “terrorism” as displayed in its moment of glory in the September 11 attack. Not just that, but China also took part of the stage in shaking America’s pedestal as it grew in economy and influence in the world market. It was in this time that the start of America’s declining hegemony was supposed to take place. However, international news tend to sensationalize, rendering their view unparalleled to long-term effectiveness. News focus more on the short-term failures of the United States such as its expensive budgetary allocations in its war against Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as China’s growing power. The media did not realize, however, that America hold’s power over a great number of states, forged allies in the brink of war during those lengthy seventy years, rendering the States a powerful hold towards much of the geopolitical structure of the world.

            Furthermore, states would look up to a state that would uphold international law and structure itself towards established international norms. There’s even a persistent joke that other states should be able to elect in America’s presidential elections because they also have a stake at its outcomes for the reason that America acts as a global police in the international scene. Majority of the twenty-first century’s legitimate use of force (especially in warfare) is deeply monopolized by the United States of America. As a proof of this, it manifests on majority of the world’s governments adopting the same policies concerning the use of force and international etiquettes on their own. And the trend still keeps on going and hegemony isn’t killed overnight as much as it has been built up from the get-go. Perspectives must be viewed on the long-term and it is true though that America will eventually lose its hegemonic pedestal but right now, Uncle Sam’s here to stay!

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Separatism in the Philippines: The Conflict in Mindanao

Separatism in the Philippines: The Conflict in Mindanao

By: Charmaine C. Villacorta

            Throughout the decades, separatism has always been an enduring issue in the Philippines specifically in Mindanao. This separatist movement in Mindanao continues to struggle for self-determination much more in this day and age. Geography, religion, centralized form of government, and inequitable development among the regions are the some of the factors considered as reasons that contribute to the formation of the movement (Brillantes et al, n.di). Nonetheless, are these factors adequate for a separatist movement to occur? Or is there a deeper cause for its struggle for self-rule?

            Tracing back in history, major socio-political changes in Mindanao happened with the helped of an Arab missionary, Shariff Kabunsuan, who introduced Islam to the natives of the area which led to the formation of Islamic communities and sultanates in the region (Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication, 2011). Mindanao has never been conquered by the Spaniards, Americans, and Japanese who colonized the rest of the Philippines. During his administration, President Ramon Magsaysay opened Mindanao to Christian settlers which led to a more diversified region. Even then, the Christians and Muslims lived in peace which did not last long as fraudulent politicians and businessmen took advantage of the low economic state in Mindanao.

            The Mindanaoans suffered a lot of social injustices and land grabbing. They were rubbed of their homes which made them rise to protest and revolt against the Philippine government. It then escalated quickly into an armed conflict between the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the Philippine Armed Forces (PAF) which led to the deaths of many. Because of the number of casualties, there was a need for the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) to intervene in 1976 which led to the signing of the Tripoli Agreement between the Philippine government and the MNLF. This triggered the division of MNLF. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was formed subsequently (ARMM, n.d).

            In the present, peace talks between the parties involved are ongoing. It is to negotiate on terms and the legal framework to be used to achieve autonomy. The Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) was also introduced. The BBL would establish a new political entity, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BAR), replacing the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). This bill is currently under deliberation in the Philippine Congress.

            The separatist movement in the Philippines slowly emerged in the beginning of the colonization period in the country – the reign of Spain. Spain made efforts to conquer and introduce Christianity in Mindanao however these efforts failed due to the resistance of the natives. Because of this, it would also be interesting to know a separatist movement in Spain which would be juxtaposed to the separatist movement in the Philippines.

             Euskadi Ta Azkatasuna (ETA), which means Basque Homeland and Liberty, is a separatist group in Spain that struggles for self determination and self-rule through terrorism ( The Editors of Encyclopædia Britannica, 2014). ETA emerged from the Basque Nationalist Party as a resistance opposed to the repressive military dictatorship of General Francisco Franco. They have suffered many social injustices (BBC, 2011). Under Franco’s regime, he banned the Basque language. He also imprisoned the Basque scholars and tortured them for their political views and cultural beliefs. When Franco died, the transition their freedom started. Throughout the years, series of peace talks between the government of Spain and ETA took place to resolve the enduring predicament. Today, the Basque Country of Spain enjoys autonomy. ETA declared cessation of its terrorism activities however most of its insistent supporters vowed to continue to struggle for the full independence of the Basque state.

             The separatist organizations from Spain and the Philippines have the same objective. They struggle for their independence from both countries. They continue to fight for self determination and self-rule. With the ongoing deliberation of BBL in the Congress, this could be a chance for the Philippines to finally be united and be at peace.

