De la Paz Watch

What's keeping former PNP Comptroller Eliseo de La Paz from returning the 6.5 million pesos which he says are "contingency funds"? Two Euro generals already returned theirs. Prior to his controversial arrival, Dela Paz says that he has complete documentation on these funds and he can account for all of them.

Now, it has been two weeks and still no receipts and no disbursements. Mr. General Sir, are you not conscious of the embarrassment the entire nation went through because of you? If you say that it's our money, then, give it all back to us! 

Are you not ashamed of this? Tagalugin ko na--mahiya ka naman, Mr. General sir. Kala mo siguro ligtas ka na sa pananagutan dahil sa isyu ni Bolante.

I can't blame you and five other Euro generals. What's 6.5 Million compared to the 758 million that Bolante took from public coffers. That amount is what we call "mumo".

Nonetheless, being an Officer and a Gentleman and a product of the PMA pa naman, Mr. dela Paz has the accountability for this. 

Ibalik mo na pera namin, Mr. dela Paz. Kala mo siguro lusot ka na.

Philippine Military Academy alumnus and your Mistah Salvador Mison of Class 1955 issued a statement urging every PMA'er to be conscious of their Honor Code. Mr. General sir, are you not?

Or, you're not afraid of your mistah, PNP Chief Director-General Jesus Verzosa? Have you no shame?

Or, Mr. General sir, those funds are really NOT public funds. Or, you just don't feel responsible? 

Or, maybe, just maybe sir, it's really NOT part of the PNP Intelligence Fund?

Lest you forget, Mr. dela Paz, you promised to serve, protect and defend the People. You promised to be accountable for all your acts.

Mr. dela Paz, the People ask you to give us back our money.

Akala mo siguro, nakalimutan na namin ang kontrobersya mo?

Turning Point

If you want some "fix" in the global news department, click on this site. 

By the way friends, I'll be starting a project. It's a top secret one which could eat up my most of my time. I identified a prevailing need and I'm determined to get it off the ground. I'm opening myself up for consultancies later on and should you need some advice, especially on risk management research, I'll be happy to help you.

So, what am I saying? 

Well, I need this turning point. I'll just be for 90 days. Hope for your indulgence. I may cut up some of my time spending over the web (that'll be good news for Gloria's mafia gang and her apologists) and focus on what I do most---new product development.

Yes, I'm building a business of my own. If you need me, you can just email me at mangubat.patricio@gmail.com.

Will Obamanomics work?

Will populist economics work for America? Democratic candidate Barack Obama thinks so. Expand opportunities for the ordinary working man by giving them a tax break. Another "pillar" of "Obamanomics" or "Obamanism" proposes to "regulate" earnings of the rich to "equalize" opportunities for the poor. 

Eliminate capital gains tax. Create 2 million new jobs. Develop every community. Invest 15 billion dollars for renewable energy to create 5 million new jobs. Eliminate oil imports from the Middle East. Implement health insurance by subjecting insurance firms to scrutiny. End the war in Iraq.

These proposals are everyday, ordinary political speeches from honey tongued politicians. Vote for me and i'll give you the world. But, the fundamental question that everybody is asking-- will it work?

Will six years be enough for Obamanomics to solve the deep US sub-prime crisis through tax breaks and elimination of capital gains tax? Will six years be enough to create new jobs? 

Will six years be enough to even combat the giant oil companies who profits greatly from their exports of oil? And will it be enough to create a society independent of the clutches of the oil cartel?

Adherents of "Obamanism" thinks that everything changes with just a stroke of a president's pen. Obamanists think that America's problems can only be solved by just marching towards the Oval Office and occupy the World's Top Executive post.

The problems of America are serious. It can't be trivialized. It can't be simplified by just telling people that "everything will be alright if you vote for me." Or with such stirring speeches, making people's hopes alive with "change is what we need". 

Promises of "we will win this country and we will change the world" (Barack's recent speech in Minnesota). Those are promises of an ideologically astute politician who just wants to win. And for what? For personal glory or for the people's?

Americans don't deserve mother-hood statements and promises of salvation by a 47-year old idealist who think that change will just take a moment's reflection inside the White House. They need definitive answers. They need assurances that Obama is not just a young politician out to make a name for himself as the "first Black American president". This office, the Office of the US President, is not for dreamers or self-proclaimed messiahs. 

The work of the US President is hard work. It is not a hippie joint.

Americans need a president that's open to compromise. Yes, compromise. America faces real, serious and lethal threats from big oil cartels, terrorist groups and Big Business that it ill affords to make this election a trifling matter. For the first time in his checkered history, the U.S. is at its weakest situation. Having a president that thinks about waging war against Big Business and the Establishment is surely, not the way to go.

The U.S. needs a leader that would strengthen the very democratic institutions that made it the greatest nation on earth. It does'nt need a Messiah. More than ever, it needs the collective unity, a realization if you will, that, unity and being together under tough times will just save them from the impending global financial Armageddon. Americans did it before during World War II. Now, they face certain extinction should they fail to unify under these troubling times.

Serious state business lies ahead for the winner of this elections. But, am I saying that you vote for John McCain? Am I saying that you choose Obama? No.

What I'm saying is for both candidates to cut the fat from their speeches, give us a glimpse of what you can really do and save us from those "messianic" statements. Their speeches are good for the soul. What these two candidates must do is rally the American people, make them realize their traditional values and empower them. Whoever will just do that, wins.

 

First Gentleman visits St. Lukes Medical Center

Early this morning, First Gentleman Mike Arroyo visited St. Luke's Medical Center. Why? No one knows, except that some malicious tongues wag that he might have visited his bosom buddy and fellow Rotarian Joc-Joc Bolante. Possible. Why?

Maybe ask him to "stay the course"? Various personalities have been going to St. Luke's lately, having "chest pains", like ex-VP Teofisto Guingona Jr., ex-Senators Jun Magsaysay and Ernie Maceda. Maybe FG wants to see for himself if Bolante remains true to the mafiosi credo---omerta.

Or, maybe, he consulted his cardiologist, the same one attending Joc-Joc's chest pain needs. I would imagine Joc-Joc clutching his chest. He's getting all these brickbats and angry looks. Afraid? 

Or maybe, just maybe, giving some tips on how to handle those grey hairs? Maybe a confidential tip on how to escape detention, err, detection, to go have that haircut and hair-coloring over at Reyes' salon?

Joc-Joc Bolante, an alleged big-time thief, is having all the fun. Imagine, you reportedly stole at least 758 million in public funds and you're being treated like royalty? Criminals who stole 10 pesos are receiving the brutal treatment in various police stations nationwide. Others even got the "royal treatment"---a lethal salvage.

Well, in this part of the world, when you steal big, you're celebrity. People admire you for stealing their money big-time. And get away with the royal treatment. Spa for thieves, anyone?

Where's ex-Agri Chief Cito Lorenzo?

Where's former Agricultural Secretary Cito Lorenzo? Like Bolante, he too left the country at the height of the scandal. Where is he? Is he still shuttling to and fro Hongkong and Singapore? Sources say, he knew nothing of the scandal. If that's true, then, why is he not showing himself up and cleanse his tarnished reputation before the public? Why is he still hiding? Is he being protected by the Arroyo regime and what's the cost?

Also, why is there no report about Bolante's accomplices? There are hundreds of local executives involved in this scam. Where are they? 

All Patriots should call on ex-Secretary Lorenzo. He should be made to reveal what he knows about this. He should come out and tell the Filipino People. We deserve to know the truth, Mr. Lorenzo.

BINO-BOLA TAYO NI BOLANTE (We're being fooled By Bolante)

I hate to say this but we are now being fooled by the handlers of Joc-Joc Bolante. This man who's being tagged as the architect of the anomalous GMA (Ginintuang Masaganang Ani) deal which cost tax-payers 3 billion pesos is now resting inside St. Luke's Medical Center. And for what illness? The hospital still refuses to release a medical bulletin. So no one knows what illness.

One thing is sure though--Joc-Joc Bolante is just acting up. Why? First, if Joc-Joc Bolante is really sick, the US Immigration Department would not allow him to travel back to the Philippines. It's the policy of the US government not to risk deporting a sick person. 

Second, if he's really suffering from a heart ailment, doctors would have attended him and even gave him oxygen. It's clear from the video taken last night that Bolante was neither given any first aid treatment nor was he placed under any respiratory equipment. 

