Catholics can make a difference in 2010 elections
Time and again, Catholic bishops say there is no such thing as a Catholic Vote. In fact, they do not even endorse candidates nor support politicians during elections. They have a limited sway over Catholic politicians and voters. However, Catholics are thankful that bishops do not renege in their obligation to assert firmly their moral authority on issues that are not in accord with the teachings of the Church and are not reflective of the Gospel values. Indeed, there are non-negotiable issues that bishops would not admit any exception because they run counter to Catholic moral teachings. The Reproductive Health Bill is a case in point.
If we Catholics take our faith seriously, we will make a difference in the 2010 elections. Our voting privileges should be used prudently and elect only candidates who promote policies and programs that are in harmony with Catholic faith and morals. Conversely, if we vote for candidates whose policies and programs are contrary to the ethos of the Church, we participate in and condone in the intrinsic evil of such.
It is important then for us Catholics to go through the political agenda of the candidates and find out if they go along with the moral principles of the Church. It is unbecoming of Catholics to vote on the basis of neither party-affiliation nor popularity of the candidates. We have to dissect the stands of the candidates on the different issues of the day. We should not be misled by the seemingly early campaign ads of the candidates who appear to hold the answers to the problems of our country. Let us not be misguided by the pronouncement of candidates that they are Catholics yet they advance programs which are un-Catholic.
My pious mother, Tersing, taught me early in life to bend my knees in prayer. It is my daily prayer this Christmas that we Catholics will choose candidates in the 2010 elections that promote the faith and morals of the Church.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
De-Christianized Philippine politics
De-Christianized Philippine politics
The Maguindanao massacre bespeaks of the kind of politics we have in this country. Human life, it seems, is not precious in our political arena anymore. Gone are the days when politicians, at most, would besmirch only their rivals with contemptuous issues. At this time, unscrupulous politicians who dread they can be unseated in the elections silence to death their political contenders who are auspicious and service-oriented.
How many of these kinds of inhuman atrocities could have prevented had the government done something before to resolve the political differences in Maguindanao? Could the political lords in Maguindanao have stockpiled high-powered firearms if the government, particularly the military and the police, did its homework like intelligence network? Could anybody just slaughter the innocent lives of the victims of the massacre if he thinks he cannot be exculpated by the powers-that-be?
I just wonder how many of our public officials were elected into public office based on their platforms of government, credentials and character and not on the barrel of their guns as they use this to bully and terrorize people to vote for them. Such that when they are elected into public office, they act like self-empowering kings and queens who could do whatever they please in their political turfs even to the point of exterminating the lives of our people.
Politics in the country is seemingly de-Christianized or a Godless human activity. When shall we place God and his teachings at the very center of politics? Let us use politics for our own good based on the Gospel values. St. Thomas Aquinas says: “God is not offended by us except at what we do against our own good."
The Maguindanao massacre bespeaks of the kind of politics we have in this country. Human life, it seems, is not precious in our political arena anymore. Gone are the days when politicians, at most, would besmirch only their rivals with contemptuous issues. At this time, unscrupulous politicians who dread they can be unseated in the elections silence to death their political contenders who are auspicious and service-oriented.
How many of these kinds of inhuman atrocities could have prevented had the government done something before to resolve the political differences in Maguindanao? Could the political lords in Maguindanao have stockpiled high-powered firearms if the government, particularly the military and the police, did its homework like intelligence network? Could anybody just slaughter the innocent lives of the victims of the massacre if he thinks he cannot be exculpated by the powers-that-be?
I just wonder how many of our public officials were elected into public office based on their platforms of government, credentials and character and not on the barrel of their guns as they use this to bully and terrorize people to vote for them. Such that when they are elected into public office, they act like self-empowering kings and queens who could do whatever they please in their political turfs even to the point of exterminating the lives of our people.
Politics in the country is seemingly de-Christianized or a Godless human activity. When shall we place God and his teachings at the very center of politics? Let us use politics for our own good based on the Gospel values. St. Thomas Aquinas says: “God is not offended by us except at what we do against our own good."
Saturday, November 28, 2009
A peaceful dialogue is still the key
A peaceful dialogue is still the key
I sense a great deal of frustration and anger about the Maguindanao massacre. I am sure this exacerbated the present political tensions in Maguindanao. Probably, this could have been prevented if only the government had done something before to resolve the prolonged conflicts among the political leaders in Maguindanao. The situation is likened to a family which has unruly kids. If the parents condone the misdeeds of the riotous children then they only have themselves to blame. The government has an important task on matters where rights of the people are at stake, that is, to act as parens patriae, or guardian of the rights of the people. The government cannot be insensitive to the pleas of our countrymen in Maguindanao when their rights are jeopardized.
I am concerned about the speedy and peaceful resolution of this political violence so that people there would not shudder in fear living in an atrocious environment and would resume their normal lives again. Admittedly, peace dialogues may have been initiated in the past to resolve the conflict but the results were neither clear nor helpful. The government probably can facilitate anew a peaceful and respectful dialogue among the political leaders in Maguindanao. The government should be prudent though in the choice of venue and circumspect in brokering the dialogue so as not to create further tension nor inflame misunderstanding among the political leaders. The dialogue should include talking points on how the warring political factions co-exist and probably share political power with one goal that is uppermost in their minds- to do public service.
Dialogue is a bridge and it involves a sense of trust. Dialogue means listening to these political leaders without trying to change them. The government failed in this field I guess because it wanted to impose its will on those who participate in most peace dialogues it initiated.
Unless the government moves expeditiously, the political violence would escalate and become more death-defying and unsafe for our people in Maguindanao. God save our country!
I sense a great deal of frustration and anger about the Maguindanao massacre. I am sure this exacerbated the present political tensions in Maguindanao. Probably, this could have been prevented if only the government had done something before to resolve the prolonged conflicts among the political leaders in Maguindanao. The situation is likened to a family which has unruly kids. If the parents condone the misdeeds of the riotous children then they only have themselves to blame. The government has an important task on matters where rights of the people are at stake, that is, to act as parens patriae, or guardian of the rights of the people. The government cannot be insensitive to the pleas of our countrymen in Maguindanao when their rights are jeopardized.
I am concerned about the speedy and peaceful resolution of this political violence so that people there would not shudder in fear living in an atrocious environment and would resume their normal lives again. Admittedly, peace dialogues may have been initiated in the past to resolve the conflict but the results were neither clear nor helpful. The government probably can facilitate anew a peaceful and respectful dialogue among the political leaders in Maguindanao. The government should be prudent though in the choice of venue and circumspect in brokering the dialogue so as not to create further tension nor inflame misunderstanding among the political leaders. The dialogue should include talking points on how the warring political factions co-exist and probably share political power with one goal that is uppermost in their minds- to do public service.
Dialogue is a bridge and it involves a sense of trust. Dialogue means listening to these political leaders without trying to change them. The government failed in this field I guess because it wanted to impose its will on those who participate in most peace dialogues it initiated.
Unless the government moves expeditiously, the political violence would escalate and become more death-defying and unsafe for our people in Maguindanao. God save our country!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Bets urged to register early
Manila Standard Today
Bets urged to register early
by Joel E. Zurbano
THE Commission on Elections is reminding candidates for national positions to file their Certificates of Candidacy now and not wait until the last day before the Dec. 1 to submit them.
“If they delay too long and they get crushed at the end because of the number or volume of filers and this is especially true in the local races, that’s their own lookout. They are politicians they are not exactly babes in the woods,” Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said.
Jimenez said the commission will stick to its scheduled deadline as the poll body received the papers of one of the first presidential candidates backed by an existing political party.
The standard-bearer of Ang Kapatiran Party Olongapo City Councilor John Carlos “JC” de los Reyes filed his certificate of candidacy for president together with his running mate Dominador “Jun” Chipeco Jr. at poll body’s central office at Palacio del Governador in Intramuros, Manila.
The 39-year-old De los Reyes said they decided to file their CoCs early so as to get it over and done with.
He said they came straight from a Mass in Sta. Cruz church that was attended by Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles, and Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias.
He was asked on what the bishops message to him. He said it was more of a message to the faithful.
“It’s a general message to the lay faithful that even if all the reforms are made in the Comelec, kung bulok yung binoboto natin balewala lang,” De los Reyes said.
The group’s senatorial candidates who also filed their CoCs were Rizalito “Lito” David, Atty. Jo Aurea Imbong, Atty. Zosimo Jesus “Jess” Paredes, Adrian “Dado” Sison, Reginald “Reggie” Tamayo, Hector “Tarzan” Tarrazona, and Manuel “Manny” Valdehuesa Jr.
In 1995, he ran and was elected city councilor of Olongapo. The organizations he helped propagate as an active member since 1995 was the National Renewal Movement and the Ang Kapatiran National Political Party or the Alliance for the Common Good, a registered political party that seeks to promote the politics of genuine social concern.
In the 2007 elections, among 27 local and national candidates, he was the lone winner of Ang Kapatiran Party, placing second among 10 slots for the Olongapo City Council.
By late afternoon yesterday, at least 18 have filed their certificates of candidacy for president, two for vice president and 18 for senator.
Bets urged to register early
by Joel E. Zurbano
THE Commission on Elections is reminding candidates for national positions to file their Certificates of Candidacy now and not wait until the last day before the Dec. 1 to submit them.
“If they delay too long and they get crushed at the end because of the number or volume of filers and this is especially true in the local races, that’s their own lookout. They are politicians they are not exactly babes in the woods,” Comelec spokesman James Jimenez said.
Jimenez said the commission will stick to its scheduled deadline as the poll body received the papers of one of the first presidential candidates backed by an existing political party.
The standard-bearer of Ang Kapatiran Party Olongapo City Councilor John Carlos “JC” de los Reyes filed his certificate of candidacy for president together with his running mate Dominador “Jun” Chipeco Jr. at poll body’s central office at Palacio del Governador in Intramuros, Manila.
The 39-year-old De los Reyes said they decided to file their CoCs early so as to get it over and done with.
He said they came straight from a Mass in Sta. Cruz church that was attended by Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles, and Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias.
He was asked on what the bishops message to him. He said it was more of a message to the faithful.
“It’s a general message to the lay faithful that even if all the reforms are made in the Comelec, kung bulok yung binoboto natin balewala lang,” De los Reyes said.
The group’s senatorial candidates who also filed their CoCs were Rizalito “Lito” David, Atty. Jo Aurea Imbong, Atty. Zosimo Jesus “Jess” Paredes, Adrian “Dado” Sison, Reginald “Reggie” Tamayo, Hector “Tarzan” Tarrazona, and Manuel “Manny” Valdehuesa Jr.
In 1995, he ran and was elected city councilor of Olongapo. The organizations he helped propagate as an active member since 1995 was the National Renewal Movement and the Ang Kapatiran National Political Party or the Alliance for the Common Good, a registered political party that seeks to promote the politics of genuine social concern.
In the 2007 elections, among 27 local and national candidates, he was the lone winner of Ang Kapatiran Party, placing second among 10 slots for the Olongapo City Council.
By late afternoon yesterday, at least 18 have filed their certificates of candidacy for president, two for vice president and 18 for senator.
21 presidential candidates so far- Comelec
21 presidential candidates so far--Comelec
By Anna Valmero
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 19:17:00 11/23/2009
Filed Under: Politics, Elections, Eleksyon 2010
MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) legal department accepted seven more candidacies for presidency on the fourth day of filing Monday, including that of Ang Kapatiran’s John Carlos Delos Reyes.
Delos Reyes, nephew of Senator Richard Gordon, is a councilor in Olongapo City.
Overall, the Comelec legal department has accepted 21 candidacies for president, two for vice president and 10 for senators since Friday, said Comelec legal chief Ferdinand Rafanan.
Aside from Delos Reyes, Comelec accepted the candidacies of seven new presidential aspirants including Valeriano Dante Reloj, 48, lawyer from Sta. Ana, Manila; Enrique Rueda Sadiosa, 46, a businessman and an overseas voter registered in Hong Kong; Maria Magdalena Apura, 81, from Trece Martirez City in Cavite province; and Simeon Paz Jr., 69, a retired post master turned preacher from Pillila town in Rizal province.
Marcelino Donato, 52, a herbalist and therapist from Vigan, Ilocos Sur, who filed his candidacy for president was also accepted as the twentieth presidential candidate. He was followed by Felix Baling Jr,. 46, a retired engineer from Zamboanga City, who filed his candidacy just before Comelec’s legal department closed office Monday.
Comelec also accepted the vice presidential bid of Dominador Chipeco Jr., 66, along with seven Ang Kapatiran senatorial candidates.
Delos Reyes said Ang Kapatiran party's local and national bets received the blessings of Manila Archbishop GaudencioRosales before they headed to the Comelec office for the CoC filing.
The party’s seven new senators include social scientist and consultant Rizalito David, lawyer Jo Aurea Imbong, professor Zosimo Jesus Paredes, journalist and consumer advocate Adrian Sison, councilor and professor Reginald Tamayo, Hector Tarrazona and former UN executive Manuel Valdehuesa Jr.
Candidacies for local and national positions may be filed until 12 midnight of December 1.
By Anna Valmero
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 19:17:00 11/23/2009
Filed Under: Politics, Elections, Eleksyon 2010
MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) legal department accepted seven more candidacies for presidency on the fourth day of filing Monday, including that of Ang Kapatiran’s John Carlos Delos Reyes.
Delos Reyes, nephew of Senator Richard Gordon, is a councilor in Olongapo City.
Overall, the Comelec legal department has accepted 21 candidacies for president, two for vice president and 10 for senators since Friday, said Comelec legal chief Ferdinand Rafanan.
Aside from Delos Reyes, Comelec accepted the candidacies of seven new presidential aspirants including Valeriano Dante Reloj, 48, lawyer from Sta. Ana, Manila; Enrique Rueda Sadiosa, 46, a businessman and an overseas voter registered in Hong Kong; Maria Magdalena Apura, 81, from Trece Martirez City in Cavite province; and Simeon Paz Jr., 69, a retired post master turned preacher from Pillila town in Rizal province.
Marcelino Donato, 52, a herbalist and therapist from Vigan, Ilocos Sur, who filed his candidacy for president was also accepted as the twentieth presidential candidate. He was followed by Felix Baling Jr,. 46, a retired engineer from Zamboanga City, who filed his candidacy just before Comelec’s legal department closed office Monday.
Comelec also accepted the vice presidential bid of Dominador Chipeco Jr., 66, along with seven Ang Kapatiran senatorial candidates.
Delos Reyes said Ang Kapatiran party's local and national bets received the blessings of Manila Archbishop GaudencioRosales before they headed to the Comelec office for the CoC filing.
The party’s seven new senators include social scientist and consultant Rizalito David, lawyer Jo Aurea Imbong, professor Zosimo Jesus Paredes, journalist and consumer advocate Adrian Sison, councilor and professor Reginald Tamayo, Hector Tarrazona and former UN executive Manuel Valdehuesa Jr.
Candidacies for local and national positions may be filed until 12 midnight of December 1.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Kapatiran's JC de los Reyes files CoC for presidency
Kapatiran’s JC de los Reyes files CoC for presidency
By Philip Tubeza, Dona Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:56:00 11/24/2009
Filed Under: Inquirer Politics, Eleksyon 2010, Churches (organisations)
MANILA, Philippines—The first of a number of “serious” aspirants to the presidency has formally declared his intention to seek the No. 1 post with the blessings of Catholic bishops.
Ang Kapatiran standard-bearer John Carlos “JC” de los Reyes, his running mate Dominador Chipeco Jr., and the party’s seven senatorial candidates filed their certificates of candidacy (CoC) Monday afternoon at the main office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Intramuros, Manila.
“The Filipino people are fed up with traditional politics and we’re the only game in town when it comes to alternative politics. We have a good chance of winning,” De los Reyes, who turns 40 on Feb. 14, told reporters.
He echoed Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales’ lament that even if the May 2010 elections were fully automated, the Philippine political system would remain rotten if Filipinos continued to vote for traditional politicians.
“Enough is enough. Something ought to be done to free Filipinos from corrupt, dirty and unproductive political parties,” said De los Reyes, a former councilor of Olongapo City.
“If we win, we are in for reforms and to transform politics. If not, then at least we would have sown the seeds that will be reaped by our children and grandchildren,” he said.
Mass first
De los Reyes and his party mates attended the noon Mass at Sta. Cruz Church in Manila before proceeding to the Comelec office.
The Mass was celebrated by Rosales, Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles and Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias on the request of Ang Kapatiran party founder Nandy Pacheco and president Eric Manalang.
But Manalang denied it was a tacit endorsement from the Church leaders: “We found it appropriate that we have their blessing, which is important to us because we are going on a mission. [Rosales] blessed us like any father would bless his children.
“It’s a simple blessing. I don’t think it’s endorsing. He did not say ‘vote for us.’”
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines as a body has been careful not to endorse or disapprove of specific candidates. But individual bishops have spoken out against those taking a position contrary to that of the Church, such as in the debate over House Bill No. 5043 (or the Reproductive Health Bill).
In his homily, Rosales stressed the importance of making the right choices despite the planned use of voting machines for the first time in the May 2010 elections.
He said automation was not the solution to the country’s political woes.
“It’s easy to count rotten votes. What is more important is that we teach people to think over their choices, study them and pray over them. These are the votes that should be counted by the automated machines,” Rosales said.
“You see, the solution is not in the machine; it is what is in the minds and hearts of the people,” he said.
Said De los Reyes: “I think the message from our shepherds of the Church is a general message. But they have affection for Ang Kapatiran because we are a response to their call for the laity to be faithful to their mission in renewing politics according to gospel values.”
Good luck
After the Mass, De Los Reyes, Chipeco and the other Ang Kapatiran candidates stood before the altar as Rosales, flanked by Arguelles and Tobias, gave his blessings for them to enjoy good health, remain steadfast and continue doing good.
Arguelles later said in a brief interview that he wished the Ang Kapatiran candidates good luck even as he acknowledged their slim chances to win in the elections.
The party has been dubbed the “Catholic” political party. But De los Reyes said it also had many Christian and Muslim members.
He said it was running on a platform of “radical” and “transformative” politics that would abolish the graft-ridden pork barrel system, do away with entrenched political dynasties, impose gun control, and “remove all forms of gambling.”
“We are introducing prophetic politics, something that is radical and controversial and requires self-sacrifice,” De los Reyes said.
“And for that to happen, we must do the opposite of what traditional politicians are doing,” he said.
Dynasties
De los Reyes said he and Chipeco, a lawyer, were scions of political dynasties but were determined to flesh out the anti-dynasty provisions in the 1987 Constitution if they win.
“We come from dynasties. I’m a nephew of [Sen. Richard] Gordon. I’m a Gordon. He is a Chipeco,” De los Reyes said.
“But if anyone is to make a sacrifice for the country, it’s us who are in power now. Even if the implementing rules and regulations of the anti-dynasty provisions of the Constitution are put in place and we are swept away, it would be OK for us,” he said.
