Femme.News.Views

Inaugural Speech of President Benigno S. Aquino III

2010-06-30T20:13:00.000-07:00

(If you weren't able to listen to President Noynoy Aquino's inaugural speech yesterday at the Quirino Grandstand, below is the full copy of which.)

June 30, 2010
Quirino Grandstand

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

Ang pagtayo ko dito ngayon ay patunay na kayo ang aking tunay na lakas. Hindi ko inakala na darating tayo sa puntong ito, na ako’y manunumpa sa harap ninyo bilang inyong Pangulo. Hindi ko pinangarap maging tagapagtaguyod ng pag-asa at tagapagmana ng mga suliranin ng ating bayan.

Ang layunin ko sa buhay ay simple lang: maging tapat sa aking mga magulang at sa bayan bilang isang marangal na anak, mabait na kuya, at mabuting mamamayan.

Nilabanan ng aking ama ang diktaturya at ibinuwis niya ang kanyang buhay para tubusin ang ating demokrasya. Inalay ng aking ina ang kanyang buhay upang pangalagaan ang demokrasyang ito. Ilalaan ko ang aking buhay para siguraduhin na ang ating demokrasya ay kapaki-pakinabang sa bawat isa. Namuhunan na kami ng dugo at handang gawin itong muli kung kinakailangan.

Tanyag man ang aking mga magulang at ang kanilang mga nagawa, alam ko rin ang problema ng ordinaryong mamamayan. Alam nating lahat ang pakiramdam na magkaroon ng pamahalaang bulag at bingi. Alam natin ang pakiramdam na mapagkaitan ng hustisya, na mabalewala ng mga taong pinagkatiwalaan at inatasan nating maging ating tagapagtanggol.

Kayo ba ay minsan ring nalimutan ng pamahalaang inyong iniluklok sa puwesto? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay nagtiis na sa trapiko para lamang masingitan ng isang naghahari-hariang de-wangwang sa kalsada? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay sawang-sawa na sa pamahalaang sa halip na magsilbi sa taumbayan ay kailangan pa nila itong pagpasensiyahan at tiisin? Ako rin.

Katulad ninyo ako. Marami na sa atin ang bumoto gamit ang kanilang paa – nilisan na nila ang ating bansa sa kanilang paghahanap ng pagbabago at katahimikan. Tiniis nila ang hirap, sinugod ang panganib sa ibang bansa dahil doon may pag-asa kahit kaunti na dito sa atin ay hindi nila nakikita. Sa iilang sandali na sarili ko lang ang aking inaalala, pati ako ay napag-isip din – talaga bang hindi na mababago ang pamamahala natin dito? Hindi kaya nasa ibang bansa ang katahimikang hinahanap ko? Saan ba nakasulat na kailangang puro pagtitiis ang tadhana ng Pilipino?

Ngayon, sa araw na ito - dito magwawakas ang pamumunong manhid sa mga daing ng taumbayan. Hindi si Noynoy ang gumawa ng paraan, kayo ang dahilan kung bakit ngayon, magtatapos na ang pagtitiis ng sambayanan. Ito naman ang umpisa ng kalbaryo ko, ngunit kung marami tayong magpapasan ng krus ay kakayanin natin ito, gaano man kabigat.

Sa tulong ng wastong pamamahala sa mga darating na taon, maiibsan din ang marami nating problema. Ang tadhana ng Pilipino ay babalik sa tamang kalagayan, na sa bawat taon pabawas ng pabawas ang problema ng Pinoy na nagsusumikap at may kasiguruhan sila na magiging tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbuti ng kanilang sitwasyon.

Kami ay narito para magsilbi at hindi para maghari. Ang mandato ninyo sa amin ay pagbabago – isang malinaw na utos para ayusin ang gobyerno at lipunan mula sa pamahalaang iilan lamang ang nakikinabang tungo sa isang pamahalaang kabutihan ng mamamayan ang pinangangalagaan.

Ang mandatong ito ay isa kung saan kayo at ang inyong pangulo ay nagkasundo para sa pagbabago – isang paninindigan na ipinangako ko noong kampanya at tinanggap ninyo noong araw ng halalan.
Sigaw natin noong kampanya: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Hindi lamang ito pang slogan o pang poster – ito ang mga prinsipyong tinatayuan at nagsisilbing batayan ng ating administrasyon.

Ang ating pangunahing tungkulin ay ang magsikap na maiangat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan.

Ang unang hakbang ay ang pagkakaroon ng tuwid at tapat na hanay ng mga pinuno. Magsisimula ito sa akin. Sisikapin kong maging isang mabuting ehemplo. Hinding hindi ko sasayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sisiguraduhin ko na ganito rin ang adhikain ng aking Gabinete at ng mga magiging kasama sa ating pamahalaan.

Naniniwala akong hindi lahat ng nagsisilbi sa gobyerno ay corrupt. Sa katunayan, mas marami sa kanila ay tapat. Pinili nilang maglingkod sa gobyerno upang gumawa ng kabutihan. Ngayon, magkakaroon na sila ng pagkakataong magpakitang-gilas. Inaasahan natin sila sa pagsupil ng korapsyon sa loob mismo ng burukrasya.

Sa mga itinalaga sa paraang labag sa batas, ito ang aking babala: sisimulan natin ang pagbabalik ng tiwala sa pamamagitan ng pag-usisa sa mga “midnight appointments.” Sana ay magsilbi itong babala sa mga nag-iisip na ipagpatuloy ang baluktot na kalakarang nakasanayan na ng marami.

Sa mga kapuspalad nating mga kababayan, ngayon, ang pamahalaan ang inyong kampeon.

Hindi natin ipagpapaliban ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga estudyante, kaya’t sisikapin nating punan ang kakulangan sa ating mga silid-aralan.

Unti-unti din nating babawasan ang mga kakulangan sa imprastraktura para sa transportasyon, turismo at pangangalakal. Mula ngayon, hindi na puwede ang “puwede na” pagdating sa mga kalye, tulay at gusali dahil magiging responsibilidad ng mga kontratista ang panatilihing nasa mabuting kalagayan ang mga proyekto nila.

Bubuhayin natin ang programang “emergency employment” ng dating pangulong Corazon Aquino sa pagtatayo ng mga bagong imprastraktura na ito. Ito ay magbibigay ng trabaho sa mga local na komunidad at makakatulong sa pagpapalago ng kanila at ng ating ekonomiya.

Hindi kami magiging sanhi ng inyong pasakit at perwisyo. Palalakasin natin ang koleksyon at pupuksain natin ang korapsyon sa Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas at Bureau of Customs para mapondohan natin ang ating mga hinahangad para sa lahat, tulad ng:

· dekalidad na edukasyon, kabilang ang edukasyong bokasyonal para makapaghanap ng marangal na trabaho ang hindi makapag-kolehiyo;

· serbisyong pangkalusugan, tulad ng Philhealth para sa lahat sa loob ng tatlong taon;

· tirahan sa loob ng mga ligtas na komunidad.

Palalakasin at palalaguin natin ang bilang ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan, hindi para tugunan ang interes ng mga naghahari-harian, ngunit para proteksyunan ang mamamayan. Itinataya nila ang kanilang buhay para mayroong pagkakataon sa katahimikan at kapayapaan sa sambayanan. Dumoble na ang populasyong kanilang binabantayan, nanatili naman sila sa bilang. Hindi tama na ang nagmamalasakit ay kinakawawa.

Kung dati ay may fertilizer scam, ngayon ay may kalinga na tunay para sa mga magsasaka. Tutulungan natin sila sa irigasyon, extension services, at sa pagbenta ng kanilang produkto sa pinakamataas na presyong maaari.

Inaatasan natin si papasok na Kalihim Alcala na magtayo ng mga trading centers kung saan diretso na ang magsasaka sa mamimili - lalaktawan natin ang gitna, kasama na ang kotong cop. Sa ganitong paraan, ang dating napupunta sa gitna ay maari nang paghatian ng magsasaka at mamimili.

Gagawin nating kaaya-aya sa negosyante ang ating bansa. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance, to business. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin mapupunan ang kakulangan ng trabaho para sa ating mga mamamayan.

Layunin nating paramihin ang trabaho dito sa ating bansa upang hindi na kailanganin ang mangibang-bansa para makahanap ng trabaho. Ngunit habang ito ay hindi pa natin naaabot, inaatasan ko ang mga kawani ng DFA, POEA, OWWA at iba pang mga kinauukulang ahensiya na mas lalo pang paigtingin ang pagtugon sa mga hinaing at pangangailangan ng ating mga overseas Filipino workers.

Papaigtingin namin ang proseso ng konsultasyon at pag-uulat sa taumbayan. Sisikapin naming isakatuparan ang nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mamamayan na magkaroon ng kaalaman ukol sa mga pampublikong alintana.

Binuhay natin ang diwa ng people power noong kampanya. Ipagpatuloy natin ito tungo sa tuwid at tapat na pamamahala. Ang naniniwala sa people power ay nakatuon sa kapwa at hindi sa sarili.

Sa mga nang-api sa akin, kaya ko kayong patawarin, at pinapatawad ko na kayo. Sa mga nang-api sa sambayanan, wala akong karapatan na limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan.

To those who are talking about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. Sa paglimot ng pagkakasala, sinisigurado mong mauulit muli ang mga pagkakasalang ito. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

Ikinagagalak din naming ibahagi sa inyo ang pagtanggap ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide sa hamon ng pagtatatag at pamumuno sa isang Truth Commission na magbibigay linaw sa maraming kahinahinalang isyu na hanggang ngayon ay walang kasagutan at resolusyon.

Ang sinumang nagkamali ay kailangang humarap sa hustisya. Hindi maaaring patuloy ang kalakaran ng walang pananagutan at tuloy na pang-aapi.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflicts, inclusive of the interests of all – may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. Sa tamang pamamahala gaganda ang buhay ng lahat, at sa buhay na maganda, sino pa ang gugustuhing bumalik sa panahon ng pang-aapi?

Kung kasama ko kayo, maitataguyod natin ang isang bayan kung saan pantay-pantay ang pagkakataon, dahil pantay-pantay nating ginagampanan ang ating mga pananagutan.

Kamakailan lamang, ang bawat isa sa atin ay nanindigan sa presinto. Bumoto tayo ayon sa ating karapatan at konsensiya. Hindi tayo umatras sa tungkulin nating ipaglaban ang karapatang ito.

Pagkatapos ng bilangan, pinatunayan ninyo na ang tao ang tunay na lakas ng bayan.

Ito ang kahalagahan ng ating demokrasya. Ito ang pundasyon ng ating pagkakaisa. Nangampanya tayo para sa pagbabago. Dahil dito taas-noo muli ang Pilipino. Tayong lahat ay kabilang sa isang bansa kung saan maaari nang mangarap muli.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Inaanyayahan ko kayo ngayon na manumpa sa ating mga sarili, sa sambayanan, WALANG MAIIWAN.

Walang pangingibang-bayan at gastusan na walang wastong dahilan. Walang pagtatalikod sa mga salitang binitawan noong kampanya, ngayon at hanggang sa mga susunod pang pagsubok na pagdadaanan sa loob ng anim na taon.

Walang lamangan, walang padrino at walang pagnanakaw. Walang wang-wang, walang counterflow, walang tong. Panahon na upang tayo ay muling magkawang-gawa.

Nandito tayo ngayon dahil sama-sama tayong nanindigan at nagtiwala na may pag-asa.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. Sa inyong mga nag-iisip pa kung tutulong kayo sa pagpasan ng ating krus, isa lang ang aking tanong – kung kailan tayo nanalo, saka pa ba kayo susuko?

Kayo ang boss ko, kaya’t hindi maaaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos ninyo. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to the people’s needs and aspirations.

Kayo ang nagdala sa akin sa puntong ito – ang ating mga volunteers – matanda, bata, celebrity, ordinaryong tao, na umikot sa Pilipinas para ikampanya ang pagbabago; ang aking mga kasambahay, na nag-asikaso ng lahat ng aking mga personal na pangangailangan; ang aking pamilya, kaibigan at katrabaho, na dumamay, nag-alaga at nagbigay ng suporta sa akin; ang ating mga abogado, na nagpuyat para bantayan ang ating mga boto at siguraduhing mabibilang ang bawat isa; ang aking mga kapartido at kaalyado na kasama kong nangahas mangarap; at ang milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagkaisa, nagtiwala at hindi nawalan ng pag-asa – nasa inyo ang aking taus-pusong pasasalamat.