So, the real story behind Bolante's arrival is simple--place him under tight security, courtesy of his fellow Rotarian Alfonso Cusi, feign sickness to avoid media scrutiny and haul him directly to St. Lukes Medical Hospital. 

My sources told me that Bolante has conferred with some emissaries from the First Golfer Gang (FGG) through telephone. 

An elaborate is in place to secure Bolante and prevent him from testifying before the Senate. Bolante is being prepared to face a media forum first, to grant interviews with "friendly" members of the Philippine media prior to the re-0pening of the Senate inquiry. 

Bolante has rejected "feelers" from the enemies of the FGG to turn his back on Gloria's mafia gang. So, expect him to do a Neri rather than a Lozada. Bolante's determined to stick it out with the forces of evil. 

This saga will turn deadly serious after November 1. 

ONE WARNING TO THOSE WHO WANT TO HIDE THE TRUTH ABOUT THIS GMA SCAM WHICH CAUSED TAXPAYERS 3 BILLION PESOS--- HIDE ALL YOU WANT. LIE ALL YOU WANT. PROTECT BOLANTE ALL YOU WANT. BUT GOD HAS A PLAN. AND ALWAYS THOSE WHO LIE, CHEAT AND STEAL, THEY SUFFER NOT JUST SHAME BUT A GRIEVOUS PUNISHMENT. 

As for you Mr. Bolante-- you already fooled us twice. You'll never fool us again. Clearly, you don't have any shame left in you. The People's Justice will caught up with the enemies of the People eventually.

Joc-Joc Bolante must tell all; Gloria visibly bothered

Lest we forget, now that Joc-Joc's back and intimated his willingness to "tell everything" about the fertilizer scam, the People wants him to answer these questions:

1. Who are his principals?
2. Who assisted him in distributing the funds?
3. How much money did he kept for himself?
4. Who did he called when he exiled himself in the US? 
5. Who visited him in jail? How many times?
6. Who are those who supposedly are out to kill him or silence him?
7. What things will he reveal that he thinks might cause him his life?
8. Did he ever called the president during the time he's operating the scam?
9. Did he felt some remorse when he was spending those years in jail?
10. Any regrets on serving government?

Updates:

• Senator Jinggoy Estrada asked the Senate to immediately send Joc-Joc to the Senate holding area to be examined by the Senate physician. He believes that Joc-Joc is just faking it.
• The Ombusman just asked Joc-Joc to submit his counter-affidavit in response to the government's graft case against him.
• Senator Ed Angara said he will not re-open the fertilizer scam case. He still believes that the warrant for Joc-Joc's arrest by Villar is invalid. His former ACCRA partner, ex-Senator Franklin Drilon thinks otherwise.
• Gloria is seen visibly tired and disturbed during the Global Forum on Migration and asked media not to ask questions about the Bolante case.
• The palace just issued a statement that it welcomes Bolante's return.

BY THE WAY, heard from my source inside St. Luke's Medical Center that allegedly the First Gentleman uses the resident cardiologist as "courier" between him and Bolante. We have yet to confirm this.

Also, Bolante reportedly received numerous calls (both cellular and landline) from unknown callers.

As of the moment, Bolante is being guarded at the hospital by the Senate security personnel, the hospital's security and even the Quezon City Police. 

Meanwhile, some spotted former Vice President Teofisto Guingona entering the St. Luke's Medical Center.

New Philippine Revolution and PinoyObserver will remain vigilant. Let's continue our vigil for the Truth.

Bolante's Options

Controversial Agriculture Undersecretary Jocelyn "Joc-Joc" Bolante arrived just past 10:30 pm at the NAIA. Looking older and slimmer, Bolante was on a wheelchair and being secured by what ABS-CBN correspondent Don Tagala said as "uniformed personnel".

It appears that Joc-Joc lost weight in jail. His hair all turned grey. He's older but it remains though to be seen, whether he also grew wiser. 

He seems stressed and appears harangue. Maybe due to the long flight. What's obvious about this is the apparent subtle "protection" he seems to be enjoying right from where he embarked to his disembarkation.

It appears that he'll ask to be transported to a hospital, feigning illness. Nonetheless, lest we be deceived again, Joc-Joc actually can stand on his own and appears in good health. His weight loss could be the result of  anxieties after losing his appeal for asylum in America and what fate really awaits him upon his return.

What's certain is this--Bolante has to account for the following sins against the People:

• Account for 728 million released to him via the fertilizer project under the GMA (Ginintuang Masaganang Ani) program
• Account for the 1.1 billion pesos released to him through the GMA livestock, etc, program
• Account for 1.54 billion pesos released to him via the agri tractors program

Right now, he's being taken cared of at St. Luke's hospital after he complained of chest pains. Bolante was taken by uniformed security personnel and rode an ambulance. It appears that there was a prior arrangement with the hospital, since reports show that there's a room waiting for Bolante.

The Senate lawyer, part of the Chamber's sergeant at arms office, says they have sent their security personnel to secure Bolante. However, it's uncertain whether they will actually succeed in arresting Bolante.

It appears that Bolante still enjoys the protection of the Powers-That-Be. It's very clear that Bolante would not do a Lozada, not in the immediate future.

Bolante has nowhere to hide. Two and a half years ago, he fled the country, thinking that he can escape the law. Yet, the law caught up with him. Now, he's like a cornered animal, abandoned by those who benefitted from his "expertise" and being pressured by the Opposition to strike the hand that once fed him and turned him into what he's now---a disgraced Rotarian and a publicly crucified alleged thief.

Now, what future awaits Bolante? Gloria and her gang of misfits already said publicly, they're "hands off". They say, he's on his own. Will his fellow Rotarians protect him from all of these? Wagging tongues say some members of the Rotary mafia might use some of their powers and influence to make Bolante toe the line.

Bolante's future depends on how he'll play his cards. He has two options. First, he might just might do a Romulo Neri. Neri's case is a glaring example of government success in placating an angry citizenry. Neri escaped public scrutiny when he found succor from a friendly Court, being a government functionary himself. That Supreme Court decision called "People vs. Neri" effectively gave immunity to government officials involved in nefarious deals. Bolante and his benefactors might just invoke this and say that Bolante's part of the fertilizer scam is part of executive privilege, since it happened during his time as a government official.

In Bolante's case, he, theoretically, enjoys none. Knowing this regime though and how it uses all of its powers to protect its publicly crucified mafia members, Arroyo's regime might pull just one final magic act to save itself from the embarrassment of a Bolante expose. It might even appoint Bolante to a government post, effectively shielding him from further public scrutiny.

If Bolante choose this path, he may only benefit from it until Arroyo relinquishes power in 2010. After that, he, like his benefactor, Arroyo, face tremendous legal problems. In the next administration, Bolante will still face prosecution, even the bleak prospect of spending his life in jail.  

Now, should Bolante turn ala Lozada, this is actually not a risk-free thing. For one, he may have to face not only physical but also legal threats from many sectors, that includes the Powerful Mafia inside the Arroyo regime. He might get a favorable public sympathy, even reprieve from his illegal acts, but it can only be a viable option if and only if Lozada's group is stronger than the present administration. As it appears right now, the group which Lozada aligned himself with, seems weaker than Arroyo's. Or, they may appear to be weak.

What baffles me is the nonchalance that Arroyo's mafia guys are showing right now. Are they expecting that nothing would amount to this outcry against Bolante? That there's already a plan to diffuse this circus surrounding the fertilizer fund scam?

CBCP condemns Arroyo for corruption

The Catholic Bishop's Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) just released a strongly worded condemnation of the Arroyo regime. CBCP head Archbishop Angel Lagdameo condemned the Arroyo regime for doing nothing to fight corruption. Lagdameo urged the people to act now and change the government.

This, by far, according to Ricky Carandang, is the strongest denunciation ever by the CBCP against Arroyo. Do we see a snowball of dissent against this regime, with Bolante's arrival as the starting point? Hopefully, yes. 

The rise of the New Patriots have begun. 

On second thought...maybe the CBCP is just muscle flexing so that Arroyo strictly followed what she promised---a veto against the Reproductive Health Bill? 

Is this another stunt to show Arroyo that CBCP has the numbers and the power of mischief to force Gloria to choose the CBCP over globalist reproductive health bill lobbyists?

