Module 2, Lesson 3: Politics and Society in the Philippines
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This is the third of three lessons in a module that presents some of the distinctive features that shape development and quality of life in the Philippines. The focus of this lesson is the nature of politics in the Philippines. Corruption is often identified as an impediment to development, but it is countered by the bravery of citizens who engage in activism to demand accountability and justice. From People Power to anti-corruption protests, such activist movements have been a prominent part of Philippine society and history. Likewise, in Canada and in many parts of the world, citizens have gathered together in political or social movements to have their voices heard (e.g., Women’s March, Arab Spring). In the minds-on activity students are asked to explore their own personal level of activism. What would it take for students to actively participate in a protest? In literature circles, students will read articles and watch a video of an anti-corruption protest in the Philippines. They will examine how government corruption affects quality of life and how activism can help to prevent or correct this. Using the Philippines as an example, they will apply this to an exploration of how they might act in order to have their voices heard in troubling situations (e.g. government corruption or otherwise).
Key terms: pork barrel, Philippines, anti-corruption, Grade 8 Geography, People Power, activism, protest, quality of life
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