ARADMAN: Multidisciplinary Research Journal

Chantal Mouffe’s Radical Democracy and Rodrigo Duterte’s Radical Politics: A Second Reply to Critics

Christopher Ryan B. Maboloc — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0800

This paper responds to the critics of radical democracy in the Philippines. Critics say that I misused Chantal Mouffe’s ideas on the subject. It is their contention that I misinterpreted radicalism to mean as a radical break from liberalism. Critics also suggest that my position is narrowly focused on the conflict between President Duterte and the elites, ignoring ordinary people or the demos as the essence of radical democracy. I believe that the claims they make are erroneous. Duterte’s rise to power in 2016 was a reaction to elite politics in the country and the failures of EDSA People Power I. In both instances, the clamor for true reform or change came from the people themselves. Critics suggest that I failed to explicate the theory of Mouffe’s agonism, which is at the heart of her radical democracy project. Duterte’s conflict with the political elites in the country is a testament to the agonism or struggle in Philippine society. By dismantling elitism in the country, the consolidation of our democracy takes a “radical turn” and comes with the man who embodies the underrepresented voices in Philippine society. The point of the matter is that Duterte simply gave radical politics a substantive meaning. It is the same kind of radicalism that actually seeks a just, equal, and democratic way of life.

Medicinal Plants: Their Roles to the Folk Healers (Tambalan) of Tomas Oppus

Aya T. Gantala et. Al — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0800

A folk healer is an indigenous medical practitioner who also uses medicinal plants to treat patients with common or ordinary ailments, as well as illnesses. This study aims to identify the role of medicinal plants in the folk healers of Tomas Oppus. The descriptive exploratory approach was conducted by face-to-face semi-structured interview with five identified folk healers through purposive sampling method. Results revealed that majority of the folk healers obtained their healing abilities, from their ancestors, but some claimed that it was through self-thought. Furthermore, the role of the medicinal plants to the folk healers of Tomas Oppus is for curing illnesses as well as for culture preservation because through traditional healing it helps pass the medical beliefs of our ancestors from generation to generation and still continue to use despite the rampancy of modern medicines that undergo scientific measures or clinical trials. Moreover, even though folk healers do not have the expertise of diagnosing illnesses and treating them with medicinal plants like doctors or any other medical practitioner, folk healers are still able to give good diagnoses and give the right medication because they already have knowledge about sickness and cure that they learned from their parents or ancestors. It is concluded that folk healers can cure various kinds of illnesses using different medical plants.

An Ethical Development Framework for the Future of the Bangsamoro

Ryan Christopher Maboloc et. Al — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0800

This paper aims to provide an ethical perspective for the Bangsamoro as it pursues sustainable peace and development. While it agrees as crucial the need to address cultural as well as the historical injustices, the Bangsamoro requires a development framework that will enable it to be fully integrated in societal culture and the international community. Principled governance and democratic inclusion are viewed as critical to maintain the integrity of the region. But the problem of the Bangsamoro is not just political. It must prepare itself, as it does right now, towards a shared future where it can respond to the realities of a neoliberal economic order. It is argued that a human-centered approach to development is important to sustain the peace and social cohesion in the region.

Learning Management System for Eastern Visayas State University College of Arts and Sciences

Ericson D. Acebedo — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0800

A learning management system (LMS) manages educational, training, and development programs in different learning institutions. With the world recently experiencing the Covid-19 pandemic, it is important that this kind of system be in place to continue the teaching-learning process in academes when catastrophes strike. The study developed a kind of Learning Management System for the College of Arts and Sciences of Eastern Visayas State University It investigated how important for the faculty, staff, and students to institutionalize it. The study employed the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) model through prototyping, system flowcharts, block diagrams, and the fitted database schema from identified supportive software that examined the relational database management system. Descriptive statistical data analysis was used using frequency and percentages. Findings showed that a Learning Management System needs to be developed in the College of Arts and Sciences facilitating the teachers' core functions; a) online registration designation; b) computerized deadline messages of class evaluation, notifications, and grading system; c) provide needed information of less expense for users which evolves work processes. In conclusion, the Learning Management System needs to be institutionalized in the College of Arts and Sciences to grow along technological work procedures that benefit, train, maximize, and implement the use of online software giving an advantage as regards interconnecting both learners and experts into one classroom management. Finally, the College of Arts and Sciences needed to institutionalize a Learning Management System to benefit, train, maximize, and implement online software that connects both learners and experts into one classroom management.