Nineteen years without Change

For those of you who identify with the Patriots of the New Generation, here is something to ponder upon. It's the statement of the Young Officer's Union (YOU) during the height of the 1989 struggle. You can find it at this site. Here's the statement:

"The military institution that we envision is one that is highly professionalized; where promotions are based on merits and not on mere personal loyalties and favors; where its mantle of protection and security are showered to all Filipinos not just to the elite and privileged few; where nationalism, patriotism and service to the Filipino people and nation become the fundamental virtues and ideals; where its role is not limited to a mere security force but an active partner in nation building. In short, what we envision and would want to rebuild is an AFP that is genuinely the Army of the Filipino People…

In the fields, many soldiers go on constant long patrols with empty stomachs and gradually being out-uniformed and out-armed by communist and secessionist rebels. Countless junior officers find themselves placed in a situation where they cannot do anything but cry as they watch their men and comrades die needlessly for lack of medical supplies or suitable transport. One must go through such experience before one can understand how bitterly it feels. All because of corrupt officials entrenched in the higher echelons in their air-conditioned offices. These are not the kind of people whom we are dying for!...

So when we talk of questions like “whose side does YOU identify itself with” - we can only say, we are on the side of those who believe that the Filipino people’s interest must be paramount and should be the basis of our action. We declare that we shall always be on the side of the Filipino people...

We military men are not robots. We too have conscience, and between obedience to a corrupt, vindictive, incompetent, isolated and muppet regime and loyalty to the people, we chose the latter; for after all, we are Filipino first before we are soldiers. The concrete conditions in our society now compel us, soldiers and citizens, to topple this government in accordance with our constitutional duty and right to revolution. Indeed, the fundamental law of the land recognizes the AFP as the protector of the people and state, we soldiers are therefore bound by our sacred duty to protect the Filipino masses against a corrupt, incompetent, vindictive, isolated and muppet government."


Young Officers Union

(YOU)

Quite scary, is'nt it? This statement was made nineteen years ago. Uncanny that the situation of the soldiers remains the same even after three administrations. What is wrong?

The Cycle of Shame

Have’nt you noticed that everytime this administration’s lackeys escape the long arm of the law, they become more brazen in stealing our money? From 1997 up to 2008, the total money which went out of the public coffers and lined the pockets of corrupt and greedy men has cost us more than 67 billion pesos already–enough to subsidize the daily nutritional requirements of Metro Manila’s poor for 3 years. The spike of graft cases occurred just lately, with government deals reaching over the multi-billion peso mark.

Recently, we saw how multi-million dollar projects turn into billion dollars overnight. One example is the Northrail project. We saw how government officials tried to feast on a multi-million telecommunications which only went sour when the public turn vigilante.

Now, our government is opening up the mining and oil fields sector in hopes of getting some much-needed revenues. It’s actually good if the revenues from these projects go straight to us. In all likelihood, some of it may fatten the bank accounts of a few.

The reason being, most of our government officials have a misplaced concept of accountability. High government officials think that they owe their positions to the appointing power instead of the public. They don’t recognize that those monies which have been entrusted to them belong to the people. Yes, we have checks and balances, like the vaulted Commission on Audit. And yes, we have prosecuting arms that investigate and file cases. Yet, for all of these, we find not a single big one, the mastermind, prosecuted for graft and corruption.

So, the impression that these thieves have is, they can get away with murder for as long as (1) they enjoy the trust of the real powers behind the seat of power and (2) the higher they are in the totem pole, the least likely they’ll be prosecuted and put behind bars. Its understandable, given the laxity our agencies put behind anti-graft campaigns.

So, expect more anomalous deals. Brace for more multi-billion peso ones since elections is just around the corner. These deals are out to fatten the pockets of a privileged few just to keep them happy and contented. Anyway, it’s just a simple paper bearing the Seal of the Highest Office that they keep as license for fiduciary murder.

And we go to the very core of this issue–the perpetuation of this thievery by a patronage-oriented leadership. For as long as we have an administration that is being held hostage by its own savage and greedy officials, graft cases will keep on rising. Look–how many of our leaders would benefit from an impeachment complaint? Most, I guess. Those who’ll support will have the promises of rewards. Those who’ll not, will always have the license to continue what they already started. This cycle of thievery of the highest order has already been there. And it will continue unabated for as long as these people in government fail to recognize that there are dire consequences in life, liberty and property should they misplace their accountabilities. For now, we only have God to go to seek comfort whenever we hear of another government official’s guffaws all the way to the bank.

Magtiis

I would just like to ask for the indulgence of all my non-Filipino readers. I wrote the following entry to my fellow Filipinos on the eve of the arrival of alleged fertilizer scam architect Joc-Joc Bolante. If you want to know what this letter means, please just ask your Filipino friends.

Mga mahal na kapatid na Pilipino sa lahat ng dako,

Hindi ninyo ba napapansin? Habang papalapit ang pagdating ni Jocelyn "Joc-Joc" Bolante, lagi nating naririnig ang katagang "arkitekto" ng fertilizer scam. Maaaring totoo. O maaaring hindi. Pero, ang sigurado--ipinako na ng gobyerno ang lahat ng sisi kay Bolante.

Epektibong istratehiya ito dahil wala na tayong nakikitang midyang nagtuturo kay Gloria bilang totoong mastermind dito. At malamang, talagang si Bolante ang may pakana, pero, hindi ba natin uungkatin kung sino ang talagang nakinabang at maaaring siyang utak ng iskandalong ito?

Sino ang nag-udyok kay Bolante na walang takot na ipatupad ang scam na ito? Nasan ang limpak-limpak na salaping sinasabing itinago at hindi napakinabangan maging noong 2004 elections?

Maaaring hindi na natin malalaman ang tunay na istorya sapagkat tinapos na ng Senado ang kanilang imbestigasyon at tanging sa Ombusman na lamang ang pag-asa. Pero, sa inaasta ni Merceditas Gutierrez, ang kawalang aksyon ng ahensya sa kabila ng tatlong taong nakasampa ang kaso at malamlam na interes ng taumbayan sa pinuntahan ng kanilang buwis, malamang na mauwi sa wala ito.

Tulad ng karamihan sa mga iskandalong kinasangkutan ng mga opisyales de gobyerno, nauwi sa bula ang perang ninakaw ng mga kawatan. Ilang buwang inabot ang galit ng taumbayan. Pero, pagkatapos nito, unti-unting nawala sa mga pahayagan at nakalimutan.

Habang patuloy ang kawalang katarungan, palaki ng palaki ang pagnanakaw na ginagawa sa atin ng mga kawatan. Habang may nakakatakas sa katiwalian dahilan sa may tiwala sa kanila ang Malakanyang, lumalaki ang nawawala sa kaban ng bayan.

Magpapatuloy na magpapakapagod tayo sa pagbabayad ng buwis. Hihigit sa sampung milyong Pinoy ang lulunok ng sariling laway at magpapa-alila sa mga dayuhan, makatakas lamang sa napipintuhong kahirapan. At hindi iilan ang kakapit sa patalim, mabayaran lamang ang VAT, sanlaksang buwis, pati na mataas na kuryente't gasolina, maituloy lamang ang pamumuhay sa ating lipunan.

Sabi nga ng ilan, life goes on. Let's move forward at hintayin na lamang ang 2010. May pag-asa pa.

Nasasaan ang pag-asa? Pag-asang sa susunod na administrasyon, milyon-milyon na lamang ang kukubrahin ng mga kawatan at hindi na bilyon-bilyon? Nasasaan ang pag-asa? Pag-asang magiging mumo na lamang at maibabaon sa limot ang mga katiwalian at kawalang-katarungang ginawa sa atin ng kasalukuyang administrasyon? 

Para na rin tayong nagparaya sa kabuktutan at kahalayan at pagkatapos magpakasarap ng animal na mananambong, tatalikod tayo at sasabihing, may pag-asa pa at kalimutan ang kapalastanganan sa ating karangalan.

Hindi ko naman masisisi ang mga Pinoy. Naging pambansang anthem na natin ang Erap song na "magtiis". Naging national animal na rin natin ang kalabaw. 

Kumbaga, kapagka kinubabawan ka at nilapastangan ng isang rapist, ibukas mo pa ng mas malaki ang mga binti mo at "enjoy" (a famous quote from Foreign Secretary Raul Manglapus).

