Destabilization

The word for the day is "destabilization."

- ALEX MAGNO

It seems only Filipinos use this dreadful term. It was popularized during the Marcos dictatorship, mainly to discourage public speculation (or wishful thinking) about coup conspiracies in progress.

Every time the word was unloaded by official mouthpieces, its practical effect was to discredit persons or groups critical of the political establishment. Although the word does not exist as a specific crime in our penal code, it was useful as a wide net for what might normally be considered exercises in free expression. The word was a tool for repression.

Last week, several people talked about “destabilization,” including the Palace mouthpiece. One news report broke the story about a proposed “caretaker” committee to be chaired by a widely admired business leader. A senator spoke about being approached about joining some sort of transition council.

It appears the word “destabilization” is used to refer to any extraconstitutional scenario being entertained. But given the inevitability of mission creep, the word could soon cover those now demanding the President resign. That will severely narrow the range of officially acceptable political demands citizens may freely air.

I am certain the word “destabilization” will be used more frequently this week as we move closer to the large demonstrations planned for Nov. 30. The administration obviously wants to defang the political demands that will be raised on that day of protest.