Bibliography

The Editors of Encyclopædia Britannica. (2014, July 20). ETA. Retrieved 2015, from Britannica: http://www.britannica.com/topic/ETA

ARMM. (n.d). ARMM History. Retrieved 2015, from ARMM: http://www.armm.gov.ph/history/

Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication. (2011). History of ARMM. Retrieved October 2015, from Muslim Mindanao: http://www.muslimmindanao.ph/armm.html

BBC. (2011). Europe. Retrieved from BBC: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-11183574

Brillantes et al. (n.di). Decentralization and Federalism in the Philippines: Lessons from Global Community. Retrieved October 25, 2015, from http://unpan1.un.org/intradoc/groups/public/documents/EROPA/UNPAN032065.pdf

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Philippine-Japanese Friendship Day Celebration

 PHILIPPINE-JAPANESE FRIENDSHIP DAY CELEBRATION

by Julli Anne Aurelia

The Philippines and Japan had a tumultuous relationship in the past. Japan occupied the Philippines during the Second World War from 1942 until 1945. This led to a lot of destruction and death in the country and the devastation of the Philippine economy. After the war, the relationship between the countries started to normalize and diplomatic and economic ties were re-established. On July 23, 1956, the Philippine Senate ratified the Reparations Agreement between Japan and the Republic of the Philippines. Because of this, the bilateral ties of the Philippines and Japan have grown in warmth, mutual respect, and solidarity. (Diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan, n.d.) On July 23, 2006, the first Philippine-Japanese Friendship day was celebrated to mark the 50^th anniversary or the Golden Jubilee of the normalization of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan. This year marks the 9^th year of the Philippine-Japanese Friendship Day.

In the past, the Philippine-Japanese friendship day has been celebrated differently by people all over the country. On 2012, the Capitol University of Cagayan de Oro also celebrated the Philippine-Japanese Friendship Day. They conducted a Japanese quiz bee and a Japanese song singing contest. Four Japanese students from Soka University attended the event. (Philippines-Japan Friendship Day, n.d.) Last year, the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines had a month-long celebration of the Philippine-Japanese friendship. They held a Japanese film festival, the Eiga Sai, in three different places – Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The theme of the festival was “family.” The films warmed the moviegoers’ hearts and made them laugh and cry. They also had a J-Pop Anime Singing and Dance Contest. The contestants showcased their talents to fellow Japanophiles. (Enjoy the Month of July by Celebrating Philippines-Japan Friendship Month! , 2014)

This year, to join in the celebration and to commemorate this special occasion, the IRFS 141 (Special Topics in International Relations) class had their own event within the confines of JW440. The students decorated the classroom with a Japanese-inspired theme – with colorful paper flowers dominating the decorations. To kick off the event, the students gave a bit of background about the relationship of Japan and the Philippines. The students then discussed the history of the Philippine-Japanese Friendship Day. They also talked about Japanese and Philippine culture and their similarities and differences. The students also talked about how Japanese culture has influenced the Philippines – zeroing in particularly to the anime and manga invasion that is happening in the country. They further discussed about the sister-city relations between the two countries. They also mentioned the security issues that both Japan and the Philippines share – specifically, about the territorial disputes that they both have with China. To make the celebration more enjoyable, the class partook in Japanese and Japanese-influenced food like sushi, takoyaki and Japanese siomai. Japanese snacks and candies were also served.

It was an afternoon of learning about Japan and celebrating the ties that bind it to the Philippines. In the end, Atty. Archill Capistrano, IRFS track adviser and IRFS 141 teacher, considered the event a success – a happy Philippine-Japanese Friendship Day indeed. 511  

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Resolution for Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day

Resolution for Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day

by Yulia Mercader

Historically, the Philippines and Spain did not have a harmonious friendship to begin with. Filipinos know too well the history. In fact, we were taught as children that Spain colonized the Philippines for a very long time ago.  Spain was our colonizer for 300 years. However, with the fall of Baler, the Philippines and Spain had a change in relations.  This ended Spanish capitulation.

The Siege of Baler was a lengthy military operation of Filipino forces against the final Spanish troops in the Philippines who garrisoned in the church in Baler. After the defeat of Spain, the Spanish survivors were granted safe passage through Manila by President Emilio Aguinaldo for them to return to Spain safely. This simple act of gallantry and military honor was the basis of the promulgation of Republic Act. No. 9187, s. 2002, the Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day. This was a pivotal moment for the relationship of the Philippines and Spain. 

Today, Spain and the Philippines have had a harmonious relationship. Indeed, Spain continues to support the Philippines in aid. The Philippines is the only country in Asia that Spain is helping. In the last five years, Spain has sent 180 euros to the Philippines. Spanish Defense Minister Jose Bono assured that bilateral ties with the countries will continue to strengthen.

It is important to understand these and not be congested in our life but also go beyond our borders. With today’s society, and the advancement of technology we can be citizens beyond our borders, global citizens. And this is one way of honing our understanding of the world. Studying relationships, friendships such as the Philippines and Spain and understanding its impact not just to ourselves but to the world.          

It is important for students to take these celebrations as an opportunity for learning. Other than that, it is important in our development as global citizens to be able to understand the different diversities and our roles in this diversity also. It is through understanding these diversities that we understand how important our role is as citizens of the world. If we know our roles as citizens of the world we begin to think critically of the effects of our actions.

The celebration of these friendship days will also pave way for the students to think critically about global issues. This will allow them to immerse themselves in reading about both countries, not just the history that these countries shared but also how the relationship of both countries developed through the years.

Critical thinking is one important characteristic of a global citizen. This is because for an individual to become a global citizen, one must be knowledgeable of his community. This includes the past and the present.