Kumbaga, kung binomba na ng mga dayuhan, pinatay ang mga mamamayan, kinatay ang mga sanggol ng mga sakang na Hapon, mag-tiis at mag-enjoy.

Sa pagbalik ng isang sinasabing kawatan na ni wala tayong narinig na sorry man lang, tanungin siguro natin ang ating mga sarili---bilang Pinoy, okey na ba tayo sa asado o sa bola-bola lang? Ito ba ang kapalit ng 756 milyong pisong pinuhunanan natin ng ating pagod sa pagtratrabaho makapagbayad lang ng buwis? Ang tanggaping ang katotohanan ay maaaring asadong may laman o isang siopao na may bola-bola.

Bahagi na ng ating kultura ang umasa na lamang ng umasa na magkakaroon ng magandang umaga sa kabila ng mga dagok sa ating buhay. Kung mahirap ang lagay ng bayan, mangibang bansa. Kung makakatapos ka naman ng kolehiyo, kunin mo na ang nursing at siguradong me US green card ka.

Kailan kaya tayo tatayo at sasabihing, oras nang kilalanin natin ang ating mga karapatan? Na hindi tayo kailangang magtiis sapagkat karapatan nating maging mabuti ang lagay ng ating mga buhay?

Na, hindi na tayo kailan man papayag na nanakawan tayo ng harap-harapan ng mga kawatan at papatawan na talaga natin ng matinding kaparusahan ang mga mandarambong ng kaban ng bayan?

Kailan kaya na sasabihin natin ng harapan na walang silbi ang mga naninilbihan sa pamahalaan. Kailan kaya tayo pipiyok at sasabihin ng harapan na pitsa-pitsa ang serbisyo ng DPWH sa EDSA?

At kailan kaya natin sasabihin na diring-diri tayo sa mga namumuno ngayon sa atin, na karapatan nating magkaroon ng mas mabuting gobyerno at maiging pamumuhay at sawang-sawa na tayong pamunuan ng mga palpak at makasariling opisyales de gobierno?

May isa pang pagkakataon. 

Sa pagbabalik ni Joc-Joc Bolante, sana piliin natin ang tumpak at tamang daan. Manawagan tayo ng katarungan. Ilabas niya ang katotohanan. Kung mag ala-Neri siya, huwag na huwag tayong papayag na hindi niya makamtan ang katarungang pambayan. 

Galit tayo sa snatcher. Galit tayo sa akyat-bahay. Mas dapat tayong magalit sa mga kawatang naka suot ng barong at harap-harapan tayong niloloko. 

Lopez Family Wins: GSIS stake in Meralco sold to San Miguel

I laud the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for deciding to suspend the implementation of a Meralco rate hike this November. The ERC acted on the petition of NASECORE for the ERC to review the grant of a rate hike by Meralco. That's good news.

What is not good news is the sale of GSIS stake in Meralco. San Miguel Brewery just bought the shares to be paid within 3 years. GSIS expects to earn about 12 billion pesos from the sale of the shares.

I'm sad because there's no more way for the government to pursue the cause of the people within the board of Meralco. The fact that GSIS lost more than 600 million pesos worth of investments is really a concern. It shows how vulnerable GSIS is in equities trading and exposes the risk-taking attitude of those who handle the pension fund. 

With government out from two critical sectors (Government just agreed to sell its stake in Petron, and now, in Meralco), expect these companies to do bold acts such as unabated price hikes. What will happen to the calls of the GSIS for Meralco to come clean? Nothing! Government right now will not have any say on electricity and oil prices. 

GSIS President Winston Garcia may have felt betrayed right now since all his efforts at forcing Meralco transparency went to naught. Come to think of it, may sectors expected Garcia to just sell the stake. His braggadocio was actually just a way for him to raise the stock value of the shares. For a moment, it diluted those stocks. Yet, the lack of foresight by GSIS caused it to fail against the giant electricity distribution firm.

Lopez won....again. Who will finally make the Lopezes kneel?

A tamer November?

Those of you who want a 'tamer' Patricio Mangubat, check out this new site http://newphilippines.wordpress.com. I love the design of this site. There are new things there. Also, thanks for all of you for reading my other site http://pinoyobserver.wordpress.com. It already gained quite a strong following. For less than 3 months, the site has grown exponentially. I'll try to research more controversies, though, since most people read the site for non-political things.

Now, going back to business. 

I'm seriously thinking of leaving my beloved country and again, work abroad. For one, I've mistaken that people here are ready for new ideas, especially in business. As it turns out, companies here still run traditional methods, particularly in management. My experience shows me that whenever I work for foreigners who are well-respected and highly knowledgeable in their craft, I also excel.

Now, on national issues.

There are some talks that Verzosa might decide to on voluntary leave. People are talking about Verzosa's wife having some part in the alleged Euro scandal. As I've said, in other countries, such controversies could have forced the Chief of Police to resign. Here, people who committed gaffes always hide behind the cloak of 'the palace trust'. I think the palace realized its mistake, that's why yesterday Anthony Golez, the other half of the palace spokespersons, corrected Dureza's earlier statement on the palace still trusting Verzosa. 

More than this though is the possible implication of this issue with that of the impeachment complaint and Bolante's return. Verzosa might be vulnerable for tempting offers from both sides of the fence; one 'buying" his loyalty; the other, convincing him to jump ship. It's an untenable position. 

One thing is sure though---as day passes, the possibility of Gloria's ouster grows. Everything might appear silent, yet, as they say, silent waters run deep. And the prospect of ouster through impeachment is even not in the cards yet.

Barack Obama and US anti-terror campaign

A US spy plane crashed in the town of Pikit, North Cotabato in the region of Mindanao, Philippines last October 18.  Also, reports show an increasing number of US troops arriving into Mindanao. This suggests one thing--is the US government changing its policy in engaging Bangsamoro rebels in the conflict-laden Mindanao?

The US embassy has not issued any statement on this. Evidently, this shows that US military continued support of the AFP in its battles against the MILF ground commanders. 

US intervention in low-intensity conflicts in the Asia-Pacific region is nothing new. Since the 1950's, US direct intervention has been documented. Understandably, US defense interests include Mindanao, since, earlier posts suggest that it has direct implications on the overall global anti-terror campaigns.

The question is---what will Barack Obama do in relation to the escalating war in Mindanao? Will Obama increase US defense spending to combat the 

Bangsamoro rebels? Or will defense spending remain the same? 

Will the US continue its mediator role in the conflict or will it increase its military interventionist role? All indications point to increased military intervention, since, analysis suggest a further escalation and possible spillover to the rest of the region.

The possibility of Mindanao turning into a serious regional flashpoint remains very big.  If some MILF commanders successfully oust MILF Chairman Murad from his seat, the prospect of the organisation entering into peace talks is doomed. It would, however, secure victory for the MILF on the long term; yet, victory could send the wrong signal to the world, a signal that could embolden ot

her terrorist organisations around the globe.

Simply put--what the US does'nt need right now is another success story of the extremists. The US is losing the war on terror in almost all fronts--Somalia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. A victory in Mindanao by Islamist-oriented rebel groups in Mindanao could increase morale in other flashpoints, most especially in Southern Thailand which remains as a hotbed of Islamist secessionism. 

A victory could spill-over Thailand,                   strengthen JI in Indonesia and Malaysia and even affect Singapore. China could also be affect

ed since there is a growing militaristic Islamism there. 

A weak handling of this Mindanao problem by the US could tip the balance of power in the region, what with the new orientation of the new administration--from an anti-terror standpoint to economic orientation.

Barack Obama's pronouncement that his main priority would be solving the US sub-prime crisis first shows a lack of understanding on the implications of decreasing US role in the global war on terror.

More than lip-service, Barack Obama should maintain full support on the war on terror; otherwise, he might find his government looking in a totally different world political map in the next few years.

Another question---will Mindanao serve as Barack's "Bay of Pigs" ? Since Barack has this propensity of positioning himself as the "incarnation" of US President John F. Kennedy, will he also encounter the same problem and commit the same grievous mistake his predecessor did in his time? More on this. 

The Mindanao War, part 1

Brussels-based International Crisis Group validated earlier entries in this site on the continued existence of about 60 Islamic militants allegedly seeking sanctuary in Mindanao.

Yesterday, former General and now head of the Philippine counter-terrorism unit, Arturo Lomibao, echoed the ICG's concern--that despite strict controls, members of the Jemaah Islamiyah continue to pour into Mindanao. 

