What happened to the Philippines: The only Christian nation in Asia that’s still deep in corruption, poverty, and increasing loose morals
In the 1950s, South Korea was the poorest country in Asia for over a decade. Korean leaders widely considered the Philippines a nearly unreachable role model for economic development. [Stephen Park]
Likewise, Singapore in the south was a gang-ridden fetid slum in the 60s, and Vietnam was impoverished.
As the Philippines entered the Marcos years, we still enjoyed traces of prominence. However, our neighbors’ upheaval turned to silver and others to gold. We went from pearls to baubles.
Filipinos still call for a revolution.
It’s Ferdinand Marcos’s fault, right?
The autocratic rule of Marcos is the go-to when blaming current economic strife. However, our SEA neighbors also had authoritarians—Lee Kwan Yu, Park Chung Hee, and Trường Chinh—celebrated by their people.
In contrast, Filipinos still call for a revolution in nearly every president after Marcos.
For almost four decades, the Yellow Revolution fought for a righteous government. But in 2022, the overwhelming support for the return of Marcos made it evident Filipinos were tired of the rhetoric and promises of the opposition.
Why not blame God for the country’s misery?
The Philippines is the only Christian nation in Asia, yet it’s deep in poverty, dissension, and the threat of Chinese intrusion.
Despite countless prayer vigils and calls from the religious elite for change—we’re still somewhat in the wilderness.
The call to oust Rodrigo Duterte during his term was so intense professing Christians wished for his death. Religious groups constantly criticize the government. The result is more division.
CBCP, PCEC, UCCP, and NCCP united in “telling the government what to do.” These religious leaders compartmentalized the separation of church and state, even if the apostles did the opposite and Jesus surrendered His rights. [Politics Divide]
SEPARATION OF CHURCH & STATE IN THE PHILIPPINES.
How many more EDSA do we need?
We’ve had three EDSA revolutions, not counting the “mini-EDSAs.” Since 1986, the blame game has continued, and it’s pernicious. Will an EDSA IV work this time?
Yet those you hope would lead the country to a moral and spiritual revival are the people setting a bad example by mixing politics and religion—using the name of Jesus. God is sending a clear message.
Will an EDSA IV work this time?
THE FALL OF THE HOUSE OF AQUINO.
Increasing “loose morals” in the country
Millions of Filipinos remain religious and conservative, while the rest of the Christians in Europe and the USA are declining in numbers—with no signs of recovery.
Despite conservative tradition, values continue to disintegrate, as evident in what we see on national television and social media. Biblical morals deteriorate as religious leaders get distracted by the schemes of the enemy.
Morals deteriorate as religious leaders get distracted.
In 2023, Gigi De Lana performed Sam Smith’s “Unholy” in Puerto Galera, wearing scanty clothing. The song had previously received criticism for its demonic theme during the 65th Grammy Awards.
Let’s face it—God is judging the nation
In the Netherlands, the Ten Booms did their part in sharing the Gospel as Hitler murdered millions of innocent millions. Was God helpless in protecting His own “chosen people“?
In the USA, despite the efforts of church leaders to influence the government, abortion and same-sex marriage are legal.
Prayers in public schools are banned, while Satan Clubs are welcomed along with a long list of LGBTQ books in high school libraries.
Is God helpless to stop left liberals from spreading their woke ideologies and corruption.? Of course not.
These things happen because God is in control, and whatever outcomes He wants are perfect—according to His plan.
Filipino clergy in politics
It seems that to eradicate evil within the government, God required the assistance of the clergy to wear two hats and become political activists.
Since the era of Cardinal Jaime Sin, Catholic bishops and priests have fought against government corruption. In 2005, the papal nuncio reprimanded the CBCP for engaging in too much politics. [Inquirer]
In 2004, a senior pastor of a mega-church ran for President twice but lost. Membership of the church he founded began to dwindle after.
In 2019, the Bishop Noel Pantoja of the PCEC took a photo with several senatorial candidates of the “yellow movement.” He shared it on social media—with pride and confidence. But none of the eight candidates he endorsed won.
The point is several Filipino church leaders have become embroiled in fighting the government, including joining protests in the guise of prayer rallies. They use their position to support politicians or campaign for them.
In the meantime, atheist groups are expanding.
EVANGELICALS ARE ENDAGERING THE GOSPEL.
If we want a better Philippines, we should help others mature in their spirituality—Only God can help our country
There’s always a corrupt, degenerate leader, but only the gospel can save the country. As Vico Sotto puts it, “We need leaders who fear and love God.” Only God can help us.
Priests and pastors who talk of politics endanger the gospel they preach. Real change happens when God changes the hearts of men.
Perhaps spiritual leaders meddling in politics should reflect on walking on the street of Manila with sackcloth and ashes on their foreheads, as the Kings of Israel did when God judged their nation.
Real change happens when God changes the hearts of men.
Bradlee Carr
Nothing will ever happen until Pinoys learn from history. Stop complaining and do more hard work. Stop blaming other people, that’s what’s happening in the US. You guys are doing the same thing.