A New Era for the Philippines
There seems to have been a significant and positive shift in the way that the Philippines is being viewed by the international community. Slowly and quietly, the image of the Philippines is being changed.
I’ve seen hints of this as I did my research for this blog. News of increased investments and stocks going up, multinational companies being interested in building facilities in the country. All these have been pointing at a slow but sure growth of the economy. And it’s not just “numbers” either. I saw it when I was there, in the improved roads, the glittering new malls, the enthusiasm for shopping, the entertainment centers. I saw it in the way even the small towns took responsibility for their own prosperity.
Things are happening.
The previously poor image of the Philippines is now being challenged as current President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s significant economic reforms, as well as her strong stance on crime and corruption, has transformed the country into a thriving democracy which is welcoming foreign visitors with open arms and a uniquely Filipino sense of hospitality.
Is it just the work of President Arroyo? Of course that helps, but I believe that the local governments have done their unheralded share as well.
There are still problems for sure. Only the deluded will believe that long-standing issues will be resolved in just a few years. But, steps are being taken. Progress is being made. Naysayers and those plagued with a crab mentality will say that the progress is temporary and hyped-up by the national government.
Well, let’s leave the crabs behind, shall we? It’s time.
Tags: Philippine economy, Philippines, Philippine culture
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POSTED IN: General: Philippine Culture, Government, Politics and Economy
July 8th, 2007 at 8:59 pm
Maricar,
Every day I pray for the Philippines to become the Pearl of the Orient once again.
It will take some time of course but they need to stay the course and it will happen.
Japan did it….Korea did it..China is REALLY doing it..and Vietnam too.
All of the countries are great places of course but the Philippines holds a special place in my heart and has for 24 years now.
The crab mentality is the only thing that is slowing the progress…sooner they are neutralized ( politically of course LOL ) the better off the Filipino people and the country will be.
Don
July 10th, 2007 at 9:34 pm
Don,
The Philippines needs more people like you to pray for and support it. I have a lot of hope that our dreams for progress will materialize someday soon.
July 10th, 2007 at 10:32 pm
Maricar,
Depending on your age, I’m not asking, “soon” will be relative. Ideally “soon” would be in our lifetime.
I’m 47 years old now..and I can certainly wait another 20 years or so…to see the Philippines reach it’s potential.
Don