http://esnaen.tigblog.org/ What's on the minds of young leaders from around the globe? en-us http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/321921

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]]> Fri, 11 Jan 2008 10:35:00 EST http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/321921 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/310623 Review of Western Mindanao Peoples’ Development Agenda: Towards A Multi-Sectoral Regional Anti-Poverty Partnerships Program



A Working Paper
Presented at the Forum on the National Poverty Map and Regional Anti-Poverty Partnerships on December 4, 2007 at the Seameo-Innotech
University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City



Prepared by:
Esnaen M. Catong
Edgar Araojo
Mahmor N. Edding
Mary Grace Ouano-Catong

2007

DISCLAIMER
The authors’ views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the MINCODE, CODE NGO, and the Department of Political Science of the Western Mindanao State University.
]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2007 21:01:00 EST http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/310623 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/310621


by: Prof. Esnaen M. Catong (Chairperson, Department of Political Science, College of Liberal Arts, Western Mindanao State University, Zamboanga City)



A Lecture Presented before the Philippine Information Agency Officials composed of Assistant Secretaries and Regional Directors, November 27, 2007 at the Lantaka Hotel, Zamboanga City ]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2007 20:50:00 EST http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/310621 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/310619


by: Prof. Esnaen M. Catong (Chairperson, Department of Political Science, College of Liberal Arts, Western Mindanao State University, Zamboanga City)



A Research Work Presented at the 2006 Philippine Political Science International Conference, November 2006]]> Fri, 14 Dec 2007 20:37:00 EST http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/310619 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/277765 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICAL SCIENCE
College of Liberal Arts
Western Mindanao State University
Zamboanga City

and the OFFICE OF THE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

present

A Talk/Lecture with

Prof. GRACE GOROSPE-JAMON, Ph.D.
Professor of Political Dynamics and International Relations
University of the Philippines-Diliman

Date and Time: November 9, 2007 (Friday); 9:00 AM
Venue: Moot Court, College of Law Building, WMSU, Zamboanga City

=========================================================

PROGRAMME

PART –I

Registration………………..... Political Science Society Officers

Invocation…………………… RANDY JAY ESPRA (A.B. Political Science Student)

Philippine National Anthem… RAW SIENNA CABARRUBIAS (A.B. Political Science Student)

Welcome Remarks…………. DR. MILABEL E. HO (Executive Vice President, WMSU)

Introduction of the Guest Speaker. Prof. ESNAEN M. CATONG (Chairperson, Department of Political Science)

Talk/Lecture Proper………..Prof. GRACE GOROSPE- JAMON, Ph.D. (Professor of Political Dynamics and International Relations, University of the Philippines-Diliman)

Open Forum……………….. MOAJ ASID (Visiting Lecturer, Department of Political Science)

Closing Remarks………….. DR. ERLINDA C. ESPINOSA (Dean, College of Liberal Arts)

PART –II
Snacks and Socialization…

(Lecture Series No. 2)]]> Wed, 07 Nov 2007 11:51:00 EST http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/277765 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/273479 College of Liberal Arts
Western Mindanao State University
Zamboanga City

and the OFFICE OF THE UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

Present

A Talk/Lecture with

PROF. ROLAND G. SIMBULAN
Professor of Development Studies and Political Economy
University of the Philippines-Manila

Date and Time: October 24, 2007 (Wednesday); 9:30 AM
Venue: Moot Court, College of Law Building, WMSU, Zamboanga City

===================================================================

PROGRAMME

PART –I

Registration……………………….... Political Science Society Officers

Invocation………………………. ......RANDY JAY ESPRA (A.B. Political Science Student)

Philippine National Anthem……........RAW SIENNA CABARRUBIAS (A.B. Political Science Student)

Welcome Remarks………………..... DR. GRACE J. REBOLLOS (University President)

Introduction of the Resource Speaker... PROF. ESNAEN M. CATONG (Chairperson, Department of Political Science)

Talk/Lecture Proper……………....... PROF. ROLAND G. SIMBULAN (Professor of Development Studies and Political Economy, University of the Philippines-Manila)

Open Forum……………………........ MOAJ ASID (Visiting Lecturer, Department of Political Science)

Awarding of the Certificate of Appreciation to the Resource Speaker..... Prof. CATONG, Dr. ESPINOSA, and Dr. REBOLLOS

Closing Remarks……………….........DR. ERLINDA C. ESPINOSA (Dean, College of Liberal Arts)


PART –II ...........................................Snacks and Socialization

(Lecture Series No. 1)
]]> Wed, 24 Oct 2007 08:30:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/273479 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/229605
He was a poor man. Because of this, he needs neither immersion nor being focused on in a 24-hour reality show nor a media spin for him to understand the truest situation of the poor. He was among the very few "provincianos" who liberated themselves and their families from the pangs of scarcity and made it on top through education.