About the Authors

About the Authors — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0800

About the Authors

Christopher Ryan B. Maboloc, PhD, is an ASAP Global Justice Fellow at Yale University. He is Associate Professor of Philosophy at the Ateneo de Davao University and a Visiting Lecturer at Silliman University. He is also a Visiting Professor at the American University of Sovereign Nations. He finished his doctorate in philosophy, maxima cum laude, at the University of San Carlos. He obtained his Master’s in Applied Ethics from Linkoping University in Sweden and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, Norway. He also completed his Master’s in Philosophy at Ateneo de Manila University. He was the Erasmus Mundus Program Representative for Applied Ethics, and was a delegate during the 2007 Erasmus Mundus General Assembly in Brussels, Belgium. Dr. Maboloc was also trained in Democracy and Governance at the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung in Bonn and Berlin, Germany. He is a member of The Society for Philosophy and Technology and the Universal Science Education Research Network (USERN). A Scholarum Awards Nominee for Best Newspaper Column, he has written more than 100 social and political commentaries for the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Dr. Maboloc was awarded the Public Intellectual Prize in 2020 by the Philosophical Association of the Philippines. He is the author of the book Radical Democracy in the Time of Duterte.

Robert V. Panaguiton, PhD holds a doctorate in Anthropology, a Master of Arts in Teaching Philosophy, and a degree in Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Mathematics. His journal publications center on culture and spirituality. Having been in the academe for 28 years, he has served important administrative positions like deanship, directorship, and chairmanship. His field work and research experiences have sustained his passion for teaching both in the graduate and undergraduate levels. He is currently a faculty of the Philosophy Department of the College of Liberal Arts at Western Mindanao State University in Zamboanga City.

Atty. Edwin Matura is a Community Development Officer holding the position of Division Chief at the Office for Settler Communities under the Office of the Chief Minister of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). He is a Senior Lecturer at Notre Dame University - College of Law since 2022. He was a faculty member of the Philosophy, Religious Studies and Peace Education Department of Notre Dame University from 2003 to 2019. He also served the same department as its Program Head from 2012-2014. Prior to becoming a full-time university educator, he served as a Technical Assistant at the NDU-Educational Media Center from 1997 to 2003. Atty. Matura has an extensive educational background. His academic journey is defined by a relentless pursuit of knowledge. He earned his Juris Doctor (JD) degree from Notre Dame University - College of Law in 2018. He was admitted to the legal profession in 2022. He completed a degree of Master of Educational Studies (MEdStud) in 2009 at The University of Newcastle in Australia under an Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) Scholarship. He also earned a degree of Master of Arts in Philosophy (MAPhilo) in 2007 at Ateneo de Davao University.

Aldrin F. Quintero, Ph.D., is a professor of philosophy at Notre Dame of Marbel University in Koronadal City, Philippines. He holds a doctorate in philosophy specializing in Bioethics from the American University of Sovereign Nations in Arizona, USA. He obtained his Master of Arts in Philosophy from Ateneo de Davao University and also completed his Master’s in English from Notre Dame of Marbel University. In addition, he has a Postgraduate Certificate in Peacebuilding and Human Development from Hiroshima University, Japan. Dr. Quintero graduated AB Philosophy from the University of San Carlos in Cebu City. He was a PYLP Adult Representative and a delegate to PYLP 11 at Northern Illinois University, USA. He has presented papers at various conferences, including Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand; International Medical School Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and at Hiroshima University in Japan; the Asian Bioethics Association Conference; and the International Public Health Ambassador Conference of the American University of Sovereign Nations. He has published articles in international and local journals, such as the Social Ethics Society Journal and the Eubios Journal of Asian and International Bioethics. He was the former President of the Social Ethics Society (2016-2019). He recently passed the Level 2 Data Protection Officer National Certification. He is now the Data Protection Officer and the Chairman of Notre Dame of Marbel University Ethics Review Board.

Lilian Caubalejo-Domingo, MA, hails from Cotabato City, where she resides with her husband and three children. Having spent a significant portion of her career in Notre Dame University, she is now in a new chapter with Catholic Relief Services (CRS). Bringing along with her a wealth of experience gleaned from her academic endeavors, Lilian is enthusiastic about embracing new challenges and learning opportunities particularly in building resilience in communities facing climate change challenges and experienced conflict. She earned the degree Bachelor of Science in Accountancy from Notre Dame University. She earned a Master of Arts in Theology major in Pastoral Ministry from St. Vincent School of Theology, Adamson University. Driven by a desire to delve deeper into the complexities of peace and conflict resolution, Lilian secured a prestigious scholarship through the Australia Awards. This opportunity allowed her to further her education at the University of Sydney, where she pursued Master of Peace and Conflict Studies.

Maricar Feliciano graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Clothing Technology from the University of the Philippines Diliman in 2020. While interested in fashion, she found her passion in non-profit work. She is currently the Communications Head of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), an international non-government organization advocating for world peace and cessation of war. She started as a volunteer writer in 2019, writing press releases and newsletters on the organization's peace initiatives covering peace education, interreligious dialogues, peace legislation, and volunteerism activities.

