Imperiled Experiment in Democracy: The Progressive Forces and the Threat of Neo-fascism

Abstract

The August 28 coup attempt revealed the fragility of the democratic experiment that was embarked on after the popular uprising. Combat units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines decided on which side on the factional confrontation. The civilian leadership seemed helpless to take the initiative in quelling an armed rebellion. The democratic political arrangement was severely weakened and under great pressure from right wing forces. Relationship between the military establishment and the civilian leadership has become seriously strained. Right wing discontent has found a charismatic symbol in Colonel Gringo Honasan. The author challenges progressive activists if the democratic space, won by a popular uprising, worth defending. He suggests that in the present crisis, progressive forces must quickly mobilize to defend the democratic space.