To My American Friends
Monday, November 14, 2016
Trump
One of the more fascinating and beautiful ingredient of the American democratic tradition and practice is the peaceful transfer of power from one party to another. Over a period of about 240 years, America has built institutions that transcend any one or two individuals, institutions that hold sacred the ideals of life, liberty and pursuit of life. And despite any imperfections of the American system, the United States remains a nation that does not give up on its belief that it is a land of opportunity for all its citizens.
Congratulations on your proud and cherishable journey. Thank you for having allowed many of us to study in your institutions. We wish you success as you turn a new page and chapter in your great journey. We look forward to working with and learning from you, and hope we too have something in us from which you will find value.
Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...