Aya T. Gantala is a dedicated educator and a graduate of Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Social Studies at Southern Leyte State University- Tomas Oppus campus. As a licensed professional teacher, she is dedicated to shaping the minds of future generations. With a passion for exploration and discovery, Ms. Gantala enjoys engaging in fieldwork and has a keen interest in conducting research that will pave way for her community’s growth and prosperity. She believes that combining practical experiences with academic inquiry leads to a deeper understanding of the world and enriches the educational process. Committed to fostering critical thinking and lifelong learning, Ms. Gantala, strives to inspire curiosity and intellectual growth. Ms. Christine B. Layola is graduate of Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Social Studies. She earned her bachelor's degree in Southern Leyte State University - Tomas Oppus Campus and graduated as a Cum laude. As a social studies major and a future educator, she demonstrates a strong commitment in helping towards the development of their community and aspires to become an educator who instills knowledge, values, and critical thinking in the younger generation. Ms. Christine devotes her time and energy in tutoring young children in her community, recognizing the importance of providing support and guidance to those in need .

Beth A. Infortuna is currently taking her undergraduate studies at Southern Leyte State University - Tomas Oppus, pursuing a degree in Bachelor of Secondary Education with a specialization in Social Studies. She completed her senior high school education, attaining the distinction of high honors, at Bato School of Fisheries. As a fourth-year college student, she is undertaking her teaching internship at San Isidro National High School and Southern Leyte State University - Tomas Oppus Laboratory High School.

Jesha D. Pusa completed her elementary education at Taylan Elementary School in 2014 and graduated with honors in secondary school at Matalom National High School. She is currently studying in her fourth year of Bachelor of Secondary Education, specializing in Social Studies at Southern Leyte State University – Tomas Oppus (SLSU-TO). Her involvement in various extracurricular activities speaks volumes about her passion for personal growth and community development. Notably, Jesha served as the treasurer of the Social Science Society at SLSU-TO during the academic year 2022-2023, contributing significantly to the organization's success and recognition with the Campus Integrity Crusaders Accreditation.

Erwin Tulang Tampus is a 3rd year BSED- Social Studies major at Southern Leyte State University Tomas Oppus Campus. He is a former Vice President of the Social Science Society during Academic Year 2023-2024. He won awards as the Best Speaker during the In- Campus Debate held at Southern Leyte State University Tomas Oppus Mini Theater for the 2nd Argumentation and Debate forum. As a student and aspiring teacher , he wants to enhance his pedagogical skills through research and innovation.

Vicente S. Betarmos, Jr., DMT has served as Associate Professor V at Southern Leyte State University-Tomas Oppus Campus in the government service since 1997. He earned his MAEd in Social Science at Tomas Oppus Normal College and a Ph.D. in Technology Management at Cebu Technological University Main Campus.With his long years of work experience, he has served various administrative designations like IGP Manager, BSEd Department Head, Sports Director, Board of Directors in the town’s Multi-Purpose Cooperative, and currently the Program Head for MAED/BSED Social Science. His research interests include economics, particularly financial literacy, cooperative management, governance, and social sciences. He teaches contemporary world, comparative economics, microeconomics, Asian studies, and comparative politics in college and graduate school.

Max Teody T. Quimilat, PhD is a distinguished Associate Professor at Visayas State University, where he specializes in indigenous knowledge and local fishing communities. Holding a Ph.D. in Anthropology from the University of San Carlos, Cebu City, Dr. Quimilat has carved a niche in understanding the nuanced interplay between culture and environment. His academic journey is further enriched by a Master of Arts in Education with a major in Social Sciences from Southern Leyte State University and an undergraduate degree in AB Classical Major in Philosophy from Sacred Heart Seminary, underscoring his deep-rooted foundation in social sciences and humanities. Renowned for his groundbreaking research and teaching, Dr. Quimilat's work sheds light on the intricate dynamics of indigenous practices and their symbiotic relationship with natural resources, particularly in fishing communities. At Visayas State University, his contributions go beyond academia, fostering a greater appreciation for cultural diversity and ecological sustainability. Through his rigorous scholarship and passionate advocacy, Dr. Quimilat continues to influence both the academic realm and community life, championing the integration of indigenous knowledge into broader societal and environmental discourses.

Ericson D. Acebedo, MSIT is a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology graduate from Eastern Visayas State University in the year 2008. He also finished his master’s degree in Master of Science in Information Technology at the same university in 2019. He is also a Microsoft Education Ambassador who aims to create a sustainable community of passionate educators who advocate teaching with technology.