Hindi ko makakayang harapin ang aking mga magulang, at kayong mga nagdala sa akin sa yugto ng buhay kong ito, kung hindi ko maisasakatuparan ang aking mga binitawang salita sa araw na ito.

My parents sought nothing less and died for nothing less than democracy, peace and prosperity. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

Layunin ko na sa pagbaba ko sa katungkulan, masasabi ng lahat na malayo na ang narating natin sa pagtahak ng tuwid na landas at mas maganda na ang kinabukasang ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Samahan ninyo ako sa pagtatapos ng laban na ito. Tayo na sa tuwid na landas.

Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!

Official English translation of
The Inaugural Address of Benigno S. Aquino III

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

My presence here today is proof that you are my true strength. I never expected that I will be here taking my oath of office before you, as your president. I never imagined that I would be tasked with continuing the mission of my parents. I never entertained the ambition to be the symbol of hope, and to inherit the problems of our nation.

I had a simple goal in life: to be true to my parents and our country as an honorable son, a caring brother, and a good citizen.

My father offered his life so our democracy could live. My mother devoted her life to nurturing that democracy. I will dedicate my life to making our democracy reach its fullest potential: that of ensuring equality for all. My family has sacrificed much and I am willing to do this again if necessary.

Although I was born to famous parents, I know and feel the problems of ordinary citizens. We all know what it is like to have a government that plays deaf and dumb. We know what it is like to be denied justice, to be ignored by those in whom we placed our trust and tasked to become our advocates.

Have you ever been ignored by the very government you helped put in power? I have. Have you had to endure being rudely shoved aside by the siren-blaring escorts of those who love to display their position and power over you? I have, too. Have you experienced exasperation and anger at a government that instead of serving you, needs to be endured by you? So have I.

I am like you. Many of our countrymen have already voted with their feet - migrating to other countries in search of change or tranquility. They have endured hardship, risked their lives because they believe that compared to their current state here, there is more hope for them in another country, no matter how bleak it may be. In moments when I thought of only my own welfare, I also wondered - is it possible that I can find the peace and quiet that I crave in another country? Is our government beyond redemption? Has it been written that the Filipino’s lot is merely to suffer?

Today marks the end of a regime indifferent to the appeals of the people. It is not Noynoy who found a way. You are the reason why the silent suffering of the nation is about to end. This is the beginning of my burden, but if many of us will bear the cross we will lift it, no matter how heavy it is.

Through good governance in the coming years, we will lessen our problems. The destiny of the Filipino will return to its rightful place, and as each year passes, the Filipino’s problems will continue to lessen with the assurance of progress in their lives.

We are here to serve and not to lord over you. The mandate given to me was one of change. I accept your marching orders to transform our government from one that is self-serving to one that works for the welfare of the nation.

This mandate is the social contract that we agreed upon. It is the promise I made during the campaign, which you accepted on election day.

During the campaign we said, “If no one is corrupt, no one will be poor.” That is no mere slogan for posters -- it is the defining principle that will serve as the foundation of our administration.

Our foremost duty is to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance.

The first step is to have leaders who are ethical, honest, and true public servants. I will set the example. I will strive to be a good model. I will not break the trust you have placed in me. I will ensure that this, too, will be the advocacy of my Cabinet and those who will join our government.

I do not believe that all of those who serve in our government are corrupt. In truth, the majority of them are honest. They joined government to serve and do good. Starting today, they will have the opportunity to show that they have what it takes. I am counting on them to help fight corruption within the bureaucracy.

To those who have been put in positions by unlawful means, this is my warning: we will begin earning back the trust of our people by reviewing midnight appointments. Let this serve as a warning to those who intend to continue the crooked ways that have become the norm for too long.

To our impoverished countrymen, starting today, your government will be your champion.

We will not disregard the needs of our students. We will begin by addressing the glaring shortage in classrooms and educational facilities.

Gradually, we will lessen the lack of infrastructures for transportation, tourism and trade. From now on, mediocre work will not be good enough when it comes to roads, bridges, and buildings because we will hold contractors responsible for maintaining their projects in good condition.

We will revive the emergency employment program established by former President Corazon Aquino. This will provide jobs for local communities and will help in the development of their and our economy.

We will not be the cause of your suffering or hardship. We will strengthen collections by the Bureau of Internal Revenue and we will fight corruption in the Bureau of Customs in order to fund our objectives for the public welfare, such as:

· Quality education, including vocational education, so that those who choose not to attend college or those who cannot afford it can find dignified livelihood;

· Improved public health services such as PhilHealth for all within three years;

· A home for every family, within safe communities.

We will strengthen the armed forces and the police, not to serve the interests of those who want to wield power with impunity, but to give added protection for ordinary folk. The armed forces and the police risk their lives daily so that the nation can live in peace and security. The population has doubled and yet their numbers remain unchanged. It is not right that those who make sacrifices are treated pitifully.

If there was a fertilizer scam in the past, today there will be security for farmers. We will help them with irrigation, extension services, and marketing their products at the best possible prices.

We are directing Secretary Alcala to set up trading centers that will directly link farmers and consumers thereby eliminating middlemen and opportunities for corruption. In this way, funds can be shared by farmers and consumers. We will make our country attractive to investors. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance to business. This is the only means by which we can provide jobs for our people.

Our goal is to create jobs at home so that there will be no need to look for employment abroad. However, as we work towards that end, I am ordering the DFA, POEA, OWWA, and other relevant agencies to be even more responsive to the needs and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers.

We will strengthen the process of consultation and feedback. We will strive to uphold the constitutional right of citizens to information on matters of public concern.

We relived the spirit of people power during the campaign. Let it take us to good and effective governance. Those who believe in people power put the welfare of others before their own.

I can forgive those who did me wrong but I have no right to forgive those who abused our people.

To those who talk about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. When we allow crimes to go unpunished, we give consent to their occurring over and over again. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

We are also happy to inform you the acceptance of Chief Justice Hilario Davide of the challenge of strengthening and heading a Truth Commission that will shed light on many unanswered issues that continue to haunt our country.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflict, inclusive of the interests of all -- may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. With proper governance life will improve for all. When we are all living well, who will want to go back to living under oppression?

If I have all of you by my side, we will be able to build a nation in which there will be equality of opportunity, because each of us fulfilled our duties and responsibilities equally.

After the elections, you proved that it is the people who wield power in this country.

This is what democracy means. It is the foundation of our unity. We campaigned for change. Because of this, the Filipino stands tall once more. We are all part of a nation that can begin to dream again.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Today, I am inviting you to pledge to yourselves and to our people. No one shall be left behind.

No more junkets, no more senseless spending. No more turning back on pledges made during the campaign, whether today or in the coming challenges that will confront us over the next six years. No more influence-peddling, no more patronage politics, no more stealing. No more sirens, no more short cuts, no more bribes. It is time for us to work together once more.

We are here today because we stood together and believed in hope. We had no resources to campaign other than our common faith in the inherent goodness of the Filipino.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. To those among you who are still undecided about sharing the common burden I have only one question: Are you going to quit now that we have won?

You are the boss so I cannot ignore your orders. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to your needs and aspirations.

You are the ones who brought me here - our volunteers - old, young, celebrity, ordinary folks who went around the country to campaign for change; my household help who provided for all my personal needs; my family, friends, colleagues at work, who shared, cared, and gave their support; my lawyers who stayed all hours to guard my votes and make sure they were counted; and the millions of Filipinos who prevailed, kept faith, and never lost hope - I offer my heartfelt gratitude.

I will not be able to face my parents and you who have brought me here if do not fulfill the promises I made.

My parents sought nothing less, died for nothing less, than democracy and peace. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

My hope is that when I leave office, everyone can say that we have traveled far on the right path, and that we are able to bequeath a better future to the next generation. Join me in continuing this fight for change.

Thank you and long live the Filipino people!

Filipinos troop to polls for 1st automated nat'l elections today

2010-05-09T20:28:00.000-07:00

Note: This is a repost from my femmepower blog.

Today is a historical day for us, Filipinos. Today, we cast our votes on the first-ever national and local automated elections. Gone are the days when we had to manually write down our candidates, and wait for several weeks for all the votes to be counted and tallied manually by our modern-day heroes we call teachers.
I don’t wanna delve on the countless lives sacrificed in the name of protecting the sanctity of ballots or those lives wasted to crooks wanting to cling to power during the past elections nor do I wanna delve on the possibility of the automated elections to be rigged (or being rigged) by the powers that be. I would like to give it the benefit of the doubt.

Just last week, a few days before the elections, Smartmatic and the Comelec recalled thousands of defective compact flash cards after a series of tests in various precincts showed blatant glitches. The total number of votes counted by the pcos machines did not tally with those of the manual count results. Candidates with no votes during the test appeared to have votes in the pcos machine, and vise versa. It was a glaring proof that the compact flash cards, which were blamed by Smartmatic for the glitch, could indeed be programmed and could make a non-winning candidate win and make winning candidates lose. Though the said compact flash cards have been recalled and reprogrammed, there is already a cloud of doubt hovering the veracity or reliability of the automated elections.

I’ve voted for the candidates that I believe could and would bring positive changes to this country. Those who have the track records of working for the benefit of many Filipinos sans the press releases. Those who have the credibility, political will, and morality in governance. I just pray that my votes and those of my fellow Filipinos will be counted appropriately and don’t go to the wrong names, as what happened during the tests last week. God save the Philippines.

7 Days to May 10 Elections: Are you ready to vote?

2010-05-02T13:29:00.000-07:00

One week to go before we finally cast our votes - either for or against our own country's good fate. The kind of leaders we choose for our country could either sink us or empower us to be a better and stronger nation. Have you decided who to vote for?

Even before the campaign period started, national and local candidates alike have resorted to mud slinging, hence dimming our opportunity as voters to listen to objective, factual reports. Instead of attacking and addressing issues, some candidates are resorting to personal attacks and are banking on multi-media commercials to gain popularity and transform it into votes. But what's new? It's always been like that during elections period since time immemorial here in The Philippines.

But what do these candidates, especially the presidentiables, really have on the table? Who do you think can best deliver what this country needs? And do they have the political will and credibility to deliver their own promises?

Focusing on graft and corruption, I got the following excerpt from politicalarena.com showing the presidential cadidates' answers on how to combat graft and corruption which seems to have become part of our culture when it comes to public service. Now, since Noynoy and Villar are the ones consistently topping the surveys, I intended to quote just the two of them. But then since I also believe in Richard Gordon, I quoted him as well. Here's what I found:

1. Noynoy Aquino - "From a President who tolerates corruption to a President who is the nation’s first and most determined fighter of corruption."

2. Richard Gordon - tagged as a "transformer" or transformational leader based on his achievements, especially in the economic development of Subic, among many others; Gordon's response on the issue was quite clearer and more elaborate:

"1. We believe that the Ombudsman should not be an appointed position, but it should be an elective position.
2. We want to focus on declogging the courts, particularly the Sandigan Bayan. We may pilot a jury program that would ensure the faster handling of court cases.
3. We will not pardon a single government official convicted of corruption.
4. We will re-invent the bureaucracy by providing clear guidelines and levels of accountability for each government official.
5. We will streamline and automate key functions to limit official discretion and potential avenues of corruption.
6. We will make tax payments simpler and re-establish the BIR as the National Revenue Authority, with a high payscale to attract young, idealistic individuals into a career for helping national development through the collection of government revenue.
7. We will ensure strict law enforcement, by improving on the urban landscape – street lighting, uniformed bus drivers and vendors – to make crime-fighting easier, set up People’s Law Enforcement Boards and creating a national 161 hotline, similar to 911 in the US, for citizen’s to call for emergencies."

3. Manny Villar - no answer found.

I am still torn between Noynoy and Gordon mainly because what I'm looking for is not a businessman who claims he can run this country but a public servant with no shady reputation and who can free this country from the shackles of graft and corruption, poor justice system, and poverty. While I believe that no Super-President can single-handedly do all these nationwide cleansing and that every citizen should do his part in making a positive change, I do believe too that having a President with political will, credibility, and a good intention to run this country with morality in governance is a great way to start.

