Dilawan or DDS?
Senator Panfilo Lacson has just had enough of the polarization of Filipinos when it comes to important national issues, which he said was made worse by the operation of troll farms from both sides.
"We are a deeply divided nation. The DDS and the Yellows bicker over just about anything," Lacson said.
DDS, which stands for Diehard Duterte Supporters, refers to supporters of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Dilawan, which is vernacular for yellow, is associated with the Liberal Party and that of the Aquino family.
The division is evident on social media, with both sides using the terms DDS or Dilawan to criticize each other.
On Facebook, several DDS versus Dilawan public debate groups have sprouted, with the discourse adversarial and with hardly any room for dissent.
“Filipinos should continue speaking their minds independently, especially in the pursuit of our country's national interest," Lacson said.
Lacson said in so far as the West Philippine Sea issue is concerned, neither the DDS nor Dilawan label should apply.
“Instead of having one voice, we bicker among ourselves. In the meantime, China just watches and even applauds," added the senator as he reiterated his call for a united stand on the issue.
“We must make it clear to our fellow Filipinos what we stand to lose if we do allow the West Philippine Sea situation to continue. That should be the focus of the conversation, not petty bickering that will confuse our people," Lacson said.