That is why it important to include these celebrations of Friendship days not just in our classroom discussions but also through forums and dialogues with other International Relations and Foreign Service (IRFS) majors because school, being one of the agents of socialization, helps in forming our perceptions. Therefore, a proposed resolution has been crafted to improve the celebration of the Philippine-Spanish friendship day:

PROPOSED RESOLUNTION

WHEREAS, in recalling Republic Act. No. 9187, s. 2000, declaring June 30 as the Philippine-Spanish Friendship day which corresponds with the anniversary of the Siege of Baler;

WHEREAS, in reiterating the stated proclamation, the International Relations and Foreign Service (IRFS) majors of the University of San Carlos shall emerge themselves in discourse regarding the countries, Philippines and Spain, not just historically but in present day matters as well.

WHEREAS, the celebration of this event could serve as alternative learning for the IRFS majors and can help them think critically and can be open to diversity.

WHEREAS, in celebration of the aforementioned event, IRFS students should organize avenues that would allow IRFS students to discuss topics and issues regarding both mentioned countries. Including other prospects such as info graphic making, poster making, essay writing.

NOW THEREFORE, the Carolinian Circle of Young Diplomats, as moved by member Yulia Karizza Mercader, and seconded by ___________

RESOLVE, to acknowledge that it is an important part of the development of global citizens to be open to diversity and think critically about matters beyond ones borders

RESOLVE, to urge IRFS majors to contribute in celebrating the abovementioned celebration by participating in the different events

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The Road to Building Inclusive Economies and Building a Better World

The Road to Building Inclusive Economies and Building a Better World

by Alliza Faye Palgan

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation or what we know as APEC, has been exerting all its efforts to improve the prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region by promoting trade and economic partnerships and at the same time addressing sustainability and social equality. For 25 years, with its 21 member economies working hand in hand, the Asia-Pacific region has soared and progressed.

                As we all know, APEC or the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, was held here in Cebu for the past weeks. Having been assigned as a conference management services officer, particularly under the office of documentation, our main task is all about the preparation of documents that will be used during the meetings of the APEC economies. Being an International Relations and Foreign Service major and an APEC volunteer at the same time, our task does not only end on extending our service as volunteers but also involving ourselves in the discourse of the said event. Unfortunately, the expectations that I had imagined that I would be doing as a volunteer during the training days did not meet with what I really did during the APEC days. Volunteers that were assigned under documentation were somewhat isolated from what was happening outside, where the meetings took place. We only get to be inside the conference rooms if we were to deliver the documents we have prepared or get the documents we have delivered when the meetings end. We did not have a direct interaction with any of the delegates, except when we coincidentally ride the elevator and greet them. The only advantage that we had as part of the documentation team, in my own opinion was that, we can see and read the topics that are to be discussed during the meetings.

                With the APEC 2015 theme, "Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World," the topic that I would have liked to hear about during the meetings was that of the agenda on how to enhance the Regional Economic Integration. It would have been nice to hear about this since it is one of the main priorities of the Philippines to be discussed during the meetings.

                Unfortunately, due to the situation, I was unable to hear anything about this. What I managed to do instead was read the papers submitted by the delegates. One of the papers that caught my attention was the paper submitted by the APEC Secretariat. It was about the priorities and activities of the Sub-Committee on Standards and Conformance (SCSC) this 2015 wherein it showcased the four priorities of APEC. The priority that it dwelled on the most was that of fostering the participation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in regional and global markets. It is because SMEs generate employment, catalyze inclusive growth and as well as serve as an engine of development. But a number of trade barriers could impede SMEs participation in the international trade in the APEC region including the problems of navigating various legal, regulatory and technical requirements.

                Having a collaboration with the SME working group (SMEWG), the SCSC endorsed a work plan that specifies the work streams that are to be pursued by the sub-committee. These are the following; exchanging information on packaging and labelling requirements, sharing standards and conformance learning materials; and organizing capacity building activities oriented to training businesses, especially SMEs, to improve their knowledge, expertise and skills on standards and conformance matters, including the conduct of public consultation. SCSC still has a lot of activities scheduled to improve the participation SMEs, as well as the other priorities of APEC, in order for them to achieve their ultimate goal which is to build a more inclusive economy to be able to have a better world.

                Even though I did not get to hear or witness any of the meetings that were conducted, being able to participate in an event that is of great importance to our country and also being able to leave a good impression on the economies that visited, that is already a great achievement for me. 678 words

Reference: Sub-Committee on Standards and Conformance - Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. (n.d.). Retrieved September 12, 2015, from http://www.apec.org/Groups/Committee-on-Trade-and-Investment/Sub-Committee-on-Standards-and-Conformance.aspx

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Reasserting US hegemony

Reasserting US hegemony

by Aretha Belle Geganto

For the past 24 years, right after the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, United States  (US) has remained to be the sole hegemonic power there is. This title gave United States the power and honor. According to Gramsci, a hegemony does not stay in power through force but it is based upon its dominance both in force and how widespread it is in terms of influences and support from other States. Moreover, according to Buzan a State can be  considered as a hegemony if it obtains the following: 1) substantial material (economic/military) advantages over other powers, and 2) widespread "social" (ideational) support within the system, which includes 2a) a strong domestic will to lead the system and 2b) strong external support for its policies and values. All of which is acquired by the US. However, through time other States are rising to power. One of the notable State is China, the rising superpower of Asia. China is both militarily and economically stable. However, are they as stable as the US? is Chinese influence as widespread as the American influence? Or as simple as the question, can China challenge the US?