His being a poor student did not impede him to finish, all through scholarship grants, his B.A. in Asian Studies (cum laude) at the Mindanao State University, Master of Public Administration and Doctor of Public Administration at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, and Certificate in Senior Managers in Government at the JFK School of Government at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.

This is the experience of having witnessed the outstanding leadership of a self-motivated man from humble beginnings. A true inspiration of modern-day educators! He is the human: Dr. Eldigario D. Gonzales. A born leader of understanding, forbearance, and know-how!

His brilliancy and exceptional leadership responsible in the significant improvement of the Mindanao State University in Tawi-Tawi, the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) in Zamboanga City, and the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) is viewed to be one of the reasons to his becoming president of the Southwestern University (SWU) of Cebu City, and “the best is yet to come”...

Indisputably, what is inimitable, yet common in these two institutions of higher learning besides the bastion of talents and potentials; their roles in Mindanao and Visayas; and their being melting pots of cultures and traditions, little by little being influenced by friendly Bisayan-speaking students and employees, is the “western” in their school crest. In jest, the choice of leading the “western” institutions is but an accident, and is no threat for the “easterners.”

Born and raised in the beautiful city of Zamboanga of poor farming parents, “Doc Eldy,” as his connections call him, rose from the ranks as Instructor, Professor, Dean, Chancellor, and Vice-President of Mindanao State University (MSU) to becoming the president of one of the most sought-after state universities of the country, the WMSU, ---where beauty is natural, talents are essential, leaders are trained, and the culture of peace and development is being molded---where the future of Mindanao and the region is gauged, till he reached the apex of becoming Zamboanga’s pride in the realm of leadership by serving as effervescent President of the PASUC. He is the epitome and true inspiration of the struggling educated poor Filipinos who made it to the pinnacle.

Dr. Gonzales, as a trend-setter in public and corporate governance, made him what he is today. This, I believe, must be looked into by the University of the Philippines leadership in celebrating the Centennial in assessing the roles of her alumni and by extending them due recognition in the real world of service in whatever capacity to the community, domestically and internationally.

Before he assumed his post as WMSU president, bickering, factionalism, vindictiveness and other challenges often pestered democratic governance not because of the doing of his predecessor but of the latter’s seemingly uncontrollable followings and their rivals that resulted in the underdevelopment of the more than a century-old institution.

In spite of the fact that President Fidel V. Ramos appointed him in 1997, threats posed by his rivals banking on him being an outsider and new to WMSU politics lingered on. It was a very tense situation. His skill in crisis management, and development diplomacy was put to a test. Modesty aside, it was during my incumbency as University Student Council president when Dr. Gonzales was welcomed by the studentry which forged a strong administration-students partnership in development.

Importantly, through the help of broad-minded stakeholders in the academe, student leaders, and other members of the WMSU family, he successfully maximized the meager resources, utilized the potentials of the highly politicized university, and moved on as a unified vibrant institution of higher learning.

After having developed WMSU, PASUC, and other academic communities, notwithstanding the crisis he and his family experienced due to the abduction of her only daughter (a special child) who was released through the help of his friends, religious and community leaders from various sectors after 40 days in captivity, Doc Eldy accepted the challenge of aspiring as a Philippine legislator. His political trounce---due to lack of time and financial preparations---in the popularity contest in the recently concluded midterm elections to represent the newly instituted 1st district of Zamboanga for the Philippine Congress is seen by some as a loss of WMSU, PASUC, and the countless people who believed in him. But I disagree. This in fact is a blessing in disguise. An exceptional leader of his stature will certainly find his way to nowhere but success!

I witnessed his dedication, professionalism, and cultivation of the tradition of excellence. His being our recognized leader is in itself a manifestation of hope for the poor to succeed through education.

Analyzing at a distance, in my more than a decade of stay at WMSU as a student leader (USC President and 1st Student Regent, pursuant to R.A. 8292), a scholar (M.A. and Ph.D.) at the University of the Philippines---where WMSU through Dr. Gonzales tied with in the Faculty Development Program---, and currently a faculty member of political science and history, I could not help but say: CONGRATULATIONS… to the SU academic community for having a brilliant leader with a heart for the poor and the underprivileged as your president.

For the sake of "delicadeza," I have not written an article of this sort about anyone, much less to an executive who wields power within the university. But now that he is not in a way connected to WMSU, I could proudly say Dr. Eldigario D. Gonzales was our president par excellence and will be yours too. Experience his managerial style, and be part in charting the providential success of the Southwestern University’s history.