De los Reyes’ parents are the late Sonny de los Reyes, who served as president of the Council of the Laity of the Philippines for nine years, and Barbara Gordon, elder sister of Senator Gordon and Olongapo Mayor James Gordon Jr.
A product of Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University, he obtained a degree in theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio, reputed to be one of the most orthodox Catholic universities in the United States.
In 1993, he taught philosophy at the then Center for Research and Communication (now the University of Asia and the Pacific). He ran for and was elected councilor of Olongapo two years later, but did not seek reelection.
He completed a law degree at Saint Louis University in Baguio City in 2005.
In 2007, De los Reyes emerged the lone winner of Ang Kapatiran, again as Olongapo councilor. He chaired the city council’s committee on human rights and filed a number of graft cases against certain local officials.
He and his wife Dunia Valenzuela have three children.
Senatorial slate
Ang Kapatiran’s senatorial slate includes social scientist Rizalito David, lawyers Jo Aurea Imbong and Zosimo Paredes, consumer advocate Adrian Sison, Councilor Reginald Tamayo, educator Hector Tarrazona, and former United Nations executive Manuel Valdehuesa Jr.
“Many are telling us, ‘You don’t have the money. You don’t have the money.’ We have the money, but we don’t have the billions that our enemies have. If they say that billions are needed to win, then let us forget about changing our country,” De los Reyes said.
Outside the Comelec office, some Ang Kapatiran members paraded wearing masks a la Bacolod City’s Masskara Festival with the slogans “Vote in Common Good,” “Vote out graft and corruption,” “Vote in pro-environment.”
Ang Kapatiran fielded three candidates in the 2007 Senate elections. They all lost, but each garnered an average of 800,000 votes.
“We’re coming back with much passion. We believe and we have hope that Ang Kapatiran will really make an impact on Filipino politics,” De los Reyes said. With a report from Inquirer Research
By Philip Tubeza, Dona Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:56:00 11/24/2009
Filed Under: Inquirer Politics, Eleksyon 2010, Churches (organisations)
MANILA, Philippines—The first of a number of “serious” aspirants to the presidency has formally declared his intention to seek the No. 1 post with the blessings of Catholic bishops.
Ang Kapatiran standard-bearer John Carlos “JC” de los Reyes, his running mate Dominador Chipeco Jr., and the party’s seven senatorial candidates filed their certificates of candidacy (CoC) Monday afternoon at the main office of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in Intramuros, Manila.
“The Filipino people are fed up with traditional politics and we’re the only game in town when it comes to alternative politics. We have a good chance of winning,” De los Reyes, who turns 40 on Feb. 14, told reporters.
He echoed Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales’ lament that even if the May 2010 elections were fully automated, the Philippine political system would remain rotten if Filipinos continued to vote for traditional politicians.
“Enough is enough. Something ought to be done to free Filipinos from corrupt, dirty and unproductive political parties,” said De los Reyes, a former councilor of Olongapo City.
“If we win, we are in for reforms and to transform politics. If not, then at least we would have sown the seeds that will be reaped by our children and grandchildren,” he said.
Mass first
De los Reyes and his party mates attended the noon Mass at Sta. Cruz Church in Manila before proceeding to the Comelec office.
The Mass was celebrated by Rosales, Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles and Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias on the request of Ang Kapatiran party founder Nandy Pacheco and president Eric Manalang.
But Manalang denied it was a tacit endorsement from the Church leaders: “We found it appropriate that we have their blessing, which is important to us because we are going on a mission. [Rosales] blessed us like any father would bless his children.
“It’s a simple blessing. I don’t think it’s endorsing. He did not say ‘vote for us.’”
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines as a body has been careful not to endorse or disapprove of specific candidates. But individual bishops have spoken out against those taking a position contrary to that of the Church, such as in the debate over House Bill No. 5043 (or the Reproductive Health Bill).
In his homily, Rosales stressed the importance of making the right choices despite the planned use of voting machines for the first time in the May 2010 elections.
He said automation was not the solution to the country’s political woes.
“It’s easy to count rotten votes. What is more important is that we teach people to think over their choices, study them and pray over them. These are the votes that should be counted by the automated machines,” Rosales said.
“You see, the solution is not in the machine; it is what is in the minds and hearts of the people,” he said.
Said De los Reyes: “I think the message from our shepherds of the Church is a general message. But they have affection for Ang Kapatiran because we are a response to their call for the laity to be faithful to their mission in renewing politics according to gospel values.”
Good luck
After the Mass, De Los Reyes, Chipeco and the other Ang Kapatiran candidates stood before the altar as Rosales, flanked by Arguelles and Tobias, gave his blessings for them to enjoy good health, remain steadfast and continue doing good.
Arguelles later said in a brief interview that he wished the Ang Kapatiran candidates good luck even as he acknowledged their slim chances to win in the elections.
The party has been dubbed the “Catholic” political party. But De los Reyes said it also had many Christian and Muslim members.
He said it was running on a platform of “radical” and “transformative” politics that would abolish the graft-ridden pork barrel system, do away with entrenched political dynasties, impose gun control, and “remove all forms of gambling.”
“We are introducing prophetic politics, something that is radical and controversial and requires self-sacrifice,” De los Reyes said.
“And for that to happen, we must do the opposite of what traditional politicians are doing,” he said.
Dynasties
De los Reyes said he and Chipeco, a lawyer, were scions of political dynasties but were determined to flesh out the anti-dynasty provisions in the 1987 Constitution if they win.
“We come from dynasties. I’m a nephew of [Sen. Richard] Gordon. I’m a Gordon. He is a Chipeco,” De los Reyes said.
“But if anyone is to make a sacrifice for the country, it’s us who are in power now. Even if the implementing rules and regulations of the anti-dynasty provisions of the Constitution are put in place and we are swept away, it would be OK for us,” he said.
De los Reyes’ parents are the late Sonny de los Reyes, who served as president of the Council of the Laity of the Philippines for nine years, and Barbara Gordon, elder sister of Senator Gordon and Olongapo Mayor James Gordon Jr.
A product of Ateneo de Manila University and De La Salle University, he obtained a degree in theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio, reputed to be one of the most orthodox Catholic universities in the United States.
In 1993, he taught philosophy at the then Center for Research and Communication (now the University of Asia and the Pacific). He ran for and was elected councilor of Olongapo two years later, but did not seek reelection.
He completed a law degree at Saint Louis University in Baguio City in 2005.
In 2007, De los Reyes emerged the lone winner of Ang Kapatiran, again as Olongapo councilor. He chaired the city council’s committee on human rights and filed a number of graft cases against certain local officials.
He and his wife Dunia Valenzuela have three children.
Senatorial slate
Ang Kapatiran’s senatorial slate includes social scientist Rizalito David, lawyers Jo Aurea Imbong and Zosimo Paredes, consumer advocate Adrian Sison, Councilor Reginald Tamayo, educator Hector Tarrazona, and former United Nations executive Manuel Valdehuesa Jr.
“Many are telling us, ‘You don’t have the money. You don’t have the money.’ We have the money, but we don’t have the billions that our enemies have. If they say that billions are needed to win, then let us forget about changing our country,” De los Reyes said.
Outside the Comelec office, some Ang Kapatiran members paraded wearing masks a la Bacolod City’s Masskara Festival with the slogans “Vote in Common Good,” “Vote out graft and corruption,” “Vote in pro-environment.”
Ang Kapatiran fielded three candidates in the 2007 Senate elections. They all lost, but each garnered an average of 800,000 votes.
“We’re coming back with much passion. We believe and we have hope that Ang Kapatiran will really make an impact on Filipino politics,” De los Reyes said. With a report from Inquirer Research
Gordon's nephew files candidacy for president
Gordon's nephew files candidacy for president
By Anna Valmero, Philip Tubeza
INQUIRER.net, Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 15:33:00 11/23/2009
Filed Under: Politics, Elections, Eleksyon 2010
MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday accepted the candidacy for presidency of John Carlos “JC” Delos Reyes, standard-bearer of Ang Kapatiran party and nephew of Senator Richard Gordon.
Delos Reyes, an Olongapo City councilor, filed his certificate of candidacy along with his running mate, Dominador Chipeco Jr. of Laguna, and his seven-man senatorial slate.
Gordon, whose sister is Delos Reyes’s mother, himself has expressed plans to join the presidential race, but has yet to submit his certificate of candidacy before the poll body.
Ang Kapatiran Party, which has been joining the election since 2004, boasts of a voters’ base of 800,000, Delos Reyes said.
Its candidates for senator are composed of social scientist and consultant Rizalito David, lawyer Jo Aurea Imbong, professor Zosimo Jesus Paredes, journalist and consumer advocate Adrian Sison, councilor and professor Reginald Tamayo, Hector Tarrazona, and former United Nations executive Manuel Valdehuesa Jr.
In filing his candidacy, Delos Reyes called for a new kind of politics
. He warned that even if the Comelec was cleaned of corruption, the electoral system would still remain rotten if voters continued to put in office traditional politicians who would use their offices to protect vested interests.
Instead of the traditional infomercials, Delos Reyes said his party will embark on a house-to-house campaign to give them a chance to deal directly with the voters, said Delos Reyes, who is serving his third term as a city councilor.
“Enough is enough. Something ought to be done to free the Filipinos from the corrupt, dirty, and unproductive political parties. We are introducing prophetic politics of personal and social transformation through our agenda that aims to cleanse the system of dynasties, gun control, and the like,” said Delos Reyes.
The 12-point program of Ang Kapatiran is anchored on serving God and country, economic reform, quality education for all, justice, and peace, said Delos Reyes.
Ang Kapatiran fielded three senatorial candidates in the 2007 elections. None of them won although their bets garnered votes reaching hundreds of thousands.
Since Friday, the Comelec has accepted candidacies of 14 for president, one for vice president, and three for senator, according to Comelec law department records.
Deadline for filing of candidacies is midnight of December 1.
By Anna Valmero, Philip Tubeza
INQUIRER.net, Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 15:33:00 11/23/2009
Filed Under: Politics, Elections, Eleksyon 2010
MANILA, Philippines—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Monday accepted the candidacy for presidency of John Carlos “JC” Delos Reyes, standard-bearer of Ang Kapatiran party and nephew of Senator Richard Gordon.
Delos Reyes, an Olongapo City councilor, filed his certificate of candidacy along with his running mate, Dominador Chipeco Jr. of Laguna, and his seven-man senatorial slate.
Gordon, whose sister is Delos Reyes’s mother, himself has expressed plans to join the presidential race, but has yet to submit his certificate of candidacy before the poll body.
Ang Kapatiran Party, which has been joining the election since 2004, boasts of a voters’ base of 800,000, Delos Reyes said.
Its candidates for senator are composed of social scientist and consultant Rizalito David, lawyer Jo Aurea Imbong, professor Zosimo Jesus Paredes, journalist and consumer advocate Adrian Sison, councilor and professor Reginald Tamayo, Hector Tarrazona, and former United Nations executive Manuel Valdehuesa Jr.
In filing his candidacy, Delos Reyes called for a new kind of politics
. He warned that even if the Comelec was cleaned of corruption, the electoral system would still remain rotten if voters continued to put in office traditional politicians who would use their offices to protect vested interests.
Instead of the traditional infomercials, Delos Reyes said his party will embark on a house-to-house campaign to give them a chance to deal directly with the voters, said Delos Reyes, who is serving his third term as a city councilor.
“Enough is enough. Something ought to be done to free the Filipinos from the corrupt, dirty, and unproductive political parties. We are introducing prophetic politics of personal and social transformation through our agenda that aims to cleanse the system of dynasties, gun control, and the like,” said Delos Reyes.
The 12-point program of Ang Kapatiran is anchored on serving God and country, economic reform, quality education for all, justice, and peace, said Delos Reyes.
Ang Kapatiran fielded three senatorial candidates in the 2007 elections. None of them won although their bets garnered votes reaching hundreds of thousands.
Since Friday, the Comelec has accepted candidacies of 14 for president, one for vice president, and three for senator, according to Comelec law department records.
Deadline for filing of candidacies is midnight of December 1.
OLongapo councilor De los Reyes formalizes presidential bid
Olongapo councilor De los Reyes formalizes presidential bid
KIM TAN and ANDREO CALONZO, GMANews.TV
11/23/2009 | 03:53 PM
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Olongapo City Councilor John Carlos “JC" De los Reyes on Monday formalized his presidential bid in the 2010 elections by filing his certificate of candidacy (COC) with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), becoming the 16th aspirant for the country's top elective post.
De los Reyes, the 39-year-old bet of the Ang Kapatiran National Political Party, filed his COC with the Comelec law department at 2:10 p.m.
Ang Kapatiran's presidential bet JC De los Reyes, together with running mate Dominador Chipeco Jr. and senatorial candidate Reginald Tamayo, formalizes his bid for the government's highest post in 2010. - Andreo Calonzo
Interviewed by reporters, De los Reyes said he filed his candidacy early “to get it over with."
"We also wanted it to coincide with the Mass just held at the Sta. Cruz Church. It’s just a general message to the lay faithful that even if we perfect the automation, if we elect rotten leaders, everything will still go to waste," he said in Filipino.
De los Reyes was accompanied by his running mate Dominador Chipeco Jr., and his party’s seven senatorial candidates: social scientist Rizalito David; lawyers Jo Aurea, Zosimo Paredes, and Adrian Sison; teachers Reginald Tamayo and Hector Tarrazona; and former United Nations executive Manuel Valdehuesa, Jr.
He said his party’s bets might not be popular but are all "local gems" who do not practice traditional politics.
In the 2007 elections, De los Reyes was the only winner among the Kapitaran Party candidates. He placed second in the 10 slots for the Olongapo City council. He studied B.A. Theology at the Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio, USA. After graduating, he taught Philosophy at the University of Asia and Pacific.
He later pursued his graduate studies at the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1999 and his law degree at the Saint Louis University in Baguio City in 2005.
In September, De los Reyes appeared as guest on GMANews.TV’s web show "Exchange" where he talked about the implications of being an independent candidate.
The Olongapo City councilor is married to Dunia Valenzuela with three children, Gabriel 10, Santiago, 7, and Barbara 5.
Since Friday, 21 presidential aspirants, one vice presidential aspirant, and 10 senatorial aspirants have filed their COCs with the Comelec. - RSJ, GMANews.TV
KIM TAN and ANDREO CALONZO, GMANews.TV
11/23/2009 | 03:53 PM
Email the Editor Print | | More
Share
Olongapo City Councilor John Carlos “JC" De los Reyes on Monday formalized his presidential bid in the 2010 elections by filing his certificate of candidacy (COC) with the Commission on Elections (Comelec), becoming the 16th aspirant for the country's top elective post.
De los Reyes, the 39-year-old bet of the Ang Kapatiran National Political Party, filed his COC with the Comelec law department at 2:10 p.m.
Ang Kapatiran's presidential bet JC De los Reyes, together with running mate Dominador Chipeco Jr. and senatorial candidate Reginald Tamayo, formalizes his bid for the government's highest post in 2010. - Andreo Calonzo
Interviewed by reporters, De los Reyes said he filed his candidacy early “to get it over with."
"We also wanted it to coincide with the Mass just held at the Sta. Cruz Church. It’s just a general message to the lay faithful that even if we perfect the automation, if we elect rotten leaders, everything will still go to waste," he said in Filipino.
De los Reyes was accompanied by his running mate Dominador Chipeco Jr., and his party’s seven senatorial candidates: social scientist Rizalito David; lawyers Jo Aurea, Zosimo Paredes, and Adrian Sison; teachers Reginald Tamayo and Hector Tarrazona; and former United Nations executive Manuel Valdehuesa, Jr.
He said his party’s bets might not be popular but are all "local gems" who do not practice traditional politics.
In the 2007 elections, De los Reyes was the only winner among the Kapitaran Party candidates. He placed second in the 10 slots for the Olongapo City council. He studied B.A. Theology at the Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio, USA. After graduating, he taught Philosophy at the University of Asia and Pacific.
He later pursued his graduate studies at the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1999 and his law degree at the Saint Louis University in Baguio City in 2005.
In September, De los Reyes appeared as guest on GMANews.TV’s web show "Exchange" where he talked about the implications of being an independent candidate.
The Olongapo City councilor is married to Dunia Valenzuela with three children, Gabriel 10, Santiago, 7, and Barbara 5.
Since Friday, 21 presidential aspirants, one vice presidential aspirant, and 10 senatorial aspirants have filed their COCs with the Comelec. - RSJ, GMANews.TV
Cardinal, bishops bless faith-based party bets
Cardinal, bishops bless faith-based party bets
By Dona Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 14:52:00 11/23/2009
Filed Under: Eleksyon 2010, Elections, Politics, Religions
MANILA, Philippines—Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales on Monday celebrated mass at the Sta. Cruz church in Manila for the candidates of the fledgling Ang Kapatiran Party (Brotherhood Party) led by its presidential candidate John Carlos "JC" de los Angeles.
Party founder Nandy Pacheco said his group asked Catholic Church leaders to bless them before their candidates file their certificates of candidacy at the Commission on Elections on Monday.
With Rosales were Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles and Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias.
Ang Kapatiran says it seeks to restore morality in government service and declares its party principles to be based on their Catholic faith.
Comelec has set the period from November 20 to December 1, 2009 for the filing of certificates of candidacies nationwide.
By Dona Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 14:52:00 11/23/2009
Filed Under: Eleksyon 2010, Elections, Politics, Religions
MANILA, Philippines—Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales on Monday celebrated mass at the Sta. Cruz church in Manila for the candidates of the fledgling Ang Kapatiran Party (Brotherhood Party) led by its presidential candidate John Carlos "JC" de los Angeles.
Party founder Nandy Pacheco said his group asked Catholic Church leaders to bless them before their candidates file their certificates of candidacy at the Commission on Elections on Monday.
With Rosales were Lipa Archbishop Ramon Arguelles and Novaliches Bishop Antonio Tobias.
Ang Kapatiran says it seeks to restore morality in government service and declares its party principles to be based on their Catholic faith.
Comelec has set the period from November 20 to December 1, 2009 for the filing of certificates of candidacies nationwide.
Monday, October 26, 2009
This group hasn't caught 'yellow fever'
This group hasn’t caught ‘yellow fever’
By Christian V. Esguerra
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Posted date: October 19, 2009
MANILA, Philippines—A young political party seems immune from the “yellow fever” that is fast spreading, together with the rising popularity of the No. 1 presidential aspirant, Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.
Ang Kapatiran president Eric Manalang on Sunday said his group had rejected invitations to support Aquino because the Liberal Party standard-bearer was offering the usual “trapo (traditional) politics.”
“This Noynoy phenomenon again shows the highest form of personality politics, one that is driving the elite from all sides—from the time of the Marcoses and Cojuangcos to the time of the Arroyos—to unite and bet on him,” Manalang told the Inquirer.