            As to current status China is competing with US in terms of material advantages. As of latest statistics China has became the second largest economy next to US. Economically, US has a great deal of influence to a lot of international economic organisation. This give US more leverage. Lastly, the strong influence US has in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB) upon which China does not have. Moreover in terms of military, China has a strong force behind them. China is said to be spending $166 billion to support their armed forces. But US has more. There is a record US spending of $682 billion just to support their military. The military capacity of US is incomparable, even with China. They have the ability to project their military force globally. Unlike China, who only possess one active aircraft carrier, the US possess ten of them. Moreover, US has for the longest time established their military bases in over major continents around the world.

            In non-material assents, the US together with its allies from the West are still on the lead. American influence of liberal democracy is dominant among other States around the world. Moreover, they were able to establish soft power in the means of movies, music, novels, amongst many things. And up to this age, most of the world’s prestigious universities and business schools are mostly located in the US. In comparison, the Chinese influence is not as widespread as the US. The economic liberalism and political authoritarianism mix nature of Chinese government has no doubt to inflexible for other States to adapt. Moreover, China might have negotiations with North Korea and Russia but unlike the US, they do not have great powerful alliances in the world stage.

            We might perceive US as declining in terms of social influence and at the same having China rising as an economic power but this wouldn’t be for long. According to researchers three dominant reasons as to why US is here to stay as a hegemony: First, appraisal of US foreign policy. Second, american influence abroad. Lastly, the strength of its domestic economy and political institutions. This may not hold true in the coming future but this would all boils down on how US will continue playing their game in the International System.

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Amid Separatism and Bonds: Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day

Amid Separatism and Bonds: Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day

By: Marla Arielle B. So, AB POSC IRFS - ECON – 3

            On June 30, 2015, the IRFS 141 class of Atty. Archill Niña Faller Capistrano feasted on Hispanic hors d’oeuvres and history in honor of Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day. The classroom celebration — courtesy of a joint alliance between Team Hegemon and Team Titans — was conducted with much pomp, beginning with a Roman Catholic prayer and the playing of the national anthems of the two states. Student reporters covered several topics ranging from the significance of the date, to the methods of observance in both contexts, to comparisons between Filipino and Spanish culture.

Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day commemorates the Siege of Baler, a nearly year-long military operation against the last Spanish hideout in the burgeoning Philippine Republic. On June 27, 1998, towards the end of the Spanish-American War, less than 60 Spanish soldiers barricaded themselves within the Church of Baler. Despite news of the surrender of Manila to the US, starvation in the face of dwindling rations and outbreaks of diseases, the troops held out for almost 11 months. They surrendered on June 2, 1899.

Loyalty, perseverance, military valor: all are ideals held by both Filipinos and Spaniards. Because of their display, the remaining Spanish soldiers earned the respect of the Philippine troops. President Emilio Aguinaldo granted the survivors safe passage to Spain. Furthermore, the Philippine government promulgated Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day through Republic Act No. 09187, series of 2002. The people of Baler, now the capital of Aurora Province, enjoy a special non-working holiday in commemoration of the two states’ bond.

Structuralism is an international relations perspective which sees institutions such as society and religion as the basis for action. Using structuralism as a lens, the interaction between the Philippines and Spain can be seen as a result of their shared traits. The theme for the 13^th year of the celebration is “Transitions, Trade, and Transpacific Changes.” Despite any bad blood caused by centuries-long colonialism, Spain is now the Philippines’ 28th largest trading partner. Both states have assisted in the preservation of each other’s economy and heritage sites. Similarities in culture are both active and abound.

Spain and the Philippines also have comparable separatist groups. Historically, Spain’s Reconquista led to the expulsion of non-Catholics from the state; in contemporary times, there are secessionist movements in the regions of Catalonia and Basque. During the initial colonization of the Philippines, the Muslim resistance in Mindanao led to the creation of dissimilar national views. The resulting conflict is still felt even in 2015. A question Atty. Capistrano threw to her class was “What can the Philippines learn from Spain on separatism?”

The IRFS 141 class capped off their celebration with a mix of authentic and fusion cuisine. It is easy to see the union of Spanish and Philippine influence when one digs into Spanish paella from Ipar's Restaurante Y Bar De Tapas, and loaded empanadas and leche flan from Homebakers, Inc. The food was coupled with videos showcasing the beauty of Spain and the Philippines: two countries with similar identities in the midst of an ever-changing world.

SOURCES:

Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day. (n.d.). Presidential Museum and Library. Retrieved from http://malacanang.gov.ph/4148-philippine-spanish-friendship-day/.

