six - The Post-Marcos Era: Signs of the Times

Summary

Rebuilding the economy and strengthening the democratic process are the prime concerns of the post-Marcos era, starting with the Aquino administration. In understanding the dynamics of this period, the following major concerns and developments need to be stressed. First, the passage from an authoritarian to a democratic regime has opened up new possibilities for the various players of civil society in contesting and negotiating the political and economic terms of engagement of the post-Marcos order. At the same time, this greater vibrancy of civil society necessitates a state and a political leadership that is far more politically skilled in cultivating broad political consensus for reform projects. If this synergy is lacking, there is danger that the renewed vibrancy of civil society could simply be dismissed as intractable behaviour that needs to be subjugated by the state; or that the decisiveness of political leaders be mistaken for authoritarian practice.

Secondly, reflecting the increased globalization of the economic and social life of the country and its impact on local decision-makers, there has developed a more competitive economic environment leading to a vastly expanded role of international economic forces in the local economy.

Thirdly, among both policy-makers and the people, there has emerged a heightened sense of awareness of the importance of Asia, particularly of Southeast and East Asia to the economic and political future of the country. This has been brought about not only by the increasing economic activity among members of the region but also by the significant numbers of overseas contract workers in the neighbouring countries.

Fourthly, the emergence of economic growth centres outside of Metro Manila, such as in the Calabarzon area, Subic, Cebu, Davao, and General Santos, and the institutionalization of a Local Government Code have introduced a new dimension into the democratic transition process. With these forces at work, the degree and quality of decentralization of both political and economic activities become important indicators for the democratization process.