What really is common between and among the MSU in Tawi-Tawi, WMSU in Zamboanga, PASUC, and the SWU in Cebu City is the experience of having a humble yet progressive leader direct our destiny---Doc Eldy. He is a true inspiration. That in a way gives the next WMSU president a huge shoe to fit in. A leadership with respect, honor, and distinction…

Indeed, there is no shortcut to success in the Philippine setting, especially in the rural areas, than education. Dr. Gonzales shared his blessings to the poor Filipinos by using his leadership potentials, thereby giving other sectors of the Philippine society especially in Cebu and beyond a chance for a lifetime.

He was a barrio boy who returned to the barrios and brought with him the know-how indispensable for medium and long term developments by forging a sturdy university-local government units partnership to reach the poor communities. University extension programs were institutionalized, research and development projects were pushed using the university human research capabilities. He had a heart in serving the marginalized Muslims and other cultural communities.

In fact, WMSU was a center of peace and development initiatives when he introduced a program by making the university’s Department of Political Science as the host for the integration of MNLF Commanders and rebel returnees back to school after the GRP-MNLF Peace Accord of 1996. Recently, his internationally acclaimed pet project, ---The Floating School for the Badjaos---was featured by GMA’s Jessica Soho.

Dr. Gonzales used and still is using his connections to sustain his Student, Faculty, and Staff Development and Scholarship Programs that impacted much on his human resource leadership. During his stint at PASUC, he helped the economy of the country in general and the western Mindanao region in particular by attracting people through sports and education tourism thereby fostering a vibrant cultural and historical consciousness. He linked with international communities to invite foreign students from China, Indonesia, Korea, and other Southeast Asian nationals to study in WMSU and other universities under his leadership of PASUC.

His being a self-made leader and executive of humble beginnings is an achievement that every concerned Asian must be proud of. Indeed, Dr. Eldigario D.Gonzales, CSEE is an inspiration for the Asian youth and beyond.

]]> Tue, 10 Jul 2007 04:50:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/229605 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/223151 Zamboanga Today, Vol. VIII, No. 26 (November 3, 2006)

The research work of Esnaen M. Catong, a professor and member of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) Junior Faculty Club (JFC), was chosen by the prestigious Philippine Political Science Association (PPSA) last June 26, 2006 for presentation at the 2006 PPSA International Conference which focused on the theme “Alternatives.”

During the said international conference held last October 27-28, 2006 at the Grand Astoria Hotel, this city, Prof. Catong presented his study titled Active ‘Three-O’ Diplomacy: An Indispensable Alternative for Philippine Survival.

In the 58-page study, Prof. Catong contended that “it is in the best interests of the Philippines to take a closer look at the ‘Three-O’ (Oil, OFW, and OIC) for survival” as he argued that “ours is a ‘history of crisis’ hence the country’s leadership (present and future) should focus on coming up with decisive and clear-cut policies on ‘Three-O’.”

“We should graduate from ‘reactionary policies’ on OFWs, Oil, and OIC,” he added.

Notably, in his powerpoint presentation using data from POEA, BSP, DOE, and some foreign institutions as primary and secondary sources, he argues that “the Philippines cannot do away with main OFW-host countries who happen to be OPEC-key players, and also OIC influential members, too.”

Finally, after discussing the challenges and prospects of ‘Three-O’ he offered recommendations to address ‘Three-O’ confronting the country.

Among others, he offered visible solutions that include a “Comprehensive OFW Program (COFWP),’ how to “deal with OPEC for Oil aside from working for alternative energy sources,” and how to “engage with OIC for sustainable peace and development in the country.”

And the way to do it, he said, is to have active diplomatic engagements herein referred as “Active ‘Three-O’ Diplomacy.”

Teng Catong, as his friends call him, teaches political science and history at the College of Liberal Arts of WMSU. His research interests include Philippine Foreign Relations, Diplomatic History (West Asia and Southeast Asia), Conflict Resolution, Islamic Studies, Ethno-history, Political Dynamics, and Migration.

He has presented research papers in international and national academic conferences. Recently, one of his studies won in a research competition from the Research Fellowship Program for Young Muslim Scholars under the auspices of AMAN and the Rockefeller Foundation based in Bangkok, Thailand.

Prof. Catong is one of the founding members of the JFC whose main goal is to protect and enhance the interest of its members usually with a rank of Assistant Professor down to Instructor in WMSU. He joined the political science department of WMSU as a visiting lecturer in 1996 and became a tenured faculty in 1999.

This year’s gathering showcased scholars in the field of political science that include Prof. Felipe Miranda, Prof. Alexander Magno, Prof. Malaya Ronas, Dr. Olivia Caoili, Dr. Natalia Morales, Dr. Teresa Encarnacion Tadem, Dr. Amado Mendoza, Dr. Maria Ela Atienza, Dr. George Tigno, Prof. Raymund Quilop, Prof. Aries Arugay, Prof. Perlita Frago, Prof. Rolando Fernando, and Prof. Lusterio Rico, all from UP Diliman; Dr. Ronald Holmes of DLSU; and Dr. Macapado Abaton Muslim of MSU. Dr. Antonio Ledesma, S.J. of Xavier University was the keynote speaker.