This problem persists despite billions of pesos worth of government intelligence funds and overseas development assistance (ODA). Likewise, the failure of CIA-sponsored civic organisations and "peace groups" to penetrate the deep cover of JI in Mindanao is also one factor.

The presence of Islamic militants in Mindanao is not new. Since the 1970's, Mindanao has been the haven of jihadists escaping the long arm of the law in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia. It is not surprising since Mindanao's lush forests provide a convenient cover for militarist trainings; and its long coastlines, somewhat indefensible and poorly monitored, give jihadists convenient entry and exit into so-called Philippine territory.

Compounding this is the lack of trust among Muslim communities on anything "government-related" or "government-initiated". Intelligence units try and fail to get substantial information because they lack public support, plus the fact that the citizenry now perceives them as a foreign invading force out to destroy Bangsamoro land. 

However, I do disagree with the findings of the ICG on the status of hostilities between the MILF and the AFP. The ICG claims that both forces don't have enough resources to sustain a long-drawn out war. 

Firstly, the MILF does not need resources comparable to those of an regular army formation. By the looks of it, the MILF has abandoned the strategy of maintaining full army-size battalion units and has shown the capability of fully utilising mobile guerilla units. Hence, the Bangsamoro Islamic Liberation Army Front (BILAF) enjoys both strategic and tactical advantages over the AFP since maintaining guerrilla units is more cost-effective.

And in a guerilla war situation, the longer it takes, the higher the success rate for the MILF. Inversely, the longer this war takes on the GRP, the lower the success rate of the AFP in winning this theater of war. Why? The AFP would be over-extending its forces, combatting extremists, Bangsamoro mujaheddins, extremist forces lurking within its organisation and the New People's Army. In this kind of war, superiority in numbers does'nt count much since any guerilla warfare expert would definitely tell you that it's just a matter of time before a highly efficient and mobile guerilla organisation cuts an army to pieces. Cases in point: Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, Cambodia, Kosovo, Chechnya, China, Cuba, and of course, Somalia.

Foreign Islamic militants serve not just as bearers of new technology; they serve as morale boasters. Equipped with the knowledge of Islam, these JI members are better than army chaplains. They can go to the battlefield and provide psychological support to guerillas. Plus factor is most of these Islamists are experts in Islamic studies; hence, they conduct religious indoctrination to those communities within the guerillas' area of operations.

Their presence also changes the complexion of the war since it brings international attention to this war in Mindanao. International attention means more money and more logistics, thus prolonging the capability of the Bangsamoro mujaheddin to wage war against the AFP.

So, we see the difference. The orientation of the Bangsamoro is strategic while the AFP is more tactical. The AFP intends to defeat the MILF camp-per-camp, a conventional strategy. While the Bangsamoro mujaheddins plans to defeat the entire force of the GRP through a strategic and protracted guerilla war. 

Problems I see

One sticky issue that could hamper and even affect the outcome of this guerilla war is the on-going internal issues happening within the guerilla organisation. Despite MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu's denials that there is no "animosity" happening between MILF ground commanders and the leadership of Murad, the disparity between his "official statement" and those recently said by MILF Commander Bravo over at ABS-CBN says volumes on the miscommunication between Murad's group and those of his commanders. 

Commander Bravo's statement borders on military engagement while Kabalu's statement echoes the stand of the MILF Central Leadership. It is possible that Murad's group is being "isolated" right now by at least ten field commanders. 

Basis? First, these field commanders oppose any negotiations with the GRP. Even at the start of the negotiations, MILF field commanders have registered their protest, owing to their previous experience talking peace with GRP. This fact belies the statement issued by US Ambassador Kristie Kenney, which cast doubt on the capability of Murad to "bring in the numbers" should a peace settlement really happen. Earlier reports suggest that even if a peace pact is agreed upon by both parties, the probability of assimilating MILF forces into the mainstream remains slim or even nil. 

Second, the opposition of the commanders show how extensive the organisational influence of Islamist thinking among the MILF organisation. Majority of the MILF believes in waging jihad instead of talking peace with these mushrikuns and kafirs. This shows a deeper appreciation of correct Islamic thinking which reminds you of the pervasive influence of Salamat-oriented thinking instead of Murad's. However, I think this thinking has evolved to include JI-oriented thinking, which is more internationalist than Salamat's. 

Losing Murad

There is a possibility that Murad's isolation will be complete in the next few weeks or months. Should Murad lose the MILF leadership, the vacuum would be filled by a more militant leader who'll definitely abandon any peace talks and who'll set his sights on international solidarity. 

A split within the MILF, however, should not be a cause of joy for the GRP. On the contrary, this will show a change in the complexion of the war. 

Likewise, if the GRP thinks that these commanders will just went over the fence and go to Nur Misuari's camp, think again. Indications point to a formation of a new group whose orientation is more on protracted jihad than talking peace. Misuari's influence is not that pervasive nor persuasive. If Misuari thinks that he can still unify the Bangsamoro People under his supposed leadership, he's mistaken. He has been co-opted already and enjoys only a miniscule of support even among the Tausugs.

However, the possibility of two theaters of war exists. The GRP would be battling two fronts: the new organisation of MILF commanders and Misuari's peace army. Oh, include that section of the ASG. 

Next, I will be discussing the widespread implications of this in RP and the region. So, stay tune...

General Verzosa to do a General Lastimoso?

Seems that PNP Chief Director General Jesus Verzosa confirmed what I stumbled upon at Chiching about the true nature of the money which Director Eliseo Dela Paz had with him in Moscow. It's not contingency fund. Rather, it's allegedly for the purchase of surveillance equipment. Go check TV Patrol. 

You can find that juicy story here.

One question though--it's interesting to know why these Euro generals swapped their intelligence fund for Euros? I travel a lot. And the normal practice is, you swap your pesos with US dollars. Why Euros? Maybe to buy Vuitton bags? 

Or, maybe the money were actually jueteng money, as what Senator Pimentel alleges and were to be laundered in some bank abroad?

And also....am I seeing a repeat of what happened to former General Roberto Lastimoso? Will we see the resignation of Verzosa, like what Lastimoso did before?

Is this one of the signs before we see a bright morning? Abangan!

The Cavalier Way

Senator Mar. Roxas expressed dismay and alarm over what can be described as a "cavalier" way in  which PNP Chief Jesus Verzosa took in addressing this 6.9 million "cash advance" scam. Verzosa's mistah (classmate), Director dela Paz is at the center of this controversy, along with seven other PNP generals, believed to be members of PMA Class 1976 also. If you look at it, it does seem like Verzosa acted "cavalier-ly" when asked if he knows about General dela Paz's withdrawal of 6.9 million from the PNP funds. 

Roxas says the people should be alarmed since Verzosa seems "too kind" to his classmates.  Verzosa's nonchalant way should be a cause for worry, since Verzosa has a tendency to favor the caprices of his mistahs instead of thinking about the national welfare. 

Roxas said if Verzosa already demonstrated how disinterested he is in safe-guarding public funds in his office, the public should ever be more vigilant since this reflects a very serious flaw on Verzosa's administrative style. 

I agree with the good senator. The fact that Verzosa did not know about his mistah's acts and that he allowed the release of the funds with just one phone call from dela Paz, shows that Verzosa's priorities are somewhere else. 

These mistahs should be reminded of their Honor Code. And lest they also forget is--they owe their careers as cavaliers to the people. If they show or exhibit arrogance when called upon to account for their actions, they are no different from their enemies who defy the law.

Government officials should be reminded that they are accountable not to Gloria but to the people. The Filipino People deserve officers that respect the Filipino People, not those who "cavalier-ly" act in deference to their true masters.

A distorted interpretation of the Concept of the Ubermensch

Controversial pseudo-priest HPOS (I don't want to write his link here. It just makes people curious about him--a dangerous proposition) claims to be an ubermensch. This concept started with German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. Nietzsche brewed that concept during heights of his insanity. However, there's some grain of truth in the concept, rooted in Darwin's determinism.

Yes, a class of ubermensch is expected as humankind progresses. Evolutionary theories confirm that. However, Nietzsche presupposes the growth of a new set of men, stronger not because of the power they wield but the potentialities they hold.

