Let’s Talk About The State
DevSoc’s Dr. Edberto Malvar Villegas Commemorative Lectures
by Casandra Peñaverde
Last Dec. 6, the Development Studies Society (DevSoc) held its annual Development Society Week at the UP Manila (UPM) College of Arts and Sciences Little Theatre, which gears the UPM community with a new perspective on the critical issues faced by the working class. This year’s themes centered on labor migration, state power, and higher education in the Philippines in commemoration of the former professor and author, Dr. Edberto Malvar Villegas.
Leaving behind a rich tapestry of thought-provoking discussions on inequality and the challenges faced in achieving equitable development. Three distinguished speakers, Sarah Raymundo, Rhodora Abano, and Dr. David San Juan, offered unique insights, sparking critical conversations and inspiring calls for action.
Rethinking Economic Development Models
Exploring semi-feudalism in Philippine history is crucial. This historical system, marked by a blend of traditional and agricultural structures, shaped the country’s economic landscape. Understanding its impact helps shed light on the challenges and opportunities in building modern sustainable economies.
Sarah Raymundo, a researcher from UP Center for International Studies, challenged the status quo in economic development. Arguing against the blind adoption of Western development models, Raymundo proposed a “theory of underdevelopment” as a foundation for building sustainable and equitable economies. This approach emphasizes self-reliance and internal economic growth, rather than solely relying on external forces.
Raymundo cautioned against the dangers of the “one size fits all” approach, advocating for the recognition and respect for diversity. She emphasized the need to embrace diversity as a strength and not a weapon to minoritize people further. By understanding and addressing different communities’ unique needs and identities, development approaches that genuinely address grassroots needs could emerge.
The Plight of Filipino Migrant Workers
Despite Filipinos’ renowned hospitality, the challenges faced by Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) cannot be ignored. The Philippine Statistics Authority’s report, revealing an estimated 1.96 million OFWs worldwide, underscores the need to promote the welfare and rights of these dedicated workers in foreign lands.
Overseas workers often endure injustice, facing exploitation, substandard working conditions, and limited legal protections in their pursuit of employment opportunities abroad. Rhodora Abano, a prominent advocate for OFWs exposed the injustices faced by many Filipino migrant workers. Highlighting five key issues — non-payment and underpayment of wages, overwork, verbal abuse, and physical abuse — Abano’s presentation served as a stark reminder of the human cost of economic development.
Abano’s powerful message underlines the urgent need for stronger regulations and protections for migrant workers. She emphasized that ensuring economic prosperity should not come at the expense of human dignity. Hence, creating a safer and fairer environment for OFWs bolsters our commitment to upholding their basic human rights.
The Impact of K-12 Education
Department of Education’s K-12 program, which was believed to be beneficial, is now facing public scrutiny for withholding its promise of quality education. Some argue that there is an agenda behind its implementation, raising concerns about its true impact on students’ education.
Dr. David San Juan, a professor from De La Salle University-Manila, offered a critical analysis of the K-12 education system in the Philippines. He argued that the current system prioritizes the production of “docile laborers,” which stifles creativity and critical thinking.
Dr. San Juan highlighted the exploitative conditions faced by both teachers and students within the K-12 system. Part-time teachers struggle to make a living wage, while students are burdened by excessive workloads and standardized tests. Such an environment hinders genuine learning and development, raising alarming concerns about its long-term impact on Filipino society.
It is crucial to strive to create a system that empowers individuals, fosters critical thinking, and prepares students for the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Moving Forward
The commitment to this shared vision involves fostering inclusive policies that acknowledge the diverse needs of our communities. It means actively listening to marginalized voices, requiring continuous efforts to bridge gaps, and implementing measures that address these specific issues.
Dr. Ed Villegas’ Commemorative Lectures provided a valuable platform for exploring the complex relationship between inequality and development. The diverse perspectives presented by the speakers challenged conventional thinking and offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Continuing the dialogue and translating insights into action is crucial in moving forward. It is essential to critically examine existing development models, advocate for the rights of vulnerable populations, and strive to create an education system that empowers individuals and fosters critical thinking. By working together, a future where development is accessible that leaves no one behind can be built.