Faculty members and scholars from leading universities abroad like Dr. Reynaldo Ileto of National University of Singapore joined other academics and researchers from non-academic institutions in infusing discourses from various perspectives with other research presenters in the country from UP Diliman, UP Visayas, AdMU, DLSU, WMSU, UAP, MSU, USM, USC, XU, AFP, IPD, AER, and SWS.

Foreign universities with research presenters include Cankaya University and Fatih University in Turkey, Flinders University of South Australia, Gadja Mada University, Humboldt University of Berlin, Kobe University of Foreign Studies, Kyoto University, National University of Singapore, University of Canberra, University of Florida, and University of Hawaii at Manoa.

Former UP Vice-President for Academic Affairs and Professor of Political Science Dr. Olivia Caoili, former Dean of UP Institute of Islamic Studies Dr. Carmen Abubakar, and UP School of Industrial and Labor Relations Professor Dr. Virginia Teodosio were among the renowned academics present in the 2006 PPSA International Conference who responded with positive remarks on the study of Prof. Catong.

Meanwhile, Prof. Catong is “encouraging his colleagues at the premiere university in Western Mindanao to let their presence be felt in their respective fields of specialization through research. We should be proactive in producing research outputs to help our respective communities in line with the purpose of the university’s creation.” “This is my modest way of responding to the statement of WMSU and PASUC president Dr. Eldigario D. Gonzales during the opening ceremony of the WMSU Centennial Palaro that ‘the best is yet to come’,” he added.

The WMSU president upon the recommendation of CLA Dean Dr. Agnes Duque also sent political science Professors Patrocinio Enopia, Edgar Araojo, Jofre Rasul, Lilibeth Macario, and Criselda Chou as participants in the recently concluded international conference which was co-sponsored by the Asia Foundation, USAID, City of Zamboanga, ADZU, and PSSC.

WMSU is celebrating its centennial with the theme WMSU: A Century of Commitment to Excellence!






]]> Mon, 25 Jun 2007 12:03:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/223151 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/185259 UP in the 21st Century
Esnaen M. Catong
Ph.D. Student (CSSP), UP Diliman


At the outset, congratulations to President Emerlinda R. Roman and the other new leaders of the country's premier university!

Amidst crisis, the University of the Philippines has vibrantly proven herself in serving the nation and the people of Asia in the past several decades, and the rest is history. What role will the university play in 21st century and beyond will be more interesting to see.

The new university administration’s biggest challenge would be the upcoming centennial celebration considering the economic condition of the country. The university’s performance especially in the realm of research output, strength of faculty, state subsidy, et.al. will be gauged not only by the influential church-ruled academic institutions in the country but also by the fast-growing national universities in Asia.

In this light, let me emphasize that it is in the best interests of the Filipino people if the UP leadership will establish more linkages not only in the country's academic and research institutions but also in the Asia-Pacific Region, West Asia, and other parts of the world.

The leadership should be more pro-active in the promotion and advancement of engineering, science and technology research programs, and history and social sciences, as well as interdisciplinary studies using the inherent talents and human resource capabilities of the brilliant Filipinos here and abroad.

Let us seek the help and assistance of each and every Filipino scholar and of the U.P. alumni for many of them are eager to share. The concept of bayanihan and the spirit of belongingness should be promoted by the leadership for the members of the UP family and community to help the university in various ways.

In these difficult times, the OFW phenomenon should not be seen as a liability but a fair asset for national survival. The national leadership should support technical and health education so that our human resources will be equipped enough in facing the challenges brought about by the stiff competition in the labor market.

In this kind of situation, the university should push for a comprehensive yet affordable OFW re-integration program that includes health, education, and housing programs.

UP should spearhead in promoting peaceful co-existence between brothers and sisters regardless of beliefs, ethno-linguistic tribes, and political aspirations. Of course this can be attained if only our leaders in all institutions, government, non-government, and peoples' organizations, sectarian as well as non-sectarian, will lead by example.

UP as a prime institution of higher learning should lead the country in fostering a transparent mechanism for a corrupt-free society.

We should continue working hand in hand towards a highly educated society which does not sacrifice the socio-economic component of the nation. Let us maintain and enhance academic freedom, respect for human dignity, and religious tolerance in the UP academic community.

Finally, we should take care of the university's human resources. Our faculty and staff deserve reasonable salary, housing, and other benefits to uplift their morale. The retirees of the university should be accorded utmost honor and respect for they were instrumental in the being of the university. Above all, let us not forget the disadvantaged members of Philippine society… In so doing, the University of the Philippines will rise again.