We've had enough of disappointments during the Arroyo administration - the NBE-ZTE deal, hello Garci scandal, private armies including those of the Ampatuans, GMA's whopping 114% wealth increase from 2000-2008, extra-judicial killings, luxurious dinners and overseas trips, graft & corruption witnesses haplessly executed, child rapist granted presidential pardon, and what-have-yous. Now, much of the Arroyo camp has left their own Lakas party, deserted their standard-bearer Gibo Teodoro and now backing Villar who's doing better than Gibo at the surveys. Talking about a test of character.

It's obvious than I'm not voting for Villar, not only because of his association with the Arroyos but because of the many allegations clouding him - the C5 road controversy, the way he amassed his wealth (accusations of land-grabbing, etc), his P1.4 billion ad expenditures in television, radio, and print ads from January to December 2009 alone (excluding expenses during the campaign period). How can he earn it all back with the President's salary of only P60,000 a month (around $1,333.33/month at P45 to $1)...unless he steals? And wait, how can he spend billions when according to this report, he only had P29,212,803 "cash in bank" based on his Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) in 2008. Sudden surge or wealth in only two years, like GMA? Or funded by would-be cronies?

Seven days to go...the clock is ticking by. On May 10, 2010, let our voices be heard. Let's go out and vote. And may we vote wisely.

Relics of Noah's Ark found?

2010-04-29T17:48:00.000-07:00

Explorers have reportedly found what are believed to be Noah's Ark relics in Mt. Ararat. Carbon dating tests revealed that the wood and stone relics are 4,800 years old and were positively identified as parts of a ship. See the entire video report here:

American comedian attacks Pacquiao, Filipinos

2010-04-03T23:17:00.000-07:00

Now this is not funny.

American comedian and television host Adam Carolla recently attacked Manny Pacquiao and the entire Filipino nation with invectives that are totally uncalled for. “Here’s how you know when your country doesn’t have a lot going for it: When everything is about Manny Pacquiao. Get a fu**ing life as a country," Carolla said.

As if that's not enough, the comedian went on to say "All they have over there (in the Philippines) is Manny Pacquiao and sex stores...Get your sh*t together, Philippines!"

Here's the gist of the story according to Examiner.com:

Adam Carolla starts off his vulgar tirade by bashing Manny for not giving blood before a fight. He then proceeds to say that Manny is off “praying to chicken bones” and that you don’t have to respect him because he’s a “fu**ing idiot”. “Someone has to tell him that it doesn’t make a difference.”[/i]“Here’s how you know when your country doesn’t have a lot going for it: When everything is about Manny Pacquiao.”

“Get a fu**in life as a country”

“All you fu**in got is just an illiterate guy who happens to smash other guys in the head better than other people”

“Really, you want some guy with brain damage running your country? Why don’t you get your sh*t together?”

“All they have over there is Manny Pacquiao and sex stores.”

“What happens when Floyd Mayweather beats him? Does your country go into depression?”

However I try to dissect Carolla's words, I can never find the slightest humor in them. How can a comedian of his stature have a brain so minuscule and empty that he doesn't even use it before he opens his foul mouth? To blatantly say that the Philippines has nothing going but Manny and sex stores is in itself plain ignorance. To imply that Filipinos are whores and dumb and don't have a life is a serious attack on our country, our culture, on each and every Filipino, whether or not we're boxing fanatics.

These racial comments by a supposedly comedian is not funny at all. And how sad that he has an influential platform to abuse with his irresponsible tirades. Something has to be done to modern-day racists like Carolla. Here's the video if you want to piss yourself off:

Michael Jackson's choreographer with the Cebu Dancing Inmates

2010-01-26T15:45:00.000-08:00

The Cebu Dancing Inmates did it again, grabbing global prominence over the Web and other broadcast media via YouTube. They initially made huge waves around the world when they performed Michael Jackson's Thriller, which spread like a viral video on the Internet.. This time, they cooked up something bigger with the help of Michael Jackson's choreographer, Travis Payne, and MJ's dancers themselves! Payne taught the dancing inmates the steps to "The Drill," the last choreography he and MJ did for the concert This Is It before the King of Pop died.

I couldn't help but share it with you, guys. Enjoy the video!

Let's all unite for Haiti

2010-01-23T17:25:00.000-08:00

The whole world was shocked by the massive devastation caused by the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti, which killed thousands of people, crumbled houses and buildings, destroyed vehicles, and swallowed countless other people who are, until now, declared as missing.

Horrible images and heart-breaking reports about the rescue operations continue to spread through the media - people, injured or not, are seen crying in the street with nowhere to go, nothing to eat, no family to be with. What could be more devastating than that? Coming from a family who had experienced the wrath of nature last September through Typhoon Ondoy, I know how horrible it is to be left with almost nothing. But Ondoy left our family and house intact. Haiti's earthquake had no mercy.

"Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere and has suffered a number of recent disasters, including four hurricanes and storms in 2008 that killed hundreds," according to a BBC report.

I salute all the men and women who devoted and continue to devote their time, efforts, and prayers to Haiti's relief operations. One of them is the dedicated medical team called Doctors Without Borders. They're currently extending medical operations in Haiti and other humanitarian crises all over the world, particularly neglected crises that remain outside the media spotlight. For more information and for your donations, here's the link to Doctors Without Borders. God Bless us all!

Press Secretary Remonde dies

2010-01-19T14:17:00.000-08:00

Press Secretary Cerge Remonde passed away at 11:51 am yesterday, according to a doctor from Makati Medical Center where he was rushed and tried to revive.   Remonde was reportedly found unconscious inside his home earlier and wasn't breathing when he was brought to the hospital. All efforts to revive him failed. He suffered cardiac arrest at about 9:30 am and was brought to the hospital at 11:20 am.

Remonde was among the first batch of apointees under the mandate of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

During his stint as press secretary, we saw him tackle, belie, or defend (and get grilled gazillion times over) issues surrounding the present administration, even PGMA's alleged breast implant. Remonde was also heckled by members of the media when he tried to join an indignation rally of journalists last December, demanding justice for the victims of the Ampatuan Massacre. He was called names like "tuta" (puppy) and puppet.

Despite the challenges of his job being the press secretary of a controversy-riddled administration and President, Remonde seemed to be in top shape. But according to his personal physician, Dr. Anthony Leachon, the press secretary's “risk factors” were a bit high. He was hypertensive, and had coronary heart disease and diabetes.

Death comes like a thief in the night. You'll never know when you're gonna breathe your last.   Did the pressures of the ever demanding job add up to his health risks?   Makes me wonder.

Jessica Cox: a Fil-Am pilot without arms

2010-01-09T22:03:00.000-08:00

She flies an aircraft using only her feet and toes. Her absence of arms nor her fear of flight did not stop her from getting a license to fly an aircraft and be the first and only pilot without arms in the US, and perhaps in the whole world.

Jessica Cox, a Filipino-American, was born without arms. But she can do almost anything without help including putting on her contact lenses. She even plays the piano and is a black-belter in Taekwondo! In a TV interview during their visit here, her Filipina mom said Jessica does things all by herself. When faced with a new task that Jessica has failed to do yet, Jessica looks at it as a challenge and is something that she has yet to figure out, instead of branding it impossible to do. My, she can do a lot of things at ease using only her legs when a lot of people can't even do with arms. I can't even drive a car, nor play the piano, nor do I have any belt in Taekwondo or anything.

Jessica is one perfect example of a positive and winning attitude. She shows the whole world that anything is possible as long as you don't put a barrier on yourself.

Happy Christmas (War Is Over)

2009-12-24T05:04:00.000-08:00

As the Christian world celebrates the birthday of the lord Jesus Christ, let me share with you one of my favorite Christmas songs by John Lennon. Happy Christmas everyone! And may peace be with us all.

Fearless forecast: 10 May 2010 News headline

2009-12-23T05:29:00.000-08:00

Fearless forecast: International
news headline on May 10, 2010

MANILA – In their first ever automated elections on Monday, voters in the Philippines have chosen as President the son of a widowed former president whose martyred senator-husband was assassinated during the remaining years of an ousted dictator in the 1980s.

Ironically, on the same day that the son and namesake of the late former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Sr. got elected for a fixed six-year term as the new President, the son and namesake of the late dictator Pres. Ferdinand Marcos was also elected to the Philippine Senate.

More than 40 percent of Filipino voters elected neophyte Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino Jr., son of the late former Pres. Corazon “Cory” Aquino, to succeed the country’s second female president, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, who herself has made an unprecedented run for a congressional seat in the 250-member House of Representatives in the hope of becoming the nation’s first female Speaker in the Lower House of Congress.

Almost the same percentage of Filipinos also elected last-term Rep. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. as one of the 12 newly elected or reelected senators to fill up the vacant half of the 24-member Senate and serve the next six years until their term in the Upper House expires in 2016.

As early as the time he filed his candidacy in November 2009, Marcos Jr. already announced his intention to tread in his father’s footsteps in the 2016 presidential elections, possibly pitting him against the grandsons and namesakes of deceased former presidents Sergio Osmeña and Manuel Roxas.

Manuel “Mar” Roxas III, outgoing senator and Aquino Jr.’s running mate, was also elected Monday to a full six-year term as Vice President.

Outgoing Pres. Macapagal-Arroyo, newly elected to her first three-year term as congressional representative of her home district, is the daughter of Marcos Sr.’s predecessor, the late former Pres. Diosdado Macapagal.

Can't everyday be a ceasefire day?

2009-12-22T19:47:00.000-08:00

News headline: No war this Christmas

Why not everyday?

Ampatuan Massacres: From backhoe to chainsaw and now, using child assassins?

2009-12-16T22:24:00.000-08:00

Seems like a lot of skeletons are coming out of somebody's closet since the Ampatuan Massacre horrified the whole world three weeks ago and it all stinks horribly bad. First, the Commission on Human Rights received reports about chainsaw massacres allegedly perpetrated by the same suspects in Maguindanao way before the November 23 massacre happened where 57 people including women and journalists were butchered and peppered with bullets then buried by a backhoe.

New witnesses have apparently surfaced to give hints on another "mass grave" where the hapless victims were either chainsawed to death or buried alive. "These “hints" and “whispers" alleged that 200 more were murdered, some of whom were reportedly even chainsawed to death," the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said on this report.

As if that's not enough, here's another skeleton fresh from the closet screaming in headlines that read

Ex-child assassin: 'I killed hundreds for the Ampatuans.'

I cringed when I read this over Yahoo News: "A man who admits to have worked as a child assassin for the powerful Ampatuan clan based in Maguindanao province came forward with "shocking" testimony of mass murders carried out by young boys in the service of the Ampatuan family."

You can read the entire story here.

The news report further said:
"Abdul (not his real name) said he and 30 other young boys had been brought to a training camp in the mountains of South Upi municipality in Maguindanao, around 32 miles southeast of Sultan Kudarat. He claimed they were trained by Palestinians and Indonesians in combat tactics.

"Para ring sundalo 'yong training kasi iba 'yong pagturo sa amin. Lahat nandoon na, parang paghawak ng baril, pagputok at pagtutok ng baril sa tao. (We were trained like soldiers. Everything was there, like how to hold a gun, how to aim a gun and how to shoot a person)," Abdul said.
From then on, Abdul said, murder became a normal routine. He alleged that he carried out kill orders without question and without knowing whether the victims had done anything wrong."

He further said that whoever questions the bosses will be killed in an instant. Reading the news, I almost forgot that I wasn't reading a storyline for an old Paquito Diaz movie or any story, be it in comics or film, that only a Carlo J. Caparas could concoct. What I thought could only happen in movies could actually be happening in real life. What kind of savages would teach innocent children to kill? What kind of monsters would claim the lives of many all in the name of power and money?

For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?

May all these cases get speedy resolutions and these "whispers" and "hints" hold water for a solid case. In the end, may all the hapless victims of these murders be given justice and the perpetrators be punished without any political protection and prejudice.

Who are you voting for?