“Once again, members of the elite are bringing the other clueless middle class to their fold,” he said.
Aquino, who topped the latest Social Weather Stations survey of presidential aspirants, nevertheless continued to draw cheers, especially in his provincial tours.
On Saturday, he revved up the party machinery in Bohol by tapping show biz celebrity Cesar Montano as one of his lieutenants in the province.
New epidemic
Manalang’s statements marked a rare, if not the first, instance an opposing political party became openly critical of Aquino since the senator declared his intention to run for president on Sept. 9.
Clamor mounted for the only son of the late President Corazon Aquino and martyred opposition leader Benigno Aquino Jr. to aim for Malacañang after his mother died of colon cancer on Aug. 1.
“Everyone catches the ‘yellow’ fever which is now an epidemic that doesn’t exactly bring more principles in Philippine politics,” Manalang said, alluding to the campaign color adopted by Aquino’s parents.
Formed in 2004, Kapatiran promotes itself as an alternative to the more established parties, espousing what it calls “politics of virtue,” nonviolence and the application of Church teachings to governance. It took part in national elections for the first time in 2007.
Manalang also questioned Aquino’s campaign strategy, particularly when it started encouraging ordinary Filipinos to contribute to his campaign fund.
“It’s crazy. These people (Aquino and his backers) have all the money. The call is just a matter of sound bites,” he said.
Manalang also questioned Aquino’s track record in public service.
Any super deeds?
“It’s as if Noynoy has done any super deeds in the past,” Manalang said. “He really hasn’t done anything that would be anywhere near what his mother or father had done.”
According to his official website www.noynoy.ph, Aquino has authored a total of nine bills and eight resolutions in his tenure as senator.
The party has announced it would field Olongapo City Councilor JC de los Reyes in next year’s presidential derby.
Ang Kapatiran has also filled up eight of the 12 slots in its senatorial lineup, Manalang disclosed. They included Dominador Chipeco Jr., a human resource expert from Laguna; Reginald Tamayo, a longtime councilor from Aparri, Cagayan; and Manny Valdehueza, an “anti-trapo” advocate from Cagayan de Oro City.
The ticket will again include Martin Bautista, Jesus Paredes, and Adrian Sison, who all ran for senator in 2007, Manalang said.
Bohol welcome
In Tagbilaran City, Aquino and his running mate, Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, received a warm welcome from supporters during a mass oath-taking ceremony for LP members.
In his solidarity message, Aquino reiterated his platform, which, he said, would be anchored on good governance, transparency, fighting graft and corruption, and sound and sustainable development and commitment to the poor.
“Corruption is the single biggest threat to our democracy. It deprives the poor of the social services they badly need. It destroys the moral fiber of our society,” Aquino told the gathering at JJ’s Seafood Village. With a report from Kit Bagaipo, Inquirer Visayas
By Christian V. Esguerra
Philippine Daily Inquirer
Posted date: October 19, 2009
MANILA, Philippines—A young political party seems immune from the “yellow fever” that is fast spreading, together with the rising popularity of the No. 1 presidential aspirant, Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III.
Ang Kapatiran president Eric Manalang on Sunday said his group had rejected invitations to support Aquino because the Liberal Party standard-bearer was offering the usual “trapo (traditional) politics.”
“This Noynoy phenomenon again shows the highest form of personality politics, one that is driving the elite from all sides—from the time of the Marcoses and Cojuangcos to the time of the Arroyos—to unite and bet on him,” Manalang told the Inquirer.
“Once again, members of the elite are bringing the other clueless middle class to their fold,” he said.
Aquino, who topped the latest Social Weather Stations survey of presidential aspirants, nevertheless continued to draw cheers, especially in his provincial tours.
On Saturday, he revved up the party machinery in Bohol by tapping show biz celebrity Cesar Montano as one of his lieutenants in the province.
New epidemic
Manalang’s statements marked a rare, if not the first, instance an opposing political party became openly critical of Aquino since the senator declared his intention to run for president on Sept. 9.
Clamor mounted for the only son of the late President Corazon Aquino and martyred opposition leader Benigno Aquino Jr. to aim for Malacañang after his mother died of colon cancer on Aug. 1.
“Everyone catches the ‘yellow’ fever which is now an epidemic that doesn’t exactly bring more principles in Philippine politics,” Manalang said, alluding to the campaign color adopted by Aquino’s parents.
Formed in 2004, Kapatiran promotes itself as an alternative to the more established parties, espousing what it calls “politics of virtue,” nonviolence and the application of Church teachings to governance. It took part in national elections for the first time in 2007.
Manalang also questioned Aquino’s campaign strategy, particularly when it started encouraging ordinary Filipinos to contribute to his campaign fund.
“It’s crazy. These people (Aquino and his backers) have all the money. The call is just a matter of sound bites,” he said.
Manalang also questioned Aquino’s track record in public service.
Any super deeds?
“It’s as if Noynoy has done any super deeds in the past,” Manalang said. “He really hasn’t done anything that would be anywhere near what his mother or father had done.”
According to his official website www.noynoy.ph, Aquino has authored a total of nine bills and eight resolutions in his tenure as senator.
The party has announced it would field Olongapo City Councilor JC de los Reyes in next year’s presidential derby.
Ang Kapatiran has also filled up eight of the 12 slots in its senatorial lineup, Manalang disclosed. They included Dominador Chipeco Jr., a human resource expert from Laguna; Reginald Tamayo, a longtime councilor from Aparri, Cagayan; and Manny Valdehueza, an “anti-trapo” advocate from Cagayan de Oro City.
The ticket will again include Martin Bautista, Jesus Paredes, and Adrian Sison, who all ran for senator in 2007, Manalang said.
Bohol welcome
In Tagbilaran City, Aquino and his running mate, Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, received a warm welcome from supporters during a mass oath-taking ceremony for LP members.
In his solidarity message, Aquino reiterated his platform, which, he said, would be anchored on good governance, transparency, fighting graft and corruption, and sound and sustainable development and commitment to the poor.
“Corruption is the single biggest threat to our democracy. It deprives the poor of the social services they badly need. It destroys the moral fiber of our society,” Aquino told the gathering at JJ’s Seafood Village. With a report from Kit Bagaipo, Inquirer Visayas
Friday, October 16, 2009
Helpless government?
Helpless government?
Some say the government seems wishy-washy in responding to the unwelcome consequences of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng. There are practically hues and cries everywhere asking for help from the government and, in turn, the government is baffled as to what it should prioritize. It is good that there are private companies and individuals who volunteer their resources and time to alleviate our trouble typhoon victims. The cash and in-kind donations amassed by the two giant television networks for sure assuaged the burden of the government to look for enormous funds for the rescue and rehabilitation of the victims. We are thankful that there are many generous and unselfish Samaritans around in these times of crises to lend a hand. Probably they are aware that the government is not ready yet to solely borne the responsibility of caring for the victims.
From my own personal view, the government should think of the following suggestions:
1. Strengthen the local disasters coordinating councils. These councils should not only convene during calamities. A disaster preparedness and rehabilitation plan, and conduct drills should be a must for these councils;
2. It is time for the senators and the congressmen to make a supreme sacrifice of parting some of their pork barrel funds and create a common subsidy for the rehabilitation of devastated infrastructures like schools, roads, and the like;
3. The government should not only offer money to those victims to go back to their respective provinces- it should also ensure that they have a place to go in their provinces like relatives, and that their children can go back to school. Otherwise, they would be an added predicament of the concerned local government units;
4. A law should be designed requiring bus, jeepney, taxi drivers, would-be couples and all others to plant seedlings prior to the issuance of their driver’s license and marriage license;
5. The cost of damage probably is to the tune of millions of pesos. Why not make a comprehensive plan for a true-to-goodness flood control and fund it even if it requires a huge capital outlay? It is better to fund this project than to use it for rehabilitation purposes; and,
6. There should be a 25-year moratorium on extractive and logging activities to allow our legislators to review our mining and forestry laws.
I am sure the government is trying its best to make its presence felt in times of these crises. It is not helpless as it employs all means at its disposal to help the victims of the typhoons. I am confident that the government heeds too to unsolicited suggestions such as this.
Some say the government seems wishy-washy in responding to the unwelcome consequences of typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng. There are practically hues and cries everywhere asking for help from the government and, in turn, the government is baffled as to what it should prioritize. It is good that there are private companies and individuals who volunteer their resources and time to alleviate our trouble typhoon victims. The cash and in-kind donations amassed by the two giant television networks for sure assuaged the burden of the government to look for enormous funds for the rescue and rehabilitation of the victims. We are thankful that there are many generous and unselfish Samaritans around in these times of crises to lend a hand. Probably they are aware that the government is not ready yet to solely borne the responsibility of caring for the victims.
From my own personal view, the government should think of the following suggestions:
1. Strengthen the local disasters coordinating councils. These councils should not only convene during calamities. A disaster preparedness and rehabilitation plan, and conduct drills should be a must for these councils;
2. It is time for the senators and the congressmen to make a supreme sacrifice of parting some of their pork barrel funds and create a common subsidy for the rehabilitation of devastated infrastructures like schools, roads, and the like;
3. The government should not only offer money to those victims to go back to their respective provinces- it should also ensure that they have a place to go in their provinces like relatives, and that their children can go back to school. Otherwise, they would be an added predicament of the concerned local government units;
4. A law should be designed requiring bus, jeepney, taxi drivers, would-be couples and all others to plant seedlings prior to the issuance of their driver’s license and marriage license;
5. The cost of damage probably is to the tune of millions of pesos. Why not make a comprehensive plan for a true-to-goodness flood control and fund it even if it requires a huge capital outlay? It is better to fund this project than to use it for rehabilitation purposes; and,
6. There should be a 25-year moratorium on extractive and logging activities to allow our legislators to review our mining and forestry laws.
I am sure the government is trying its best to make its presence felt in times of these crises. It is not helpless as it employs all means at its disposal to help the victims of the typhoons. I am confident that the government heeds too to unsolicited suggestions such as this.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Parroting a ghostwriter's piece
Parroting a ghostwriter's piece
Please allow me to comment on the highly incensed speeches delivered by Senator Panfilo and Senator Jinggoy Estrada. I agree that the exchange of verbal darts between the two is incredibly “lamentable, deplorable and sickening.” Let me add another description- it is irritating. Tensions run high in the Senate hall because it is evident that the two senators are gnashing their teeth as they delivered their speeches with almost perfect rhetorical grace and theatrics. After hearing their speeches, one would think that it is shameless and useless to dedicate one’s time to be listening to old tunes that were rehashed.
However, it is a great day for their ghostwriters, if there are any. I am sure their ghostwriters in the preparation of their speeches aided these two Senators the reason being that senators generally are pre-occupied with their other non-legislative tasks and they don’t have the material time perhaps to prepare their enlightened speeches. However, the big question is whether their involvement in the preparation of their speeches is true because otherwise, it would be irresponsible and reckless for these two senators be handed their respective speeches and deliver them without knowing their content. The senators in this case would just be parroting what the ghostwriters prepared. Take away the prepared speeches, probably they would be clueless about the issues to the extent of exposing their ignorance, unfiltered self and woefully incompetence.
We thank for the ghostwriters who help speakers appear as knowledgeable authorities. The adulation and reverence accorded to these public figures like the senators are to be attributed to the intellectual acumen and writing skills of the ghostwriters. My only is that wish that ghostwriters should be more prudent in the preparation of speeches to be delivered by our public officials. They should not fan the burning issues of the day into becoming a hellish inferno.
Please allow me to comment on the highly incensed speeches delivered by Senator Panfilo and Senator Jinggoy Estrada. I agree that the exchange of verbal darts between the two is incredibly “lamentable, deplorable and sickening.” Let me add another description- it is irritating. Tensions run high in the Senate hall because it is evident that the two senators are gnashing their teeth as they delivered their speeches with almost perfect rhetorical grace and theatrics. After hearing their speeches, one would think that it is shameless and useless to dedicate one’s time to be listening to old tunes that were rehashed.
However, it is a great day for their ghostwriters, if there are any. I am sure their ghostwriters in the preparation of their speeches aided these two Senators the reason being that senators generally are pre-occupied with their other non-legislative tasks and they don’t have the material time perhaps to prepare their enlightened speeches. However, the big question is whether their involvement in the preparation of their speeches is true because otherwise, it would be irresponsible and reckless for these two senators be handed their respective speeches and deliver them without knowing their content. The senators in this case would just be parroting what the ghostwriters prepared. Take away the prepared speeches, probably they would be clueless about the issues to the extent of exposing their ignorance, unfiltered self and woefully incompetence.
We thank for the ghostwriters who help speakers appear as knowledgeable authorities. The adulation and reverence accorded to these public figures like the senators are to be attributed to the intellectual acumen and writing skills of the ghostwriters. My only is that wish that ghostwriters should be more prudent in the preparation of speeches to be delivered by our public officials. They should not fan the burning issues of the day into becoming a hellish inferno.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Popularity not an index of good leadership
Popularity not an index of good leadership
These past few days the political landscape in our country has become volatile and unpredictable. Unexpectedly, Senator Mar Roxas gave up his bid for the presidency in favor of Senator Noynoy Aquino. If national elections were held today, for sure Senator Aquino would win as president because of his rapid and astounding popularity nowadays.
However, popularity should not be used as an index to vote politicians into public office. Let us first and foremost examine the platform of government of these aspiring politicians. Are they reflective of our ideals and aspirations as a people? Are they pro-God, pro-poor, pro-environment, or pro-life? Let us ask too whether they live moral lives and are practicing the Gospel values. Are these politicians good models for our children? Are their modest ways and lifestyle worthy of emulation? Let us check too whether or not money is their only god. Are these politicians motivated by their lust for money? Would these politicians use their authorities and influence to enrich themselves and impoverish the whole country because of their greediness for material wealth?
It is worthy to note that there are some rare breed politicians who in spite of their being poor and virtually unknown are also sincere and are desirous to serve the country. These are the politicians who are nameless and voiceless yet they live with good manners and right conduct, with character and competence to lead our country. These are the politicians who can ill-afford to spend millions of pesos to project their image using infomercials. These are the same politicians who place God at the center of politics.
If we choose politicians still on the basis of popularity then I think our country is moving once more in the wrong direction. It becomes a cyclical life for us Filipinos. We elect the wrong leaders then we later whine and complain of their wrongdoings; after which we clamor for ethical and moral leaders to replace these unscrupulous leaders. But when elections come, we still choose the most popular candidates to lead us even when we know that they are undeserving because they lead shady and dishonest lives. When will we ever learn to choose the right leaders of our country?
Orson Welles says “popularity should be no scale for the election of politicians. If it would depend on popularity, Donald Duck and The Muppets would take seats in senate.”
These past few days the political landscape in our country has become volatile and unpredictable. Unexpectedly, Senator Mar Roxas gave up his bid for the presidency in favor of Senator Noynoy Aquino. If national elections were held today, for sure Senator Aquino would win as president because of his rapid and astounding popularity nowadays.
However, popularity should not be used as an index to vote politicians into public office. Let us first and foremost examine the platform of government of these aspiring politicians. Are they reflective of our ideals and aspirations as a people? Are they pro-God, pro-poor, pro-environment, or pro-life? Let us ask too whether they live moral lives and are practicing the Gospel values. Are these politicians good models for our children? Are their modest ways and lifestyle worthy of emulation? Let us check too whether or not money is their only god. Are these politicians motivated by their lust for money? Would these politicians use their authorities and influence to enrich themselves and impoverish the whole country because of their greediness for material wealth?
It is worthy to note that there are some rare breed politicians who in spite of their being poor and virtually unknown are also sincere and are desirous to serve the country. These are the politicians who are nameless and voiceless yet they live with good manners and right conduct, with character and competence to lead our country. These are the politicians who can ill-afford to spend millions of pesos to project their image using infomercials. These are the same politicians who place God at the center of politics.
If we choose politicians still on the basis of popularity then I think our country is moving once more in the wrong direction. It becomes a cyclical life for us Filipinos. We elect the wrong leaders then we later whine and complain of their wrongdoings; after which we clamor for ethical and moral leaders to replace these unscrupulous leaders. But when elections come, we still choose the most popular candidates to lead us even when we know that they are undeserving because they lead shady and dishonest lives. When will we ever learn to choose the right leaders of our country?
Orson Welles says “popularity should be no scale for the election of politicians. If it would depend on popularity, Donald Duck and The Muppets would take seats in senate.”
Sunday, August 30, 2009
AN OPEN LETTER TO OUR COUNTRYMEN
Aparri, Cagayan
August 30, 2009
Dear Friends, Relatives, and Countrymen:
I am REGINALD BALISI TAMAYO, 45, married, a public servant and a humble Christian.
I am writing to inform you that I am running for the Senate in the 2010 elections under the ANG KAPATIRAN Party. I expect a certain amount of skepticism on your part. In fact many asked me these questions- “Isn’t that a little unrealistic? Isn’t that a wishful thinking?” I also asked the same questions a few times. I was clueless. By default, I dismissed my nomination to be a Senatorial candidate as a joke. I thought that I was not prepared to re-shape my life and that of my family by running into a national office.
However, as many put it, there’s a reason for everything. It is in this spirit that I am inviting you to read my story why I am taking this long shot for a Senate seat.
Looking back
After completing AB Philosophy in 1985 at the University of the Philippines, it was my plan to pursue my law studies. My parents were tongue-tied when I told them about this. Knowing that they didn’t have the financial resources to support me, I did not insist my plan. My father was a clerk-typist and my mother worked as a gasoline girl. With the measly amount of salaries they were receiving, I understood their silence. I thought that poverty would hamper my dream of becoming a lawyer.
I went home to Aparri to find a job and to be with my parents. It was timely that the Lyceum of Aparri opened a major seminary. I applied for a teaching job there and was hired as a lecturer. I was at the young age of 21 when I was appointed Dean of Liberal Arts and Dean of Student Affairs of the Lyceum of Aparri. During that period, I was invited by politicians to join local politics in my hometown Aparri purposely to represent the youth sector. Truth to be told, teaching the seminarians with Philosophy subjects and supervising a college became an all-consuming drive for me such that I courteously declined the invitation. I thought politics was farthest from my mind at that time.
I will never forget the day when my school superiors told me to try it. They were able to convince me though to run for a municipal councilor. However, I lost and I was very happy about it. I went back to my school work with zeal to teach and to oversee a college.
The Transition
A few months after the elections, one of the elected municipal councilors passed away. There was no other choice but for me to take his place because, after him, I was next in rank and we belong to the same political party. I was sworn in as an appointed municipal councilor to serve the unexpired term of the said local official.
The effect this had on my work as a teacher and as a dean is obvious. I was spreading myself too thin to attend to my work as a municipal councilor and as a teacher and a school administrator while completing my masteral studies too. In order not become inefficient I was asked to give up one post- I decided to try my new life as a public servant because I was overwhelmed by the many concerns of my townspeople that need to be addressed squarely thru legislation. However, I never gave up completely my teaching job, I still teach at the Lyceum of Aparri as a part-time college instructor.
