Australian Member of Parliament Janet Rice’s recent stunt during Philippine President Bongbong Marcos’s address highlights a concerning trend of performative politics without substance. Her lone-woman, telenovela-inspired protest reflects a lack of understanding and research, throwing around accusations without grasping the current political landscape. 

Her ignorance is glaring, evidenced by references to issues seemingly outdated, as if she just woke from years of slumber, thinking Rodrigo Duterte is still president.

It’s indicative of a broader problem of lawmakers seeking attention rather than engaging in meaningful dialogue or informed critique. 

Instead of grandstanding, constructive engagement with Filipino counterparts would be more beneficial. Moreover, aligning with figures like Leila de Lima, who has expressed support for Marcos and has called him a “breath of fresh air” suggests a failure to comprehend the complexities of Philippine politics. 

In the realm of international relations, such cluelessness undermines credibility and fosters division rather than constructive discourse.

In a scene straight out of political theater’s bargain bin, Australian lawmakers staged a protest during President Bongbong Marcos’ parliamentary address, a move as impactful as a whisper in a hurricane. 

The picket line outside, manned by a handful of Filipino Australians, resembled more a sad reunion of lost tourists than a formidable demonstration. Perhaps some were lured by the promise of a few Australian dollars, their protest signs flimsier than their convictions. 

Marcos, unfazed by the feeble attempts at dissent, sauntered through his speech, barely acknowledging the spectacle. It was a performance reminiscent of the 3-member Makabayan bloc’s annual charade during his State of the Nation Address – a predictable sideshow easily dismissed. 

In the grand opera of political resistance, this was but a forgettable aria, drowned out by the deafening silence of indifference.