2009-12-09T19:27:00.000-08:00

Five months to go before the May 2010 elections. Who are you voting for President? What qualifications are you looking for in a political candidate? Do you now have a lineup of candidates in mind? Common questions but quite tough to answer and defend if you don't know the political backgrounds of the candidates. Unless we search high and low to know about these candidates' achievements (or non-achievements), our basis for voting would merely be limited to personal assumption and judgment via popularity and the candidates' perceived reputation in the media. It's hard to judge and vote without concrete facts.

I spend time watching mostly political news on TV and reading political stories online and in broadsheets but I myself am not yet decided who to vote for. I don't feel like I know enough who among the candidates are deserving of the Filipinos' votes. How can I make a smart decision if I only know the candidates' faces and names but not their political achievements and moral background?

I wouldn't want to waste my right to suffrage with wrong choices of candidates. I don't want to send goons and crooks garbed in barongs to the House of Congress and the Senate. I don't want to be an accessory in sending leaders to Malacanang whose real intention is to abuse their power. I don't want to be used by trapos and contribute to the growing political dynasties in the country. I need to be informed so I could make the right choices (that's in the hope that there won't be any election rigging).

If you know of any website where we could see profiles of the May Elections' candidates or even write-ups (current or otherwise) by the media regarding them, kindly leave the links in your comment. I intend to display here links of informative and credible websites that could help the Filipino voters choose their candidates well. So far, I've found one - politicalarena.com which says they're in partnership with the Comelec. You can see there the list of candidates and their profile. You may also throw questions for them to answer. I noticed though that their candidacy status is not updated. Anyway, go over to the site and see what's brewing. You can post your personal views there about the candidates and the electoral process in general.

Check it out and be a well-informed voter.

Wanna win up to $100 worth of prizes? Join this blog contest!

2009-12-06T18:50:00.000-08:00

No, I ain't gonna talk about the bloody headlines today concerning the recent developments about the Ampatuan Massacre in Maguindanao. Today, I choose not to let my heart grieve again and again and trust the mighty rule of law to ferret out the truth and give justice to where it's due. So let me give you a topic to warm our hearts instead - Are you up to the challenge of winning up to $100 worth of prizes? Then join Liz' birthday contest at Bloguardian Hellsite: Overcashed. I just did! Who knows, I or YOU could be the lucky winner.

How to join? Piece of cake. Click on the banner to know more.

New Template at last

2009-12-03T22:40:00.000-08:00

I got a new template at last, after several failed attempts. Thanks a lot to those who left comments and links to sites with FREE blogger templates. I'm grateful for your attention and effort to help. You deserve a thank-you space on this humble PR2 blog of mine. May the tribes of helpful bloggers like you increase. Yay!

1. Melissa
2. Robert Miller
3. Kat
4. LeoMar
5. SixFeetUnder
6. Daisy
7. Rachele
8. Kanishk

Looking for a new blogger template

2009-11-09T18:55:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking of changing this blog's look for the longest time and it's not just once that I tried uploading new blogger templates that I stumbled upon in the Web. However, I keep on falling for incomplete HTML's that can't be uploaded. Some templates, on the other hand, were uploaded successfully but they completely deleted my ads.

In case you know of some free blogger templates that are ads-ready, I'll be very enthusiastic to hear from you. Thanks a lot in advance!

Faces of Destruction: The wrath of Typhoon Ondoy

2009-11-07T05:44:00.000-08:00

Ping Lacson VS Erap: mud slinging in Phil politics

2009-09-15T21:03:00.000-07:00

There's no such thing as permanent friends in politics, only permanent interests. This was again proven true with the latest political brawl between former President Joseph Estrada and Senator Panfilo Lacson. Lacson and Estrada used to be close political allies for several years. Last Monday, Sept. 14, Senator Lacson delivered a hard-hitting priviledge speech exposing Erap's alleged involvement in the illegal numbers game Jueteng, his (Erap's) alleged knowledge about Oplan Delta which is believed to be key to the Dacer-Corbito double murder case, smuggling, and Erap's manipulation of a particular huge business deal. That business deal they allegedly brokered earned Erap and his minions P3 Billion in commission.

While I personally think there's some tint of truth to Lacson's accusations (His statements are being supported by some people who were involved in the allegations mentioned in his speech), I also think that Lacson was as guilty for not standing up for the truth a long time ago. It took him almost nine years to speak up. WHY? Is it because he's now being pinned down for the a non-bailable offense relating to the Dacer-Corbito double murder case? This looks like his last card. While his allegations against Erap strengthens my belief that the Filipino people did well in ousting him from the Presidency through People Power II in 2001, it also strengthens my belief that Lacson likewise failed to serve the country for continuously working as Erap's loyal political ally. I believe his hands aren't clean as what he tries to imply, especially on the Dacer-Corbito case. This whole thing further strengthens my belief that corruption in the government goes as high up to the President (Oh, who doesn't know that anyway?).

I do hope this issue doesn't just end in the Senate floor but in court. Unless that happens, all of this hullabaloo is just as good as a freak show.

Ombudsman sets stricter guidelines on SALN release

2009-09-13T21:36:00.000-07:00

I never intended this blog to be geared towards political matters but lately, more and more political issues have been pissing me off that I can't help but write about them here. You may have watched over GMA 7 the grilling of Presidential son and Pampanga Rep. Mikey Arroyo by Mareng Winnie Monsod and Igan. It was, as what the media coined it, a media suicide. I recommend that you click on the video below if you happened to miss it on TV.

Mareng Winnine and Igan were asking Mikey to explain his wealth particularly a P63 Million house in California. Much of their discussion was based on Mikee's SALN or Statements of Assets, Liabilities, and Networth.

Under Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct for Public Officials and Employees, the public has the right to know the assets and liabilities of public officials and employees, including those of their spouses and of unmarried children under 18 years of age living in their households.

Barely a few days after Mikey's so-called media suicide, reports came out that Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez issued Memorandum Circular No. 1, which revised the guidelines for obtaining access to copies of SALNs. The memo was reportedly issued last June 16 when the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) was at the height of its research and examination of the SALN's of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo for a story about her wealth. Perfect timing that's blatantly intended to protect the interest of the president and her family while denying the Filipino people of the basic right to access information from a public document such as SALN

In a report at GMA News.TV, Bayan Muna Rep. Teodoro Casiño called the Ombudsman circular "ridiculous," saying SALNs are not confidential documents.

"How can the SALN be effective if the public cannot access it?" Casiño was quoted in the said GMA News report, adding that the Ombudsman--who has the duty to check on public officials--should be "the last person" to issue such an order.

Who wouldn't get pissed with the fact that the Ombudsman, who's a presidential appointee and is known to be a close friend of the first family, obviously works for the benefit of the Arroyos and not that of the country? I can't wait for the May elections to come. I can't wait for our chance to change this country. I can't wait for corruption in the government to lessen if not totally die down. I can't wait to see real leaders running the government with sincerity, honesty, credibility, and political will. I can't wait.

Noynoy Aquino declares candidacy

2009-09-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

I'm watching the live news feed over GMA 7 now as I write. Senator Noynoy Aquino has finally announced his decision to run for President in 2010. Responding to the calls from various sectors for him to run for presidency, the son of the country's Democracy Icons Benigno Ninoy Aquino and Cory Aquino finally announced that he's accepting the challenge and the responsibilities surrounding it.

"Tinatanggap ko ang hamong mamuno sa labang ito. Bayang Pilipinas, tatakbo po ako bilang pangulo sa darating na halalan," said Sen. Aquino. The announcement was made after Noynoy took a spiritual retreat in the Carmelites Convent in Zamboanga. Today also happens to be the 40th day of the late Pres. Cory Aquino's death, so the entire Aquino family was wearing black during the higly-anticipated announcement.

Senator Mar Roxas earlier gave up his bid for the presidency to make way for Noynoy. Pampanga Governor Ed Panlilio and Isabela Governor Grace Padaca also did the same. More and more politicians are crowding behind Noynoy in full support including Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, Sen. Rodolfo Biazon, and former Senate President Franklin Drilon, among others.

I used to dislike Sen. Mar Roxas because of his early papogi TV ads that don't say anything about what he's done for the country nor do these TV ads educate and inform. To me, they're utterly a waste of money. But after his "sacrifice" or what others say "graceful exit," I now have a reason to believe that he's not a sucker for power. Noynoy too, who initially had no plans to run for a higher office, is one good example of a modest political figure - One who doesn't think too highly of himself, one who thinks first of the duties and responsibilities ahead and if he's ready and capable to handle them before he makes a decision to run. Oh I've seen many politicians run for office despite the questionable capacity and morality to lead and serve. Sadly, that's common in this country. Money and popularity talk big in Philippine politics. Competence and moral ascendancy hardly ever stand a chance if you lack political machinery.

No further announcements yet as to Noynoy's running mate. Till then, let's keep watching. And let's keep our fingers crossed that majority of the Filipinos will go out and register, keep themselves informed, vote and vote wisely, stand up against vote buying and other forms of cheating. The government does not have the sole responsibility of stabilizing this country. All Filipinos should take that responsibility and only then can we achieve change for the better. Let's start with selecting the right leaders in a clean and honest election.

Super Ferry 9 sinks

2009-09-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

Another deadly maritime tragedy hit the Philippines as Super Ferry 9 sank off the coast of Zamboanga peninsula yesterday. Reports said the ferry issued a distress call around 3:30 am when it began tilting on one side for still undisclosed reasons. At least nine fatalities have been confirmed while dozens more remain missing. A total of 931 people are reported to have been rescued out of the total 964 passengers and crew in the ferry's manifest.

The tragedy happened in the midst of tropical storm Dujuan although according to Zamboanga coast guard chief Commodore Rudy Isorena, the weather in the area had not been too bad. According to reports, the ferry shifted suddenly which caused some passengers to panic and jump into the water. Other passengers managed to get into life boats.

Maritime disasters are common in the country at the height of typhoon season.

According to this report, "aside from bad weather, poor maintenance, overcrowding of vessels and lax enforcement of regulations have also contributed to disasters." Furthermore, it said, "the coastguard report said the Superferry 9, a steel-hulled vessel made in Japan in 1986, had a legal capacity of 1,120 passengers and crew."

The Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) has already issued a show cause order against the ship's captain, Capt. Joel Yap to explain the circumstances behind the sinking of the said ship.

Whatever the cause of the tragedy had been, I wish more of the missing people will be found and rescued the soonest time possible and that the death toll wouldn't rise some more. And if ever negligence on the part of the ferry's management is found to be the culprit, I hope justice will then be served.

Hubby and Donaire

2009-09-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

The Filipino Flash Nonito Donaire, who won last month's WBA interim junior bantamweight title fight against Panama’s El Torito Rafael Concepcion, is seen in this photo with my hubby. Hubby incidentally bumped into Donaire in one of the nice cafes in the Metro.

National Heroes Day today in the Philippines

2009-08-30T21:05:00.000-07:00

Today, we pay tribute to all our heroes - sung and unsung, fallen and still living, as we observe the National Heroes Day in the country.

May their noble deeds be forever etched in our memory and serve as good examples for all the Filipino people to emulate.

Miriam and the infomercials

2009-08-24T19:09:00.000-07:00

The feisty lady senator is at it again. Senate Committee on Economics Affairs Chair Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago lambasted the high-ranking government officials and cabinet members for spending millions of pesos for infomercials. The timing of these infomercials are questionable the fact that the 2010 National Elections are just a few months away.

Quoted from the Senator's blog, Miriam said “Unless a person is blind, deaf, or dumb, it is crystal clear that the alleged infomercials of cabinet members are intended to camouflage the violation of the campaign ban, for the simple reason that these cabinet members engage only in such infomercials in the year prior to election year and at no other time, and for no other reason than personal political publicity.”

I say she's darn right! Why would these infomercials sprout like mushrooms at this time of the year if not for early political publicity? Why would these officials put their names and faces in these infomercials if their sole purpose is to inform the public of their Department's respective campaigns? Are their faces really necessary? And the timing is blatantly a give away to their hidden agenda, don't you think? Miriam was right in calling these government officials "dimwitted rhinos" for being so thick.

In a report by GMA News, at least P298 million of public funds were spent for these so-called government infomercials. How many people can be fed with P298 million? How many jobs can be created with that? How many schools and homes can be constructed with that? How urgent and important are these infomercials that they had to come before REAL public service?