Mabuhay ang Unibersidad ng Pilipinas!


Originally posted by Esnaen M. Catong: Sat April 16, 2005 8:30 am @ http://dg.up.edu.ph
Re-posted by him on Wed, 04/04/07 11:17 PM @ http://www.friendster.com/group-discussion/index.php?t=msgth=347582start=0]]> Thu, 19 Apr 2007 10:12:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/185259 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/185257 The Western Mindanao State University is the lone state university in Region IX, and one of the leading institutions of higher learning in the Philippines.

Historically, this institution was (and still is) proud in serving as the center of academic excellence in the region. She exuded greatness in doing her pivotal role in educating the people (the then Indios, Infieles, and the Moros---a Spanish colonial classification of the people in the Philippines that lingered during the American Occupation and beyond).

In fact, this historic institution was part of the grand design of the Americans (public school system) to neutralize the Moro resistance against the military campaigns in the region viewed by the natives as colonialism. She stood up and herself witnessed the experiences of the populace under the Bureau of Non-Christian Tribes, the Old Moro Province, the Commonwealth, the Japanese Occupation, the Philippine Independence, and the Post-war Philippines.

Recently, pursuant to the university leadership's sponsored research, it was unveiled that WMSU as it is better known today is one of the oldest public schools in the Philippines (the old Normal School) which was founded by the American government in 1904. Had it not been because of the lack of "know-how" due to historical distortions---that the public thought that she was established in 1918,---the Centennial Celebration of WMSU was supposed to be in 2004.

Consequently, better late than never. Various sectors joined the WMSU family in celebrating the most awaited 100 years of existence of our dear alma mater. The all-year round activity that culminated in December 2006 was a convergence at its best.

WMSU produced and is continuously nurturing successful (top-notch professionals) graduates in various disciplines, and leaders in their respective fields of specialization. This academic institution was part and parcel of the infrastructures for peace and development in Mindanao and Sulu. Above all, she has served and is proudly serving the marginalized and underprivileged sectors of the Philippine society.

Congratulations!

At the turn of the 21st century, what is very interesting to see is the transformation of this more than a century-old state academic institution. Let our concern be felt, wherever we are---Zamboanga Peninsula(Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay), Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Palawan, in any part of the Philippines, or abroad---let us support, in whatever capacity, the Western Mindanao State University---where we belong!


Originally posted by Teng Catong @ http://www.friendster.com/group-discussion/index.php?t=msgth=247919start=0
Mon, 03/05/07 01:05 AM]]> Thu, 19 Apr 2007 09:59:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/185257 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/31019
Why? What went wrong?

This must be because of wars, political bickerings, killing of innocent people, destruction of properties, grave abuse of authorities oftentimes at the expense of the environment and indigenous peoples. Should we allow bad politicians and greedy business people to frustrate us?

I think it is time to act, and the right time is now, before it is becoming too late. More campaigns to raise awareness about or mobilize other young people in accord with MDGs should be promoted at all fronts. TIG is one of the venues to engage the youth about MDGs.]]> Mon, 24 Oct 2005 08:17:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/31019 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/30036 Sun, 25 Sep 2005 14:10:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/30036 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/30035 Sun, 25 Sep 2005 12:45:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/30035 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/29809
Corollary to this, a 2002 study conducted by International Telecommunication Union (an institution based in Geneva, Switzerland) states that:

“The Internet market in the Philippines is very distinct. Although there are a large number of Internet Service Providers (ISPs) most of them are little more than resellers of bandwidth. Only those ISPs that are telcos with facilities-based licenses are allowed to directly provide their own national or international connectivity. One anomaly of the Philippine market is that there is wide opinion about the number of Internet subscribers and users with estimates of the number of users ranging from 500’000 to two million.

Another distinctly Philippine phenomenon is the widespread use of mobile Short Messaging Service (SMS). ”Texting” has developed into a Philippine cultural trait with one of the highest SMS usage rates in the world. This has interesting implications as a precursor to mobile Internet access.” (http://www.itu.int/ITU-D/ict/cs/philippines/index.html)

In the three years time after the very revealing case study, much has changed in the realm of ICTs in the Philippines. There is much interest on the part of the government and in most cases the private sectors in reducing the digital divide and enhancing access to ICTs, but apparently, their efforts are still not enough in order for the country to compete in the global arena.

There are many more innovative projects designed by the members of the academic communities and their partners that are indispensable in breaching the ICT knowledge divide in a developing country like the Philippines of more than 86 million populace. The youth are not only the ones that should only be educated and introduced to the realm of ICTs but also those “once upon a time youth” who dominate and or leaders who influence the law and policy making bodies of the country.