Let me elucidate. As society progresses due to advantages in technology, human beings will also grow and transform to better adapt to these environmental changes. Such adaptation may be in the form of physiological transformations, small alterations in physical human forms. However, the most apparent change would be in the growth in human intelligence. As society advances, the rate or level of technological advances also increases. To adapt to such changes, humans try and expand their knowledge through scientific inquiries. These scientific inquiries lead to more newer advantages and more scientific discoveries. These discoveries are then assimilated into the system and the system adjusts to it and more inquiries would then happen, so on and so forth, ad infinitum.

Eventually, ubermenschs are created. These men are not tyrants. They are simply a set of New Men, known for their superior intelligence than others who prove to be slow in adaptation. They are as what smoke described in her post today. 

Equating the concept of ubermenschs with that of the ascendancy of a superior race is fallacious. That's the misinterpretation caused by too much reading of Nietzsche by Hitler and Goebbels, leading to the mistaken assumption that an Aryan race is far superior than other races. In fact, if you read Nietzsche closely enough, you'll find that the philosopher suggested nothing of this sort. What he describes is the expected evolution of humankind, from its present state to an ubermensch state, which, in closer study, is still not yet here. 

To claim that one is an ubermensch and ascribing it to the concept of domination is just brag.

Joc-Joc Bolante's Arrival: End of Days for Arroyo?

Jocelyn "Joc-Joc" Bolante, the undersecretary who allegedly masterminded the Fertilizer scam is set to arrive on a Northwest airlines flight on Tuesday, October 28. (this corrects my earlier piece that Joc-Joc has arrived and being held in a villa in Subic). 

His arrival will not be met with an arrest, since according to in Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales' interview, Bolante has no pending case. However, Senator Cheez Escudero asked the Senate to immediately revive the pending warrant for Bolante's arrest for possible plunder.

Question--will Bolante do a Lozada and cause another stir in the political hornet's nest? Or will he parrot the official government line? Such may be the thoughts of the condemned Atenean now that he's a man without a face. 

If I'm Joc-Joc, I would just tell the truth. Why? Will you protect someone who's just a year and a half away from exile? Or even weeks away from exile?

Worst that could happen is if Joc-Joc suffers the fate of Ninoy. That would surely make some fascists in barongs happy. And, martial rule will be served in a golden plate.

The Way to Enlighten the Masses Against One-Woman Rule

There's an interesting thing going on over at Filipinovoices.com, a collective of Filipino bloggers. Over the past few days, there has been a flurry of exchanges between "fascists" and "anti-fascists", with the first salvo initiated by this so-called "High Priest of Smokes", who claims to be a lawyer with a big ego. His (or her?) arguments border from rational to insanely irrational. Obviously, HP is a staunch defender of the insane, err, Gloria, which, to his credit, seems understandable, given his so-called position in the administration. 

However, from all the trash that he wrote, one thing struck me as a valid observation which I'll be discussing here today--why is there no visible signs of dissent against Gloria? If we are to believe those who oppose her, the people oppose one-man rule. Yet, why is there no cogent opposition from the masses?

Yes, we hear members of civil society, former government officials and civic-minded intellectuals writing pieces against this regime. And yes, we always read stuff that reminds us of those evil times under Marcos. However, despite all of these revelations, the masses remain silent, like Orwell's sheep. 

Thinking about it, the answer lies in how civil society position their propaganda against one-man rule. Whenever we talk about "authoritarianism", "dictatorship" or "martial law", we always associate it with the former Marcos dictatorship, which is understandable, since it is the only regime that imposed martial rule. We have this penchant of always using this formula: martial rule=Marcos, or vice versa.

Yet, we fail to grasp that not all people equate bad things during the dictatorship with the Marcos brand name. In fact, over the past years, we see Marcos running just second in the list of most despicable Philippine leaders, shamelessly behind Gloria the Queen of Enchanted Kingdom. Meaning, for the masses, the concept of martial rule is not as equally bad as Gloria's rule. The People are trying to tell us something here.

What the people are trying to say is leave the brand name Marcos alone. If we are to succeed in convincing the people that martial rule or any authoritarian rule is evil, we need to associate the concept of authoritarianism with the loss of liberties under the present administration.

We need to portray Gloria as the head of a cult of fascists in barongs intent on perpetually governing a freedom-loving Nation. We need people to think and feel that their futures are in peril with the continued governance of these fascists. 

We need to tell the masses that the better concept that would at least ensure a bright future for everyone lies in the concept of the collective---that the future would be more secured if there's a group of leaders who serve as Vanguards of Democracy. The anti-thesis of the concept of one-man rule is collective governance. This concept should be explained more thoroughly to the masses to disabuse their minds that martial rule is not bad.

Creeping Fascism

First, that attempt to take over Meralco (which on second thought, seems okey to me now. I know. I opposed it before. But, because of this electricity rate hike this coming month, it would be best for everyone for government to manage Meralco. I;ve had enough of Meralco and the Lopezes already). Then, the outbreak of war in Mindanao. And now this.

IN Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales' interview, he charged that ABS-CBN 2 violated the Code of Ethics and its franchise with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) when it released an interview of MILF Commander Bravo. Bravo is wanted by the law. The Philippine Army and the PNP are out there in Mindanao, trying to arrest the elusive commander.

My good friend, George Carino (who's a brilliant journalist and hails from Bulacan) traced the whereabouts of Bravo and interviewed him. I saw his interview. And I found nothing wrong. I would agree with my professor, Luis Teodoro, that ABS-CBN 2 violated no law.

Jun Nicdao of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) also found nothing wrong with the interview. As a former journalist myself, I saw nothing that would merit a sanction against ABS-CBN.

What instigated IN Justice secretary Raul Gonzales?

Gonzales said that ABS-CBN violated its franchise when it gave air space to a known fugitive. He said that Bravo used ABS-CBN to "instigate" fellow Muslims to "foment violence or the use of arms".

Where? Where in the interview did Bravo actually tell his fellow Muslims that they need to raise up arms against the government? I never saw nor heard anything similar to what (in)Justice secretary Gonzales referred to as "instigations"? Am I dreaming or Mr. Gonzales is just hallucinating?

Gonzales' acts are plain and simple muscle flexing. Government is trying to frighten one of the biggest media networks in the land for one goal--neutralize or marginalize media outlets. Why? Is government laying the ground for martial rule? My mother told me that this is the same tactic employed by the dictator Marcos a year or two before he implemented martial rule. History shows that media was the first one neutralized, second were civil society and people's organisations, and lastly, progressive middle class groups.

Are we in the midst of martial rule?

Joc-Joc Bolante here in Philippines?

Breaking news---is Joc-Joc Bolante now in the Philippines and being kept in a secured villa at Subic? That the expected arrival on the 31st of this month will just be a scripted one?

One of my highly-placed source in the community says that US immigration policy mandates the immediate repatriation (read: DEPORTATION) of a person who failed to pass the asylum test. Immediate repatriation means "immediate" as in pronto. I want to make this clear because Pinoys and Americans have totally different concepts when it comes to time.

If his asylum was rejected just recently, then, it would just take him at most 24 hours to arrive here.

A source also told me that Joc-Joc enplaned early in the morning at the Diosdado Macapagal International airport and was whisked away immediately upon arrival. Is this true? If this is, indeed, the case, then, why the secrecy? Is the government preparing Joc-Joc Bolante for his bout against the Senators come November?

And if, indeed Joc-Joc Bolante is here, who is keeping him? Is it government functionaries or the opposition?

People should protest against Meralco NOW!

I REALLY CAN'T UNDERSTAND THE LOGIC OF MERALCO. Crude oil price is now at the US$ 60 plus per barrel. Everywhere, companies, especially oil firms, have been lowering their retail prices. Now, what justifies a MERALCO ELECTRICITY RATE HIKE? Pang-inis ba ke Gloria?

It's time for everyone to stand up against this cocky electricity distribution firm. Among Asian countries, the Philippines has the highest electricity rates. This is too much already. The Lopezes should be stopped right this minute! Me utang pa nga kayo sa aming mga consumers na P 3billion plus and you're supposed to give it back to us.

Gloria should fire those at the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for giving in to the pressure of the Lopezes to hike rates. This is too much!!!

This government, if it has any use to us, should do something to stop Meralco from imposing additional rates to us consumers. If Gloria and her minions remain inutile, we might as well, oust all of them and jail all of them, including the Board of Directors of Meralco.