In the hot seat are the following officials who appeared in the much-circulated infomercials:

Vice-President Noli de Castro
Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III
Finance Secretary Margarito Teves
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro
Public Works and Highway Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane
Education Secretary Jesli Lapus
Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman
Philippine Amusements and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) Chair Ephraim Genuino
Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Chair (Tesda) Augusto Syjuco
Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chair Bayani Fernando
Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay

Let's wait for these rhinos' long-delayed official statements on Miriam's inquisitions but for now, I admire the lady senator for bringing it up and questioning the money involved, the legalities surrounding this issue, and what the COMELEC can do. If they could always get away with technicality, then it's time to change some rules that have always been made as scapegoats.

Ramadan has begun

2009-08-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

Greetings to our Muslim brothers and sisters around the world in the observance of this holy month of Ramadan. The Muslim community will fast from dawn till dusk for the entire Ramadan month. I've always been fascinated and curious about the purpose of fasting for such a long period of time. Then I found the answers in this article enumerating 12 Reasons To Fast! Very admirable indeed.

(Photo credit: AP)

The President who was not a politician

2009-08-04T16:56:00.000-07:00

You heard me right. She was our first woman President but she was never a politician. The late former President Corazon Aquino was the only Philippine President I know whose name wasn't tainted with playing politics. She was always known to play fair. Like a mother to the country, she was firm but loving.

People from all walks of life who knew her and/or worked with her - former political aides, household helpers, church goers, government workers, religious and business leaders, friends, family - all shared their memories of the late President in a very emotional necrological service yesterday at the Manila Cathedral.

I never thought that I could be moved into tears while listening to each eulogy. Her security aide/driver said Cory treated him like he's part of the family. She even cooked for him when the household helpers weren't home. Philippine Inquirer Columnist Conrado de Quiros, who was once a staunch critic of Cory, gave his testimony of Cory's kindness despite his past negative writeups about her. Mrs. Gina de Venecia said Cory was there when the de Venecias lost their youngest daughter to a fire that gutted down their house. Cory was also there when her husband, Joe de Venecia lost his bid to presidency. When all their friends abandoned them, there was Cory.

Dra. Sansan Hortaleza said Cory was there to pray with her when she was hospitalized for a heart ailment. Until now, she said, she prays the rosary everyday due to Cory's influence. Cory's physician said when he diagnosed the late President of colon cancer, he asked "Why Lord?" but Cory took it more peacefully and said she has lived a full life. She even managed to write a poem thanking God for being beside her when she was in pain. Congressman Teddy Locsin Jr., who was once Cory's scriptwriter, said he didn't notice that Cory has reformed him, erased his anger and extinguished his need to get even for the injustices given him in the past.

All those who gave their eulogy yesterday had one unspoken common message: that Cory was an angel sent to them. She was always there when the rest of their friends have turned their backs on them. She was their light during their darkest moments. Having known injustice and sorrow many times over, Cory perhaps didn't want her friends and family to experience the same as she did when Ninoy was taken from her and her family during Martial Law.

Kris, Cory's youngest daughter, earlier in an interview with Jessica Sojo talked about her final moments with her mom. She said even in her death bed, her mom was concerned about her household helpers and that she wanted her son Noynoy to absorb them when she dies. She also told Kris to give the car to the driver.

What gave me goosebumps was when Kris said she saw her highly spiritual mom so radiant in her hospital bed even if the room was dark, with only one reading lamp lit. Kris said it could have been what they call "embraced by the light." It got me thinking, would I be embraced by the light too when it's my time? Would I die a happy death too, just like Cory did? Would I be worthy for heaven?

Spirituality, faith in God, love for others and for country, purity of soul, morality in governance. These are just few of the moral examples imparted by the late Tita Cory to us Filipinos.

Not even the drastic weather changes and the long queue discouraged the ordinary people in the streets to pay last respects to the late President in the Manila Cathedral yesterday. Most of them hadn't eaten for hours but they patiently waited in line. Some of them even came from far provinces. And despite the huge traffic yesterday, commuters and drivers didn't complain. Random interviews showed that ordinary Filipinos were one in mourning Cory's passing. Political foes met with each other in the Manila Cathedral to pay their last respects. Even the Marcoses and the Estradas, whose families Cory ousted from power through People Power 1 and 2, went to pay their last respects for Cory.

It's true what they say: Pres. Cory has a way of uniting people for the good of the country...even in her death.

GMA meets Obama

2009-07-30T19:47:00.000-07:00

Finally, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo met with US Pres. Barack Obama today at the White House. GMA flew to the US earlier this week upon Obama's invitation. GMA news this morning reported that the meeting, which took some 30 minutes, covered issues on global warming, global economy, and security relations, among others. Pres. Arroyo is the first Southeast Asian leader to meet with Pres. Obama.

The US President reportedly praised GMA for her economic and peace efforts in the country. Looks like the meeting reaffirmed the two nations' long-standing friendship and cooperation. Good news then.

What's more to the story? The Philippines reportedly went with some 20 delegates but most of them didn't even have a role in the meeting, in fact they weren't allowed to be in the meeting room. Only seven of them were invited in. The rest were practically persona non grata. The reason why they spent thousands of dollars for the trip? Senator Lito Lapid said he wanted to get a photo opportunity with Obama. How preposterous is that! I can't imagine how calloused some of our lawmakers are to splurge money for a trip that they have no business with, and even brought along their wives. How can we be sure they're not spending people's money?

GMA's SONA: fact or fiction?

2009-07-28T06:08:00.000-07:00

I was one of the millions of Filipinos glued to their seats to watch President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo deliver her 9th and last SONA or State of the Nation Address over a local TV network. It was full of statistics to quantify the present administration's achievements under Pres. Arroyo's leadership. Figures that made me sigh in relief and silently applaud...for a while.

"The state of our nation is a good economy," the President said. "Good news for our people, bad news for our critics," she added. GMA took pride in enumerating her administration's economic reforms, infrastructures, public service law, and many others.

Here are few of the highlights mentioned by the President:

"Good economy"

$6B revenues and 600,000 jobs created by the BPO industry
Tourism almost doubled to a $5B industry
$165B-Micro Finance Loans helped 7M entrepreneurs
Banking system improved
Foreign reserves have grown by $3B.
GDP growth highest in 43 years
Poverty reduced by almost half
1M jobs generated every year
Economy posted uninterrupted growth for 33 quarters since 2001
Our average inflation is lowest since 1966.

Infrastructures

The government's housing programs benefited 1M families.
16 kms. of farm-to-market roads
Construction of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway
Built seaports and the RORO system
Constructed international airports and upgraded domestic airports
Automated elections (digital infrastructure)

Education and Health Care

Recommends radical reforms in the country's education system
Will allot P1.5B budget for teacher training
Built 95,000 rooms
Hired 60,000 teachers
Approval of the Cheaper Medicines Law
improving health care in the country that covers 86% of the population

She further stressed that foreign debts were tremendously slashed and debts of government corporations were reduced by almost half. She cited that the government will further improve collection on sin taxes. Also mentioned were the P1B budget for modern fish farming that benefits the indigenous people; the current ceasefire in war-torn areas in Mindanao, and Epira, the government's answer to lower power rates.

Apart from her administration's accomplishments, The President also chided her critics saying she did not become President to be popular. "Those who live in glass houses should not cast stones,those who should be in jail should not threaten it, especially if they have been there." she retorted.

Honestly, I was rather impressed with the President's SONA...because I was made to believe that the data given were all factual. A few hours later, news reports and editorials came out refuting The President's "facts and figures." Economists, people from the academe and the business sector were quick to challenge the veracity of the President's statistics. They cited the country's slow foreign trade, the low 0.4 growth of gross domestic product, among others.

One of those I watched on TV was Mareng Winnie Monsod, another woman I look up to for being so brainy, vocal, reputable, and vigilant. Monsod, a UP professor, is one of the country's respectable and credible economists.

Monsod argued that basing on actual figures from the National Statistics Office, only 2.8 M jobs were created from 2004-2008, a far cry from the promised 1M jobs per year. She added that poverty rose by almost 50%.

Monsod further enumerated the following that remains unanswered:

1. The increase in corruption
2. The increase in human rights violations
3. The increase in bureaucracy and overall demoralization of the civil service

Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay, meanwhile, said in an article on Business Mirror that "government statistics show that the number of poor Filipinos now total 27.6 million, or an increase of 2.7 million between 2000 and 2006. The number of poor families rose by 530,642 also during the same period, bringing the total to 4.7 million."

Is the economy really doing good as the President confidently stressed? Or is the country's economy just lucky to be sustained and fuelled by the OFW's billion dollar remittances? Who among them are giving the real statistics and the real state of the nation? Are the figures reported by the President factual or are they, like what her critics say, merely works of fiction?

Glenn Beck and the US healthcare

2009-07-21T20:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm not a US citizen and I'm not an expert on the talks (or debates?) about health care in America. But as I watch Fox News now as I write, I'm kind of disturbed by Fox anchor/radio commentator Glenn Beck's behavior. Glenn Beck is known for lambasting the Obama administration's health care directions. This morning, Glenn Beck's video which was recorded while he was having his radio show, is being shown over Fox News . He is shown profusely debating with a woman caller about health care. Beck was, as usual, deriding Obama's health care plans. The woman, who was defending the Obama administration's moves, asked Beck what he will do if he were in the position. And Beck, instead of answering the well-meaning question, screamed at the top of his voice, "Get off my phone!"

Whew! Couldn't he just answer it? What a way to end a losing debate.

Italian Red Cross worker finally freed by Abu

2009-07-13T02:21:00.000-07:00

Free at last. After six grueling months of being held captive by the terrorist group Abu Sayyaf in Jolo Sulu, Italian Red Cross aid worker Eugenio Vagni was finally released last Sunday.

Vagni was kidnapped by the Abu Sayyaf militant group with fellow Red Cross workers Andreas Notter of Switzerland and Filipino Mary Jean Lacaba during a humanitarian mission on Jolo in Mindanao. Notter and Lacaba were released separately last April. Vagni dropped 40 lbs in six months, as evident in his two photos. He was reported to be suffering from hernia and even cholera during his captivity.

The spate of kidnappings and terrorism in some parts of Mindanao severely affects the hapless civilians whose lives are put in danger during clashes between the military and the militants group. Recent bombings in Datu Piang, Maguindanao, Cotabato City, Iligan City, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte; and Jolo, Sulu have also caused the UN to temporarily stop sending aids to Mindanao, affecting thousands of families.

I don't understand why these militants keep picking on civilians to air out their demands. Would killing innocents give them the answers to their quest whatever it is? Why not give peace talks a chance?

COMELEC sets up satellite registrations over NCR

2009-07-10T14:03:00.001-07:00

I was having breakfast this morning when I heard this loud megaphone noise going around the neighborhood. It sounded like an important announcement so I looked out the street and listened closely. It was indeed important and just the kind of news I've been wanting to hear - The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has set up a satellite voters registration at our Barangay Hall that's open today and tomorrow, 8 am-4 pm.

A few hours later, I was at the Barangay Hall bringing my company ID, passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, and NBI clearance. I didn't want to have problems with my identification and be asked to come back with some more documents so I brought them all. I was anticipating such concerns because I'm originally registered in my province, Davao City, and I've only lived here in Manila for a year or so.

But when I got to the Barangay Hall, only one valid ID was asked from me plus my NBI clearance indicating my current address here in the Metro. I was ushered into a room where they took a picture of me and got my fingerprints (and signature) for the Biometrics. In just a few minutes, I was done.

Ask your barangay officials about the schedules for voters registration in your area. Registration satellites have been set up around NCR since April. It's far more convenient than having to go to the COMELEC office and queue up for long hours.

Let us exercise our right to suffrage come May 2010 elections. This is the first step. Go out and register.

PTA forum on AH1N1

2009-07-09T16:53:00.000-07:00

The scare has somewhat died down due to the mild cases affecting the local victims here but it's still around. About 95% of those affected by the virus has reportedly gotten well, according to the Department of Health. It's a good sign that the AH1N1 virus is but a mild version of influenza.

But as the global pandemic continue to spread around Metro Manila, the local government and school officials together called for a forum with the parents in my daughter's school. Better be informed than sorry.