Period of Achievements
During my stint as a municipal councilor of Aparri, I was awarded as Outstanding Municipal Councilor of Cagayan by the Philippine Councilors League. I pioneered thru legislation many innovative legislative measures ranging from giving awards to outstanding public school teachers, scholarship program for the poor but deserving students, instituting a local newspaper, to many and varied ordinances that benefit the Aparrianos.
I wrote two books for the barangay officials (Barangay First) and the sangguniang kabataan (Empowering the Sangguniang Kabataan). The latter was reviewed by DILG Region 2 and was approved for distribution to all sangguniang kabataan throughout the country.
I shared, and I am still sharing, my views on local and national issues and many of them were published in Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Philippine Free Press, and other major dailies. I am a regular columnist of the Northern Forum of Tuguegarao City, Guru Press of Tabuk City, and several others. You can read all my articles in my site at http://reginaldtamayo.blogspot.com.
After I finished my 3-term as a municipal councilor, I ran for the vice-mayoral post but lost. But a year after the elections, I was asked by the then Vice Governor Oscar T. Pagulayan to work with him as his chief of staff. I accepted the job and was exposed to politics on a higher level for almost two years.
In 2004 elections, I ran again as a municipal councilor of Aparri and I won a seat, a position which I still hold up to this time. Truth is I already spend 20 years more or less of my life as a municipal councilor of Aparri.
Time to have a breather
Early this year I decided not to run anymore in the forthcoming local elections. My wife Lalaine Jarabe-Tamayo, and my children Regine (UST Philosophy 4th yr. student), Reiner (3rd yr. high school), Ria (2nd yr. high school), and Ricci (grade 4) were happy about my decision. They egged on me to continue my law studies which I did. “I needed some breathing space,” I said, especially when I was not given any committee to chair in the municipal council and almost my proposed resolutions and ordinances are not given due course. It is indeed a lonely fight when you are an opposition. I am up to my neck. That is why I was resolved to hide myself from politics next year.
God’s providential hand
But God works in mysterious ways. I recall that I hesitated to enter local politics when I was immensely enjoying my role as a teacher and as a dean of a college but God made a way for me to become a municipal councilor. Also, when I lost in my bid to my vice-mayoral post, God led me to experience politics in the province. I recently decided to take a time out from politics by not joining the local elections next year but God knocked at my heart to try national politics this time. I have been praying to God that he will pluck me out from the noisy politics and put my life in a more quiet place. God answered my prayer but He alone knows the reason why he answered my prayer differently.
I was like Jonah, the fugitive figure in the Bible. I was running away from politics but only to discover that there is no hiding place from God- He still found me and invited me to try national politics.
To be honest, I never asked to become a Senatorial candidate. Somebody nominated me as Senatorial candidate under ANG KAPATIRAN Party. The party informed me that I was nominated and asked if I am wiling to accept it. My wife and I took the nomination lightly knowing that we don’t have the resources to back me up. When I attended recently an international convention in Manila, I thought of contacting the secretary of the party and told him that I was ready to be subjected for a panel interview. I never thought that I would be severely grilled in that interview with many raised questions about national issues, political and moral concerns. I passed with flying colors the interview and without much ado I was named the 7th Senatorial candidate of the party. The party tendered a lunch for me after that.
My dear friends, relatives and countrymen, I am presenting myself and my partymates of the Ang Kapatiran Party as alternative candidates. Having been asked to run for the Senate is a grand and a grave challenge. I say grand because I see God’s providential hand into it; and I say grave because it is no joke to run for a national office.
I don’t have any personal resources to sustain my candidacy but I sincerely believe I have you on my side, and with the guidance and provision from God I will not be another Jonah but to willingly accept the call and the challenge to run as a Senator in 2010 elections because there is no hiding place and hideout from God
Thank you.
Very truly yours,
REGINALD B. TAMAYO
Member, Sangguniang Bayan
Secretary-General, SAVE Cagayan
Aparri, Cagayan
0916-2513562/0928-2886878
reginaldtamayo@yahoo.com
http://reginaldtamayo.blogspot.com.
August 30, 2009
Dear Friends, Relatives, and Countrymen:
I am REGINALD BALISI TAMAYO, 45, married, a public servant and a humble Christian.
I am writing to inform you that I am running for the Senate in the 2010 elections under the ANG KAPATIRAN Party. I expect a certain amount of skepticism on your part. In fact many asked me these questions- “Isn’t that a little unrealistic? Isn’t that a wishful thinking?” I also asked the same questions a few times. I was clueless. By default, I dismissed my nomination to be a Senatorial candidate as a joke. I thought that I was not prepared to re-shape my life and that of my family by running into a national office.
However, as many put it, there’s a reason for everything. It is in this spirit that I am inviting you to read my story why I am taking this long shot for a Senate seat.
Looking back
After completing AB Philosophy in 1985 at the University of the Philippines, it was my plan to pursue my law studies. My parents were tongue-tied when I told them about this. Knowing that they didn’t have the financial resources to support me, I did not insist my plan. My father was a clerk-typist and my mother worked as a gasoline girl. With the measly amount of salaries they were receiving, I understood their silence. I thought that poverty would hamper my dream of becoming a lawyer.
I went home to Aparri to find a job and to be with my parents. It was timely that the Lyceum of Aparri opened a major seminary. I applied for a teaching job there and was hired as a lecturer. I was at the young age of 21 when I was appointed Dean of Liberal Arts and Dean of Student Affairs of the Lyceum of Aparri. During that period, I was invited by politicians to join local politics in my hometown Aparri purposely to represent the youth sector. Truth to be told, teaching the seminarians with Philosophy subjects and supervising a college became an all-consuming drive for me such that I courteously declined the invitation. I thought politics was farthest from my mind at that time.
I will never forget the day when my school superiors told me to try it. They were able to convince me though to run for a municipal councilor. However, I lost and I was very happy about it. I went back to my school work with zeal to teach and to oversee a college.
The Transition
A few months after the elections, one of the elected municipal councilors passed away. There was no other choice but for me to take his place because, after him, I was next in rank and we belong to the same political party. I was sworn in as an appointed municipal councilor to serve the unexpired term of the said local official.
The effect this had on my work as a teacher and as a dean is obvious. I was spreading myself too thin to attend to my work as a municipal councilor and as a teacher and a school administrator while completing my masteral studies too. In order not become inefficient I was asked to give up one post- I decided to try my new life as a public servant because I was overwhelmed by the many concerns of my townspeople that need to be addressed squarely thru legislation. However, I never gave up completely my teaching job, I still teach at the Lyceum of Aparri as a part-time college instructor.
Period of Achievements
During my stint as a municipal councilor of Aparri, I was awarded as Outstanding Municipal Councilor of Cagayan by the Philippine Councilors League. I pioneered thru legislation many innovative legislative measures ranging from giving awards to outstanding public school teachers, scholarship program for the poor but deserving students, instituting a local newspaper, to many and varied ordinances that benefit the Aparrianos.
I wrote two books for the barangay officials (Barangay First) and the sangguniang kabataan (Empowering the Sangguniang Kabataan). The latter was reviewed by DILG Region 2 and was approved for distribution to all sangguniang kabataan throughout the country.
I shared, and I am still sharing, my views on local and national issues and many of them were published in Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Philippine Free Press, and other major dailies. I am a regular columnist of the Northern Forum of Tuguegarao City, Guru Press of Tabuk City, and several others. You can read all my articles in my site at http://reginaldtamayo.blogspot.com.
After I finished my 3-term as a municipal councilor, I ran for the vice-mayoral post but lost. But a year after the elections, I was asked by the then Vice Governor Oscar T. Pagulayan to work with him as his chief of staff. I accepted the job and was exposed to politics on a higher level for almost two years.
In 2004 elections, I ran again as a municipal councilor of Aparri and I won a seat, a position which I still hold up to this time. Truth is I already spend 20 years more or less of my life as a municipal councilor of Aparri.
Time to have a breather
Early this year I decided not to run anymore in the forthcoming local elections. My wife Lalaine Jarabe-Tamayo, and my children Regine (UST Philosophy 4th yr. student), Reiner (3rd yr. high school), Ria (2nd yr. high school), and Ricci (grade 4) were happy about my decision. They egged on me to continue my law studies which I did. “I needed some breathing space,” I said, especially when I was not given any committee to chair in the municipal council and almost my proposed resolutions and ordinances are not given due course. It is indeed a lonely fight when you are an opposition. I am up to my neck. That is why I was resolved to hide myself from politics next year.
God’s providential hand
But God works in mysterious ways. I recall that I hesitated to enter local politics when I was immensely enjoying my role as a teacher and as a dean of a college but God made a way for me to become a municipal councilor. Also, when I lost in my bid to my vice-mayoral post, God led me to experience politics in the province. I recently decided to take a time out from politics by not joining the local elections next year but God knocked at my heart to try national politics this time. I have been praying to God that he will pluck me out from the noisy politics and put my life in a more quiet place. God answered my prayer but He alone knows the reason why he answered my prayer differently.
I was like Jonah, the fugitive figure in the Bible. I was running away from politics but only to discover that there is no hiding place from God- He still found me and invited me to try national politics.
To be honest, I never asked to become a Senatorial candidate. Somebody nominated me as Senatorial candidate under ANG KAPATIRAN Party. The party informed me that I was nominated and asked if I am wiling to accept it. My wife and I took the nomination lightly knowing that we don’t have the resources to back me up. When I attended recently an international convention in Manila, I thought of contacting the secretary of the party and told him that I was ready to be subjected for a panel interview. I never thought that I would be severely grilled in that interview with many raised questions about national issues, political and moral concerns. I passed with flying colors the interview and without much ado I was named the 7th Senatorial candidate of the party. The party tendered a lunch for me after that.
My dear friends, relatives and countrymen, I am presenting myself and my partymates of the Ang Kapatiran Party as alternative candidates. Having been asked to run for the Senate is a grand and a grave challenge. I say grand because I see God’s providential hand into it; and I say grave because it is no joke to run for a national office.
I don’t have any personal resources to sustain my candidacy but I sincerely believe I have you on my side, and with the guidance and provision from God I will not be another Jonah but to willingly accept the call and the challenge to run as a Senator in 2010 elections because there is no hiding place and hideout from God
Thank you.
Very truly yours,
REGINALD B. TAMAYO
Member, Sangguniang Bayan
Secretary-General, SAVE Cagayan
Aparri, Cagayan
0916-2513562/0928-2886878
reginaldtamayo@yahoo.com
http://reginaldtamayo.blogspot.com.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Kapatiran launches 2010 bets
National Back to Home Page
August 21, 2009 06:35 PM Friday Article read 262 time(s)
Kapatiran launches 2010 bets
THE Ang Kapatiran Party (AKP), a national political party accredited by the Comelec, formally launched its candidates for the 2010 elections at a fund-raising dinner held at the Social Hall of the Christ the King Parish in Greenmeadows, Q.C. on Aug. 19, 2009.
Dubbed “Dine for Psalm 20:10,” the sit-down dinner was attended by some 400 AKP supporters to help raise funds for the party’s national and local candidates. The dinner event featured a significant dish, porridge or “lugaw” that symbolizes the worsening poverty of Filipinos.
The national candidates included presidential candidate John Carlos “JC” delos Reyes and senatorial candidates Atty. Adrian “Dado” Sison, Dr. Martin Bautista, Atty. Zosimo Jesus “Jess” Paredes, Atty. Dominador “Jun” Chipeco, Jr., and Aparri Councilor Reginald “Reggie” Tamayo. Two other senatorial candidates would be named later.
Other candidates for local positions were also introduced, namely, Atty. Leo Ferrer of Quezon City, Conrado Tejada of Ibaan in Batangas, Dr. Luisito Lacatan of Oriental Mindoro, Victor del Rosario of Naval in Biliran, Engr. Dhara Mamacol of Lanao del Norte, and Jose Policarpio Jr. of Zamboanga Sibugay among others.
For more information on AKP and its candidates, visit www.angkapatiranparty.org.
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People's Tonight
August 21, 2009 06:35 PM Friday Article read 262 time(s)
Kapatiran launches 2010 bets
THE Ang Kapatiran Party (AKP), a national political party accredited by the Comelec, formally launched its candidates for the 2010 elections at a fund-raising dinner held at the Social Hall of the Christ the King Parish in Greenmeadows, Q.C. on Aug. 19, 2009.
Dubbed “Dine for Psalm 20:10,” the sit-down dinner was attended by some 400 AKP supporters to help raise funds for the party’s national and local candidates. The dinner event featured a significant dish, porridge or “lugaw” that symbolizes the worsening poverty of Filipinos.
The national candidates included presidential candidate John Carlos “JC” delos Reyes and senatorial candidates Atty. Adrian “Dado” Sison, Dr. Martin Bautista, Atty. Zosimo Jesus “Jess” Paredes, Atty. Dominador “Jun” Chipeco, Jr., and Aparri Councilor Reginald “Reggie” Tamayo. Two other senatorial candidates would be named later.
Other candidates for local positions were also introduced, namely, Atty. Leo Ferrer of Quezon City, Conrado Tejada of Ibaan in Batangas, Dr. Luisito Lacatan of Oriental Mindoro, Victor del Rosario of Naval in Biliran, Engr. Dhara Mamacol of Lanao del Norte, and Jose Policarpio Jr. of Zamboanga Sibugay among others.
For more information on AKP and its candidates, visit www.angkapatiranparty.org.
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People's Tonight
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Unfair pre-political ads
Unfair pre-political ads
I watched with interest the recent Senate hearing led by Senator Miriam Santiago on the issue of premature campaigning through commercial advertisements. The use of television, radio, billboard, and newspaper advertisements by some cabinet secretaries and other high-ranking government officials are effective ways to toss them to national posts in the 2010 elections. Regardless of the reasons offered by these government officials why they advertise their programs and activities of their departments, theirs are clearly pre-political gimmicks purposely to make inroads into the consciousness of our people that they are running in the 2010 elections. They imprudently squandered the people’s money for such advertisements when such can be more judiciously used in other productive endeavors that would alleviate poverty condition or ease the social and economic plights of our people.
It is becoming apparent that most of our politicians suffer from what I call attention-crisis syndrome. All unscrupulous politicians fight for attention and there seems to be no cure for this. They starve to be seen and be heard of- kulang sila sa pansin. Media exposure is what they thought to be their medication. Obviously, because of their media exposures, they have a better advantage to win in the 2010 elections than those of us who cannot afford to pay this kind of expensive media spectacle of premature campaigning. Worse, these image-building advertisements relegate the more important issues of the day into oblivion. Elections should be based on platforms and what candidates say their stand on issues besetting our country rather than on how many times we have seen their faces or heard their voices in these commercial advertisements. If elections were held today, would we vote for the candidates who had spent millions of people’s money for the advertisements or would we go for those candidates whose advertisements are eye-catching or dramatic? Only the uncaring citizens of this country would probably vote for them.
I simply cannot afford to pay for such commercial advertisements in order to win a Senate seat. I am virtually unknown as a Senate aspirant but I trust that our people would elect Senatorial candidates not on the basis of media exposures but on the platforms of the candidates, their integrity, zeal to serve with a sense of responsibility, and honesty to bring the gospel-values into the world of politics.
I watched with interest the recent Senate hearing led by Senator Miriam Santiago on the issue of premature campaigning through commercial advertisements. The use of television, radio, billboard, and newspaper advertisements by some cabinet secretaries and other high-ranking government officials are effective ways to toss them to national posts in the 2010 elections. Regardless of the reasons offered by these government officials why they advertise their programs and activities of their departments, theirs are clearly pre-political gimmicks purposely to make inroads into the consciousness of our people that they are running in the 2010 elections. They imprudently squandered the people’s money for such advertisements when such can be more judiciously used in other productive endeavors that would alleviate poverty condition or ease the social and economic plights of our people.
It is becoming apparent that most of our politicians suffer from what I call attention-crisis syndrome. All unscrupulous politicians fight for attention and there seems to be no cure for this. They starve to be seen and be heard of- kulang sila sa pansin. Media exposure is what they thought to be their medication. Obviously, because of their media exposures, they have a better advantage to win in the 2010 elections than those of us who cannot afford to pay this kind of expensive media spectacle of premature campaigning. Worse, these image-building advertisements relegate the more important issues of the day into oblivion. Elections should be based on platforms and what candidates say their stand on issues besetting our country rather than on how many times we have seen their faces or heard their voices in these commercial advertisements. If elections were held today, would we vote for the candidates who had spent millions of people’s money for the advertisements or would we go for those candidates whose advertisements are eye-catching or dramatic? Only the uncaring citizens of this country would probably vote for them.
I simply cannot afford to pay for such commercial advertisements in order to win a Senate seat. I am virtually unknown as a Senate aspirant but I trust that our people would elect Senatorial candidates not on the basis of media exposures but on the platforms of the candidates, their integrity, zeal to serve with a sense of responsibility, and honesty to bring the gospel-values into the world of politics.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Issues I raised during Senate Committee Hearing
Issues I raised during Senate Committee Hearing
I recently attended the Senate Committee Hearing of Senator Panfilo Lacson. The hearing was focused on the proposed bill “An Act Instituting Reforms In Real Property Valuation And Assessment In The Philippines” which is authored by Senators Lacson, Lapid, Angara, and Biazon.
During the deliberation, I raised some concerns regarding Section 16 of the proposed bill which deals with the preparation of scheduled of market values. It says, inter alia, that assessors “shall prepare a Scheduled of Market Values (SMV) for the different classes of real property and special purpose property situated within their respective local government units, in consultation with the concerned Sanggunian, pursuant to the valuation standards and specifications set” by the National Valuation Authority. In the same sections it says in part that that National Valuation Authority “shall review and approved the SMV within ninety (90) days upon receipt of the same, otherwise, the said schedule shall be deemed approved.” It adds, “the approved Schedule of Market Values shall be sent back to the concerned Sanggunian for enactment of ordinance for the general revision of real property assessments within ninety (90) days from receipt thereof. After the lapse of the said period, the ordinance shall be deemed enacted and thereafter, a general revision of real property assessments shall be made in said local government units using as basis the approved SMV.”
I questioned the rationality of this section by asking the committee to consider the role of the Sanggunian concerned. I said that if the phrase “in consultation with the concerned sanggunian” would be tantamount to getting the comments only of local legislators without public consultation, then I strongly oppose it. On matters like this, it is the interest of good governance that the concerned sanggunian cannot decide unilaterally without a rigorous public consultation on the proposed SMV. It is the responses of the people to this public consultation that the concerned sanggunian can base its impartial and judicious decision whether or not to enact the corresponding ordinance for the general revision of real property assessments in its respective jurisdiction.