After centuries-long colonial rule, PH, Spain ‘partners for life’ (2015). Inquirer News. Retrieved from http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/701760/after-centuries-long-colonial-rule-ph-spain-partners-for-life

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Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day in Cebu City: Proposed Resolution

PHILIPPINE-SPANISH FRIENDSHIP DAY IN CEBU CITY: Proposed Resolution

By Frances Aurem Villaflor, SUPERPOWER

The City of Cebu as we all know is a city brimful of rich history and historical firsts. It is a city wherein Spanish ancestry and religion is vivid and greatly practiced. There is a need for the City of Cebu to officially celebrate the Philippine-Spanish friendship day in order to commemorate the historical ties and friendship between Cebu and Spain and to bring back the good memories that were made during the Spanish colonization.

 The Philippines was first discovered when a Portuguese explorer named Ferdinand Magellan and his troops arrived in the island of Cebu in 1521. Magellan was welcomed by Rajah Humabon, the native chieftain of Cebu and his wife Queen Humammay. Magellan started converting a lot of people to Christianity and planted a cross that served as a symbol of natives accepting the religion and embracing the Christian faith. He also gave the image of Santo Nino to Queen Humabon as a present and the symbol of the native’s alliance to Spain. However, it was opposed by the local chieftain of Mactan Island, Lapu-Lapu, which led to a bloody fight between the natives and Magellan’s people.

In 1565, an expedition from New Spain arrived, commanded by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. He was appointed by King Philip II of Spain to be the first Governor-General in the Philippines. This was the time when Spanish colonization finally began in Cebu. The first Philippine peace treaty was signed in June 4, 1565 by Rajah Tupas and General Legazpi. Under the agreement, Cebu recognized the Spanish government which, in return, would protect Cebu in times of war. The Basilica del Sto. Nino is the first Roman Catholic Church in the country that was built in Cebu around 1565.

The presence of the Spaniards bolstered and transformed Cebu. It did not only make churches but it also helped in establishing schools. The agriculture, trade and commerce in Cebu also flourished during this time. With the things aforementioned above, we can really say that there is a need to celebrate a Philippine-Spanish friendship day here in Cebu City. History shows the importance and impact of Spain brought to the former fishing and trading village.

A proposed resolution hereby follows to establish a celebration of the Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day in the City of Cebu:

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, in recalling Republic Act No. 9187, s. 2002, an act declaring June 30 of the year as Philippine-Spanish friendship day, as a means to strengthen the relationship between two nations that share history, traditions, and values;

WHEREAS, in reaffirming the aforementioned Republic Act, the City of Cebu should also have an official celebration on the said friendship day to commemorate the historical ties and friendship between Cebu and Spain;

WHEREAS, the City of Cebu, is where the first permanent settlement of the Spanish colonizers was established and is the cradle of Christianity;

WHEREAS, it is necessary and desirable that the City of Cebu will celebrate a Philippine-Spanish friendship day every year in order for Cebuanos to remember the rich history and influence that the Spanish colonizers have left here in the country and in Cebu;

NOW THEREFORE, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of the City of Cebu, as moved by Member_________________, and seconded by Member ______________;

RESOLVED, to request the Mayor, Hon. Michael L. Rama to approve the celebration of the Philippine-Spanish friendship day here in Cebu City; and

RESOLVED FURTHER, to authorize the Acting City Secretary of the Sangguniang Panlungsod to furnish copies of this resolution to the Office of the Mayor, Cebu City Tourism and International Relations Commission, Sister City Commission, National Historical Commission of the Philippines and all other concerned parties for their information and guidance.

REFERENCES:

Cebu City and the Spanish past. (n.d.). Retrieved August 20, 2015 http://www.philippines.hvu.nl/cebu4.htm

History. (n.d.). Retrieved August 20, 2015. http://www.cebucity.gov.ph/history

History of Cebu. (n.d.). Retrieved August 20, 2015. http://www.everythingcebu.com/lifestyle/culture/history-of-cebu/

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A Proposed Resolution for the Celebration of the International Day of Friendship

A PROPOSED RESOLUTION FOR THE CELEBRATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF FRIENDSHIP
by Renee Dominique C. Rodelas, Team Hegemon

INTRODUCTORY NOTE

International Day of Friendship, commonly known as World Friendship Day, is a United Nations (UN) proclamation that highlights friendship - between peoples, countries, cultures and/or individuals – as a fundamental idea to promote peace, unity, solidarity, mutual understanding and reconciliation between domestic and international communities while encouraging the youth, as future leaders, to get involved in activities that promote international understanding and respect for diversity.

Inspired by the friendship celebrations of some South African countries, World Friendship Day started out as a concept proposed by Dr. Ramon Artemio Brachio and his collegues while having dinner on the River Paraguay in 1958. The meeting resulted to a weeklong friendship celebration from 21 to 27 July 1958 with the entire community of Puerto Pinasco, then to Asuncion, Concepcion, Puerto Sastre and Puerto Casado. The following year, the week of Friendship was held from 24 to 30, with July 30 as the closing act of the celebration. This social impact led to the creation of the World Friendship Crusade in 1968, and the establishment of its branches in the Vatican, Canary Islands, Columbia, Tokyo, Jerusalem, United States, United Kingdom, Denmark, France, and Netherlands (History of the World Friendship Crusade, 2008). The Crusade began to lobby to UN for the recognition of World Friendship Day for years until finally, on 2011, the General Assembly decided to designate 30 July as the International Day of Friendship and invited all member-states to observe the International Day of Friendship in accordance with the culture and customs of their local, national and regional communities through education and public awareness-raising activities (UN General Assembly, 2011).

