[Philippine's human rights violations] Martial Law Diaries, and other papers [corruption in the Philippines] #6/218

What did McNamara say when more than half a million American troops were still in Vietnam? — “This is going to be decided not by what happens in the air over North Vietnam but by what happens on the ground in South Vietnam.

3 JAN

Came across a flag officer (equivalent of general in army) in Camp Aguinaldo. He asked me if it’s true that I’m retiring from the service and I said “yes.” He asked me why I had to retire short of the compulsory 30 years service. I asked him, in turn, to give me one good reason why I should stay longer in the service. He pondered for a while, then told me that I should stay because FM’s New Society is the real thing. He remarked further that he should know because he is “in” on the whole project. I stared at him without uttering a word and just went my way.

Passed by Fort Bonifacio and met this EM (P03) with whom I had a brief conversation. On the subject of current developments he told me: “Sir, malungkot itong nangyayari sa atin. Mga kapwa Pilipino rin ang naglalabanan at nagpapatayan. Pilipino laban sa Pilipino. Siguradong tuwang-tuwa ang mga Amerikano dito sa nangyayari sa ating bansa.

The flag officer I met earlier is a college degree holder and is known in the PN for his sharp mind. The EM I just mentioned is a mere high school graduate. But what a contrast in outlook and insight. I take off my hat and express my admiration to the high school graduate. I can only say that I feel sorry for the flag officer who lacks the insight and perception of the enlisted man.

4 JAN

Malacanang propaganda campaign in high gear for “yes” vote for Marcos Constitution (MC) plebiscite. Can imagine the tremendous amount of money being shelled out to sell this MC to the people. And these are hard-earned money of the people being used to make them vote “yes” for the MC with all its onerous and suffocating provisions.

Have been conducting own personal survey and so far, have yet to meet somebody who will vote “yes” for the MC. But in the end, “no” votes will still prevail. Am quite sure FM knows results of surveys. He is unusually shrewd and doesn’t take chances.