In this light, one of the welcome developments is the Philippine Youth Congress in Information Technology on September 15-17, 2005 at the country’s premier academic institution’s theater in Diliman, duly organized by the UP Information Technology Training Center (UP ITTC), the DOST Virtual Center for Technology Innovation in Information Technology (VCTI-IT), and the Diliman Computer Science Foundation, Inc. (DCSF) in cooperation with various organizations and lots of sponsors from the ICT industry. Participants come from all regions of the country including Cordilleral Administrative Region (CAR), and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM). Topics of the National Youth Congress in IT include:

e-Learning
Trends in Gaming
Network Management
Windows Vista
Digital Entertainment
IT Careers in the Health Sector
Career Opportunities and Work Readiness
The Japanese Information Technology Industry
Careers in Embedded Systems Development
3D Animation and Visual Effects
Wi-Fi Technology and Third Generation Gadgets
Internet Security
Change Management
The Philippine e-Library Project
Mobile Computing
Network Viruses
Bioinformatics: Challenge and Opportunity
ICT and the Call Center Industry
Robotics

In this conference, the IT professionals who shared their expertise come from the youth sector of the Philippine society. I congratulate the organizers, the sponsors, and my co-participants for being part of the inspiring moments that should form part in our daily newspapers and broadcast media and not just the bad things that transpired in our society.

A project/program of this kind is worth supporting and emulating.

]]> Sun, 18 Sep 2005 02:44:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/29809 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111 http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/29450
Recently, the country’s premier university, the University of the Philippines spearheaded a group of scholars and practitioners to study the OFW phenomenon. According to NEDA Secretary Romulo Neri as of April 2004, 13.7% of Filipinos are unemployed and, according to DOLE, at least 5 million Filipinos have no work and the numbers are fast growing. Some data show that 34% of Filipinos are living below the poverty line.

Philippine Overseas Employment Administration data shows that from 1995 to 2000, the top ten host countries or workplace according to the number of OFWs were Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Italy, Kuwait, Brunei, and Qatar. Of almost 8 million OFWs worldwide, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas of the Department of Foreign Affairs, as of December of 2001 reported that there were 915,239 Filipinos in Saudi Arabia alone, 239 of them were permanent residents, 897,000 were temporary residents, and about 18,000 were irregulars.

Former Senator Benigno Aquino once said “all of us love our country in our own passion and in our own way.” Reflecting on the relevance of Ninoy Aquino’s statement would mean a lot of things that really depends on perspectives and context most particularly on the labor migration phenomenon. Study shows that the Philippines is now contending with Mexico as the world’s main supplier of overseas workers.

In 2002, 73% of the OFWs were women and 90% of them were domestic workers. OFW contributions in the Philippine economy in formal channels are amounting to $8 Billion, which is equivalent to 30% of the Philippines’ GDP. The amount in non-formal channels is probably around US$8 billion. Last year, OFW contribution reached $7.6 billion. Accordingly, an average of 2,444 Filipinos but some source would say 2,700 leave the country daily.

In 2003 there were 7.76 million OFWs in 192 countries. In the report of National Statistics Office Administrator Carmelita N. Ericta in April 23, 2003, it states that from April to September 2002, the total remittances of OFW amounted to P67.7 billion, higher by 12.4 billion from P55.3 billion at the same period in the previous year. Male OFWs sent higher remittances on the average than female OFWs. Numbers may differ but what is clear now is that the political leaders and stake holders in the government should do something on the Filipinos “looking for a greener pasture, hence migration is becoming a dominant factor as an alternative for a quality life.” Though, nationalism is interpreted in a manner that would accommodate those who work abroad who contribute a lot to the economic survival of the Philippines, thus considering them as “modern-day hero” is a great innovation of a lifetime.

This article examines the state of the OFWs and the role of the political leadership in the development of OFWs policies and programs and the impact of labor migration on the Philippine economy in general, and migrant workers’ lives in particular. Towards this end, this paper will propose a reengineering on the realm of labor migration which shall form part of the Comprehensive OFWs Program as an alternative to solving the labor problems in the countryside. This innovation, although revolutionary will be presented in a capsule to provide an alternative solution to the looming economic crises and to give the OFWs, their families and dependents what is due to them for serving as “Bagong Bayani” (Philippine Modern Day Heroes and Heroines) not just in words but in deeds.

This reengineering and eventual formulations of pro-active policies and programs are significant not only because of the fact that up to this juncture there is no comprehensive study on OFWs, but also of the reality that there is no clear long-term policy and program designed to uplift the lives of the Bagong Bayani, their families, and dependents, and above all their reintegration in the Philippine society. The role of the OFWs as the greatest savior of the Philippine economy thru their dollar earnings and remittances since the influx of labor in West Asia and the rest of the world from the Presidency of Marcos up to this time is worth reflecting. Moreover, the knowledge and skills of the OFWs brought about by their exposures to different societies having different cultures and traditions in other parts of the world should be seen as a welcome development for the growth of the country after their return.