Stop worrying about it. But continue to wash hands regularly, take Vitamin C to boost immune system, cover mouth when sneezing, temporarily avoid physical contact with persons having flu-like symptoms (but please don't be scared of them and don't discriminate them!), go on a self-quarantine when ill, have a hand sanitizer/alcohol handy wherever you go so you can clean yourself anytime.

Farewell, King of Pop!

2009-06-26T09:36:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson, the legendary king of pop, has passed away. He was 50. Jacko succumbed to cardiac arrest but an autopsy is set to be done today to find out what caused his death. Michael was found lifeless inside his home in California. His personal doctor and other responding paramedics reportedly tried to revive him before he reached the hospital. After more than an hour of attempts to resuscitate him in the hospital, he was pronounced dead.

The King of Pop is survived by three children: Michael Joseph Jackson, Jr., Paris Michael Katherine Jackson and Prince "Blanket" Michael Jackson II.

The world was shocked to hear this news. Who wouldn't when Michael was expected to hold a comeback concert in London next month? Who could have thought that the concert MJ described as his "final curtain call" would never happen anymore? I realized death can come to anyone at anytime in a blink of an eye. Life is that fragile.

We just lost a music genius...a total performer whose music has lingered on for many decades. I've listened to his songs since I was a kid in the 70's during his stint with his siblings in The Jackson Five, until I worked as a radio DJ in the 90's. I was especially crazy over his 80's hits like Thriller, Beat It,and Billy Jean,among others. In high school, me and my classmates performed to his Smooth Criminal in a school presentation. His songs mark different moments in my life, different milestones.

The Pop Icon may be gone but his music will live on for more generations to come. Rest in peace, Michael J. Thank you for your music.

Let's take a break from the bad news

2009-06-11T20:04:00.000-07:00

Deadly plane tragedies, female American journalists in jail in North Korea, Global pandemic Ah1N1 virus, global terrorism, political drama everywhere, economic slowdown, and the list goes on. Let's take a break from all these, shall we?

I scoured this video on youtube and it gave me a happy feeling singing this song from the popular TV series "The Greatest American Hero" back in 1981-83.

Tough times like these, we need a hero. Or shall I say, the hero in all of us?

Hayden Kho and Katrina Halili video scandal: a look at voyeurism in the Philippines

2009-05-23T14:08:00.000-07:00

It's all over the internet, it's even being sold in Quiapo. Clearly, the much-publicized and talked-about Dr. Hayden Kho's sex video with sexy actress Katrina Halili has spread like wildfire. People who can't control their curiosity are taking the effort to search for the video online, or pass it around from cellphone to cellphone, or even buy dvd copies of which in Quiapo and lately in Cebu City.

Everything has totally gone out of hand.

What is Voyeurism?

Wikipedia defines voyeurism as "the sexual interest in or practice of spying on people engaged in intimate behaviors, such as undressing, sexual activity, or other activity usually considered to be of a private nature."

Are laws already in place against cyber voyeurism here in the Philippines? The lawmakers say not yet but other laws on crimes against women can be used in the meantime to combat these cyber exploits. According to Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, Obscene Exhibition and Grave Scandal may be used to prosecute Kho in this case but added that these are not specific on cyber crimes.

In a TV interview over GMA 7, Senator Santiago said she has passed a Bill on Cybernet Peeking but is yet to go on a third reading. If passed into law, it would punish violators from one to five years of imprisonment and P10,000-P50,000 fine. Santiago's 2-page Bill on Cybernet Peeking specifies two crimes: 1) capturing on photos and/or videos the sexual act without the partner's consent and 2)broadcasting these publicly without the consent of the aggrieved party (even if he/she consented to record the act for private viewing).

The lower house of Congress has a counterpart Bill called Anti-Video Voyeurism Act authored by Bacolod Rep. Monico Puentevella.

Erik Chua: The man who uploaded the videos?

Yesterday, Erik Johnson Chua, the primary suspect in uploading the compilation of videos on the internet, denied the allegations hurled against him. He claimed no participation in the proliferation of the said sex videos. Chua, a businessman, is believed to be one of the four persons who knew about the videos. The other two who were privy to the videos are famous cosmetics surgeon Dr. Vicky Belo and another common friend known only as Bistek Rosario. Chua was a close friend of Kho but the two had a falling out for reasons that Kho allegedly triggered. There are said to be about 40 different sex videos of Kho with various women but Halili's is the most controversial (Halili being a famous actress and twice voted by FHM as the Pihilippines' sexiest woman in 2006 and 2007).

Squid tactics and alibis

In a desperate move to justify Kho's actions, Kho's camp issued a statement that the videos were taken when the doctor was in drugs, a few months before he took treatments (So, they're blaming drugs now). Yesterday, Kho's mother alleged that it was Katrina Halili who introduced and supplied (prohibited) drugs to her son (Ooh, so now they're blaming the victim). Remind me again, Hayden Kho is a professional doctor right? Would you believe a doctor would be dissuaded by a 23-year old woman to ruin his health AND life by taking drugs? I wouldn't.

So, okay, Kho's camp is implying that the doctor was not in his proper state of mind when these videotapings happened. Will this declaration justify his actions? No. Sen. Miriam Santiago laughed and said it will be an aggravating evidence to Hayden's case. Wrong move!

Senate Probe

The Senate is scheduled to conduct its investigation on the matter this Thursday, May 28. The Senate inquiry was fueled by Sen. Bong Revilla's privilege speech "A Doctor's Perversity" in which he lambasted Kho for videotaping his sexual encounters with various women, including Katrina Halili, without their knowledge and consent. The spreading of the video on the internet has prompted the Senate to look into the country's lack of cyber laws. Women's rights activitists have rallied behind Halili and condemn cyber exploitation of women.

This latest surge of cyber voyeurism is not the first in the Philippines. A lot of nameless women have fallen victims to this kind of exploitation in the past but sadly, our lawmakers just sat on it. Some victims were forced to migrate out of the country, some almost took their own lives, many of them were ruined and separated from their families. All of them scarred forever.

What's keeping these products-of-sick-minds going is, admit it or not, the Filipinos' curiosity over sex scandals. DVD pirates won't keep on selling these scandal videos if there are no demands. How many of your friends have seen a sex scandal in the past, if not this one involving Katrina and Hayden? How many people you know have asked about Katrina's video, searched

it on the net and viewed it? How many are still curious to watch it?

Watching the video and sharing it with others only add up to the victims' anxiety and anguish. It won't do anything to close the case under the rule of law unless you're part of the prosecution, the defense, or if you're the judge handling the case. It will only quench one's curiosity. But now what? We're actually patronizing these sick videos. We're feasting on the victims' disgrace.

If the victim happened to be our sister or a close friend or relative, how would we feel seeing the video being viewed by other people over and over?

If there's a demand, there will be supply.

DVD copies have reportedly reached Cebu City and are being sold by video pirates discreetly for fear of police crackdown. Same thing is happening in Quiapo after police raided DVD stalls last week. The discs, which were sold at P60 each in Quiapo, has increased to P150-200 per copy after the raid.

If there's any good thing that this Hayden-Katrina scam is doing, it is that our lawmakers have been ignited to act on our cyber law (or the lack of it). This will hopefully eradicate cyber voyeurism and protect our women from falling prey to these crimes again. Enough is enough.

Hey, this is a perfect opportunity for our politicians who want to earn "pogi" points in the 2010 elections. But that's another story.

What's wrong with the Philippine National Anthem?

2009-05-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

I know this is kind of late but I can't help but ask. Why do Filipino singers have the habit of changing the musical arrangement of the Philippine National Anthem especially when they're singing in a boxing arena? Is there really something wrong with our National Anthem that our great performers can't help but tweak it?

Martin Nievera, the Philippine's concert king, went under fire after tweaking parts of the Lupang Hinirang during the Pacquio-Hatton bout in Las Vegas. He's now facing possible charges for violating R.A. 8491 which prohibits anyone from singing the national anthem in a different rhythm and melody. The law specifies that Lupang Hinirang "shall be in accordance with the musical arrangement and composition of Julian Felipe."

No, Martin was not the first one who has done this. In fact, there've been many others way before him who have slaughtered, even decapitated Lupang Hinirang in more ways than one. Remember when singer Christian Bautista skipped a few good lines of the national anthem? It wasn't intentional though. He forgot the lyrics! Sigh.

Honestly I wasn't THAT disappointed nor infuriated by Martin's rendition of the national anthem because I've seen worse by Geneva Cruz, Charize Pempengco, Christian Bautista and many more. They all have good vocal prowess, yes, but Lupang Hinirang is not about that. It's not like any song that an artist could just tweak and make it his own. Lupang Hinirang is not to be altered. That's what the law says. Why alter the tempo and the melody? Doesn't it sound good in its original arrangement? The late great composer Julian Felipe would be flipping in his grave.

Martin did great in singing the middle part in a marching tempo but the beginning and end parts were his own and that caused the outrage.

Glad I found this video by the Himig Singers. This is how Lupang Hinirang should be sung. Isn't this what they're teaching us in school? Compare the two videos.

200,000 jobs at JOBapalooza on May 1

2009-04-29T18:00:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for that elusive job, tomorrow,May 1, could be the day when you'd finally land on one. Over 200,000 jobs are waiting to be filled for both local and foreign employments tomorrow in the biggest Jobapalooza in the Philippines ever, according to the Department of Labor and Employment.

More than 1,000 local companies and foreign recruiters are participating in this highly anticipated job fair so you'll have astounding opportunities to grab the job of your dreams.

Head over to Mall of Asia, SMX Hall tomorrow for a different kind of Labor Day celebration.

Better still, check out phil-job.net or DOLE by clicking the links for more details.

Happy job hunting!

What we can do to prevent swine flu from spreading

2009-04-28T21:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the threat is there. What can we do now to protect ourselves from swine flu that's taking innocent people's lives day after day in Mexico and is quickly spreading danger in other parts of the world?

Since it is a new strain of virus, it has no existing vaccine yet as of now. BBC reported that the first batch of vaccines could be ready in about four to six months but it will take even longer to produce massive quantities and distribute.

Here's what we can do to prevent swine flu from spreading, according to health authorities:

1. Wash hands regularly and properly with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer/alcohol when water is not available.
2. Cover nose and mouth with tissue when you sneeze or cough. Dispose of the tissue properly and immediately.
3. Avoid close contact with flu-infected people. You'll never know if it's swine flu that's making them sick.
4. Refrain from touching your eyes, mouth and nose to prevent germs from spreading.
5. If you're ill, stay home or seek immediate medical attention to avoid infecting other people and to ensure your full recovery.

For more FAQs about swine flu, click here.

Swine flu scare:how scary is it?

2009-04-25T16:10:00.000-07:00

I'm watching CNN now as I write this post. They're talking about this swine flu that is suspected to claim the lives of some 68 people in Mexico and is believed to have sickened some 1,000 more. The World Health Organization has expressed fear that the swine flu has the potential to be pandemic. Reports of suspected similar cases were also noted in New York, California and Texas. Could these cases really be related to each other in any way given the distance? Can these cases be contained?

Authorities advise people to be extra cautious by washing hands regularly, stay home if ill and seek immediate medical attention if having serious respiratory problems.

The least we can do now is to panic. Hope that the experts will find out the cause of this swine flu the soonest and be able to fight the disease fully before it becomes a global pandemic. As of this writing, no vaccine for this new strain of virus has been manufactured yet, according to the reports.

I don't wanna panic. God help us.

Red Cross member released by Abu Sayyaf

2009-04-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

Good grief. Andreas Notter, one of the three International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) members abducted by the Abu Sayyaf last January 15 has been released.

Philippine National Red Cross chairman Richard Gordon said Notter was freed by his abductors, in contrast to military's claim that he's been rescued. Notter reportedly noticed his guards disappearing one by one until he was left walking alone and was eventually found by government troops in Indanan Sulu last April 18. According to Notter, the Abu Sayyaf members who were guarding him fell back to tie shoes and disappeared for other reasons until he noticed he was alone.

Red Cross insists they paid no ransom.

Other ICRC captive, Mary Jane Lacaba, was earlier released last April 2. Only one ICRC member, Italian Eugenio Vagni, remains in captivity by the notorious Muslim extremists. Vagni is said to be suffering from hernia and is in dire need of medical attention.

