Political-Caricature.pdf

SOCIAL SCIENCE 102: READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY A GLANCE AT SELECTED PHILIPPINE POLITICAL CARICATURE IN ALFRED MCCOY’S PHILIPPINE CARTOONS: POLITICAL CARICATURE OF THE AMERICAN ERA IREN JAN B. DONATO, LPT Instructor College of Arts and Sciences Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy Ope...

SOCIAL SCIENCE 102: READINGS IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY A GLANCE AT SELECTED PHILIPPINE POLITICAL CARICATURE IN ALFRED MCCOY’S PHILIPPINE CARTOONS: POLITICAL CARICATURE OF THE AMERICAN ERA IREN JAN B. DONATO, LPT Instructor College of Arts and Sciences Department of Social Sciences and Philosophy Opening Prayer Creator of all, guide us in our studies today. Fill our minds with clarity and our hearts with a desire to learn. May we be open-minded and respectful of others. Help us to work together harmoniously and to overcome challenges with perseverance. We pray all this in Your name. Amen. What do you feel today? Recap In our previous lesson, I learned that... I remember learning about... One of the most interesting things I learned was… I found it fascinating when we discussed... A key concept from our last lesson was... UNP Learning Overview: Caricature vs. Cartoon Selected Political Cartoons during the American Period Current Philippine Issues connected to the cartoons Learning Objectives: Understand the different representations and conceptualizations of the self from various philosophical perspectives. The students should be able to compare and contrast these perspectives and see how it has affected their life principle. CARTOON VS. CARICATURE  CARTOON Definition: simplified, often humorous illustrations. Subjects: can depict people, animals, and abstract concepts. Exaggeration: utilizes exaggeration without focusing on specific features of individuals. Formats: commonly found in comic strips, animated shows, editorial cartoons Purpose: convey humor, satire, social commentary Style: whimsical, fantastical elements, storytelling approach  CARICATURE Definition: Specific type of illustration that exaggerates distinctive features. Purpose: Creates humorous or critical effects.Serves as social commentary or satire. Subjects: Often depicts well-known individuals (e.g., politicians, celebrities). Focus: Captures the essence of the subject through exaggerated physical traits. Examples: Large nose, prominent chin. SELECTED POLITICAL CARTOONS DURING THE AMERICAN PERIOD In his book, Philippine Cartoons: Political Caricature of e American Era (1900 – 1941), Alfred Mccoy, together with Alfredo Roces, compiled political cartoons published in newspaper dailies and periodicals in the aforementioned time period.  The first example shown was published in The Independent on May 20, 1916. The cartoon shows a politician from Tondo named Dr. Santos, passing his crown to his brother in law, Dr. Barcelona. A Filipino guy (as depicted wearing salakot and Barong Tagalog) was trying to stop Santos, telling the latter giving Barcelona the crown because it is not his to begin with.  CURRENT ISSUE Political families retained strongholds in various provinces and cities. Duterte and Marcos families secured high positions. Perpetuation of dynastic politics. Potential for increased corruption and inequality. Political power should be earned through public service, not inherited like royalty.  Almost 80% of Congress and over 50% of all elected local government officials in the Philippines come from political families. This indicates a significant concentration of political power within a few families, limiting opportunities for new political entrants In 2001, there were 1,303 political clans with at least two family members in office. By 2019, this number had risen to 1,548 clans, with families increasingly occupying multiple positions across different levels of government  LOREM IPSUM The second cartoon was also published by The Independent on June 16, 1917. (Fernando Amorsolo) A Filipino child who stole a skinny chicken because he had nothing to eat. The police officer was relentlessly pursuing the said child. A man wearing a salakot, labeled Juan de la Cruz was grabbing the officer, telling him to leave the small-time pickpockets and thieves and to turn at the great thieves instead. He was pointing to huge warehouses containing bulks of rice, milk, and grocery products.  CURRENT ISSUE Ongoing concerns over police brutality and extrajudicial killings in the Philippines. "War on Drugs" initiated by the Duterte administration has disproportionately targeted poor Filipinos. Numerous reports of human rights abuses have emerged. The Philippine government faces local and international criticism for overstepping its bounds. Marginalized communities are affected more significantly by these actions.  CURRENT ISSUE Local law enforcement and military involvement in indigenous or rural areas contributes to tensions related to land disputes and political power. Indigenous groups and local communities often find themselves caught in violent conflicts, with state forces perceived as oppressors, exacerbating feelings of marginalization.  As of January 2020, official reports indicated 5,601 deaths attributed to anti-drug operations. However, estimates from human rights organizations suggest that the actual number of casualties could be significantly higher, with some analyses indicating that the true figure may be around 20,000 civilians killed since the campaign began in 2016.  A study by the Ateneo School of Government found that 40% of drug-related killings occurred in poor communities in Metro Manila. Additionally, 47% of those killed were low-level drug suspects, highlighting how the campaign disproportionately affects individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.  Reports indicate that at least 101 children were killed between July 2016 and December 2018, either as direct targets or as collateral damage during police operations. This underscores the tragic consequences for families living in poverty-stricken areas where drug raids often occur The ongoing violence has led to lasting changes in communities, including increased fear and mistrust among residents towards authorities. In areas like Bagong Silang in Metro Manila, hundreds have been killed due to being listed as "drug personalities," further destabilizing community cohesion.  