In the early 1980s, the Philippines solely depended on the OFW contributions. In this period, the government has no money even to buy for papers for the printing of passport that may have been witnessed by Ninoy, the prominent opposition leader of his time. Meanwhile, the statesmanship of Ninoy remained a vision for awhile. Although a quasi-democratic institution was established after the demise of the Marcos regime, the fact remains that the insurmountable problem of economic degradation continued.

Filipinos nowadays are in need of a role model, brave and innovative enough to move their economic well-being and their dependents, while working abroad. What the Filipinos in this globalized economy need therefore is a guided and empowered political leadership who should not lose sight on the real issue which is not population explosion per se but the problems of corruption and moral degradation in many forms which pushed the country into the limits seemingly beyond control.

In China, population was considered a liability for growth and development which was out modeled by their status quo where the pro-active Chinese authorities considered their huge population as an advantage in the modern day global competition. Therefore, in a market driven economy, it is a matter of proper allocation of all resources especially human resources.

Of course, the social component should not be allowed to be overwhelmed by the market driven economy. Instead they should be seen together in order to have a balanced and healthy economy. If there are infrastructures for economic stability which are ready to integrate our Balik Bayans, their efforts put together as a national movement for development will never be considered a waste.

The Migrant Workers and Overseas Employment Act of 1995 (R.A.8042) otherwise known as the Magna Carta for Migrant Workers, which was passed into law after the Flor Contemplacion crisis has three major points: the state (1) does not promote overseas employment; (2) provides protection of citizens here and abroad; and (3) deregulates the number of OFWs by removing the regulatory power of the POEA in a period of five years.

This legislation provides for a 5 years penalty for the violation of the anti-illegal recruitment law which was deliberated upon by the Gancayco Commission chaired by a retired Associate Justice Emilio A. Gancayco. The effect of R.A. 8042 is the abolition of the POEA. Deregulation, of course, is not supported by OWWA. Workers may be made to choose between a local job and foreign job.

Ten years after the Flor Contemplacion case, a general review is made on the recommendations of the Gancayco Commission Report which provides for a long term approach. Reintegration, which includes livelihood and resource utilization “resource center,” should be properly looked upon and proper actions encouraged. The Filipinos welcomed the positive development of the Angelo de la Cruz saying that a strong regulation, however balancing, is very important.

Reintegration should be a pre-departure thing. The spouse and other members of the family and if possible the community should be part of it. According to Prof. Onofreo of the UP School of Labor and Industrial Relations, Embassies should be opened as a resource center. Recently, Information Technology courses were opened to service the OFWs (six months in Qatar).

In a command conference called by Secretary Patricia Sto. Tomas, according to Acting Labor Secretary Manuel Henson, she points, among other things, the prime tasks of Labor Attaches: protection of workers, insurance of the implementation of government programs, and constant meetings in order for the OFWs to feel the presence of government. At present, there are only 36 countries having Labor Attaches that suit the needs of workers and consider differences of conditions in many places. Considering the limitation of government, however, embassy officials must be pro-active in assisting arrival and pre-departure orientation programs.

Under this existing law, twice a year the DOLE shall report to Congress for improvement. Did DOLE do her part? If so, what did Congress do? Or did the executive department implement the law or work for its revision? These questions need more discussions and investigation in the proper forum. Notably, most OFWs don’t like to think that OWWA is becoming the source of government funds in a crisis situation.

Meanwhile, ILO Conventions that the Philippines has not ratified should be seen carefully in accord with Philippine national interests. Bilateral Labor Agreement should be considered without prejudice to the cultural and politico-economic relations with host countries of OFWs. Philippines’ 61 Embassies, 19 Consulates, and 1 Extension officers, Labor Attaches, and the Presidential Anti-illegal Recruitment Taskforce should be empowered to do its task in accord with existing laws.

As seen from the foregoing, there are still a lot of things that should be done in this present exigent juncture. If the Bagong Bayani (New Philippine heroes and heroines) were treated as such and their contributions recognized and reciprocated by the national leadership, an animosity-free economic environment would be created. Wherefore, the problems and prospects of the OFW phenomenon and its implications is now dependent on the Philippine political leadership, they being the repository of the authorities anchored on the social contract between them and the sovereign Filipino people.