Hopefully, the Abu Sayyaf decides to free Vagni the soonest time possible. Sometimes I get to wonder why these terrorists love to target the good and valuable people in society like Red Cross volunteers and local teachers. Why won't they kidnap some wealthy politicians who are known to be corrupt and abusive? If they really itch to terrorize, they might as well terrorize the bad guys. GRRRRR!

Sunday School Teacher held and charged for murder of 8 year old girl

2009-04-11T23:01:00.000-07:00

What would make a human being kill a helpless 8-year-old child and stuff her in a suitcase? The murder of a schoolgirl, Sandra Cantu of Tracy, California has remained baffling to police authorities even as they've apprehended the lone suspect, Melissa Huckaby, a Sunday School teacher.

I watched the report over Fox News last night and it really ripped my heart when they showed a CCTV camera capturing the child skipping on her way to Huckaby's house, apparently to play with the suspect's 5-year-old daughter. She was full of life. Who could have known that she was about to meet her gruesome end that day?

Police are still investigating the motives behind the murder while the suspect is being held without bail.

Sometimes sorry is just not enough

2009-04-01T23:29:00.000-07:00

So Boyet Fajardo has come to his senses. He recently apologized on national television about the Duty Free freaking incident. But was he sincere? He didn't even know the correct surname of Marvin Fernandez, the cashier he ridiculed as a fagot (when he himself is of the same legion!) and made to kneel before him at the counter. What fumed me even more was that he continued to justify his actions...What temerity! The nerve! Here's to you, Boyet Fajardo - You're despicable!

Duty Free scandal: how to behave like a dog by Boyet Fajardo

2009-03-31T05:36:00.000-07:00

I felt my blood boil when I watched this video. This is the height of arrogance and there simply isn't a room for excuses why this certain Boyet Fajardo humiliated this Duty Free cashier who was merely doing his job anyway!

I didn't know Boyet Fajardo from Adam until this video circulated in the Web. It was only then that I learned that he's a designer and that his creations are being sold in big malls here in the Philippines. So? Does that (or any other accomplishments he may have) give him the right to demand for somebody, right in public view, to kneel before him or else he'll be slapped? Nobody has the right to do that to anyone!

What triggered it, you say? Duty Free Fiesta Mall cashier Marvin Fernandez asked Fajardo to present an ID with signature so he could process the latter's credit card purchases. Fajardo got irked and started badmouthing the cashier. He was rather surprised and insulted that the cashier didn't recognize him, thinking obviously that he's somebody as popular as a movie star. "Hindi nyo ba ako kilala? (Don't you know me?), " he ranted. The nerve!

He should have been glad instead of mad that the cashier was prudent in protecting his credit card.

I'm having a hard time figuring out if that Fajardo (I don't even wanna add a "Mr." to his name) is fit for a dog...because even dogs have manners.

Dec 2008 P'que shootout: Will justice be served?

2009-03-16T22:44:00.000-07:00

December 5, 2008. Paranaque became witness to a bloody shootout between the PNP and a group of armed robbery suspects, killing 16 people including civilians.

Following investigations, 17 police officers were slapped with administrative charges by the PNP Internal Affairs. Hearings will start this month.

Among the five civilians who were killed in the crossfire was an OFW and his 7-year old kid who were strafed to death while on board their Isuzu Crosswind. The widow and bereaved mom, Lilian de Vera, circulated this email in the hope of getting heard and achieving justice.

Below is her letter that was emailed to me by a friend yesterday:

Two months ago I considered myself as one of those blessed and happiest people on earth. Why not? I married a guy who was an epitome of kindness. A guy who worshipped even the footsteps I made. More importantly, our union blessed us with a daughter who not only became the main source of our happiness....more so; she was the center of our lives..

We're simple folks who led a simple life. We felt the happiest even about mundane things and inconsequential ones that most people would only take for granted. Our joy mostly revolved on simple pleasures like a sudden trip to Jollibee or a late night marauding of the fridge for any leftovers. A perfect family with simple delights, dreams and aspirations.........until that fateful night on December 5, 2008.The day my husband and daughter were taken away from me in a very violent way. That Friday night on December 5, 2008 marked the beginning of all the terror, anguish and misery in my life.

In keeping with my ritual or "panata" on every first Friday of every month, I went to Quiapo Church on the above mentioned date to pay homage and respect to the Almighty One. My husband and daughter were supposed to pick me up in Pasay City after which we planned on giving our daughter a treat to Jollibee. While riding the jeep, I tried to call my husband to tell him that I was on my way to our meeting place. But despite all the calls I made, my husband remained silent. A very unusual occurrence inasmuch as he seldom missed my calls. Despite my trepidation and wonder, I took the next jeep going home and prayed that everything was alright. I even promised to myself that I would forgive my husband for not answering my calls and for forgetting to pick me up.

I felt relieved when near our place my phone rung. Such relief was somehow only momentary....in fact the phone call I got was the bearer of the worst news in my entire life. My helper called, only to tell me that my husband and daughter were shot to death by "men in uniform". The same men who were sworned to protect innocent people from bad guys brutally slew the two most important persons in my life. They were the same men whose sacred duty was to preserve the lives of the public against all harm and danger. Yet.......they were the same men who murdered my love ones in the most cruel, savage and inhuman way.

My husband's face was unrecognizable because he was shot in the head at close range while he was kneeling with his head bowed down. My daughter's young body was riddled with bullets, one hit her head, blowing her brains out.., all from too powerful guns and ammunitions fired by the "men in uniform" on two innocent and defenseless persons.

The "men in uniform" were allegedly on a mission to take some gang of robbers victimizing people at large. The police shot the crosswind van my husband and daughter were riding Based on some witnesses' narration, the police sprayed bullets into the van despite the lack of provocation or shots coming from the van. In his last effort to save their lives, my husband grabbed my bloodied daughter and shielded her with his body while trying to run away from the police and tried to get cover from a parked jeepney My husband and daughter were so defenseless. How can you mistake a child for a robber? How can you shot at someone who was already kneeling with head bowed, an indication of helplessness.

My husband and daughter are gone.......forever. The pain I feel for their lost is too much to bear. And the only thing that motivates me to go on with life is the mission to seek justice for their senseless killing. If the people who are responsible for their death will be punished, if I could bring them the justice they so richly deserve, my pain would be alleviated. The misery I will live by will be lessened. My husband and daughter will be vindicated and I will learn to live the remaining years of my life in peace.

Thus: I'm asking and begging everyone who will come across this letter/e-mail to forward the same to all your relatives, friends, and acquaintances. Help me bring my cause to the eyes of the people capable of steering the wheel of justice to the right direction. Help me make the loudest cry worthy of attention by those people in-charge in rendering justice to those who deserve it.

Strength comes in numbers; it is where the impossible becomes possible. It is also where the unattainable becomes achievable.

My heartfelt gratitude for everyone who will take a moment in their too busy lives and forward this letter/e-mail to everyone they know. May God always protect you and your love ones from all harm.

Lilian de Vera

Bye Bye, Francis M

2009-03-06T18:28:00.000-08:00

The Master Rapper is gone.

Francis Magalona A.K.A Francis M, FrancisM, or Kiko, one of the country's pillars in the Philippine rap music industry, succumed to leukemia yesterday noon. He was diagnosed of having the illness in August 8 last year.

I couldn't believe what I was reading on the internet news feeds. My initial reaction was that it could have been a false alarm. Maybe a third-hand information gone mishandled or something. He couldn't be dead! Seven months after diagnosis? Not too soon! I just couldn't accept that possibility.

But then I saw the news on TV. It was confirmed. Kiko has left. I was like gazing in the TV monitor with a blank stare. He was only 44.

Not a typical rapper

What set Francis M apart from other Filipino rappers was that he wrote really good songs - nationalistic, positive, influencial, highly sensible. While most rappers crooned about the usual love and sex, Kiko sang mostly about social issues and love for country. Nobody came close to him in his niche. His music was one of a kind from the lyrics, to the sound, to the entire package.

He catapulted underground Pinoy rap into mainstream and even succeeded in merging hiphop, funk and rock.

Albums released

Yo! (1990)
Rap Is FrancisM (1992)
Meron Akong Ano! (I have something!) (1993)
FreeMan (1995)
The Best of FrancisM,was released (2002)

Citations and Awards

Featured in international hip hop publications All Music Guide to Hip-Hop: The Definitive Guide to Rap and Hip-Hop (2003) and The Source (May 2004)
Pioneer Hall of Fame Award at the 1st Annual Philippine Hip-Hop Music Awards (2005) Generations Award at the MTV Pilipinas Video Music Awards (2006)

I have always adored the man ever since I was in high school. Our dance group performed in his Mga Kababayan (from the album Yo!) in one of the school's biggest events. When I worked as a DJ from 1994-2001, I would squeeze into my playlist any of his songs appropriate for my variety of programs especially in my "Hoy, Pinoy!"

I memorized the lyrics of his hits songs Girl Be Mine, Man From Manila, Mga Kababayan, Kaleidoscope World, 3 Stars and A Sun, Gotta Let 'Cha Know, Cold Summer Nights, Mga Praning, among others.

So long, Fracis M. You'll forever be remembered as the King of Pinoy Rap. Your music lives on.

13 year old kid now a dad

2009-02-18T22:26:00.000-08:00

The world was shocked when this news came out. I myself wasn't even sure how to react. Two minors have become parents even before they could enjoy their youth to the fullest.

What's devastating is that two other boys have come forward to claim fatherhood to the baby named Maisie. They claim to have slept with the 15-year old mom Chantelle.

Alfie Patten, the 13-year old boy in the picture who is believed to be the real father of Maisie, is now reportedly distraught over the claims of the other boys. Who wouldn't be?

To end the issue, the young couple has agreed to undergo DNA testing. Whatever the outcome, it still boils down to one thing - they're too young to be parents.

(photo courtesy of The Sun)

Good news, Bad news

2009-02-14T02:17:00.000-08:00

Good News: LPG supply stabilizes, goes back to normal SRP at P550 per tank.
Bad News: Prices of gasoline seen soaring, expected rollback in March looks dim.

Good News: Best time to fly now that airfares are low; airlines pump up promos to attract customers.
Bad News: Prices of some canned goods, pork and chicken also fly high.

Good News: World Bank divulges Philippine road mess.
Bad News: Senate has no copy of complete WB report.

Good News: World Bank divulges Philippine road mess.
Bad News: Beleaguered First Gentleman Mike Arroyo can't be called to answer allegations due to health condition.

Good News: World Bank divulges Philippine road mess.
Bad News: WB Country Director snubs senate hearings.

Good News: World Bank divulges Philippine road mess.
Bad News: "There is no evidence." - Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago.

Whataver happened to Michael Phelps?

2009-02-12T00:47:00.000-08:00

Michael Phelps, the 23-year old Olympic gold medalist (Oh, he had eight in Beijing alone!) who swims like a shark, stirred the news worldwide by his use of marijuana.

His picture showing him smoking from a bong or marijuana pipe, was published earlier in a British newspaper before the news broke out around the world.

Phelps recently admitted his wrongdoing.

Why has it become a media frenzy? Because Phelps is no ordinary person. He is an icon, a role model. He is idolized by many people of all ages especially the younger generations all over the world and seeing him caught red-handed like this is really sad, if not shocking.

I myself adore him. I watched some of his Olympic games on TV and saw how he managed to break records and amassed eight gold medals in Beijing, summing up his Olympic golds to 14.

This young man is amazing. But he's not perfect, as nobody is.

We all screw up sometimes. But should our lives be wasted for a few false moves? We all deserve "amnesty" right? One way or another, we all go wayward. What matters is if we manage to get back on the right lane again.

But then again, he deserves some spanking for his misconduct to teach him a lesson. I think it's not something we should condone considering that he has throngs of people looking up to him as a hero. News reports say he may be losing some good product endorsements (like Kellogs?).

To me, it is important that he was able to realize and admit before the whole world that he had done wrong and that he's sorry and he regrets his behavior. He recognized that he "acted in an appropriate way, not in a manner that people have come to expect from" him.

Acknowledging your own misdeed is one bold move, especially when you make it public.