I emphasized that the power to review and give approval of the SMV should not be lodged exclusively to the National Valuation Authority. Otherwise, this would bring frustration to the sanggunian and worse embarrassment because it would make a mockery out of what the sanggunian is responsible of doing. It must be noted that in this case the sanggunian has the legislative authority to enact the required ordinance and this is not within the ambit of authority of the National Valuation Authority.
Senator Lacson though assured me that the concerned sanggunian will not be chained. However, I still believe that the Section in question should be better phrased for clarity’s sake and to give proper respect to the sanggunian on matters of legislation that are within its authority.
I recently attended the Senate Committee Hearing of Senator Panfilo Lacson. The hearing was focused on the proposed bill “An Act Instituting Reforms In Real Property Valuation And Assessment In The Philippines” which is authored by Senators Lacson, Lapid, Angara, and Biazon.
During the deliberation, I raised some concerns regarding Section 16 of the proposed bill which deals with the preparation of scheduled of market values. It says, inter alia, that assessors “shall prepare a Scheduled of Market Values (SMV) for the different classes of real property and special purpose property situated within their respective local government units, in consultation with the concerned Sanggunian, pursuant to the valuation standards and specifications set” by the National Valuation Authority. In the same sections it says in part that that National Valuation Authority “shall review and approved the SMV within ninety (90) days upon receipt of the same, otherwise, the said schedule shall be deemed approved.” It adds, “the approved Schedule of Market Values shall be sent back to the concerned Sanggunian for enactment of ordinance for the general revision of real property assessments within ninety (90) days from receipt thereof. After the lapse of the said period, the ordinance shall be deemed enacted and thereafter, a general revision of real property assessments shall be made in said local government units using as basis the approved SMV.”
I questioned the rationality of this section by asking the committee to consider the role of the Sanggunian concerned. I said that if the phrase “in consultation with the concerned sanggunian” would be tantamount to getting the comments only of local legislators without public consultation, then I strongly oppose it. On matters like this, it is the interest of good governance that the concerned sanggunian cannot decide unilaterally without a rigorous public consultation on the proposed SMV. It is the responses of the people to this public consultation that the concerned sanggunian can base its impartial and judicious decision whether or not to enact the corresponding ordinance for the general revision of real property assessments in its respective jurisdiction.
I emphasized that the power to review and give approval of the SMV should not be lodged exclusively to the National Valuation Authority. Otherwise, this would bring frustration to the sanggunian and worse embarrassment because it would make a mockery out of what the sanggunian is responsible of doing. It must be noted that in this case the sanggunian has the legislative authority to enact the required ordinance and this is not within the ambit of authority of the National Valuation Authority.
Senator Lacson though assured me that the concerned sanggunian will not be chained. However, I still believe that the Section in question should be better phrased for clarity’s sake and to give proper respect to the sanggunian on matters of legislation that are within its authority.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Insensitive president
Insensitive president
This refers to the article “Arroyo to CIA Chief: Blasts are nothing” (PDI 7/12). I am deeply troubled by these offensive remarks of the president. For a president to say to a visiting CIA chief Leon Panetta that waves of bombings in Mindanao is not a cause of worry is not a joke. It is symptomatic of an insensitive president. The intent of the president may not be one of malice but she can never take back what she said. It is pretty juvenile to make such imprudent remarks amidst the mourning and anguish of victims of these Mindanao bombings.
Was the remark made in jest? That would be unpresidential. We, Filipinos, claim that we are humorous but I don’t see and any humor in these insulting and derogatory remarks of a president. I opine that such uncalled for remarks have profound negative consequences for the people from Mindanao. I consider it too as an affront to our Muslim brothers and sisters.
The president is so fixated with a tunnel view that everything going on in the country is rose-colored and promising. I hope that the CIA chief have also asked people other than the president about what is really happening in the country especially in Mindanao. I am not saying that Panetta cannot get a true picture of what is happening in Mindanao from the president but there is always the tendency for a pro-government people to draw a romanticized picture of Mindanao.
Panetta should realize that telling lies and making deceits are favorite pastime of many of our politicians. Panetta should then be cautious in this country of lies. He should resolve not to be easily swayed by the wagging tongues of liars who deserve some blasts of wet baby diapers.
This refers to the article “Arroyo to CIA Chief: Blasts are nothing” (PDI 7/12). I am deeply troubled by these offensive remarks of the president. For a president to say to a visiting CIA chief Leon Panetta that waves of bombings in Mindanao is not a cause of worry is not a joke. It is symptomatic of an insensitive president. The intent of the president may not be one of malice but she can never take back what she said. It is pretty juvenile to make such imprudent remarks amidst the mourning and anguish of victims of these Mindanao bombings.
Was the remark made in jest? That would be unpresidential. We, Filipinos, claim that we are humorous but I don’t see and any humor in these insulting and derogatory remarks of a president. I opine that such uncalled for remarks have profound negative consequences for the people from Mindanao. I consider it too as an affront to our Muslim brothers and sisters.
The president is so fixated with a tunnel view that everything going on in the country is rose-colored and promising. I hope that the CIA chief have also asked people other than the president about what is really happening in the country especially in Mindanao. I am not saying that Panetta cannot get a true picture of what is happening in Mindanao from the president but there is always the tendency for a pro-government people to draw a romanticized picture of Mindanao.
Panetta should realize that telling lies and making deceits are favorite pastime of many of our politicians. Panetta should then be cautious in this country of lies. He should resolve not to be easily swayed by the wagging tongues of liars who deserve some blasts of wet baby diapers.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
I was nominated as a Senator
I was nominated as a Senator
I recently received a letter from Dr. Martin Martinez, chairman of the National Electoral Committee of Ang Kapatiran Party and Eric Manalang, president of the party, informing me, among others, that my humble self was nominated as a Senator by a concerned citizen. Frankly, I was on cloud nine and could only thank in prayer the citizen who nominated me.
I read carefully the founding principles and platform of AKP and its Code of Conduct. The party calls for the building of a nation of character. It urges the integral development of the Filipinos through values formation. The language used is without embellishment with quotes like “Abolish all forms of gambling,” and “Abolish the death penalty.” The party works towards an ideal society where the citizens are sovereign and that there is no room for the ambitious, greedy, and tyrannical politicians.
I opine that the target “constituencies” of AKP are those Filipinos who believe in ethical and servant leadership. Many are disgruntled about the present crop of leadership in this country and they want a nationwide moral change. Personally, AKP provides an additional and an alternative spectrum in our political field challenging our voters to exercise their judgment within the bounds of reason and morality as to what political parties can best respond to the needs of our times.
After consulting with my wife, relatives and friends, I made the decision: I accepted the nomination.
I recently received a letter from Dr. Martin Martinez, chairman of the National Electoral Committee of Ang Kapatiran Party and Eric Manalang, president of the party, informing me, among others, that my humble self was nominated as a Senator by a concerned citizen. Frankly, I was on cloud nine and could only thank in prayer the citizen who nominated me.
I read carefully the founding principles and platform of AKP and its Code of Conduct. The party calls for the building of a nation of character. It urges the integral development of the Filipinos through values formation. The language used is without embellishment with quotes like “Abolish all forms of gambling,” and “Abolish the death penalty.” The party works towards an ideal society where the citizens are sovereign and that there is no room for the ambitious, greedy, and tyrannical politicians.
I opine that the target “constituencies” of AKP are those Filipinos who believe in ethical and servant leadership. Many are disgruntled about the present crop of leadership in this country and they want a nationwide moral change. Personally, AKP provides an additional and an alternative spectrum in our political field challenging our voters to exercise their judgment within the bounds of reason and morality as to what political parties can best respond to the needs of our times.
After consulting with my wife, relatives and friends, I made the decision: I accepted the nomination.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Presidency for life?
Presidency for life?
Has the president resolved to become a lifetime chief executive of this country? Sensing that she has an opportunity to hold on to her power beyond 2010 by running as congresswoman in her district, this impresses us that power indeed intoxicates. How true are the words of James Byrnes when he said, "Power intoxicates men. When a man is intoxicated by alcohol he can recover, but when intoxicated by power he seldom recovers."
Any elected president must realize that he or she is a president of a country and not a president of a family-owned corporation. He or she as president must govern the people with respect and not make the country as his or her personal toy. Does the president not want to live as a former president with weakened immunity liable to prosecution by whoever will be her successor?
The time has come for us Filipinos to stand up and protest against this cheap political ploy. Let us vehemently oppose this re-entry and life presidency plan of the president through the backdoor. Let us oppose any political scheme to make her chief executive for life. Let us not remain sheepish and docile. Instead, let us be assertive with our rights to choose the next president of this country come 2010 elections and at bayonet point tell the president she already had her time and that she cannot flout the constitution.
I suggest that she should start looking to history and reflect on how people in the future will judge her and her presidency. I suggest too that she should rather plan on how to have a dignified exit before her term ends on 2010 and not to think on ways to perpetuate her hold on power. She and her political entourage’s campaign of self-perpetuation will be a mistake. God forbids, they will be embarrassed and a great deal of their dignity will be robbed off.
The president should now start unifying our fragmented country. She should now mend fences with her political opponents. She has still an ample time to prove herself that she is the president of the people by initiating actions that will redeem her esteem and her office and who knows, our people will have kind thoughts of her after she leaves her office.
Madam President, your time is running out- prepare now for a dignified exit. It is time for you to go home. For the remaining months of your office as our president, leave a lasting legacy for us to remember you by. Godspeed Madam President and have a peaceful life.
Has the president resolved to become a lifetime chief executive of this country? Sensing that she has an opportunity to hold on to her power beyond 2010 by running as congresswoman in her district, this impresses us that power indeed intoxicates. How true are the words of James Byrnes when he said, "Power intoxicates men. When a man is intoxicated by alcohol he can recover, but when intoxicated by power he seldom recovers."
Any elected president must realize that he or she is a president of a country and not a president of a family-owned corporation. He or she as president must govern the people with respect and not make the country as his or her personal toy. Does the president not want to live as a former president with weakened immunity liable to prosecution by whoever will be her successor?
The time has come for us Filipinos to stand up and protest against this cheap political ploy. Let us vehemently oppose this re-entry and life presidency plan of the president through the backdoor. Let us oppose any political scheme to make her chief executive for life. Let us not remain sheepish and docile. Instead, let us be assertive with our rights to choose the next president of this country come 2010 elections and at bayonet point tell the president she already had her time and that she cannot flout the constitution.
I suggest that she should start looking to history and reflect on how people in the future will judge her and her presidency. I suggest too that she should rather plan on how to have a dignified exit before her term ends on 2010 and not to think on ways to perpetuate her hold on power. She and her political entourage’s campaign of self-perpetuation will be a mistake. God forbids, they will be embarrassed and a great deal of their dignity will be robbed off.
The president should now start unifying our fragmented country. She should now mend fences with her political opponents. She has still an ample time to prove herself that she is the president of the people by initiating actions that will redeem her esteem and her office and who knows, our people will have kind thoughts of her after she leaves her office.
Madam President, your time is running out- prepare now for a dignified exit. It is time for you to go home. For the remaining months of your office as our president, leave a lasting legacy for us to remember you by. Godspeed Madam President and have a peaceful life.
Global Balita June Series#5
LATEST FROM GLOBAL BALITA
Opinion » The GMA regime’s weakness and vulnerability
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
Many Filipinos are nearly panicking these days that Madame Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (GMA) will not leave Malacañang Palace in 2010. This is more emotional and less rational. More than anything else, it reflects the cowardice of a nation to assert its collective will — in utter fear of the imagined strength of GMA.
If reason is to rule one’s judgment, then all the signs point to GMA having very slim chances of pulling off a magic stunt and remain in power after her …
Read the full story >> The GMA regime’s weakness and vulnerability
***************************
Opinion » The Race For Control
GLIMPSES
by Jose Ma. Montelibano
Reality in the Philippines is so dark that writing about the good news, which I have tried to do with greater resolve in the last few years, can be daunting. It is less the content of good news that is challenging, it is more writing them and blocking the incessant temptation to focus on the more sensational bad news. When one really wants to see the good in the other, the good in society, there are more than enough people and developments that truly lift the spirit. …
Read the full story >> The Race For Control
***************************
Opinion » Comelec has responded
by Frank Wenceslao
Chairman Jose Melo responded to our proposal that the Comelec should assert its powers to ensure clean and honest elections next year and onward. He said it’s being considered by the appropriate unit for its implications on their present work and legal requirement.
To further support our proposal I sent Pamusa’s manifesto: “Safeguarding the Philippine Constitution, Fighting Graft and Corruption and Enhancing the Emergence of Transformational Leaders through Clean and Honest 2010 Elections Onward” as well a letter from the Office of California’s Attorney General advising that Pamusa has …
Read the full story >> Comelec has responded
***************************
Politics & Government » Panlilio: Pampanga has an ace to defeat Arroyo
By the looks of it, it’s going to be a classic David vs. Goliath contest. Randy David is one of the most respected Pampangueños and he’ll give Gloria a run for her money. — Perry
Panlilio: Pampanga has an ace to defeat Arroyo
by Roy Legarde
MANILA, June 25, 2009—Pampanga Gov. Ed Panlilio said he and his supporters have an ace up their sleeves to match President Arroyo’s deemed candidacy in Pampanga’s 2nd district.
Panlilio said they will not let the province of Pampanga to be used by Mrs Arroyo’s ‘political agenda’ ...
Read the full story >> Panlilio: Pampanga has an ace to defeat Arroyo
***************************
Opinion » The Yellows and the Greens; the Slut and the Flower People
Kapeng BARAKO
by Jesse Jose
from Fil-Am MegaScene
Let’s talk about Iran.
But first, tit for tat.
Do y’all know that Senator John McCain was called a “yellow belly” by a newspaper editor (I am not gonna mention his name) because of the good senator’s stand on Iran in which he said that President Barack Obama must be more forceful on speaking up on the unrest there?
I beg your pardon, but Senator McCain is no yellow belly. That’s a misnomer. To me to call Senator McCain THAT is surely an ignorant remark. Mr. McCain is …
Read the full story >> The Yellows and the Greens; the Slut and the Flower People
***************************
Opinion » Trafficking the Enslaved
by Fr. Shay Cullen
from PREDA Foundation
It was for Jennifer an all too familiar story similar to that of thousands in Asia and Eastern Europe. Born into poverty,living in a poor village on Negros Island in the Philippines and dreaming of better life Jennifer went with a recruiter and her parents approval to work as a domestic helper in the capital Manila. But soon her naive dreams of earning a modest wage for a 12 hour day to help her five brothers and sisters were shattered when her employer and his …
Read the full story >> Trafficking the Enslaved
***************************
Opinion » Vandalism in Cagayan
by Reginald Tamayo
In my Cagayan province, one gets to notice flyers “Gising Cagayan” and “Gobierno Ti Umili” glued to practically every conceivable public space. These flyers are highly visible as they maliciously defaced newly painted bridges, historic markers, walls, waiting sheds, and the like. They create the perception that the areas where these flyers are put on are tagged as belonging to a group or a political party known as “Gising Cagayan” or “Gobierno Ti Umili.” Probably, the people behind these nasty tagging of areas wanted to heighten the awareness …
Read the full story >> Vandalism in Cagayan
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Opinion » The GMA regime’s weakness and vulnerability
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
Many Filipinos are nearly panicking these days that Madame Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (GMA) will not leave Malacañang Palace in 2010. This is more emotional and less rational. More than anything else, it reflects the cowardice of a nation to assert its collective will — in utter fear of the imagined strength of GMA.
If reason is to rule one’s judgment, then all the signs point to GMA having very slim chances of pulling off a magic stunt and remain in power after her …
Read the full story >> The GMA regime’s weakness and vulnerability
***************************
Opinion » The Race For Control
GLIMPSES
by Jose Ma. Montelibano
Reality in the Philippines is so dark that writing about the good news, which I have tried to do with greater resolve in the last few years, can be daunting. It is less the content of good news that is challenging, it is more writing them and blocking the incessant temptation to focus on the more sensational bad news. When one really wants to see the good in the other, the good in society, there are more than enough people and developments that truly lift the spirit. …
Read the full story >> The Race For Control
***************************
Opinion » Comelec has responded
by Frank Wenceslao
Chairman Jose Melo responded to our proposal that the Comelec should assert its powers to ensure clean and honest elections next year and onward. He said it’s being considered by the appropriate unit for its implications on their present work and legal requirement.
To further support our proposal I sent Pamusa’s manifesto: “Safeguarding the Philippine Constitution, Fighting Graft and Corruption and Enhancing the Emergence of Transformational Leaders through Clean and Honest 2010 Elections Onward” as well a letter from the Office of California’s Attorney General advising that Pamusa has …
Read the full story >> Comelec has responded
***************************
Politics & Government » Panlilio: Pampanga has an ace to defeat Arroyo
By the looks of it, it’s going to be a classic David vs. Goliath contest. Randy David is one of the most respected Pampangueños and he’ll give Gloria a run for her money. — Perry
Panlilio: Pampanga has an ace to defeat Arroyo
by Roy Legarde
MANILA, June 25, 2009—Pampanga Gov. Ed Panlilio said he and his supporters have an ace up their sleeves to match President Arroyo’s deemed candidacy in Pampanga’s 2nd district.
Panlilio said they will not let the province of Pampanga to be used by Mrs Arroyo’s ‘political agenda’ ...
Read the full story >> Panlilio: Pampanga has an ace to defeat Arroyo
***************************
Opinion » The Yellows and the Greens; the Slut and the Flower People
Kapeng BARAKO
by Jesse Jose
from Fil-Am MegaScene
Let’s talk about Iran.
But first, tit for tat.
Do y’all know that Senator John McCain was called a “yellow belly” by a newspaper editor (I am not gonna mention his name) because of the good senator’s stand on Iran in which he said that President Barack Obama must be more forceful on speaking up on the unrest there?
I beg your pardon, but Senator McCain is no yellow belly. That’s a misnomer. To me to call Senator McCain THAT is surely an ignorant remark. Mr. McCain is …
Read the full story >> The Yellows and the Greens; the Slut and the Flower People
***************************
Opinion » Trafficking the Enslaved
by Fr. Shay Cullen
from PREDA Foundation
It was for Jennifer an all too familiar story similar to that of thousands in Asia and Eastern Europe. Born into poverty,living in a poor village on Negros Island in the Philippines and dreaming of better life Jennifer went with a recruiter and her parents approval to work as a domestic helper in the capital Manila. But soon her naive dreams of earning a modest wage for a 12 hour day to help her five brothers and sisters were shattered when her employer and his …
Read the full story >> Trafficking the Enslaved
***************************
Opinion » Vandalism in Cagayan
by Reginald Tamayo
In my Cagayan province, one gets to notice flyers “Gising Cagayan” and “Gobierno Ti Umili” glued to practically every conceivable public space. These flyers are highly visible as they maliciously defaced newly painted bridges, historic markers, walls, waiting sheds, and the like. They create the perception that the areas where these flyers are put on are tagged as belonging to a group or a political party known as “Gising Cagayan” or “Gobierno Ti Umili.” Probably, the people behind these nasty tagging of areas wanted to heighten the awareness …
Read the full story >> Vandalism in Cagayan
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Global Balita June Series #4
LATEST FROM GLOBAL BALITA
Opinion » GMA’s narrowing political options
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
The political options of Madame Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (GMA) to remain in power beyond 2010 have been the cause of sleepless nights for many Filipinos. Over 60% of Filipinos have consistently registered in the SWS and Pulse Asia periodic surveys as seeking regime change.
