The world is not black and white

By Joshua Corcuera

 

Here in the Philippines, contemporary politics is often divided into two groups: the yellows or the so-called dilawan, and the DDS or Diehard Duterte Supporters. One can also include Marcos loyalists or apologists among the ranks of the DDS, though not necessarily. In our politics, some people treat a person to belong to either of them. If you’re not a dilawan, then you’re DDS; if you’re not DDS, then you’re dilawan. This false dichotomy is dangerous because politics is not merely black and white.

If such a dichotomy would be accepted as a tool for measuring people’s political leanings and beliefs, then not everyone would be represented. Take a look at America for instance, there are only two major political parties there, namely the Democrats and the Republicans. The former leans to the left and is known to be much more liberal and progressive on their stance on key issues. While the latter leans to the right and is much more conservative on pressing issues.

However, not all Americans can be represented by either party such as the religious bloc who disagree with the Democrats’ normal stance on abortion, but also disagree with the Republicans’ normal stance on race and immigration. The same would apply to our country. If people would think that one must be either a DDS or dilawan, then not everyone would be represented in our politics.

Although there are many political parties in the Philippines, it is important to take note that our party politics is not as strong as it is in other countries. The so-called balimbing, a person who switches to a political party that would benefit such person’s interests, is prevalent in our country. Former dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his rival former senator Ninoy Aquino are good examples of this. The former was originally part of the Liberal Party but defected to the Nacionalista Party, while the latter was originally part of the Nacionalista Party but switched to the Liberal Party.

Going back, it is essential for everyone to take note that a Filipino can be critical of the Aquinos, as well as the likes of Marcos and Duterte at the same time. In other words, one can be neither DDS nor dilawan. People must remember that when two sides oppose one another fiercely, it is not necessary that one is good and the other is bad — since both can be bad as well. To determine how Aquino or Marcos or Duterte are bad, from a personal perspective, is the topic for another column; the point is, it is possible to criticize all of them.

People from both sides of the political spectrum must end viewing people as either DDS or dilawan. It is imperative to stop the notion of false dichotomy, especially that it can make an inaccurate description of one’s political views. More importantly, we must remind ourselves that those in power — regardless of their political affiliation — owe their power to the people. Henceforth, the masses should not idolize politicians. Rather, people must criticize them when they lack in their duties, and praise them when they have done remarkable achievements for the common good that is beyond their sworn responsibility.