I hope the next thing he'll work on is to make things right again, pick himself up, think more rationally and act like a real champion again.

Go, Michael Phelps! I'm still a fan!

RP opens more job opportunities

2009-02-08T20:41:00.000-08:00

I can't help but frown when I hear news about massive retrenchments and soaring unemployment statistics in the country. It's very discomforting even to a stay-at-home mom like me.

I scoured the internet to find some good news despite the bad economy so we could stop fretting about job loses and the many consequences they bring.

Here's what I found:

1. At least 1,000 jobs are waiting to be filled at the Philippine Coast Guard. Join the 4,000 existing coast guards in protecting our territory. This could be your break, who knows?

2. The government is seriously bent on helping the private industry in preserving and generating more jobs through a multi-sectoral job summit tomorrow at Malacanang. This is one step to save more companies from closing and more jobs from losing. DOLE said up to 500 firms have already closed in the country due to the ailing global economy.

3. Thousands of job opportunities are waiting to be grabbed over jobstreet. Sign up for an account to get updates on job and career opportunities, among others.

4. The Philippine banking system remains sound...at least compared to its foreign counterparts.

5. RP remains to be the top outsourcing destination due to its large pool of English-speaking workers.

6. There are still demands for some 389,000 jobs for skilled and unskilled workers. A lot of them are in the Middle East.

7. Planning to work abroad? Check out POEA for job listings, requirements, scam alert and all you need to know to avoid wasting money, time and effort to illegal recruiters.

Hanjin accidents rise to 4,000

2009-02-03T05:26:00.000-08:00

Accidents in Hanjin Heavy Industries & Construction have risen to 4,000 since it operated in Subic Bay, Zambales in 2006, according to the Department of Labor and Employment. Nineteen of which were fatal.

In tonight's TV newscast over GMA 7, a DOLE official said Hanjin only has three nurses and no doctors on the site.

It was further learned that the facility is also Malaria-stricken. Three Hanjin workers have died out of the 54 Malaria cases in Hanjin. A former Hanjin worker who lost a foot in an accident in Hanjin said there were many unreported cases of fatalities and injuries in the facility.

The Senate labor committee is now considering recommending the temporary supension of Hanjin's operations. They may, they may not.

It's strange that it took this long for the government to intervene. Will stones be left unturned this time? That we have to see.

Another shoe-throwing incident

2009-02-03T00:34:00.000-08:00

It looks like protesters around the world have found a new way of getting their sentiments heard.

China's Prime Minister Wen Jiabao suffered the same fate as former US Pres. George W. Bush when a protester hurled a shoe at him while delivering a speech in Cambridge University, England at the end of his 3-day visit to Britain.

The protester, coming from the back part of the jam-packed auditorium called Wen a "dictator" before throwing his shoe, which missed target.

PM Wen's visit was reportedly marred with protests over human rights and Chinese policy in Tibet.

The protester was escorted to the police for questioning.

December last year, Former US Pres. Bush ducked out from behind the podium to avoid being hit by a shoe lobbed at him by an enraged reporter in Iraq. After the incident, the reporter, Muntadhar al-Zeidi, drew many supporters in his hometown that they even made a shoe sculpture in his honor.

LPG shortage or hoarding?

2009-01-31T02:32:00.000-08:00

It's been several weeks since media reported the alleged "shortage" of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in some parts of the country, resulting in government investigations.

Government representatives continuously assured the public that there is no truth to the alleged shortage and promised that the supply of LPG will soon stabilize.

Recently, government agents seized some 2,000 11-kg tanks of LPG in a raid on warehouses in a compound in Manila.

Radio dzRH reported that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) received a tip from small LPG vendors about oil tankers delivering LPG to the said warehouse in CM Recto Ave., Sta. Cruz Manila.

This strengthens the speculation that some unscrupulous businessmen are behind the LPG shortage which resulted to erratic and higher retail prices of LPG.

Help hotline for the jobless? Why not!

2009-01-31T00:23:00.000-08:00

No amount of euphemism can ever coat the ugly face of more job retrenchments in the offing.

But gladly, it looks like the Philippine government is not sleeping on it.

More and more advisories from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) come out everyday, keeping us in the know about the current situation.

Lately they announced a proposal to set up a hotline that would assist job seekers in finding a job.

Let's hope it's not just another press release set to rot unrealized.

Top reasons for unemployment

2009-01-30T23:38:00.000-08:00

Lack of competency, lack of training, and high asking salary are three of the main reasons why millions of Filipinos are unemployed, according to the Department of Labor and Employment.

Currently, numbers reach to an alarming 2.6 million Filipinos who remain out of jobs according to DOLE.

It added that the Call Center industry is one of the hard-to-fills in the market.

To address the problem on lack of training, many Call Center and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) companies constantly provide free trainings to successful candidates and even those who fall a little short for their standards but may have potential if given proper training.

Times like these, a college diploma would sometimes not suffice to get you hired.

Labor Secretary Marianito Roque said in news reports that they are initiating moves to deal with the escalating problems on job losses like providing job caravans, trainings and the likes.

Be on the look out for trainings anywhere near you, free or not. Choose the ones that could help you in pursuing your dream job.

Here's an old cliche: Training is expensive. Try ignorance.

To work or not to work? A mom's throbbing ordeal

2009-01-28T23:29:00.000-08:00

Moms usually get the beating when bombarded by the passion to embrace both career and family obligations. Especially when financial constraints set in.

What to do when you need to earn a living yet you can't juggle work and home responsibilities at the same time?

It happened to me and I had no other option but to make a tough decision. I had to decide what to prioritize.

I've been working for the longest time since college and it wasn't easy dumping that over homemaking. At first, I thought it would be a total nightmare spending the whole day keeping house, doing the laundry, preparing food and running errands. That's a total diversion from the more cerebral tasks I was used to doing at work.

I had to weigh my options well and my decision turned out to be the best and boldest I ever made in my whole life.

In case you're facing the same ordeal, maybe the following could help you get to a smart move too.

1. Determine and rank your priorities. Which comes first - career, family or anything else?
2. List down the pros and cons in pursuing those priorities.
3. Talk to your partner about it. Maybe he has some solutions to some of the backlash you listed.
4. Sleep on it several times until you're sure you know what you're getting into. No need to be drastic unless you're awfully pressed by time. Even so, make it the smartest drastic decision you'll ever make.
5. Decide and make your decision work. Deciding and regretting about it even before you even made an effort to make it work is just so lame and pathetic.

It would be a great advantage if your decision matches with that of your partner because there'll be the both of you to pull things through. Remember, marriage is a partnership.

And hey, don't forget to pray and ask for Divine Intervention. That should seal it.

COMELEC sets up sattelite registrations over NCR

2009-01-27T06:06:00.000-08:00

I was having breaskfast this morning when I heard a loud megaphone announcing something that sounded very important. Indeed it was. COMELEC has set up a sattelite office for voters registration at the barangay hall for two days - today and tomorrow.

In a few hours, I went to the barangay hall carrying my company ID, passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate, and NBI clearance in one envelope. I didn't want to have problems with identification so I bought everything, lol. Indeed, I was over-prepared. Only one valid ID was asked from me when I got to the barangay hall. But since I'm from Davao City and I've only been here in Manila for a year, I had to supplement my identification with my NBI clearance that states my current address. I was ushered into a room where I had my picture taken and my fingerprints gotten for Biometrics. In a few minutes, I was done. The process was very much like when you're getting a passport except that you don't pay for anything.

Ask your barangay officials about the schedules for voters' registration in your barangay hall. It's much more convenient than queueing up for long hours at the COMELEC (Commission on Elections) office. Let's exercise our right to suffrage come next year' national elections. First things first - register now.

Hard times in 2009: The fault, dear Brutus, is not in the stars

2009-01-26T06:52:00.000-08:00

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI!

The year of the earth ox ushers in. Feng Shui experts are predicting on TV that it'll be a tough year ahead. Save for the lucky people under Dragon and Snake signs.

Even though I don't have any drop of Chinese blood circulating in my veins, I eagerly watched GMA 7's popular TV show Mel & Joey as they invited two Feng Shui experts on the set to talk about what's in store for all animal signs.

I'm a Rabbit and according to the experts, I should be wary of opportunists and that I should watch both my wealth and health (err... wealth? where is it?). They said Rabbits won't be as lucky this year but anything can be overcome with fervent prayer. Cheers to that!

Also, what I noticed was that the experts kept on emphasizing that apart from prayers, doing charity works would tremendously turn around your supposed bad luck. Good karma, I would call it.

They also advised using good luck charms like crystals and precious stones to repel illnesses, bad energy and the likes.

I felt uncomfortable whenever they uttered stuff like "This is not your lucky year," or "Beware of this and that."

True, we could all use a little warning.

But whatever the stars tell us, I still prefer to believe the famous line from a Shakespeare masterpiece when Julius Ceasar said, "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars but in ourselves, that we are underlings."

Great jobs with demanding schedules

2009-01-26T00:21:00.000-08:00

Ironic as it is, some great jobs are awful in terms of schedules. And I've always landed on one.

During my stint as a marketing supervisor in a big retail company, I spent more than nine hours in the office especially prior to and during marketing events. I had to report even on holidays and some weekends. It consumed me to that point that I'd thought of advertising schemes until I retired to bed at night. I utilized every waking hour thinking about perks when I was stuck in traffic, taking my lunch and coffee breaks or even in the shower. My mind was so preoccupied, I couldn't think about my own private life.

Just when I thought that accepting an offer to manage a branch of another retail company would give me a little bit of time for myself (I presumed that operations management was less demanding than marketing), I had a double whammy because I was given the responsibility to handle both store operations and marketing. Oh I welcomed the tasks, I even loved them. But the schedule was so demanding, I was required to render 11 hours per day, with only one day off.

What a way to go. My job consumed me hook, like and sinker.

But if this were a hall of fame for jobs with excruciating schedules, my first job refuses to lag behind. As a DJ back in college, I was doing the midnight shift from 10 pm-2 am. Sometimes 2 am-6 am. I had to sleep inside the booth, take a bath somewhere in the morning and rush to school before 8 am.

I spent five Christmases and New Year's eves in the radio station as far as I can remember. One time, Christmas caught me on the street while I was trying to find my way home but no cabs nor jeepneys to hail.

The schedules were killing me but I stayed on for almost seven years in broadcasting. And went on to join the retail industry and corporate world for another seven years.

Told you, those jobs were great as to their job descriptions. But the schedules were a little pain in the neck, especially for a working mom.

But there's no perfect job anyway, is there? Besides, without challenges, any job gets boring.

Unless your job is sucking the life out of you, just do what you love to do.

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How much are we doing to save the planet?

2009-01-22T05:08:00.000-08:00

A couple of days ago, I was having my time in the world marveling in the awesome view of the Marikina River. The local government has made a great job in cleaning up what used to be a hopeless mess.

The river has been cleared of floating garbage and water plants. No clutters of junks and fallen leaves around the banks either. The surroundings were impressively clean. Or so I thought.

Several steps from where I relished my view, I saw a middle-age guy tossing something into the water. And then I smelled it. The smell of rotten meat. Two other passersby exclaimed with deep resentment what they saw that I didn't. The man just tossed into the river a dead cat.

We would have wanted to confront the man but he left in a hurry. Maybe he knew what we were thinking. And maybe he knew what he was doing was absurdly wrong.

It's appalling to witness things like this especially when you weren't able to do something about it. It's appalling that some people care less or maybe nothing about the environment.

"It's just one dead cat," the guy may have reasoned. But if all of us have that same point of view, it won't take so long for us to kill our rivers, our seas...our planet.

Are we doing anything to save it?

Blogging and loving it!

2009-01-22T02:46:00.000-08:00

I have always wanted to have an avenue to speak my mind and publicize it for the world to see. Now I'm finally living my dream! Thanks to the magic of technology.

The internet was yet a baby when I was taking up Mass Communication in college several years back. I didn't have an inkling that it's going to be a huge part of me as it is now. Blogging has definitely reshaped the lines of communications across the globe. Everyone in the world is now a few clicks away.

With almost everything possible using the net, the world is getting smaller.

So I'm taking the chance to explore this wonder. I'm blogging and definitely loving it!