Three political options have been considered as her likely means for staying in power beyond 2010. There is the Charter change (Cha cha) option where we shift to a Parliamentary form of government and she then reinvents herself as …
Read the full story >> GMA’s narrowing political options
*******************************
Opinion » The Class of ‘78
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
“It ain’t over till the fat lady sings”, is a wit’s description of how “boring” operas end. Those who do not appreciate the long arias and have ears only for the operatic highlights often wonder when it would all end.
What this country has had to suffer through the years has been a long and badly sung, badly-scripted, badly-acted opera. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has inflicted her unworthy presence in the life of the nation far too long. First she pushed off the popular troubadour, Joseph Estrada, off the …
Read the full story >> The Class of ‘78
*******************************
Opinion » The Return of the Jedi
by Erick San Juan
U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates after attending the Annual Asian Defense Conference in Singapore went to the Philippines the next day to meet his counterpart, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro at Camp Aguinaldo. They talked about the RP-US relation on counter-terrorism and how the joint military exercises benefit both nations especially, the humanitarian and disaster assistance given by the US government through the US armed forces.
Several newspapers reported that Gates talked about US government’s confidence in the Philippine defense leadership and the reaffirmation of their mutual security …
Read the full story >> The Return of the Jedi
*******************************
Opinion » Letter from Alaska
by Antonio C. Abaya
from Standard Today
First of all, I would like to apologize to my readers for disappearing from print and cyberspace since May 15.
I have been on vacation all this time, first in San Francisco, then on board a cruise ship to Alaska and back, and finally in Chicago.
My companion and I were booked on the ms Amsterdam of the Holland America Line, which sailed from Seattle on May 23 on a seven-day voyage that took us to Juneau (the capital of the state of Alaska), then through the …
Read the full story >> Letter from Alaska
*******************************
Opinion » Consigliere
Editorial
from Philippine Daily Inquirer
Something is not right in the apparently sudden designation of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez as chief presidential legal counsel, and the appointment of Solicitor General Agnes Devanadera as acting DoJ chief.
“He knows that it was he himself who hinted that he wanted to go on vacation” from the Department of Justice, Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said in Filipino, expanding on the explanation offered by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo that Gonzalez was being reassigned to a “less strenuous” job.
The problem is, Gonzalez himself said he would have …
Read the full story >> Consigliere
*******************************
Opinion » Dr. Kho-Katrina Sex Video Scandal: Only a tip in the Iceberg
by Ben Serrano
While here in Manila attending my daughter’s major operation at state-owned Philippine General Hospital (PGH) practically doing everything from bed side hospital watching and securing medicines and necessities with the help of my elder daughter, Beverly, third year in computer engineering for another daughter of mine, Beneva June, a graduating honor student at the Science High School in her major surgical operation (very successful indeed), every gossips in the corner were all about Katrina and Hayden Kho’s sex video.
Riding a passenger jeep, all Filipinos (common and …
Read the full story >> Dr. Kho-Katrina Sex Video Scandal: Only a tip in the Iceberg
*******************************
Opinion » North to South, Sort of
by Renato Redentor Constantino
Our nation’s enduring hex is forgetfulness. If only we’d remember the word.
It’s like we have a national reboot button and every three weeks someone steps on the big clicker and everyone stops mid-step in a bazillion tiny pieces of a second. Then the music lurches forward again and we do a little skip and we sneak furtive looks left then right and our mind squints, as if it’s staring at the sun.
Blink, blink.
Same, same.
That’s been our lot for a while.
Insipid, shabby future.
Godawful present.
A few curious blips of …
Read the full story >> North to South, Sort of
*******************************
Opinion » House of Law breakers
by Reginald Tamayo
Where is the sense of respect and of common decency of congressmen and congresswomen who signed House resolution calling for a constituent assembly purposely to amend the constitution sans the participation of the Senate? I am tempted to say that the House of Representatives is a House of Lawbreakers since there are some members thereof who wantonly violate the constitution just to suit their political convenience and perpetuate themselves in power.
Do our people really demand the amending of the constitution? Have there been calls from various sectors for …
Read the full story >> House of Law breakers
*******************************
Opinion » Bush/Cheney Duo: Is American Justice in Jeopardy? (Part II)
by Rawlein G. Soberano, Ph.D.
Water-boarding consists of immobilizing the victim on his back with the head inclined downwards and then pouring water over the face and into the breathing passages. By forced suffocation and inhalation of water, the subject experiences drowning. The Spanish Inquisition used it for interrogation purposes to punish, intimidate and force confessions. In July 2007, it was reported that the CIA was water-boarding prisoners and that DOJ had authorized the procedure...
Read the full story >> Bush/Cheney Duo: Is American Justice in Jeopardy? (Part II)
*******************************
Opinion » PerryScope: Betrayal of Edsa
by Perry Diaz
In 1986, twenty three years ago, a new republic was born from the womb of Edsa, fathered by the spirit of People Power. A new generation of Filipinos sprang that she hoped would lead the nation out of the morass of corruption and poverty bred during the dictatorial reign of Ferdinand Marcos. Finally, the people were free once again.
Edsa became the symbol of a nation that aspired to be great. A shrine was built for her to remind the people that freedom lost could take a lifetime to …
Read the full story >> PerryScope: Betrayal of Edsa
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Opinion » GMA’s narrowing political options
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
The political options of Madame Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (GMA) to remain in power beyond 2010 have been the cause of sleepless nights for many Filipinos. Over 60% of Filipinos have consistently registered in the SWS and Pulse Asia periodic surveys as seeking regime change.
Three political options have been considered as her likely means for staying in power beyond 2010. There is the Charter change (Cha cha) option where we shift to a Parliamentary form of government and she then reinvents herself as …
Read the full story >> GMA’s narrowing political options
*******************************
Opinion » The Class of ‘78
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
“It ain’t over till the fat lady sings”, is a wit’s description of how “boring” operas end. Those who do not appreciate the long arias and have ears only for the operatic highlights often wonder when it would all end.
What this country has had to suffer through the years has been a long and badly sung, badly-scripted, badly-acted opera. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has inflicted her unworthy presence in the life of the nation far too long. First she pushed off the popular troubadour, Joseph Estrada, off the …
Read the full story >> The Class of ‘78
*******************************
Opinion » The Return of the Jedi
by Erick San Juan
U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates after attending the Annual Asian Defense Conference in Singapore went to the Philippines the next day to meet his counterpart, Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro at Camp Aguinaldo. They talked about the RP-US relation on counter-terrorism and how the joint military exercises benefit both nations especially, the humanitarian and disaster assistance given by the US government through the US armed forces.
Several newspapers reported that Gates talked about US government’s confidence in the Philippine defense leadership and the reaffirmation of their mutual security …
Read the full story >> The Return of the Jedi
*******************************
Opinion » Letter from Alaska
by Antonio C. Abaya
from Standard Today
First of all, I would like to apologize to my readers for disappearing from print and cyberspace since May 15.
I have been on vacation all this time, first in San Francisco, then on board a cruise ship to Alaska and back, and finally in Chicago.
My companion and I were booked on the ms Amsterdam of the Holland America Line, which sailed from Seattle on May 23 on a seven-day voyage that took us to Juneau (the capital of the state of Alaska), then through the …
Read the full story >> Letter from Alaska
*******************************
Opinion » Consigliere
Editorial
from Philippine Daily Inquirer
Something is not right in the apparently sudden designation of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez as chief presidential legal counsel, and the appointment of Solicitor General Agnes Devanadera as acting DoJ chief.
“He knows that it was he himself who hinted that he wanted to go on vacation” from the Department of Justice, Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said in Filipino, expanding on the explanation offered by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo that Gonzalez was being reassigned to a “less strenuous” job.
The problem is, Gonzalez himself said he would have …
Read the full story >> Consigliere
*******************************
Opinion » Dr. Kho-Katrina Sex Video Scandal: Only a tip in the Iceberg
by Ben Serrano
While here in Manila attending my daughter’s major operation at state-owned Philippine General Hospital (PGH) practically doing everything from bed side hospital watching and securing medicines and necessities with the help of my elder daughter, Beverly, third year in computer engineering for another daughter of mine, Beneva June, a graduating honor student at the Science High School in her major surgical operation (very successful indeed), every gossips in the corner were all about Katrina and Hayden Kho’s sex video.
Riding a passenger jeep, all Filipinos (common and …
Read the full story >> Dr. Kho-Katrina Sex Video Scandal: Only a tip in the Iceberg
*******************************
Opinion » North to South, Sort of
by Renato Redentor Constantino
Our nation’s enduring hex is forgetfulness. If only we’d remember the word.
It’s like we have a national reboot button and every three weeks someone steps on the big clicker and everyone stops mid-step in a bazillion tiny pieces of a second. Then the music lurches forward again and we do a little skip and we sneak furtive looks left then right and our mind squints, as if it’s staring at the sun.
Blink, blink.
Same, same.
That’s been our lot for a while.
Insipid, shabby future.
Godawful present.
A few curious blips of …
Read the full story >> North to South, Sort of
*******************************
Opinion » House of Law breakers
by Reginald Tamayo
Where is the sense of respect and of common decency of congressmen and congresswomen who signed House resolution calling for a constituent assembly purposely to amend the constitution sans the participation of the Senate? I am tempted to say that the House of Representatives is a House of Lawbreakers since there are some members thereof who wantonly violate the constitution just to suit their political convenience and perpetuate themselves in power.
Do our people really demand the amending of the constitution? Have there been calls from various sectors for …
Read the full story >> House of Law breakers
*******************************
Opinion » Bush/Cheney Duo: Is American Justice in Jeopardy? (Part II)
by Rawlein G. Soberano, Ph.D.
Water-boarding consists of immobilizing the victim on his back with the head inclined downwards and then pouring water over the face and into the breathing passages. By forced suffocation and inhalation of water, the subject experiences drowning. The Spanish Inquisition used it for interrogation purposes to punish, intimidate and force confessions. In July 2007, it was reported that the CIA was water-boarding prisoners and that DOJ had authorized the procedure...
Read the full story >> Bush/Cheney Duo: Is American Justice in Jeopardy? (Part II)
*******************************
Opinion » PerryScope: Betrayal of Edsa
by Perry Diaz
In 1986, twenty three years ago, a new republic was born from the womb of Edsa, fathered by the spirit of People Power. A new generation of Filipinos sprang that she hoped would lead the nation out of the morass of corruption and poverty bred during the dictatorial reign of Ferdinand Marcos. Finally, the people were free once again.
Edsa became the symbol of a nation that aspired to be great. A shrine was built for her to remind the people that freedom lost could take a lifetime to …
Read the full story >> PerryScope: Betrayal of Edsa
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Global Balita June Series#2
LATEST FROM GLOBAL BALITA
Opinion » Simple questions for Manuel B. Villar
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
We write this article hours before the Senate, acting as a Committee of the Whole, begins its adjudicatory proceedings in a complaint filed by Sen. Jamby Madrigal before the Senate Ethics Committee against Sen. Manuel B. Villar Jr.
The facts of the case, as Madrigal alleges in her accusations, are: One, that Sen. Villar violated Article VI Sec. 14 of the Philippine Constitution, which states that “No Senator or member of the House of Representatives…shall, directly or indirectly, be interested financially in any contract with, or in …
Read the full story >> Simple questions for Manuel B. Villar
*******************************
Opinion » When ‘the 3 stooges’ conduct a Senate hearing
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
Larry, Moe and Curly Joe, or better known as The 3 Stooges, were among the favorite comedians of Baby Boomers like your Chair Wrecker. The term LOL (laughing out loud) was not yet in vogue during our pre-teen years but that is what we did every time we watched The 3 Stooges on television.
When The 3 Stooges portrayed car mechanics and were attempting to simply replace a defective car part, they would end up destroying the entire vehicle. When The 3 Stooges …
Read the full story >> When ‘the 3 stooges’ conduct a Senate hearing
*******************************
Culture, Sports, Entertainment & Technology » Matter of Taste
The following is from a British journalist stationed in the Philippines.
His observations are so hilarious!
Matter of Taste
by Matthew Sutherland
I have now been in this country for over six years, and consider myself in
most respects well-assimilated. However, there is one key step on the road
to full assimilation which I have yet to take, and that’s to eat BALUT. The
day any of you sees me eating balut, please call immigration and ask them
to issue me a Filipino passport, because at that point there will be no
turning back. BALUT, for those still blissfully …
Read the full story >> Matter of Taste
*******************************
Culture, Sports, Entertainment & Technology » The Real Best in the East
Even Bruce Lee would’ve challenged Pacquiao
by Alex P. Vidal
SAN DIEGO, California – The best in the East.
This titanic title once belonged to the legendary kung fu maestro Bruce Lee who as the pride of the East even the best boxer in the world dared not to see him eyeball to eyeball in his heyday in the early 70’s.
But after dismantling Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton in the IBO light welterweight duel dubbed “The Battle of the East and the West” in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 2, Manny Pacquiao is now …
Read the full story >> The Real Best in the East
*******************************
Opinion » Even Hitler was entitled to have a fair trial
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
There is a very basic principle of justice and the rule of law that has been grossly overlooked in the raging debate surrounding the ethics case that was filed against top Opposition presidential candidate, Senator Manny Villar.
And that principle is the right of the accused – any accused – to a fair trial.
A fair trial is not just the granting of the opportunity to the accused to refute charges and present counter evidence. The more important aspect of a fair trial is …
Read the full story >> Even Hitler was entitled to have a fair trial
*******************************
Opinion » The Big Set-up
by Ellen Tordesillas
Hardly had the croaking of the the congressmen who were at the Manila Hotel for the launching of what pundits call Palaka (Partido Lakas at Kampi) died down last Thursday when they were summoned by Gloria Arroyo to a room where she gave her marching orders: pass the resolution amending the Constitution.
Arroyo, the source said, offered the congressmen a hefty incentive: over and above their pork barrel, they will be given P20 million each.
There are two resolutions calling for the amendment of the Constitution pending at the Lower …
Read the full story >> The Big Set-up
*******************************
Opinion » On responsible citizenship
by Reginald Tamayo
We don’t seem to appreciate our being democratic citizens. There may be instances proving of our being responsible citizens in a democratic country but these are on a daily and retail bases. To act like responsible citizens in this country is likened to a goody that is only available in a vending machine, that is, it is there when it is needed.
Besides, many of us appear to be uninformed about our rights and obligations in a democratic country. We don’t simply live up to our responsibilities as democratic …
Read the full story >> On responsible citizenship
*******************************
Opinion » Senate inquiry: a circus show
by Reginald B. Tamayo
I recently watched on television the Senate inquiry on the sex video scandal of Ms. Katrina Halili and Dr. Hayden Kho. I was expecting to see the inquiry to be conducted with due decorum. I was disappointed. What I saw was a circus.
Some people who were there are likened to vultures who were ready to make a kill or simply people who don’t want to miss a circus show in town. There was even a man who even unceremoniously drenched Dr. Kho. These are not encouraging signs …
Read the full story >> Senate inquiry: a circus show
*******************************
Opinion » It’s merger of ‘trapos’; it is a ‘palaka’
by Michael Lim Ubac
from Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines—“Kokak.”
That one word captures the opposition’s reaction to the so-called marriage of the two biggest political parties in the country. The opposition also said the political union would not translate into votes to ensure the victory of administration candidates in the 2010 elections.
Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II said the merger of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats and the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (Kampi) was a union of “trapos” (traditional politicians).
Roxas, a presidential aspirant and the president of the Liberal Party, told reporters that the name …
Read the full story >> It’s merger of ‘trapos’; it is a ‘palaka’
*******************************
Opinion » Being Filipino
The young teacher that provided the author, Evan S. Chen, the inspiration that awakened his Filipino soul is my nephew, Josemaria Esposo Claro and this was when Hossie was still teaching in Xavier University in Ortigas Avenue. The Jesuits has since asked Hossie to teach in their San Andres Bukid Special Education Program for poor kids. - The STAR Chair Wrecker, William M. Esposo
Youngblood
Being Filipino
by Evan S. Chen
from Philippine Daily Inquirer
When I was young, I never truly considered myself Filipino. Sure, I lived in the Philippines and I carried …
Read the full story >> Being Filipino
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Opinion » Simple questions for Manuel B. Villar
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
We write this article hours before the Senate, acting as a Committee of the Whole, begins its adjudicatory proceedings in a complaint filed by Sen. Jamby Madrigal before the Senate Ethics Committee against Sen. Manuel B. Villar Jr.
The facts of the case, as Madrigal alleges in her accusations, are: One, that Sen. Villar violated Article VI Sec. 14 of the Philippine Constitution, which states that “No Senator or member of the House of Representatives…shall, directly or indirectly, be interested financially in any contract with, or in …
Read the full story >> Simple questions for Manuel B. Villar
*******************************
Opinion » When ‘the 3 stooges’ conduct a Senate hearing
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
Larry, Moe and Curly Joe, or better known as The 3 Stooges, were among the favorite comedians of Baby Boomers like your Chair Wrecker. The term LOL (laughing out loud) was not yet in vogue during our pre-teen years but that is what we did every time we watched The 3 Stooges on television.
When The 3 Stooges portrayed car mechanics and were attempting to simply replace a defective car part, they would end up destroying the entire vehicle. When The 3 Stooges …
Read the full story >> When ‘the 3 stooges’ conduct a Senate hearing
*******************************
Culture, Sports, Entertainment & Technology » Matter of Taste
The following is from a British journalist stationed in the Philippines.
His observations are so hilarious!
Matter of Taste
by Matthew Sutherland
I have now been in this country for over six years, and consider myself in
most respects well-assimilated. However, there is one key step on the road
to full assimilation which I have yet to take, and that’s to eat BALUT. The
day any of you sees me eating balut, please call immigration and ask them
to issue me a Filipino passport, because at that point there will be no
turning back. BALUT, for those still blissfully …
Read the full story >> Matter of Taste
*******************************
Culture, Sports, Entertainment & Technology » The Real Best in the East
Even Bruce Lee would’ve challenged Pacquiao
by Alex P. Vidal
SAN DIEGO, California – The best in the East.
This titanic title once belonged to the legendary kung fu maestro Bruce Lee who as the pride of the East even the best boxer in the world dared not to see him eyeball to eyeball in his heyday in the early 70’s.
