CALIFORNIA, USA — The distinction between natural and man-made disasters is often blurred in the Philippines. Both are devastating and heartbreaking, often intertwined due to human neglect, corruption, and mismanagement.
While natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes are seen as inevitable, man-made disasters like corruption and poor infrastructure are considered avoidable.
However, the lines between the two become blurred when natural disasters are exacerbated by human actions. The government’s role in mitigating disasters is crucial.
Unfortunately, corruption, mismanagement, and a lack of investment in infrastructure and environmental mitigation often contribute to the severity of these disasters.
For example, rapid population growth has led to deforestation and unsustainable resource extraction, increasing the risk of natural disasters.
Meanwhile, corruption and mismanagement have diverted funds from disaster preparedness and response efforts.
Still, I believe there is a political solution to the multitude of natural and man-made disasters we confront as a political community.
By political solution, I use it mainly not in terms of the Machiavellian realpolitik that rejects the ideal and ethical for what is real and tactical.
With the use of any conceivable methods, Machiavelli dismembers ethics and politics where political craft and coax are justified, in pursuit of maintaining political power and control.
Rather, I use the concept in terms of Aristotelian politics where ethics and politics are linked to bring about a virtuous citizenry.
As he aptly puts it: “The end of politics is the best of ends; and the main concern of politics is to engender a certain character in the citizens, and to make them good and disposed of to perform noble actions.” (Nicomachean Ethics)
Thus, to address these issues, the government must prioritize ethical leadership, good governance, and sustainable development.
This includes investing in infrastructure, implementing effective disaster management plans, and promoting environmental mitigations.
By adopting a more ethical and responsible approach to governance, the Philippines can reduce the impact of both natural and man-made disasters, and build a more resilient and sustainable future.
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Author’s email: [email protected]