The main bases of OFW deployments would be best approached in the light of good social preparations such as the grounding of the workers in school, at home, and at the workplace. Second, a System’s training efficacy must be institutionalized. This includes the awareness of the situation, choices, and options. Third, placement agency’s monitoring. Fourth, the organizations catering the OFWs in the foreign land should work for more empowerment programs aside from the on-sight awareness in the different embassies. Fifth, a strong system of communication between the OFWs especially the domestic helpers and the respective Philippine embassies abroad should be developed and strengthened. Finally, the public awareness campaign which shall be from the rural centers should be promoted by the political leadership after creating an OFW Oversight Committee for the implementation of the law but it is not present today. This is because of the fact that so many people rush and flock in Metro Manila because of the excitement for the work abroad.

Global competition should also be considered as a serious factor by the political leadership. Nowadays, workers from Mexico, India, Indonesia, and Pakistan are also at the forefront. The law on demand and supply on the workers’ deployment is dependent on the different countries’ culture of development. Other countries are fast developing their workers’ skills which mean that they are preparing and positioning themselves in the world market.

The OFWs’ state of affairs is at stake. On the assumption that “no problem exists without a solution, and that there are smooth ways in resolving it properly,” the proponent’s way of doing it is through proper dispensation of a kind of Philippine leadership duly empowered. After thorough analysis and rigorous examinations of the historic influx of Philippine labor in foreign lands and seas, a research work entitled Empowered Political Leadership: Towards A Comprehensive Program was presented and analyzed in the proponent’s paper recently submitted to the graduate class under Dr. Clarita R. Carlos at UP Diliman, Quezon City.

In this light, the political and socio-economic implications of the OFW scenario should be dealt with by an empowered political leadership. Needless to say, this proposition needs no revolution or constitutional amendment but just an Executive Order or fiat creating and empowering the super-body solely responsible for the enhancement of the OFW program prior to the legislative action of congress for its institutionalization of the juridical person with quasi judicial and legislative functions that may be referred to as the Comprehensive OFW Reform Law.

Henceforth, “Katas ng Saudi” as a phenomenon would in a way reveals the profundity of labor relations of the two-nation states. Sociologist Randolf S. David observed that “short-term overseas work of the last 25 years has irreversibly shaped the Philippine economy, modified the bureaucracy, and transformed the Filipino family, the relations between spouses, and between parents and children. It has changed the physical landscape of the remoteness barrios, now teeming with the ubiquitous “katas and Saudi” (literally, “sap from Saudi”) homes. It has transposed career patterns, consumer tastes, status systems, and even modes of spirituality.”

Finally, the present political leadership acknowledged that the country is in fiscal crisis situation. It is in this context, after having laid down the foundations and role of the political elites in the development of the OFW policies and programs through historical analysis in political science methodology that the proponent presents his analysis and recommendations towards the institutionalization of the Comprehensive OFW Program. Wherefore, the positive utilization of human resources would be in the best interest of the Filipinos if considered as one of the primary considerations of the political leaders as seen in the status quo of the OFW phenomenon before it is not yet too late.
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Interestingly, lawn tennis played a very significant role in the history of France especially during the French Revolution. Lawn tennis also was remarkable in the transformation of diplomatic history of the English people as can be seen in their diplomatic ties with “the Celestial Empire”--China--especially during the reign of her last emperor.

In the late 20th century up to the turn of the 21st century, major tennis opens (Wimbledon, French, U.S., etc.) dominate sports TV screens during their seasons. This is aside from the commercials of tennis enthusiasts in the likes of Borris Becker, Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Roger Federer, Martina Hingis, Williams sisters, Anna Kournikova, and Maria Sharapova who are often covered in all forms of media.

In the local front, many business transactions in the Philippines are held in the tennis courts. And almost all provincial, city, and municipal centers in the countryside have tennis clubs. This entices Filipino tennis enthusiasts and tourists to bring with them tennis equipments wherever they go in the country. Despite all these, the country wasn’t able to produce a player of international stature. Why?

In the University of the Philippines, lawn tennis has been part of her being, in line with its vision of total human development. The tennis courts in the heart of the Diliman campus serve as conducive venue for socialization of the various members of the UP academic community and their visitors. An environment was created to foster camaraderie and sportsmanship among the diverse and pluralistic members of the Philippine society.

The proliferation of lawn tennis and its wide acceptance in the Philippines is three-fold: firstly, media influence of presenting the beauties of this sport activity [aesthetics, tennis ethics, etc.]; secondly, its health benefits according to the testimonies of tennis players and scholars; and finally, its becoming affordable nowadays unlike before the badminton phenomenon.

Of course, there are many reasons behind the transformation of tennis, from an elite sport to a lower middle class sport in the Philippines, which need to be verified and scientifically studied by our scholars.

How about in your country? What do you think?
]]> Mon, 05 Sep 2005 12:11:00 EDT http://esnaen.tigblog.org/post/29422 14.6588889 121.073611114.6588889121.0736111