by Nicanor "Nick PerlasThe country is entering the eye of a storm. But I am confident that the resistance to the old order, a resistance that also aspires for a better future, will overcome all the dirty tricks of a regime desperate to hold on to its illegal power.
This week, I have been making the rounds of both high level government agencies and large civil society networks. I wanted to get a sense of their aspirations regarding the future of the country. And one clear message resounds. Resistance to the Arroyo system is alive and well. And this resistance will converge and make a difference in
the national elections of 2010.
Resistance to the Arroyo regime is not visible in government agencies. They are towing the line since Arroyo is their boss and they are earning their living as employees of the Arroyo government. But, if there is an opportunity, those in government will choose new politics.
Those, who have not been morally devastated and corrupted, are deeply disgruntled. They are deeply hurt and wounded. They have had to swallow some dirt to survive. Some have seething anger inside. They are burning for something different, something more dignified. And they are awake and alert for new possibilities in 2010.
A similar situation prevails in significant segments of civil society. Arroyo had made many promises to civil society leaders in 2004. This is the reason why a significant segment of civil society leaders supported Arroyo in 2004. However, Arroyo broke these promises. She nurtured her survival above the dignified development and stability of the country. She has therefore created powerful enemies who are seeking to express their dissatisfaction by supporting new politicians in 2010.
However, if resistance is only fueled by anger and revenge, it will ultimately not flourish. It will be impotent because it will only be reactive. It will be blind to what can be. It cannot create a new future.
It is therefore extremely important to note that the resistance to the Arroyo government is also motivated by what can be. There is anticipation that 2010 can inaugurate a new and more positive and dignified direction for Philippine society. This anticipation is visible even if the conversation is subdued.
The Arroyo regime senses this even if dimly. This is why it wants to change the constitution by force in the next few weeks and months. But this will be a serious strategic mistake. No one can rob a country of the only hope it has for a peaceful transformation.
The country is entering the eye of a storm. But I am confident that the resistance to the old order, a resistance that also aspires for a better future, will overcome all the dirty tricks of a regime desperate to hold on to its illegal power.
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