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fees, find there loved one's bones being evicted to make room for some other dead and unrelated body. It's quite frightful and concerning (it wasn't made clear what happened to the removed remnants). Still, people seem to be happy with their lot. Some think they are better off than most.

It is perhaps an unfair portrayal of a country beset by many problems. The Philippines is a beautiful land, blessed with abundant resources and a people of charming character. Yet, their country is fragile and requires tender loving care.

It is a country which was ruled for over 350 years by Spain, and a further 50 years by the United States. Both of them in their own way have had negative impacts upon it's culture and politics. Both in their own way exploited her natural resources, and imposed their will.

It will take time to get things right. The immediate problem is the population.

These islands will not be able to sustain many more people. Both the church and state must grasp this nettle with vigour. Both are at loggerheads. Religion and politics are uncomfortable bed-fellows. It's too late for theological and ethical pontificating. Too late for grandstanding and academic debate. For the sake of the Philippine Islands and their people, action is required now.

Learn more about this author, Bar De Ness.
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