We still can learn from the American ways

If we only put aside our foolish pride and our wrong concept of nationalism and be humble enough to accept we have a lot of room for improvement in behavior and character, I think we still can pick up some important lessons from America, including on how to enhance the quality of being citizens as well being public administrators. In the same manner that we need to imbibe Chinese discipline in earning and spending and the Japanese brand of politeness and respect for authority, there are quite a number of American ways we can emulate.

First is discipline in caring for the environment. In New York, Vegas, San Francisco, and Washington, I saw a lot of greenery in the heart of the cities. Central Park in Manhattan, New York (remember the woman with pigeons in “Home Alone”?). The rivers, lakes, forest reserves, and beaches in Washington State and Oregon are simply amazing.

Second is traffic discipline. New York is many times bigger than Metro Manila in area and population. But I can see New Yorkers are very disciplined when it comes to traffic regulations.

Third is in public health care and education systems. My dad who is 94 and bedridden has three caregivers all paid for by the state. He deserves this because he fought under the US flag and was wounded by the Japanese. But I am truly amazed at how the US government takes care of the old, sick, and disabled, even under a Republican president who abrogated Obamacare. My nephews and nieces are going to school free, even the school buses and snacks in schools are free. Those entering university have a number of student loans to choose from.

Fourth, economic and employment opportunities. My sister resigned from her job in the morning and, lo and behold, in the afternoon of the same day she got a better job with more perks and opportunities for career growth. They pay high taxes varying from state to state, but they get all the public service they deserve.

Fifth, is the peace and order and justice system. The police is incorruptible and provide excellent service. I should know, my youngest brother is a ranking police officer. Justice is speedy and inexpensive. Trials are continuous until a verdict is reached. Justices are well-paid and incorruptible.

Of course, the US system isn’t perfect, but on a scale of 0 to 10, I rate it a whopping 8. Ours hovers between 3 and 4. We need to be humble enough and learn from the Americans. After all, much of our legal system is copied from theirs. Presidents Aguinaldo, Quezon, and Osmeña did not create our systems. They copied from Hamilton, Jefferson, and Adams. Originality is the ideal but being pragmatic is to be practical. We cannot reinvent the wheel of government and governance.