Mga inutil! Can't you understand that Filipinos are suffering due to high electricity rates? If you're receiving a monthly take-home pay of 15,000 pesos, about 4-5,000 goes only to Meralco. And you're left with 10,000, yes? What is 10,000 pesos nowadays, with higher food prices and rent. 

Pinapatay tayong unti-unti ng Meralco at ng gobyernong ito na inutil sa kalagayan ng taumbayan.

Is Joc-Joc Bolante still Gloria's man?

INFAMOUS former Agriculture Undersecretary Joc-Joc Bolante is slated to arrive possibly next week. Bolante, who reportedly engineered the billion peso fertilizer scam, has been ordered deported by the US Immigration department after losing his assylum case. The Senate has been hot on the heels of Bolante since the conclusion of the Senate fertilizer scam probe. Senators are just waiting for him to land his feet at NAIA to arrest him.

Question–will the Arroyo administration allow Bolante to “spill the beans” so to speak before the Senate? Bolante is still a precious commodity, especially to Gloria. Will the administration let go of Bolante? And will Bolante’s testimony trigger widespread dissent against Gloria?

Seems like there’s already a “strategy” to effectively gag Bolante. A Cabinet portfolio waiting for him? Possibly. With the SC affirming “executive privilege”, that would effectively shield Bolante from Gloria’s enemies.

Question–is Bolante still in Gloria’s ambit of influence? Let’s wait and see. Will Bolante do a Lozada?

Government official is Rolito Go's Padrino

Who is the newly appointed government official allegedly facilitating the immediate release of convicted killer Rolito Go? I have it on good authority that Go's release is the top priority now of the Bureau of Pardons and Parole, after this official interceded on the convict's behalf.

This official, a loser in the senatorial elections in 2007, reportedly asked the BPP to immediately submit all of Go's files to Malacanang to process his parole. The official is a close kumpare of Go, having stood as sponsor to one of Go's kids. 

The official even boasted that he'll be the one who'll push the paper for Gloria's signature. Talk about brazenness and utter braggadocio.

Under our laws, only those convicts who have served at least 30 years of their full term of 40 (in the case of reclusion perpetua) or has reached the mandatory age of 70 years old, are eligible for pardon. 

Go is just 61 years old and has been serving time for just 12 years. Like the case of Claudio Teehankee, Go is still not eligible for executive clemency or pardon.

Will we allow another case of injustice to happen? The Maguan Family has registered their protest against the release of Go. Yet, as they say, if you have the money in this country, 10 years in jail is such a long time.

Global Financial Ice Age

We are entering a financial ice age, says the International Monetary Fund (IMF). And indications point to two quarters of stagnant, even backward market performance. Two quarters indicate recession, with some countries like China recently says it's growth has stunted and possibly could also face the bleak prospect of a recession. Economic growth has slowed down considerably, a direct consequence of a US recession. Export-oriented and import-dependent countries like the Philippines would also most likely be hit with a global economic slowdown.

Philippine president Gloria Arroyo just asked the Department of Finance and the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas to allocate 100 billion pesos as standby crisis fund. This fund would be extended to companies, especially export-oriented ones, who may be hit by a global recession. Yet, I fear that this amount is insufficient to really cover the expected losses of local companies in the event of a full-blown global recession.

Consider--how many billions will be the result of a construction slowdown in the real estate sector? And how will export industries cope with an expected momentary freeze in bank loans and the local credit markets?

Government should all the more look inward and try to find ways to increase consumer spending. That way, increased consumer spending would prevent the Philippine economy from hibernating.

UFO's, Global Recession and People's Revolts

Lately, there has been a renewed fascination on Unidentified Flying Objects (UFO's) and almost everything about alien or extraterrestrial life. If you look at Google's Zeitgeist, you'll find that one of the most searched topics include "alien" or "UFOs". Seems like people are looking for alien life with keen interest probably after NASA found water in Mars and Titan and some success probing other intergalastic systems and finding that water and other elements found on earth exists everywhere in the universe.

Scientists, including astrobiologists are saying that the possibility of "alien life" exists. What they are trying to find evidence is the existence of "intelligent" life which, for all intents and purposes, is the subject of most scientific inquiries. But, for what? Hoping for technology transfers or information-sharing on how to mine resources in the universe? Or just to connect?

If the goal of humankind is just to know if other life exists "out there", then one has to probe within the core of the earth to see if life exists there first. It does'nt need multi-billion space projects to know that. Yet, science is not interested on deep sea exploration even though the prospect of seeing and discovering new "alien" life is potentially huge.

One of the goals of space exploration is, I think, rooted in capitalism. These space probes are actually researches on resources, possibly for mining and profits in the future.

Let us go back to this public fancy on UFO's. If you look at history, you can definitely correlate the increase in "alien" research with that of intense global tensions. Previous to the crash of Wall Street in the 1920's were reports of people seeing flying saucers hovering almost all homes and in all places. Prior to the Second World War, we see hundreds of people in Britain reported UFO sightings. At the height of the Cold War, the same sociological phenomenon.

Now, we find amusing statements from World leaders saying that the fate of humankind rest in intergalactic space exploration, as if suggesting that we are on the brink of destroying the very cradle of intelligent life in this solar system. These statements fuel curiosity about what's happening "out there" instead of really, seriously proving what's happening "here".

I will not be surprised if people, especially those from the West, would report increased sightings of UFO's and the arrival of aliens in beige suits or white frocks. People are looking for ways to release stress and tensions owing to this global financial crunch. Am I suggesting that people are just hallucinating? Maybe. Or maybe not. It may be that aliens descend from their space crafts to help and give people some cash. Or that some alien billionaire decided to impart his huge tranche of cash, his profit from all those "alien abductions".

Here in my country, I can definitely predict a big political thing happening whenever people report sightings of dark, hideous creatures from the supernatural world. In the past, people report cases of winged creatures (manananggals) and blood-sucking vampires (asuwang) prior to a coup or a People's Revolt. ABS-CBN TV anchor Julius Babao started making headlines with his reports of asuwangs invading a depressed community in Caloocan city. A celebrity caused a sensation when he reported UFO's landing in some area in Sierra Madre and visiting folks over at that mystical mountain of Quezon province. He even named one of them over national TV. That happened before Erap saw a huge throng of people gather at the famed EDSA Shrine. We saw what happened afterwards--Erap became an "alien" and was caught and hauled at Camp Capinpin in Tanay.

I would not be surprised if, one of these days, Philippine journalists would start reporting cases of "alien abductions", "visits from the grave", "attacks from asuwangs" or even "malevolent duendes (dwarfs) raping virgins". Hey, its Halloween. Or it's the season for charter change?

(If you're really interested on the scientific inquiry about UFO's, look at the National Archives of the British government. They have recently released official documents on the UFO phenomenon. Check it out.)

The Evolution of Contempt and the Genesis of High Horses

High Priest gives us a glimpse of how officials, especially those within the circles of this evil regime (i don't want to call it empire), think about governance. Quite simply, they think that they're the magistrates of old serving an otherwise evil kingdom. In this little country, those who think that way deserves more than derision; they deserve nothing less than a guillotine.

The last time I heard, we're still living in a democracy. Thoughts about how government is right and the citizenry always wrong harks back to the days of the medieval era, where Kings and Queens rule with wanton abandonment. Flushed with tributes and sometimes, claims of divinity, these Kings and Queens rule an otherwise ignorant mass of people. When the Intellectual Revolution came, and gave rise to new ideas, even raised questions on the legitimacy of the concept of monarchy, these royal families lost their "blue-bloodiness". They were exposed as flesh and bones. They saw how red their blood is when it started spurting from their heads.

And History always point to the defeat of those who think highly of themselves. Saddam Hussein was the last one to get it. A few decades back, we saw how democratic forces defeated Hitler and the struggle continues. Death is not the way to defeat these kinds. It is always a better paradigm that kills a harmful intellectual virus.

I don't need to point how shameful this administration is. We all read that in earlier posts. However, this regime has turned from shameful to unabashedly harmful, since, it is being populated now by fascists in barongs. It's already bad that this regime governs without the right direction; it is now equally appalling that pseudo-intellectuals like this so-called HighPriest who claims that he/she was elected as a King, walks the corridors of power.