The third cartoon was a commentary on the unprecedented cases of colorum automobiles in the city streets. The Philippine Free Press published this commentary when fatal accidents involving colorum vehicles and taxis occurred too often already.  This political cartoon illustrates a scene where a vehicle labeled "Colorum" is associated with death and danger. The grim reaper is shown riding on the car, symbolizing the fatal consequences of "colorum" or unlicensed and illegal public transportation. A law enforcement figure appears indifferent or unconcerned, perhaps alluding to corruption or lax regulation.  CURRENT ISSUE Ongoing issues with illegal public transport vehicles, known as "colorum," which are unregistered and lack proper permits or safety standards. These vehicles operate primarily in urban areas, posing serious public safety risks by evading regulations. The Philippine government has attempted stricter enforcement measures against colorum vehicles, but many still operate due to corruption, lack of enforcement, and demand for cheaper transportation options.  CURRENT ISSUE Poor maintenance of these vehicles contributes to accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road. The cartoon critiques the dangers posed by colorum vehicles and highlights the apathy or corruption of authorities responsible for regulation. Reflects the ongoing struggle to address the presence of colorum operations in the transportation sector.  Approximately 30% of public utility vehicles (PUVs) operating in Metro Manila are classified as colorum, meaning they lack proper permits and registration. This statistic highlights the significant presence of unregistered vehicles in the transportation sector, contributing to traffic congestion and safety risks. In February 2024 alone, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) apprehended 7,252 colorum vehicles, with 1,653 vehicles impounded nationwide. This indicates a robust enforcement campaign aimed at reducing the number of illegal operators on the roads  Legitimate transport operators have reported losing about 30% of their daily income due to competition from colorum vehicles. This economic impact emphasizes the need for stricter enforcement to protect lawful businesses in the transportation sector Colorum vehicles often lack proper maintenance and safety standards, posing serious risks to passengers. The absence of regular inspections means that these vehicles may not be roadworthy, leading to accidents and injuries on the road.  The fourth cartoon depicts a cinema. A blown-up police officer was at the screen saying that couples are not allowed to neck and make love in the theatre. Two youngsters looked horrified while an older couple seemed amused.  The cartoon you describe seems to highlight themes of societal norms, generational gaps, and the role of authority in regulating behavior. The scene involves a police officer, representing authority, imposing rules against intimate behavior in public spaces, specifically a cinema. The reactions of the younger and older couples create a contrast, suggesting a generational divide in how people view such rules.  CURRENT ISSUE Ongoing discussion about the role of moral policing and public decency laws in public spaces like parks, cinemas, and malls. Local ordinances and police actions target public displays of affection, creating a divide between generations. Younger generations often view these actions as intrusive, while older generations see them as a return to traditional values.  CURRENT ISSUE Instances of couples being reprimanded or fined for public displays of affection, especially in conservative provinces. Authorities justify these actions as necessary for maintaining "public decency," sparking debates about individual rights and privacy. The evolving cultural norms in the Philippines reflect younger Filipinos' more liberal attitudes influenced by Western media and globalization.  CURRENT ISSUE This divide mirrors the cartoon’s message about generational differences in views on intimacy and propriety, and the role of authority in enforcing societal norms. Also touches on broader discussions about modernity, morality, and the balance between individual freedoms and community standards.  The next cartoon was published by The Independent on November 27, 1915. Uncle Sam riding a chariot pulled by Filipinos wearing school uniforms. The Filipino boys were carrying American objects like baseball bats, whiskey and boxing gloves. McCoy, in his caption to the said cartoon, it says that this cartoon was based on an event in 1907 when William Howard Taft was brought to the Manila Pier riding a chariot pulled by students of Liceo de Manila. Such was condemned by the nationalists at that time.  The cartoon depicts Filipino students carrying American objects like baseball bats and boxing gloves, symbolizing the imposition of American culture during the colonial period.  CURRENT ISSUE In today's context, foreign pop culture, particularly American media, continues to dominate the interests of Filipino youth. Many young Filipinos prefer foreign TV shows, movies, music, and fashion trends over local alternatives. This overwhelming presence of foreign culture can lead to a decline in appreciation for Filipino traditions, languages, and local arts.  CURRENT ISSUE Concerns arise that young Filipinos are losing touch with their cultural heritage as they adopt foreign lifestyles and values. Similar to the students in the cartoon, today's youth may appear to be "carrying" foreign influence, impacting their identity and connection to their own culture. This issue raises questions about how the Philippines can balance embracing global influences while preserving and promoting its cultural identity.  