Reyes, Maita Angela G.

International Political Economy

AB Foreign Service 301 Sir Jumel G. Estañero
March 24, 2018

From a viewer’s point of view, I can agree with what the character Jack Daglish,
the cameraman, has said that the world can only say “how horrible it is” and yet, they
can still continue on with their lives. His line left an impact on me and made me question
the morality of everyone that speaks about aid and assistance, when in reality hypocrisy
lies behind those words. In fact, I was not aware that a genocide even happened in
Rwanda not until I watched the film. I can only express through words the sadness and
anger that I felt over the cruelty that took place. The characters experiences were
unimaginable. Their lives were at stake; it was the battle between life and death and
there is no other way around. It made me question myself as well, if that were to happen
in the Philippines, what can I do? What will I do? Am I only going to speak through
social media or take the action as what Paul Rusesabagina did? The characters act of
bravery, integrity, and love opened my eyes to the reality that you just cannot react, you
should act as well.

Chaos will always hinder the development of a state. Therefore, security is an

essential factor that needs to be affirmed to assure the people peace and order. For
instance, the state cannot allow rebels and rebellions to overpower their authority. It will
only lead to exactly like what happened in Rwanda where the Hutu military forces
initiated the killings of the minority group, Tutsis. This kind of circumstances can only
exhaust the political economy of a state. Pacifying and taming those who are causing
disorder can waste the time that should be given to matters that will support state
development. Hence, a state’s government should be smart and ready to provide
security over its people, territory, and sovereignty to avoid such unfortunate events.

Peace is no doubt, more important. What happened in Rwanda is already a

stagnant example of why peace should be the priority over development. In the
Philippines, the devastation of Marawi against the Mautes is also an example of why it
will take years for the city to be back to its normal and better self. A country will not be
able to develop if matters of peace cannot be provided. The only way for a country to
satisfy its people for a long-term development is through peace and order management;
where empowerment resides within them, instead of fear.

I recommend the Philippines to not end its firm categorization against

people/groups attempting or threatening the peace of the country. At this time, we all
need a strong government that will know what and how to do against those who are
trying to dismantle the unity of the country. Other than that, the government should
educate the people as well about the causes and effects of such groups with no biases
or compromise behind. Additionally, the government should have the ability to listen to
the concerns of those who are causing the uprising and find ways to at least lend them
their ears to stop them from inflicting violence and fear over innocent civilians and
youths. Lastly, peace and security should remain top priority of the Philippines,
domestically and internationally, if it wants to have the development and growth that it
desires for our political economy.