World Friendship Day is also intended to support the goals and objectives of the “Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace”, a UNESCO-proposed initiative that defines the values, attitude, and behavior that rejects violence and prevent conflicts throughout the globe. Adopted in 1999, the Declaration sets out area actions designed for individuals, nations, and communities in order for “culture of peace” to prevail, specifically the promotion of sustainable economic and social development, promotion of international peace and security, support for participatory communication and democratic participation, education, respect for human rights and gender equality, and advance understanding, tolerance and solidarity (UN General Assembly, 1999). This Day also supports the “International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World” proclamation, emphasizing the need for “culture of peace” and non-violence to emanate from adults and be instilled in children in order to the strengthen of international peace and cooperation (UN General Assembly, 1998).

Cebu is and always has been a catering of many cultures. With its strategic location being at the heart of the Philippines itself, Cebu has been a business hub for both local and international businessmen and traders. Historically speaking, Cebu has established economic ties with China, Malaysia, Japan, India, Burma and other parts of Asia even before the Spanish era. Currently, information technology (IT) has been one of Cebu’s economic drivers in the recent years, contributing 56 percent of Metro Cebu’s total economic output, with foreign BPO companies like call center agencies at the forefront of the business (Sicat, 2014). Since 2010, its export growth rate has averaged close to 20 percent, considerably higher than any other province in the Philippines. Its major hubs have helped increased economic activity within its peripheries while supporting the thousands of domestic and international employees, workers and businessmen in the area (Adarme, 2015). This lush attention of Cebu has not only attracted businessmen abroad, but has also fascinated foreigners with its culture and heritage. From old European to the traditional Chinese up to the modern Western culture, its rich collection of culture has made Cebu a well-distinguished cosmopolitan. Tourist arrival statistics to the Central Visayas is now 2.1 million, with Cebu’s tourist arrivals contributing 90 percent to the system (Cacho, 2015). Its famous tourist spots like the Sto. Niño Basilica, Magellan’s Cross, Fort San Pedro, and the old Jesuit House and museums positively impacted tourism in the province, thus hailed as the “Tourism Gateway for Central and Southern Philippines” (Adarme, 2015).

The objective of World Friendship Day is to promote unity and fellowship irrespective of religion, race, colour, class and creed. Despite the gritty and shady past between countries, the Philippines have continuously observe the celebration of its Friendship Day with Spain, Japan and the United States, among others, signifying camaraderie with their former colonizers. While friendship days are commemorations of ties established to celebrate, to remember and to reconcile with each other from a bitter past, the celebration of World Friendship Day can serve as a medium for Cebu to take advantage of its nature as having a mixture of culture, norms and heritages that individuals, regardless of nationality, can commemorate through sharing cultural practices.

Word Count: 796

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, in recalling the United Nation Resolution 65/L.72 designating July 30 as the International Day of Friendship inviting all member-states to observe this celebration in an appropriate manner and in accordance to the culture and customs of their local, national and regional communities;

WHEREAS, the celebration of the Philippines’ bilateral relationships with countries such as Republic Act 9187 or the Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day, Proclamation No. 905 or the Philippine-Japanese Friendship Day, Proclamation No. 148 or the Philippine-Chinese Friendship Day, and Proclamation No. 811 or the Filipino-American Friendship Day, strengthened by its historical ties and shared cultures, values and traditions, signifies its commitment to unity and camaraderie;

WHEREAS, in reaffirming the statements mentioned above, the University of San Carlos Political Science majors of International Relations of Foreign Service (IRFS) and the Carolinian Circle of Young Diplomats (CCYD) shall partner with the Office of External Relations to celebrate the International Day of Friendship every 30^th of July;

WHEREAS, a World Friendship Day photo exhibit shall be displayed inside the premise of the University of San Carlos – Downtown Campus, showcasing the importance and significance of the celebration, as well as the efforts made by UN member-states in commemorating the event;

THEREFORE, the Carolinian Circle of Young Diplomats in its ___ Parliamentary session assembled and as moved by Rt. Hon. Renee Dominique C. Rodelas and seconded by ______

RESOLVED, AS IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED, to request the IRFS 141: Special Topics in International Relations to research the necessary information on the celebration as stated above;

RESOLVED FURTHER, to direct the Ministry of Documentation to furnish copies of this resolution to IRFS 141 Instructor and CCYD Adviser Atty. Archill Niña F. Capistrano, MInternatRel and to the CCYD Ministries for their information and guidance.