A study indicated that over 80% of Filipino youth prefer watching foreign TV shows and movies, with American films and series being particularly dominant. This trend has contributed to the popularity of streaming platforms that primarily feature Western content, overshadowing local productions  According to surveys, 70% of Filipino youth reported listening to Western music genres, particularly pop and hip- hop, compared to only 30% who actively engage with local music genres such as Original Pilipino Music (OPM). This shift reflects a broader trend where international artists like Taylor Swift and BTS have larger followings than local musicians.  Research indicates that only 30% of Filipino youth feel knowledgeable about traditional Filipino customs and practices. This lack of awareness is attributed to the overwhelming presence of foreign culture in media, which often portrays Western lifestyles as more desirable.  The use of English among young Filipinos has increased significantly, with studies showing that 60% of conversations among youth in urban areas are conducted in English or a mix of English and Filipino (Taglish). This trend contributes to a decline in the use of local languages and dialects, threatening linguistic diversity.  The last cartoon was published by Lipang Kalabaw on August 24, 1907. Uncle Sam rationing porridge to the politicians and members of the Progresista Party (sometimes known as Federelista Party) while members of the Nacionalista Party looked on and wait for their turn. This highlights the practice of the U.S. colonial government favoring one political group over another.  CURRENT ISSUE A modern issue related to the cartoon is political patronage and favoritism in Philippine politics. Political leaders often distribute resources and government positions as rewards to supporters, while opposition groups may be marginalized. Allocation of government projects, funding, or positions often favors areas or groups loyal to the administration. This creates a culture of dependency on political alliances, benefiting those close to power while excluding others from access to resources.  CURRENT ISSUE Issues like pork barrel allocations and political appointments illustrate how support for the ruling administration influences priority access to benefits. The 1907 cartoon’s depiction of U.S. favoritism towards the Progresista Party reflects present-day patron-client relationships in Philippine politics. Resources and opportunities are distributed unevenly based on political allegiance rather than merit or public need. This issue continues to impact governance, development, and public service delivery in the Philippines.  A study of local elections revealed that 70% of local politicians engage in patronage practices to secure electoral support. This reliance on material benefits creates a cycle where voters expect immediate rewards in exchange for their loyalty Surveys indicate that over 60% of respondents believe that political patronage is a common practice in their local governance, reflecting widespread awareness of the issue and its impact on accountability IF YOU WERE… References https://www.globalmediajournal.com/open-access/the-mediatization-of- filipino-youth-culturea-review-of-literature.php?aid=35138 https://jnoriegasite.wordpress.com/2016/08/03/pop-culture/ https://typeset.io/questions/how-does-contemporary-pop-culture-influence- the-behavior-and-1eyzrf8y30 https://barnettcenter.osu.edu/sites/default/files/2019-08/the_influences_of_k- pop_fandom.pdf https://journal-repository.com/index.php/ijels/article/view/1525 https://jied.lse.ac.uk/articles/10.31389/jied.50 https://pure.eur.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/96222822/1-s2.0-S2667319322000222- main.pdf https://archium.ateneo.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?params=%2Fcontext%%2Farti cle%2F1265%2F&path_info=1_s2.0_S2667319322000222_main.pdf https://ltmsportal.ph/colorum-vehicles-philippines/ https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/04/11/2346895/dilg-pnp-told- intensify-crackdown-vs-colorum-puvs https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/899176/lto-7-252- colorum-vehicles-apprehended-in-february/story/ https://archium.ateneo.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?params=%2Fcontext%2Fasog pubs%2Farticle%2F1265%2F&path_info=1_s2.0_S2667319322000222_main.p df https://pcieerd.dost.gov.ph/pmis/view.php?id=RGpQZkRRPT0%3D https://jied.lse.ac.uk/articles/10.31389/jied.50 https://pure.eur.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/96222822/1-s2.0-S2667319322000222- main.pdf https://www.inclusivedemocracy.ph/data-and-infographics https://jied.lse.ac.uk/articles/10.31389/jied.50 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philippine_drug_war https://www.brookings.edu/articles/the-human-rights-consequences-of-the- war-on-drugs-in-the-philippines/ https://dignity.dk/en/news/philippines/dutertes-war-on-drugs-led-to-lasting- changes-in-one-of-manilas-poorer-districts/ https://www.hrw.org/report/2020/05/27/our-happy-family-gone/impact-war- drugs-children-philippines https://acleddata.com/2021/11/18/the-drug-war-rages-on-in-the-philippines- new-acled-data-on-the-civilian-toll-state-responsibility-and-shifting- geographies-of-violence/ https://www.oneyoungworld.com/news-item/war-drugs-philippines https://thediplomat.com/2024/05/the-marcos-duterte-rift-widens-in-the- philippines/ https://ltmsportal.ph/colorum-vehicles-philippines/ https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2024/04/11/2346895/dilg-pnp-told- intensify-crackdown-vs-colorum-puvs https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/899176/lto-7-252- colorum-vehicles-apprehended-in-february/story/ https://archium.ateneo.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?params=%2Fcontext%2Fasog pubs%2Farticle%2F1265%2F&path_info=1_s2.0_S2667319322000222_main.p df https://pcieerd.dost.gov.ph/pmis/view.php?id=RGpQZkRRPT0%3D https://jied.lse.ac.uk/articles/10.31389/jied.50 https://pure.eur.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/96222822/1-s2.0-S2667319322000222- main.pdf https://www.inclusivedemocracy.ph/data-and-infographics