Noteworthy also to note how the Arroyo administration is morphing into a hideous monster; that kind that attracts megalomaniacal flies, such as this High Priest of Smokes, who's sole duty is to obfuscate issues rather than answering them.

And it's always that way in this regime. Evidently, that's the unwritten code being strictly followed by those who serve the devil enfant. Gloria chose to be queen of this enchanted Kingdom, yet because of her weak leadership, it has allowed people within her to think of themselves as "mini mes",  and " surrogate kings" and "sheriffs of nottingham". 

High Priest is a manifestation of an intellectual vacuum in Malacanang's pecking order. And those who love democracy should not just shudder in their seats; they need to act to defeat these pseudo-intellectuals trying to justify what Malacanang intends to do--extend Gloria's term. Short of any legal justification, the minions of Gloria, like this High Priest of Smokes, are resorting to political and philosophical ideas to mask or hide though smoking mirrors, that naked and truest desire for the perpetuation of Gloria's power. 

There is no philosophical nor political ideals that would justify Gloria and her gang of misfits' continued governance. Be reminded that Gloria's rule started on a wrongful or tortuous premise in 2004. To lust for another ten years is not just gut-wrenching; it's the purest form of evil. 

However, evil as it is, it is equally shameful for people, like Filipinos, to let this happen. As what my good friend Trixie Angeles used to say, if you let an injustice go away without acting on it, you're as part of those who did it.

Defeat we will, those who pollute us with their fascist ideas. Fascism has no place in modern societies.

What to do?

Failure of MOA-AD is planned

Heard the interview of former general Hermogenes Esperon by Tony Velasquez in his show over at ANC.

"What I did regarding the peace negotiations with the MILF was done in GOOD FAITH. And for those who want my head, I serve at the pleasure of the president. I respect the decision of the Supreme Court...We will file a manifestation or a motion for reconsideration."

Bull. We all know that Malacanang abandoned the MOA-AD when the middle class, especially those belonging to the civil society, registered a howl of protest against it. And the Palace does'nt intend to pursue this, considering that the MILF already said that they will not go back to the negotiating table without the signature of the GRP in a similarly worded agreement. The MILF want nothing less. For sure, negotiations for the stalled peace talks would have to be done after Congress passes the lifting of the foreign equity bill being proposed by Speaker Nograles. As soon as Congress and Malacanang opens the charter up for amendments, that'll be the time for a resumption of the peace talks.

Prosecuting Esperon and the peace panel members for treason? That will never prosper. Esperon enjoys the confidence of the president, because if that's not the case, Gloria would have fired him for obvious dereliction of duty.

Impeachment

Speaking on the impeachment, complainants know that, even if they have sufficient evidence to pill down Gloria, this is a wasteful exercise in futility. They don't have the numbers and time is against them. Congress will definitely prioritize Nograles' bill. The complaint will be relegated in the backburner and for sure, nothing will come out of it. 

Maybe the proponents like to squeeze every publicity juice from it. In all likelihood, this will also fail. People already know Gloria's liability and rubbing it in is not a good way to create casus belli.

Will they use those voluminous documents to file criminal complaints against Gloria? Yes. They are using it a carrot and stick approach. Will it work? Well, it will not. If Gloria succeeds in changing the charter, then, this complaint will fall by the wayside. Now, should the elections happen, still, Gloria and her gang of misfits will surely get away with it. The next administration will definitely not create instability by pursuing a case against its predecessor. That would be a waste of time. Besides, Arroyo will surely enter into a compromise agreement whoever succeeds in 2010. Whether its Mar Roxas or even Joseph Estrada, Gloria is sure to escape the full arm of the law. 

The Reproductive Health Bill

So, Gloria's minions are sure to get what they want come November. They have the numbers. They have the strength. And surely, they'll not get a solid opposition from the church since the palace is using the Reproductive Health bill as a leverage. Critical in all these moves against Gloria is the backing of the Catholic Church. Without those legions coming from Catholic schools, any attempt at rousing an EDSA-like revolution will fail. 

There are talks that Malacanang will enter into a compromise agreement with the Catholic Church. Malacanang wants the church to keep silent against cha-cha in exchange for the president's veto. Without the church in the equation, Gloria is sure to move without opposition for charter change.

Quo Vadis?

So, what to do now? Opposition against Gloria is crumbling like a ginger bread house. If people expect to do it through "legal, constitutional means", failure is a certainty. If people, especially Atty. Harry Roque, the Black and White Movement, and Iloilo Vice Governor Suplico wants Gloria to account for her sins, even after her term expires, dream on. Gloria and her husband will surely escape the long arm of the law. With or without elections in 2010, they'll escape unscathed.

The next move? If people really want justice done. If people really want to make an example of Gloria, like what they did against Erap in 2001, they may have to admit that doing it the constitutional route is not the best way to do it. 

Worsening RP Government corruption

Is this the government we want?

Arroyo gov't fails US aid firm's 'control of corruption' test
abs-cbnNEWS.com as of 10/19/2008 4:11 AM

The Arroyo government stands to lose future US government assistance due to its worsening corruption record, Senator Mar Roxas warned Saturday.

According to a report recently released by the Washington-based think-tank, Center for Global Development, the Philippines, for the first time in three years, failed this year the "control of corruption" indicator set by the US-funded Millennium Challenge Corp.

Most of us disagree with ousting this government prior to 2010, but if we continue having a government like this, how would we be able to say that we can weather the global financial storm, having a government such as this, controlling our affairs?

Corruption is just one of the worsening problems. More disturbing is the obvious fact that government has this propensity to bend the law, as a capricious way of getting what they want. With the palace having control over literally all levers of power, how would we possibly fight this scourge that's costing us billions of pesos? 

Do we still need a foreign think-tank group to show us how corrupt our government is right now?

Sneak Attack

Pampanga Congressman Mikey Arroyo was interviewed recently about the alleged machinations being done to extend the term of her mother. ” It’s next to impossible to do that (term extension). How would these Congressmen extend my mother’s term through Charter Change? Will they risk extending the term of an unpopular president?” Mikey said.

Let’s contextualize what Mikey just said (I just paraphrased it). He says Congressmen would not risk extending her mother’s term. That’s true. First termers especially, would not risk supporting an unpopular president. It’s not good politics.

However, they may support a measure lifting all term limits of all elected government officials. This would only happen, if Congress succeeds in altering or amending the Constitution through a Constituent Assembly.

How will they do that? Simple. Speaker Nograles’ proposal to lift the 40% foreign equity ownership cap is one. Nograles already announced that he has the numbers. Surely, in the next few days, we’ll see Congress massaging this issue before the media. They’ll say, Nograles proposal is not for Gloria’s term extension. No. This bill is just one of so many meant to enhance the economic competitiveness of the country.

Many will oppose it and file a complaint before the Supreme Court. Basing on their behavior last week, this bill will be rendered constitutional by the SC, opening up the charter for more revisions. By that time, possibly January of next year, we may yet find ourselves having ten more years of Gloria.

His mother may be unpopular. But she’s in power. And nothing, no one, can stop her.

By the way, those of you who may want to read the impeachment complaint filed by Atty. Roque etal, click here.

Congress will dance the cha-cha on November 10

Speaker Nograles will definitely get the votes for Cha-cha come November 10. The administration has all the numbers in. I'm not at liberty to reveal the source of this information, but for all you people and friends out there, you might want to consider doing something to avert a national disaster waiting to happen come November 10.

The proposal for charter change is sure to be discussed and passed by that date. I know my good friend Harry Roque, the Black and White Movement and the FSGO know about this. Let me propose something--refocus your energies on heightening public support against this Charter Change move.

Senator Mar Roxas has issued his statement against any cha-cha moves. He should be asked to join the growing clamour against cha-cha. Fears of Gloria extending her term seemed to be true. I have on good authority that there is a covert plan by Gloria's lieutenants, foremost is the Fascist in Robes, to create a "situation" as a diversionary tactic. 

In these trying times, I call upon every citizen of this beloved country to remain vigilant. We must not let this paradise slip quietly in the dead of the night. Let us prevent the Nightmares of dictatorship happen again, no, not in our lifetimes.

I also call on the Patriots of the New Generation to rise up and take history by the horns. Your organisation is slowly being destroyed, corrupted by greedy, evil-doers in barongs. Also, those Patriots in the trenches, the Motherland is in pain. Give succor to the Motherland; ease her of her pains. And let the New Morning cast blessings to everyone.