Submitted by:

Rt. Hon. Renee Dominique C. Rodelas, MP
Minister of Information and Communication

REFERENCES

Public Holidays. (2015). International Day of Friendship 2015 and 2016. Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Public Holidays: http://publicholidays.global/global-observances/international-day-of-friendship/

History of the World Friendship Crusade. (2008, March 31). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Gral. Pablo L. Avila Online: http://cplavila.blogspot.com/2008/03/resea-histrica-de-la-cruzada-mundial-de.html

UN General Assembly. (2011, April 21). International Day of Friendship. Retrieved August 31, 2015, from United Nations: http://www.un.org/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/65/L.72

United Nations. (n.d.). International Day of Friendship. Retrieved August 31, 2015, from United Nations: http://www.un.org/en/events/friendshipday/

International Day of Friendship - Background. (n.d.). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from United Nations: http://www.un.org/en/events/friendshipday/background.shtml

UN General Assembly. (1998, November 19). International Decade for a Culture of Peace and Non-Violence for the Children of the World (2001–2010). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from United Nations: http://www.un.org/en/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/RES/53/25

UN General Assembly. (1999, October 6). Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. Retrieved August 31, 2015, from United Nations: http://www.un.org/en/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=A/RES/53/243

Cebu - Quick Facts. (n.d.). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Province of Cebu Official Website: http://www.cebu.gov.ph/about-cebu/quick-facts/

Adarme, N. (2015, May 9). 5 Reasons Cebu’s Economy is Growing so Rapidly. Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Megaworld: http://www.megaworldatthefort.com/blog/5-reasons-cebus-economy-is-growing-so-rapidly/

Sicat, G. P. (2014, May 21). Cebu is booming. Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Philstar: http://www.philstar.com/business/2014/05/21/1325390/cebu-booming

Cacho, K. O. (2015, August 21). Central Visayas welcomed 2.1 million visitors this year. Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Sun Star: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/cebu/business/2015/08/21/central-visayas-welcomed-21-million-visitors-year-425971

Proclamation No. 148, s. 2002. (2002). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Official Gazette: http://www.gov.ph/2002/01/24/proclamation-no-148-s-2002/

Proclamation No. 905, s. 2005. (2005). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Official Gazette: http://www.gov.ph/2005/08/30/proclamation-no-905-s-2005/

Republic Act 9187. (2002). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from House of Representatives: http://www.congress.gov.ph/download/ra_12/RA09187.pdf

Proclamation No. 811, s. 1996. (1996). Retrieved August 31, 2015, from Official Gazette: http://www.gov.ph/1996/07/17/proclamation-no-811-s-1996/

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Philippines and Japan over China

Philippines and Japan over China

by Patricia Piramide

China as a rising power is seeking and making its way to be at par with today’s considered hegemon, United States of America. But, unfortunately, China’s considered manner of reaching the top is mostly through aggression. Now, China is making an issue about their territorial claims that have already affected its relationship with other countries, such as Philippines and Japan. 

Japan and China has its conflict due to their competing claims of the eight uninhabited islands and rocks known as Senkaku islands in Japan and Diaoyu islands in China. The islands have a total of 7 sq km in area and lie north-east of Taiwan, east of the Chinese mainland and south-west of Japan's southern-most prefecture, Okinawa.

Japan based its claim of the islands to that of January 14, 1895 when Japan erected a sovereignty marker and formally incorporated the islands into Japanese territory. And that prior to the establishment of the sovereignty marker, Japan says it surveyed the islands for 10 years in the 19th Century and determined that they were uninhabited.

On the other hand, China and based its claim when the said islands have been part of its territory since ancient times, serving as important fishing grounds administered by the province of Taiwan.

These eight inhabited islands and rocks: Senkaku islands as known in Japan and Diaoyu islands as in China matter because they are close to important shipping lanes, offer rich fishing grounds and lie near potential oil and gas reserves. Up to now, the territorial dispute between China and Japan is still unsettled.

Another unsettled conflict of China with that of another country, the Philippines, which also involves territorial dispute, is the claim of Spratlys or the South China Sea as known for China and West Philippine Sea for the Philippines.

China claims by far the largest portion of territory - an area defined by the "nine-dash line" which stretches hundreds of miles south and east from its most southerly province of Hainan. China also uses historical accounts to legalize their claim and to which they believe that its right to the area goes back centuries to when the Paracel and Spratly island chains were regarded as integral parts of the Chinese nation, and in 1947 it issued a map detailing its claims.

Philippines invokes its geographical proximity based on UNCLOS 200 nautical mile Exclusive Economic Zone to the Spratly Islands as the main basis of its claim for part of the grouping. 

Some of the reasons why there are a lot of claimants of Spratly islands are due to its rich reserves of natural resources: hydrocarbons, abundance of marine resources such as fish. Also, due to commercial shipping purposes. 

Now, Japan and the Philippines teamed up against China during a regional security forum most probably because both Japan and the Philippines are undergoing territorial disputes with China. With their cooperation now, four sources with knowledge of the matter told Reuters, a news agency company, that Japan was looking to offer three Beechcraft TC-90 King Air planes that could be fitted with basic surface and air surveillance radar.

Japan wants to give planes to the Philippines that Manila could use for patrols in the South China Sea, sources said, a move that would deepen Tokyo's security ties with the Southeast Asian nation most at odds with Beijing over the disputed waterway. Actually, Tokyo has no claims in the waterway, but is worried Beijing's new islands will extend Chinese military reach into sea lanes through which much of Japan's ship-borne trade passes.

