President Aquino’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) last
week elicited varied reactions. Many praised the inspiring speech,
although some would have liked to see more evidence of
how the administration is changing Philippine society.
“To those who have chosen to tread the straight and righteous
path alongside us: it is you who created this change,” said
Aquino. He then encouraged Filipinos to take notice of each small
act of heroism and kindness and say “thank you.” These
attitudes and contributions have “created a government that
truly works for you.”
To acknowledge initiatives that help create more freedom
in Philippine society, The Liberal Project was launched.
National legislators, local government units,
civil society organizations, and school organizations are encouraged
to nominate existing endeavours that deserve
praise and a pat on the back. These should be ventures that promote
democracy, good governance, human rights, and free trade, and
that translate the benefits of freedom into activities that improve
communities.
“Some people ask what has been done to create
a more liberal society. The Liberal Project
will help us identify not only what the administration has accomplished,
but what the Filipinos have achieved themselves to help their
government and their fellowmen,” said Jules Maaten, Country
Director of Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Liberty (FNF) that
is sponsoring the program.
Nominations for The Liberal Project are open until
31 August 2011. Entries can be submitted online at www.fnf.org.ph/theliberalproject.
The presentation will be on 27 October 2011 that coincides with
the Freedom Speech with President Aquino as the invited speaker.
