‘Manila Miracle’ Raises Questions
Was a coup d’etat really averted in the Philippines?
Only in the narrow definition of the term. The government of Corazon Aquino was not toppled by force, at least, not yet!
The recent moves by Gen. Ramos, however, might have the same effect as the threatened right-wing coup would have had.
It looks as if just-ousted defense minister was only serving as point man for the right-wing forces, whose purpose is to pull the Aquino-led coalition to the right (i.e., to serve the program of business interests first and to postpone desperately needed social reforms).
If the Aquino government does move to the right, the spirit of the peaceful “revolution” that toppled Ferdinand Marcos will be undermined. The consequences for the Filipino people will be tragic.
ANTHONY GARAVENTE
Los Angeles
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