(cross-posted over at http:www//newphilrevolution.com) It was sup­posed to be a 45 minute meet­ing, yet, Mrs. Glo­ria Macapagal-Arroyo’s “his­toric” meet­ing with iconic US Pres­i­dent Barack Obama only took 30 min­utes, half of it spent in a joint press con­fer­ence. There was how­ever, a 15 minute joint brief­ing between del­e­gates from the Philip­pines and some US offi­cials prior to the Obama-Arroyo meet­ing inside the Oval Office.

Before the meet­ing, Arroyo first met US House speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Barack wore a dark grey busi­ness suit while Arroyo wore her sig­na­ture “red dress” with her designer black bag in her side. Barack sat at the right side fac­ing the media while Arroyo sat at the left.

The meet­ing was described by reporters who cov­ered the event as “cor­dial”, not “warm”. Obama com­mented on the “good progress” of Arroyo in deal­ing with counter-terrorism, espe­cially in ini­ti­at­ing a peace process in Min­danao, that Obama described as ” …has the poten­tial of bring­ing peace and sta­bil­ity to the heart of the Philip­pines that has been wracked by insta­bil­ity for too long.”

Barack Obama also praised the Arroyo admin­is­tra­tion for its strong stance in regional issues, such as the government’s strong stance in issues relat­ing to Myanmar.

” We are very grate­ful for the strong voice that the Philip­pines took in a range of issues including…human rights vio­la­tions that have hap­pened in the coun­try of Burma, to the prob­lems that we’ve been see­ing with respect to the nuclear pro­lif­er­a­tion in North Korea.”

Barack said he looks for­ward to his trav­els to South­east Asia. He even­tu­ally named the Philip­pines as the “coor­di­nat­ing coun­try” with the US in its rela­tion­ship with ASEAN or the Asso­ci­a­tion of South­east Asian Nations, which he describes as the “pri­mary organ of nations for South­east Asian countries”.

” In addi­tion, the Philip­pines is to head the non-proliferation treaty meetings…so we will be very busy together.…especially in deal­ing with the nuclear proliferation...”

Barack said the US gov­ern­ment looks for­ward for more strength­en­ing of rela­tions with the Philip­pines ” in the years to come.”

For her part, Mrs. Arroyo praised Obama for shar­ing sim­i­lar views with regards to Myan­mar and North Korea, which she describes as having a "nuclear adventurist" approach. She also lauded Obama’s lead­er­ship in efforts to solve the prob­lem of cli­mate change.

I just read the comments of Filo, very interesting pieces. It gave me something to think about. And his points are very well taken. Thanks, bossing. For those who don't agree with any one of my entries here, please comment. I would definitely answer each and every one. By the way, if you want news, just go to my site at http://www.newphilrevolution.com.

Now, for those who want to contribute, you can do so. Just email newpatriots@newphilrevolution.com. I'll be happy to post it at the new NPR. I want it sana to be a user-generated content site.

A few days from now, we will launch the new online news magazine: The Filipino News Network. The URL is http://www.filipinonewsnetwork.com.

Actually, I meant well when I wrote about Senator Villar's act. Filo is right. Don't worry, I'll correct it. I really did not mean to endorse anybody here. As I said, I'm just an observer of political dynamics.

Now, the problem with all these presidentiables, no one has a concrete political agenda. No one has a vision. No one has the right ideology fit for us. For example, everybody, especially Chiz Escudero mouths motherhood statements every single time. Mar Roxas, meanwhile, tries to manipulate our emotions. While si Villar, nagmumurang kamatis with his Tropang Villar (or Tropang Manny). Corny.

The one that I, at least, got some sense is Teodoro's ads. It's a public service announcement yet the branding is clear. Teodoro, at least, revealed his ideology before the public. (check out what it is).

That's why, many people, and that includes me, fear 2010. Why? No one stands out among the presidentiables. No single one.

We hope that Chiz would fit the bill but talks about how he tries to get Mrs. Arroyo's endorsement is a total letdown. It's not surprising since Chiz's father used to work for ex-strongman Ferdinand Marcos. Like father, like son? That's a possibility. Look, Chiz used to be the spokesperson of the opposition. He used to be with UNO. Then, he reverted back to NPC. He abandoned his comrades there.