To resolve these issues through peace talks and/or bilateral agreements should have been much better if only the Chinese government could have been more cooperative and open-minded in addressing and equally compensating each and everyone’s interests for the common good of all the parties concerned.

Word Count – 643

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Rohingya

ROHINGYA

by Athena Cara Yauder

“There is a reason why violence, anger and war are spreading in this time when realpolitik has superseded humanity, when politics is perceived as oppression and when countries ally themselves around self- interest rather than love. The people of a country have for years been living under persecution and facing genocide before the eyes of theworld, and the world knows this, but still says nothing. This means the problem is one of conscience, not evidence.” -Harun Yahya

In the country of Myanmar (Burma), where majority of its people are Buddhists, Rohingya Muslims have always been considered as an ethnic Muslim minority. They form the largest single group of “stateless” people in the world; making them considered as the world’s most persecuted minority. Burma has numerous ethnic groups of which there are nearly 140 ethnic races are living within 60% of its area and Rohingya is one of them, which majority are living in Arakan. (Islam, 2006)

Atrocities and the practice of genocide against the Rohingya minority with manifest intention to destroy the Rohingya people from their ancestral homeland of Arakan/Burma have long been enduring. This large scale persecution through ethnic cleansing and genocidal action of the Myanmar/Burmese government against these people has caused them to flee the country to seek refuge against humanitarian abuses. According to a non- profit group Physicians for Human Rights, in their 2013, there have been human rights abuses committed by the Burmese military. Rohingya Muslims have been long denied evidently of their citizenship and freedom and worse, even of their basic rights such as of having food, access to medical treatments, right to family, education and right to movement. (BBC News, 2015) They have been forced to leave since Burmese independence in 1948 and are now mostly found in Burma’s neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and even in the lands of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. There were unprecedented refugee influxes mostly in Bangladesh once in 1978 and the other in between 1991- 1992 with constant trickle of refugee exodus all along. (Islam, 2006) In search for better life, many relied on trafficking and smuggling networks with some of these countries. (The Guardian, 2015)

The situation in Myanmar has gotten worse as its government had just recently (last 2010) transitioned from a military- led government to a somewhat “more” democratic system; causing violence against Muslims in its worst form. Despite the effort of the Rohingya Muslims to seek for help from these countries such as Malaysia and Indonesia; initially, they did not approve for any extension of help the refugees, claiming that they are financially unable to accept these unfortunate people. It was only last 2012 that the world became more concerned with their situation following the violent attacks and acts of arson to the Rohingya Muslims in the Rakhine State. The United Nations last 2012 have finally advocated for the protection of the rights of the Rohingya Muslims, on April 2013, the Rakhine State Conflicts Investigation Commission has strengthened security actions in Rakhine, and also there has been a help from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNCHR), helping local authorities provide assistance to the migrants. Malaysia and Indonesia have finally opened their doors to accept the migrants for one year, or until they can be resettled or repatriated with the help of international agencies. (Rappler, 2015) With the intervention of the from the international community (Association of the South- East Asian Nations, and United Nations), the Myanmar government had somehow taken some action plan to also create a resolution to the escalating conflict and restore back the peace and harmony within its territory, through ensuring justice and communal coordination. However, just as what Yahya (2014) noted in his article from what Phil Robertson, deputy director for Asia at Human Rights Watch has expressed, the plan is extremely disconcerting; the fact that whichever of the two options in the resolution they have introduced to the United Nations, still it will give the Rohingya no rights whatsoever and make them helpless prisoners.

Despite the country’s transition of its government ruling, anti- Muslim chauvinism is unfortunately still very evident indeed. The way they have been treating people have given many reasons to be more prone to humanitarian abuse and violence; leading them to submit to any kind of transaction without considering the legality, just to survive, giving advantage to criminals to profit from them, knowing that these hopeless people no longer have any option. Despite some actions from the members of ASEAN, it is believed that there are actually no sanctions being imposed directly on the Myanmar government, afraid that it might alter and risk commercial and even economic relations. 740

SOURCES:

BBC News. (2015, June 19). BBC. Retrieved August 21, 2015, from BBC News Website: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-pacific-12990563

BBC News. (2015, June 10). BBC. Retrieved August 21, 2015, from BBC News Website: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-33007536

Islam, N. (2006, October 5). Arakan Rohingya National Organization (ARNO). Retrieved August 21, 2015, from ARNO: http://www.rohingya.org/portal/index.php/learn-about-rohingya.html

Rappler. (2015, May 27). RapplerIQ Newsbreak. Retrieved August 21, 2015, from Rappler.com: http://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/93786-fast-facts-rohingya

The Guardian. (2015, June 14). The Guardian. Retrieved August 21, 2015, from The Guardian Website: http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/jun/14/un-concern-at-bangladesh-plan-to-move-thousands-of-rohingya-to-flooded-island

Yahya, H. (2014, December 1). Defeaning silence over Rohingya Issue. Retrieved August 21, 2015, from Arakan Rohingya National Organisation (ARNO): http://www.rohingya.org/portal/index.php/scholars/68-harun-yahya-/1096-deafening-silence-over-rohingya-issue.html

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