But after dismantling Ricky “The Hitman” Hatton in the IBO light welterweight duel dubbed “The Battle of the East and the West” in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 2, Manny Pacquiao is now …
Read the full story >> The Real Best in the East
*******************************
Opinion » Even Hitler was entitled to have a fair trial
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
There is a very basic principle of justice and the rule of law that has been grossly overlooked in the raging debate surrounding the ethics case that was filed against top Opposition presidential candidate, Senator Manny Villar.
And that principle is the right of the accused – any accused – to a fair trial.
A fair trial is not just the granting of the opportunity to the accused to refute charges and present counter evidence. The more important aspect of a fair trial is …
Read the full story >> Even Hitler was entitled to have a fair trial
*******************************
Opinion » The Big Set-up
by Ellen Tordesillas
Hardly had the croaking of the the congressmen who were at the Manila Hotel for the launching of what pundits call Palaka (Partido Lakas at Kampi) died down last Thursday when they were summoned by Gloria Arroyo to a room where she gave her marching orders: pass the resolution amending the Constitution.
Arroyo, the source said, offered the congressmen a hefty incentive: over and above their pork barrel, they will be given P20 million each.
There are two resolutions calling for the amendment of the Constitution pending at the Lower …
Read the full story >> The Big Set-up
*******************************
Opinion » On responsible citizenship
by Reginald Tamayo
We don’t seem to appreciate our being democratic citizens. There may be instances proving of our being responsible citizens in a democratic country but these are on a daily and retail bases. To act like responsible citizens in this country is likened to a goody that is only available in a vending machine, that is, it is there when it is needed.
Besides, many of us appear to be uninformed about our rights and obligations in a democratic country. We don’t simply live up to our responsibilities as democratic …
Read the full story >> On responsible citizenship
*******************************
Opinion » Senate inquiry: a circus show
by Reginald B. Tamayo
I recently watched on television the Senate inquiry on the sex video scandal of Ms. Katrina Halili and Dr. Hayden Kho. I was expecting to see the inquiry to be conducted with due decorum. I was disappointed. What I saw was a circus.
Some people who were there are likened to vultures who were ready to make a kill or simply people who don’t want to miss a circus show in town. There was even a man who even unceremoniously drenched Dr. Kho. These are not encouraging signs …
Read the full story >> Senate inquiry: a circus show
*******************************
Opinion » It’s merger of ‘trapos’; it is a ‘palaka’
by Michael Lim Ubac
from Philippine Daily Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines—“Kokak.”
That one word captures the opposition’s reaction to the so-called marriage of the two biggest political parties in the country. The opposition also said the political union would not translate into votes to ensure the victory of administration candidates in the 2010 elections.
Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II said the merger of Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats and the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (Kampi) was a union of “trapos” (traditional politicians).
Roxas, a presidential aspirant and the president of the Liberal Party, told reporters that the name …
Read the full story >> It’s merger of ‘trapos’; it is a ‘palaka’
*******************************
Opinion » Being Filipino
The young teacher that provided the author, Evan S. Chen, the inspiration that awakened his Filipino soul is my nephew, Josemaria Esposo Claro and this was when Hossie was still teaching in Xavier University in Ortigas Avenue. The Jesuits has since asked Hossie to teach in their San Andres Bukid Special Education Program for poor kids. - The STAR Chair Wrecker, William M. Esposo
Youngblood
Being Filipino
by Evan S. Chen
from Philippine Daily Inquirer
When I was young, I never truly considered myself Filipino. Sure, I lived in the Philippines and I carried …
Read the full story >> Being Filipino
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Global Balita June Series #1
LATEST FROM GLOBAL BALITA
Opinion » Quotes of the day
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
Prospero Nograles, on the eve of the merger of Lakas (Teddy Boy Locsin’s favourite “party of thieves”) and Kampi (Gloria and Mike Arroyo’s favourite party of what else?) was “ecstatic” over the conjugal union of the two. As of this writing, the mega-event is supposed to be ongoing.
Said Nograles: “For now, winning the elections in 2010 is not our main goal. Changing the character of our politics is”.
Oh my God! After almost nine years of Gloria’s hegemony, during which Nograles has seen himself catapulted to …
Read the full story >> Quotes of the day
*******************************
Opinion » My rambling thoughts on Kho-Halili sex video
Kapeng BARAKO
by Jesse Jose
from Fil-Am MegaScene
Sheesh.
What’s the big deal?
Bakit pinagkakaguluhan ito?
The people, men, women and children, the media, the tsismis shows led by Boy Abunda and Kris Aquino, the politicians, the police, the NBI, the Dept of Justice, Gabriela, the Philippine Congress …
Even the Philippine Medical Association …
The whole country, actually …
Is riveted to this sex video.
How laughable naman.
How pathetic.
How sad.
Only in the Philippines, I tell ya.
Sure, here in America, people get riveted, too, to sex scandals. Yes, they talk about it. But they don’t talk about it weeks after …
Read the full story >> My rambling thoughts on Kho-Halili sex video
*******************************
Opinion » Take Justice Into Our Own Hands
GLIMPSES
Jose Ma. Montelibano
The way I see the political equation is that a weak people attract bad governance. That is why any good governance advocacy will never work unless it carries in it a parallel movement for a strong citizenry. All the way from my boyhood days, I already heard the generation of my parents promote the cause of good governance. Today, 50 years later, most good government advocates insist that never in our history is good governance needed more. This is another way of saying that efforts for good governance …
Read the full story >> Take Justice Into Our Own Hands
*******************************
Opinion » Enrile versus Pimentel: Who can we believe?
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
Pikon (short fused) is a term that has often been used by media to characterize Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile. On primetime television last Monday, Enrile displayed that side of his character again.
All the way to your bedroom or living room, depending where you watch the TV news, you can almost feel the figurative angry snorts from the nose of the raging bull in the Senate who was accusing Senator Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel of being a “coward, hypocrite, traitor and a spoiled …
Read the full story >> Enrile versus Pimentel: Who can we believe?
*******************************
Politics & Government » Good, Honest Governance at Work
PRESS STATEMENT OF GOV. EDDIE PANLILIO
May 28, 2009
GOOD, HONEST GOVERNANCE AT WORK
Quarry collections reach P395.598M in 23 months
Exceed NRDC collections in 3 years
Today, I congratulate the Biyaya a Luluguran at Sisikapan (Balas) committee, the provincial checkers, the provincial environment and natural resources office, the members of the provincial mining regulatory board, and the provincial treasurer’s office for their collective success in being able to collect, on behalf of the province, P395.598 million in taxes from sand and gravel.
Read the full story >> Good, Honest Governance at Work
*******************************
Opinion » What a country!
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
Another boat sank off the waters of Batangas, and twelve people are reported to have died. Another 42 have survived. On the basis of the arithmetic, Marina officials say the boat was overloaded, because it had registered capacity for only 42 passengers. Soon, when the victims shall have been buried, the issue of maritime safety will be forgotten. Months ago, another boat capsized off the waters of Calayan Island off Sta. Ana in Cagayan. I don’t even remember how many perished. The same reason was given …
Read the full story >> What a country!
*******************************
Opinion » The defeaning silence of the church on the sex video scandal
by Reginald Tamayo
The sex video scandal of Dr. Hayden Kho and Katrina Halili is like a wild virus. It has traumatized the families of the victims and it has demoralized many women especially the young ones. The extent of the impact of the scandal is undeniably strong that it has become a favorite topic in coffee shops, beauty parlors, market place, and many other public places. All are practically mouthing their views about this scandal. But there is one sector which I haven’t heard saying its views: the Catholic Church ...
Read the full story >> The defeaning silence of the church on the sex video scandal
*******************************
Opinion » Writ of Amparo
Telltale Signs
by Rodel Rodis
It was reportedly “imported” from South America as a response to the widespread extra-judicial killings of journalists and activists which have proliferated in the last decade. The Writ of Amparo (Spanish for “protection”) was promulgated by Philippine Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno and his associate justices on October 24, 2007 to provide an opportunity for aggrieved parties to seek a Court order directing the military and police authorities to spare a particular individual from harm.
On May 20, 2009, the Philippine Supreme Court issued a Writ of …
Read the full story >> Writ of Amparo
*******************************
Opinion » U.S. Aid: A Joke!
by Erick San Juan
I was shock to read in a “public relations” newspaper that most of our bilateral agreements with the United States government, benefits us more than them.
In its opinion page, it is said that the United States is the Philippines’ only mutual defense treaty partner and the largest source of foreign military financing. It added that the U.S. government’s foreign military aid to the Philippines helps in modernizing the Philippine Armed Forces. We allegedly received the highest level of funds in East Asia and the Pacific under the …
Read the full story >> U.S. Aid: A Joke!
*******************************
Opinion » Children Suffer Most When Justice is Denied
by Fr. Shay Cullen
from PREDA
Beth was a docile and submissive child. She lived in fear of her dominating father and he was addicted to buying the dirt cheap child pornography CDs that are widely available in the Philippines. It was perhaps inevitable that he would rape her and he did several times over two years ago in the province of Bataan not far from Manila. When she was rescued and brought safe in the Preda Children’s Home, she recovered and was soon strong and brave enough to tell her story …
Read the full story >> Children Suffer Most When Justice is Denied
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Opinion » Quotes of the day
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
Prospero Nograles, on the eve of the merger of Lakas (Teddy Boy Locsin’s favourite “party of thieves”) and Kampi (Gloria and Mike Arroyo’s favourite party of what else?) was “ecstatic” over the conjugal union of the two. As of this writing, the mega-event is supposed to be ongoing.
Said Nograles: “For now, winning the elections in 2010 is not our main goal. Changing the character of our politics is”.
Oh my God! After almost nine years of Gloria’s hegemony, during which Nograles has seen himself catapulted to …
Read the full story >> Quotes of the day
*******************************
Opinion » My rambling thoughts on Kho-Halili sex video
Kapeng BARAKO
by Jesse Jose
from Fil-Am MegaScene
Sheesh.
What’s the big deal?
Bakit pinagkakaguluhan ito?
The people, men, women and children, the media, the tsismis shows led by Boy Abunda and Kris Aquino, the politicians, the police, the NBI, the Dept of Justice, Gabriela, the Philippine Congress …
Even the Philippine Medical Association …
The whole country, actually …
Is riveted to this sex video.
How laughable naman.
How pathetic.
How sad.
Only in the Philippines, I tell ya.
Sure, here in America, people get riveted, too, to sex scandals. Yes, they talk about it. But they don’t talk about it weeks after …
Read the full story >> My rambling thoughts on Kho-Halili sex video
*******************************
Opinion » Take Justice Into Our Own Hands
GLIMPSES
Jose Ma. Montelibano
The way I see the political equation is that a weak people attract bad governance. That is why any good governance advocacy will never work unless it carries in it a parallel movement for a strong citizenry. All the way from my boyhood days, I already heard the generation of my parents promote the cause of good governance. Today, 50 years later, most good government advocates insist that never in our history is good governance needed more. This is another way of saying that efforts for good governance …
Read the full story >> Take Justice Into Our Own Hands
*******************************
Opinion » Enrile versus Pimentel: Who can we believe?
AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR
by William M. Esposo
from Philstar
Pikon (short fused) is a term that has often been used by media to characterize Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile. On primetime television last Monday, Enrile displayed that side of his character again.
All the way to your bedroom or living room, depending where you watch the TV news, you can almost feel the figurative angry snorts from the nose of the raging bull in the Senate who was accusing Senator Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel of being a “coward, hypocrite, traitor and a spoiled …
Read the full story >> Enrile versus Pimentel: Who can we believe?
*******************************
Politics & Government » Good, Honest Governance at Work
PRESS STATEMENT OF GOV. EDDIE PANLILIO
May 28, 2009
GOOD, HONEST GOVERNANCE AT WORK
Quarry collections reach P395.598M in 23 months
Exceed NRDC collections in 3 years
Today, I congratulate the Biyaya a Luluguran at Sisikapan (Balas) committee, the provincial checkers, the provincial environment and natural resources office, the members of the provincial mining regulatory board, and the provincial treasurer’s office for their collective success in being able to collect, on behalf of the province, P395.598 million in taxes from sand and gravel.
Read the full story >> Good, Honest Governance at Work
*******************************
Opinion » What a country!
by Lito Banayo
from MALAYA
Another boat sank off the waters of Batangas, and twelve people are reported to have died. Another 42 have survived. On the basis of the arithmetic, Marina officials say the boat was overloaded, because it had registered capacity for only 42 passengers. Soon, when the victims shall have been buried, the issue of maritime safety will be forgotten. Months ago, another boat capsized off the waters of Calayan Island off Sta. Ana in Cagayan. I don’t even remember how many perished. The same reason was given …
Read the full story >> What a country!
*******************************
Opinion » The defeaning silence of the church on the sex video scandal
by Reginald Tamayo
The sex video scandal of Dr. Hayden Kho and Katrina Halili is like a wild virus. It has traumatized the families of the victims and it has demoralized many women especially the young ones. The extent of the impact of the scandal is undeniably strong that it has become a favorite topic in coffee shops, beauty parlors, market place, and many other public places. All are practically mouthing their views about this scandal. But there is one sector which I haven’t heard saying its views: the Catholic Church ...
Read the full story >> The defeaning silence of the church on the sex video scandal
*******************************
Opinion » Writ of Amparo
Telltale Signs
by Rodel Rodis
It was reportedly “imported” from South America as a response to the widespread extra-judicial killings of journalists and activists which have proliferated in the last decade. The Writ of Amparo (Spanish for “protection”) was promulgated by Philippine Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno and his associate justices on October 24, 2007 to provide an opportunity for aggrieved parties to seek a Court order directing the military and police authorities to spare a particular individual from harm.
On May 20, 2009, the Philippine Supreme Court issued a Writ of …
Read the full story >> Writ of Amparo
*******************************
Opinion » U.S. Aid: A Joke!
by Erick San Juan
I was shock to read in a “public relations” newspaper that most of our bilateral agreements with the United States government, benefits us more than them.
In its opinion page, it is said that the United States is the Philippines’ only mutual defense treaty partner and the largest source of foreign military financing. It added that the U.S. government’s foreign military aid to the Philippines helps in modernizing the Philippine Armed Forces. We allegedly received the highest level of funds in East Asia and the Pacific under the …
Read the full story >> U.S. Aid: A Joke!
*******************************
Opinion » Children Suffer Most When Justice is Denied
by Fr. Shay Cullen
from PREDA
Beth was a docile and submissive child. She lived in fear of her dominating father and he was addicted to buying the dirt cheap child pornography CDs that are widely available in the Philippines. It was perhaps inevitable that he would rape her and he did several times over two years ago in the province of Bataan not far from Manila. When she was rescued and brought safe in the Preda Children’s Home, she recovered and was soon strong and brave enough to tell her story …
Read the full story >> Children Suffer Most When Justice is Denied
Visit www.GlobalBalita.com for more news, updates and to comment.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Eulogy for Uncle Jim
EULOGY FOR SIR KNIGHT JIMMY BALISI
By Reginald B. Tamayo
Today, we say farewell to a father, to a grandfather, to an uncle, to a friend, to a neighbor, and a brother Knight, Sir Knight Jimmy Cuntapay Balisi. We say farewell with sadness for we have lost him, but also we say farewell with joy for God had taken him in the bosom of His love.
Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi loved the Knights of Columbus. He served the Knights of Columbus faithfully and for that we will always be grateful. I remember with gratitude his long service as an emcee of the various programs and activities of the Council, as a crystallizer of issues and concerns during our breakfast meetings. Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was also an endless source of knowledge about policies of the Knights of Columbus, including social issues and political concerns in the community and in the country. He is known also for injecting humor in his talks that would create a robust laughter among the members and among his listeners. Indeed, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was the kind of person that any Knight would want at his side.
Wise as he was, experienced as he was, faithful and totally dedicated to the cause of the Knights of Columbus, his concern for the welfare of the members of the Council were immense and this for sure will be long remembered. His warm, generous smile and genial nature helped transform the Council into a family that we are. He lived our principles of charity, unity, patriotism, and fraternity not just in the Council, but every day, wherever he was.
Many would seek the help of Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi practically on all matters ranging from love-letter writing to making speeches. Anyone who needed legal advice but could not afford to pay the services of a lawyer, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi would be there to offer his help. Anyone who needed a graduation speech, a sample speech on siete palabras, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi had all of them in his file. Anyone who needed to write a congressman, a senator, even a president but could hardly express himself, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was an expert in that field. Anyone who felt aggrieved by the government, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi would be willing to help and make peace with the government.
After his awful diagnosis several years ago, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was determined to live out his life with grace and dignity and courage. Although the outcome of his sickness was never doubted, the very character of a knight of Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi as a courageous man and with a faithful heart to his God was not also doubted. He would not permit himself to easily admit defeat and he charged straight at his ailment with all his strength and determination and with the inspiration from his wife Manang Delia, his children, and grandchildren.
Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was not only an admired knight but also a well-loved father, a well-like uncle and a doting grandfather. I personally know Uncle Jim as a passionate man about family. He kept us his family members connected, he kept us in touch, he kept the Balisi, Tamayo, Rigunan, and Gan clan vibrant. Every special occasion like birthday, Christmas, New Year, and the like, he and Manang Del would always invite us to share a meal with everyone at their place. He was generous with his phone calls to his children and grandchildren, he was lavish with his gifts, and he always had a fatherly advice to any member of the family. It was a rule of a thumb that he would make a phone call to his children who are living abroad and greet them and their families during Christmas seasons and during their birthdays. My teary-eyed uncle Jim would be happy hearing at the end of the line his eldest son Manung Abbeh and his family and his daughter Grace and her family. In the recent past, when he returned from the States, he was mouthful telling stories that he had the grandest time in his life with his grandchildren Janel, Jansen and Jonathan.
Indeed, Uncle Jim was a passionate man about family. Every time he and Manang Del invite us to share a happy occasion with them, it was always a reunion of the clan, an occasion of renewal and strengthening of family ties, an occasion of celebration, and an occasion of thanksgiving. Today, he extended an invitation to all of us members of his family to share with him for the last time, and that is, an occasion to send him off on a journey to the next life.
On a personal note, Uncle Jim was my mentor and critic in speech-making and writing. I will always treasure the journalism books and notes he gave me. It was Uncle Jim who showed and opened the path for me to write my thoughts and share them with others. And for this I am forever grateful to my dearest Uncle Jim.
To Manang Del, and to his children Manung Abbeh, Manang Elena Manung Jerome, Manang Teh and Grace and Manoj, and to his grandchildren and their families, we offer our heartfelt prayers and sympathy. Uncle Jim’s suffering is over, and he already sees the happiness that awaits him in God’s heavenly kingdom.
God bless you Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi. God loves you Uncle Jim. For sure, we will miss you. Till we meet again.
