A recent Senate hearing sparked a "security debate" between two generations of presidents. Former President Duterte publicly accused that after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office, criminal activities increased significantly; however, the Marcos administration quickly refuted this claim as "untrue" and cited police data indicating that the crime rate has actually decreased.
The Executive Secretary of the Presidential Office, Lucas Bersamin, emphasized in his response that the current society not only has a reduced crime rate but also maintains peace and order under the framework of "due process" and "basic human rights." However, his statement was widely regarded as an implicit criticism of the "extrajudicial killings" policy during Duterte's term.
But the reality is that we cannot directly verify the police data, yet we can feel the frequent occurrence of vicious cases around us, especially concerning the safety of the Chinese community.
From the kidnapping and murder of a Chinese medical executive at the beginning of the year to the recent shooting incident in a hotpot restaurant, a series of shocking cases have raised doubts about the safety situation in the Philippines. These cases not only label the Philippines as "unsafe" but also deter many foreigners planning to travel or invest in the Philippines.
Five Major Factors Affecting Security in the Philippines
1. Security Risks Left by POGO
In recent years, crimes directly or indirectly caused by POGO (Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators) such as kidnapping, extortion, and murder have been frequent, becoming a major hidden danger in Philippine society. In July this year, the Marcos administration announced a comprehensive ban on POGO and required foreign workers involved to leave the country by the end of the year, a policy that has been widely welcomed.
However, with only a few weeks left until the end of the year, it remains to be seen whether the security improvements brought by the POGO ban will be verified over time. Perhaps by next spring, we will see whether the policy effects have become apparent.
2. Proliferation of Firearms
Almost all vicious cases involving Chinese are related to firearms. The proliferation of illegal firearms makes criminal activities in the Philippines more violent, highlighting an unsettling reality: in the Philippines, it is too easy to obtain firearms, whether legally or illegally.
Addressing the proliferation of firearms is key to improving security in the Philippines. Strict gun control, enhanced auditing and licensing systems, and cracking down on black market transactions are challenges that the government must face.
3. Ongoing Threat of Drug Issues
Drugs have long been the root cause of security issues in the Philippines. Duterte was known for his "iron-fist drug crackdown," and his "see drugs, kill" policy, although controversial, significantly reduced drug-related crimes. However, the Marcos administration's stance on drug issues appears relatively mild.
Duterte's strong suppression was effective but also led to international criticism and legal charges. Whether the mild attitude of the Marcos administration will allow drug problems to resurge remains to be observed over time.
4. Corruption Eroding the Judicial System
Corruption in the judicial system directly leads to worsening security. Police spend effort arresting criminals, but due to "connections" or "money," criminals easily escape, not only demoralizing law enforcers but also emboldening criminals.
If the judicial system cannot instill fear in criminals, improvements in social security are out of the question. Duterte's era enhanced the deterrent effect of crime through harsh laws, but in the long run, reform of the judicial system and anti-corruption measures are the fundamental solutions.
5. Hunger and Economic Hardship
The poverty issue in Philippine society directly leads some people to desperate measures. For families who struggle even for basic sustenance, crime may become an inevitable choice for survival.
President Marcos Jr. recently proposed addressing the hunger issue by increasing agricultural productivity and ensuring food supply, a short-term relief policy that, although well-intentioned, is not a cure-all. Only economic growth and increased job opportunities can truly alleviate poverty.
Economic Development is the Fundamental Solution to Security Issues
"Development is the key to solving all problems." Behind the security issues in the Philippines lie economic stagnation, widening wealth gaps, and insufficient employment. In recent years, neighboring countries like Laos and Bangladesh have achieved significant results through economic development, providing valuable experiences for the Philippines.
Laos: Transformed from one of the least developed countries to an energy-exporting country by developing infrastructure and hydropower industries.
Bangladesh: Became a major global apparel exporter through textile industry reforms.
Thailand and Cambodia: Attracted foreign investment and developed industries and tourism, significantly improving employment and poverty issues.
Compared to these countries, the Philippines has a better geographical location, rich resources, and a population advantage, but its development has been slow due to policy instability and corruption.
The Challenges and Hopes of the Marcos Administration
The security issues in the Philippines cannot be resolved overnight. Whether it's gun control, drug governance, or judicial reform, continuous efforts from the government and broad participation from society are needed. Promoting economic development and improving public welfare are the long-term solutions to fundamentally resolve security issues.
President Marcos Jr.'s journey of governance has just begun. It is hoped that he can lead the Philippines out of difficulties with steady policies and a long-term vision, truly achieving national prosperity and public safety.