By Reginald B. Tamayo
Today, we say farewell to a father, to a grandfather, to an uncle, to a friend, to a neighbor, and a brother Knight, Sir Knight Jimmy Cuntapay Balisi. We say farewell with sadness for we have lost him, but also we say farewell with joy for God had taken him in the bosom of His love.
Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi loved the Knights of Columbus. He served the Knights of Columbus faithfully and for that we will always be grateful. I remember with gratitude his long service as an emcee of the various programs and activities of the Council, as a crystallizer of issues and concerns during our breakfast meetings. Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was also an endless source of knowledge about policies of the Knights of Columbus, including social issues and political concerns in the community and in the country. He is known also for injecting humor in his talks that would create a robust laughter among the members and among his listeners. Indeed, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was the kind of person that any Knight would want at his side.
Wise as he was, experienced as he was, faithful and totally dedicated to the cause of the Knights of Columbus, his concern for the welfare of the members of the Council were immense and this for sure will be long remembered. His warm, generous smile and genial nature helped transform the Council into a family that we are. He lived our principles of charity, unity, patriotism, and fraternity not just in the Council, but every day, wherever he was.
Many would seek the help of Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi practically on all matters ranging from love-letter writing to making speeches. Anyone who needed legal advice but could not afford to pay the services of a lawyer, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi would be there to offer his help. Anyone who needed a graduation speech, a sample speech on siete palabras, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi had all of them in his file. Anyone who needed to write a congressman, a senator, even a president but could hardly express himself, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was an expert in that field. Anyone who felt aggrieved by the government, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi would be willing to help and make peace with the government.
After his awful diagnosis several years ago, Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was determined to live out his life with grace and dignity and courage. Although the outcome of his sickness was never doubted, the very character of a knight of Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi as a courageous man and with a faithful heart to his God was not also doubted. He would not permit himself to easily admit defeat and he charged straight at his ailment with all his strength and determination and with the inspiration from his wife Manang Delia, his children, and grandchildren.
Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi was not only an admired knight but also a well-loved father, a well-like uncle and a doting grandfather. I personally know Uncle Jim as a passionate man about family. He kept us his family members connected, he kept us in touch, he kept the Balisi, Tamayo, Rigunan, and Gan clan vibrant. Every special occasion like birthday, Christmas, New Year, and the like, he and Manang Del would always invite us to share a meal with everyone at their place. He was generous with his phone calls to his children and grandchildren, he was lavish with his gifts, and he always had a fatherly advice to any member of the family. It was a rule of a thumb that he would make a phone call to his children who are living abroad and greet them and their families during Christmas seasons and during their birthdays. My teary-eyed uncle Jim would be happy hearing at the end of the line his eldest son Manung Abbeh and his family and his daughter Grace and her family. In the recent past, when he returned from the States, he was mouthful telling stories that he had the grandest time in his life with his grandchildren Janel, Jansen and Jonathan.
Indeed, Uncle Jim was a passionate man about family. Every time he and Manang Del invite us to share a happy occasion with them, it was always a reunion of the clan, an occasion of renewal and strengthening of family ties, an occasion of celebration, and an occasion of thanksgiving. Today, he extended an invitation to all of us members of his family to share with him for the last time, and that is, an occasion to send him off on a journey to the next life.
On a personal note, Uncle Jim was my mentor and critic in speech-making and writing. I will always treasure the journalism books and notes he gave me. It was Uncle Jim who showed and opened the path for me to write my thoughts and share them with others. And for this I am forever grateful to my dearest Uncle Jim.
To Manang Del, and to his children Manung Abbeh, Manang Elena Manung Jerome, Manang Teh and Grace and Manoj, and to his grandchildren and their families, we offer our heartfelt prayers and sympathy. Uncle Jim’s suffering is over, and he already sees the happiness that awaits him in God’s heavenly kingdom.
God bless you Sir Knight Jimmy Balisi. God loves you Uncle Jim. For sure, we will miss you. Till we meet again.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Vandalism in Cagayan
Vandalism in Cagayan
In my Cagayan province, one gets to notice flyers “Gising Cagayan” and “Gobierno Ti Umili” glued to practically every conceivable public space. These flyers are highly visible as they maliciously defaced newly painted bridges, historic markers, walls, waiting sheds, and the like. They create the perception that the areas where these flyers are put on are tagged as belonging to a group or a political party known as “Gising Cagayan” or “Gobierno Ti Umili.” Probably, the people behind these nasty tagging of areas wanted to heighten the awareness of the Cagayanos that these are existing political groups. Perhaps it is also the desire of these groups to conduct self-publicity or status-promotion simply because they are aware that they are virtually unknown. Moreover, it may be their craving to be recognized that the areas they vandalized are their identified turf or political territory.
The people behind these pasting of flyers have low regard and respect for properties. They damaged or disfigured properties without the consent of the people who own or have control of such properties. We take pride of Aparri as one of the cleanest municipalities in the province but with the flyers all around they cheapened our town and make it unattractive and frightening. Take for instance, our newly refurbished Knights of Columbus marker in Aparri, it is now peppered with these flyers. It will cost us much again to repaint and restore it.
We feel angry and hurt by this vandalism. We condemn this wanton act of disrespect to private and public properties. The people behind this may think that we don’t care for our surroundings hence they are least troubled if they vandalize them. We care for our properties. These vandals should respect our properties and they should respect us too.
In my Cagayan province, one gets to notice flyers “Gising Cagayan” and “Gobierno Ti Umili” glued to practically every conceivable public space. These flyers are highly visible as they maliciously defaced newly painted bridges, historic markers, walls, waiting sheds, and the like. They create the perception that the areas where these flyers are put on are tagged as belonging to a group or a political party known as “Gising Cagayan” or “Gobierno Ti Umili.” Probably, the people behind these nasty tagging of areas wanted to heighten the awareness of the Cagayanos that these are existing political groups. Perhaps it is also the desire of these groups to conduct self-publicity or status-promotion simply because they are aware that they are virtually unknown. Moreover, it may be their craving to be recognized that the areas they vandalized are their identified turf or political territory.
The people behind these pasting of flyers have low regard and respect for properties. They damaged or disfigured properties without the consent of the people who own or have control of such properties. We take pride of Aparri as one of the cleanest municipalities in the province but with the flyers all around they cheapened our town and make it unattractive and frightening. Take for instance, our newly refurbished Knights of Columbus marker in Aparri, it is now peppered with these flyers. It will cost us much again to repaint and restore it.
We feel angry and hurt by this vandalism. We condemn this wanton act of disrespect to private and public properties. The people behind this may think that we don’t care for our surroundings hence they are least troubled if they vandalize them. We care for our properties. These vandals should respect our properties and they should respect us too.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Draw up nationwide response to A(H1N1)
Draw up nationwide response to A(H1N1)
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:01:00 06/24/2009
Filed Under: Health, Swine Flu
WHILE I appreciate the Department of Health for regularly giving us updates on the number of A(H1N1) victims in the country, it should do more than that. The rapid spread of this pandemic seems unstoppable and, worse, some of our people have started to panic rushing to buy anti-viral medicines and face masks.
It is time for the DOH to draw up specific and strategic plans on how to cushion the impact of A(H1N1) and keep down the number of its victims.
The DOH should lead in securing a national commitment and resolve to protect the health of the citizenry against this pandemic. It should now issue guidelines to schools, malls, churches, offices, movie houses and other public places, with emphasis on non-medical interventions.
In other words, the DOH should orchestrate the efforts of all sectors regarding the problem. For example, it should suggest to all schools that they ask their canteens to serve, as a matter of policy, meals and snacks that strengthen the immune system. Also, it should, in coordination with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, issue guidelines on the roles and responsibilities of local government units in relation to the inherent dangers and complex threats the A(H1N1) poses.
My apprehension is that politicians might use the A(H1N1) as an issue or as a means to advance their own personal interests. If the DOH dilly-dallies, it could leave itself vulnerable to the manipulations of politicians. Before this happens and before A(H1N1) kills a Filipino, the DOH should ask politicians to appropriate an amount so the department can stockpile anti-viral medicines. The DOH should act now.
—REGINALD B. TAMAYO, member, Sangguniang Bayan, Aparri, Cagayan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:01:00 06/24/2009
Filed Under: Health, Swine Flu
WHILE I appreciate the Department of Health for regularly giving us updates on the number of A(H1N1) victims in the country, it should do more than that. The rapid spread of this pandemic seems unstoppable and, worse, some of our people have started to panic rushing to buy anti-viral medicines and face masks.
It is time for the DOH to draw up specific and strategic plans on how to cushion the impact of A(H1N1) and keep down the number of its victims.
The DOH should lead in securing a national commitment and resolve to protect the health of the citizenry against this pandemic. It should now issue guidelines to schools, malls, churches, offices, movie houses and other public places, with emphasis on non-medical interventions.
In other words, the DOH should orchestrate the efforts of all sectors regarding the problem. For example, it should suggest to all schools that they ask their canteens to serve, as a matter of policy, meals and snacks that strengthen the immune system. Also, it should, in coordination with the Department of the Interior and Local Government, issue guidelines on the roles and responsibilities of local government units in relation to the inherent dangers and complex threats the A(H1N1) poses.
My apprehension is that politicians might use the A(H1N1) as an issue or as a means to advance their own personal interests. If the DOH dilly-dallies, it could leave itself vulnerable to the manipulations of politicians. Before this happens and before A(H1N1) kills a Filipino, the DOH should ask politicians to appropriate an amount so the department can stockpile anti-viral medicines. The DOH should act now.
—REGINALD B. TAMAYO, member, Sangguniang Bayan, Aparri, Cagayan
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
DOH should unify national efforts against A(H1N1)
DOH should unify national efforts against A(H1HN)
While I appreciate the Department of Health in regularly informing us about the number of victims of A (H1N1) in the country, it should do more serious jobs. A plenty of tasks is at hand for the department other than consistently broadcasting the number of latest victims . The rapid spread of this pandemic influenza seems unstoppable and worse, some of our people are panic-stricken as they run on fumes to buy anti-viral medicines and face masks. DOH should now act and should address this with a unified national effort. It should now make specific and strategic plans on how to mitigate the number of victims or cushion the impact of this dreaded disease.
On the national front, DOH should lead in creating a national commitment and resolve to protect the health interest of the citizenry against this pandemic influenza. It should now issue common guidelines with emphasis on non-medical interventions to schools, malls, churches, offices, movie houses and other public places in order to address this health hazard. In other words, it should unify the efforts of all sectors in their response to this A(H1N1) problem. For instance, in schools, DOH should propose as a matter of policy that school canteens should serve meals and snacks that would enhance the immune system of the students. Also, it should, in coordination with DILG, issue guidelines on the roles and responsibilities of local government units in relation to inherent dangers and complex threats of this health problem.
My apprehension is that politicians might use the A(H1N1) as an issue or a vehicle for their ulterior motives. If DOH dilly-dallies, then it leaves itself to vulnerable manipulation by these politicians. Instead, it should urge these politicians to appropriate an amount so DOH could stockpile anti-viral medicines. If DOH wait until somebody dies because of this flu, it will be too late. DOH should now take the time to get the game plan in order so that it can begin the action right away. DOH should act now, not later.
While I appreciate the Department of Health in regularly informing us about the number of victims of A (H1N1) in the country, it should do more serious jobs. A plenty of tasks is at hand for the department other than consistently broadcasting the number of latest victims . The rapid spread of this pandemic influenza seems unstoppable and worse, some of our people are panic-stricken as they run on fumes to buy anti-viral medicines and face masks. DOH should now act and should address this with a unified national effort. It should now make specific and strategic plans on how to mitigate the number of victims or cushion the impact of this dreaded disease.
On the national front, DOH should lead in creating a national commitment and resolve to protect the health interest of the citizenry against this pandemic influenza. It should now issue common guidelines with emphasis on non-medical interventions to schools, malls, churches, offices, movie houses and other public places in order to address this health hazard. In other words, it should unify the efforts of all sectors in their response to this A(H1N1) problem. For instance, in schools, DOH should propose as a matter of policy that school canteens should serve meals and snacks that would enhance the immune system of the students. Also, it should, in coordination with DILG, issue guidelines on the roles and responsibilities of local government units in relation to inherent dangers and complex threats of this health problem.
My apprehension is that politicians might use the A(H1N1) as an issue or a vehicle for their ulterior motives. If DOH dilly-dallies, then it leaves itself to vulnerable manipulation by these politicians. Instead, it should urge these politicians to appropriate an amount so DOH could stockpile anti-viral medicines. If DOH wait until somebody dies because of this flu, it will be too late. DOH should now take the time to get the game plan in order so that it can begin the action right away. DOH should act now, not later.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
House of Law breakers
House of Law breakers
Where is the sense of respect and of common decency of congressmen and congresswomen who signed House resolution calling for a constituent assembly purposely to amend the constitution sans the participation of the Senate? I am tempted to say that the House of Representatives is a House of Lawbreakers since there are some members thereof who wantonly violate the constitution just to suit their political convenience and perpetuate themselves in power.
Do our people really demand the amending of the constitution? Have there been calls from various sectors for the amendment of the constitution? On the other hand, do some of our congressmen and congresswomen are dying to amend the constitution that they drastically signed the resolution convening a constituent assembly? Do they really care about the situation in our country that they think amending the constitution would be compatible with our times and circumstances? Alternately, do they care more about themselves that they want to hold on to their political turf without end?
It appears that our people are against the amendment of the constitution. The congressmen and congresswomen just ignored this and instead focused on what they could personally gain from amending the constitution. They chose rather to take a radical and oppressive way of amending the constitution even to the extent of deserting the trust of our people. The constitution is not our problem. It is not even an obstacle to progress of this country. Our problem is our leaders who defy our constitution and who have no sense of common good.
These honorable congressmen and congresswomen should be reminded that the constitution was not established by the members of Congress but it was presented and approved by the majority of our people. Nobody can just amend the constitution without the consent of our people. The power to amend the constitution was never relinquished by our people. The House of Representatives cannot take upon itself the authority and supremacy over our people to amend the constitution.
I wonder if our congressmen and congresswomen are really doing their legislative work. I just doubt it. What I am seeing is their relentless and excessive pursuit of materialism, political power, and prestige.
Where is the sense of respect and of common decency of congressmen and congresswomen who signed House resolution calling for a constituent assembly purposely to amend the constitution sans the participation of the Senate? I am tempted to say that the House of Representatives is a House of Lawbreakers since there are some members thereof who wantonly violate the constitution just to suit their political convenience and perpetuate themselves in power.
Do our people really demand the amending of the constitution? Have there been calls from various sectors for the amendment of the constitution? On the other hand, do some of our congressmen and congresswomen are dying to amend the constitution that they drastically signed the resolution convening a constituent assembly? Do they really care about the situation in our country that they think amending the constitution would be compatible with our times and circumstances? Alternately, do they care more about themselves that they want to hold on to their political turf without end?
It appears that our people are against the amendment of the constitution. The congressmen and congresswomen just ignored this and instead focused on what they could personally gain from amending the constitution. They chose rather to take a radical and oppressive way of amending the constitution even to the extent of deserting the trust of our people. The constitution is not our problem. It is not even an obstacle to progress of this country. Our problem is our leaders who defy our constitution and who have no sense of common good.
These honorable congressmen and congresswomen should be reminded that the constitution was not established by the members of Congress but it was presented and approved by the majority of our people. Nobody can just amend the constitution without the consent of our people. The power to amend the constitution was never relinquished by our people. The House of Representatives cannot take upon itself the authority and supremacy over our people to amend the constitution.
I wonder if our congressmen and congresswomen are really doing their legislative work. I just doubt it. What I am seeing is their relentless and excessive pursuit of materialism, political power, and prestige.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Is noodle a new symbol of education?
Is noodle a new symbol of education?
The action of the Department of Education to call off its feeding program using noodles of dubious nutritional value and alleged overprice is a reasonable and timely move. Otherwise, the department will open another reprehensible scandal under the present administration. The money to be spent for these noodles could be used wisely to improve school facilities especially now that there are many schools which noticeably lack school rooms, chairs, blackboards, among others.
However, what is also noticeable in public schools are the billboards of Sharon Cuneta which are strategically placed near school gates. Probably this is true not only here in the province of Cagayan but nationwide. One can never escape seeing these billboards upon entering the public school premises. In these billboards, Ms. Cuneta is seen as promoting noodles. Lucky are the schools if the manufacturer or Ms. Cuneta gives free noodles to these schools for their feeding program.
Are the schools selling school space for commercial advertisements? Did the Department of Education enter into a contract with the manufacturer of these noodles that the latter can use a space near the school gate where these billboards can be placed? Do the schools admit that they are implicitly endorsing the noodles advertised by Ms. Cuneta? Do these schools urge their pupils to buy the noodles too? What is the honest purpose of this commercial of Sharon Cuneta? Is the noodle a new symbol of education?
Schools should be commercial-free zones. Our children are already seeing many messages of these commercial advertisements on televisions. Seeing these billboards everyday in going to and from these schools does not make nor improve the grades of the pupils. These billboards only remind them that the husband of Sharon Cuneta Senator Francis Pangilinan is running for the vice presidency in 2010 elections.
In fairness to all concerned, I suggest that commercial billboards should be removed from the schools. Let us spare the schools from being used as places for commercial advertisements. More importantly, let us not use the schools for political gimmicks.
The action of the Department of Education to call off its feeding program using noodles of dubious nutritional value and alleged overprice is a reasonable and timely move. Otherwise, the department will open another reprehensible scandal under the present administration. The money to be spent for these noodles could be used wisely to improve school facilities especially now that there are many schools which noticeably lack school rooms, chairs, blackboards, among others.
However, what is also noticeable in public schools are the billboards of Sharon Cuneta which are strategically placed near school gates. Probably this is true not only here in the province of Cagayan but nationwide. One can never escape seeing these billboards upon entering the public school premises. In these billboards, Ms. Cuneta is seen as promoting noodles. Lucky are the schools if the manufacturer or Ms. Cuneta gives free noodles to these schools for their feeding program.
Are the schools selling school space for commercial advertisements? Did the Department of Education enter into a contract with the manufacturer of these noodles that the latter can use a space near the school gate where these billboards can be placed? Do the schools admit that they are implicitly endorsing the noodles advertised by Ms. Cuneta? Do these schools urge their pupils to buy the noodles too? What is the honest purpose of this commercial of Sharon Cuneta? Is the noodle a new symbol of education?
Schools should be commercial-free zones. Our children are already seeing many messages of these commercial advertisements on televisions. Seeing these billboards everyday in going to and from these schools does not make nor improve the grades of the pupils. These billboards only remind them that the husband of Sharon Cuneta Senator Francis Pangilinan is running for the vice presidency in 2010 elections.
In fairness to all concerned, I suggest that commercial billboards should be removed from the schools. Let us spare the schools from being used as places for commercial advertisements. More importantly, let us not use the schools for political gimmicks.
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