Mar Roxas, I think, has the will yet he seems to fidget, confirming what Mrs. Arroyo accused him of as doing some pussyfooting. Loren Legarda also does that. Remember that pronouncement that she'll align only with Erap? After that statement, Legarda retracted and announced that she'll submit herself to the NPC process. What in God's name was that?

Villar, well, is involved in a controversy and debases himself and the people for continually snubbing the Senate ethics investigation. Instead of answering the accusations, point blank, he resorts to image control. That shows what kind of governance Villar will have once he wins.

Gordon is at least above reproach with his actions; yet, his soft stance in the fight against terrorism is a total letdown. You talk peace with legitimate revolutionary groups, not with terrorists. Maybe Gordon needs to re-study the political spectrum.

Noli de Castro boasts of the government's housing program, telling everybody how successful they were giving 1.8 million families decent homes. What he failed to tell us is, what now? I heard almost half a million of these families are having a hard time paying for their housing loans.

Another hopeful, Among Ed Panlilio, seems too good to be true. Too good that he probably is still unprepared for a higher post. Someone who has the vision might, at one point, conclude that it is not the Office of the President that causes these social problems. It is the system that causes all of these woes. What if Among Ed realizes it? Would that convince him to change this system in a drastic manner?

How about Bayani, you ask? Well, I don't like to waste words with a Hitler mini-me.

I urge Filo to contribut articles to this space, if he has time. I'll publish him. I urge him to submit articles for http://www.newphilrevolution.com and http://www.filipinonewsnetwork.com.

Thanks, again. And God bless.

The First Gentleman flew out of the country today with his wife, Mrs. Arroyo along with thirty Congressmen and their spouses and a handful of Cabinet members. Malacanang trumpeteer Cerge Remonde was quick to the draw. This proves, says Remonde, that the First Gentleman is not wanted in the States. That all these news about Mr. Arroyo's supposed cases in the states, especially money laundering are all "hogwash" and "black propaganda."

But, wait a minute. Mr. Arroyo's inclusion in the official state entourage and his possible arrival in U.S. territory do not mean that no case or cases have been filed against him by federal agents. Everybody knows that, by being a part of the official delegation, Mr. Arroyo enjoys STATE DIPLOMATIC STATUS, meaning, he can't be arrested by any federal agent while being part of that entourage. Heads of state and diplomats enjoy IMMUNITY from arrests. The US government will not make a move that would be interpreted as an "embarrassing" situation. In fact, arresting Mr. Arroyo while he accompanies his wife in this visit is tantamount to a declaration of war since a spouse of a head of state is involved.

Of course, there are what we call "surprises"? A president of a Latin American country was exiled through a special operations by the CIA. That was costly. What if....

Is'nt it very odd that Mrs. Arroyo left her Defense secretary here when the purported reason behind Washington's invitation was all about terrorism? Mrs. Arroyo deemed it wise to tag along her amigas, Congresswomen Amelita Villarosa, Cosculluela and even Cong. Susano along, with MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando and his wife Marikina mayor Marides, but forgot to include her defense chief when all she will be talking with Barack Obama are defense and security matters?

It seems even strange that Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita, who heads the presidential task force on Human Rights and Justice secretary Agnes Devenadera, who heads the department handling sensitive criminal and civil cases, are included. Would Obama discuss those increasing numbers of human rights cases here? Possibly, says Senator Rodolfo Biazon.

It is even more odd that a Senator, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago is also with Mrs. Arroyo. What would be the role of Miriam when she does not know about defense and security matters anyway?

Senator Rodolfo Biazon said that the visit may not be as good as what she had back in 2004, the year when she was elected. There is a great possibility that Obama will discuss the worsening human rights situation in the country.

Back to my original question---what is the reason behind that decision to leave Teodoro behind? Curiously though, Teodoro's rival for the Lakas-KAMPI presidential nomination, Fernando, is with the president. Is that an indication that Teodoro has already secured Mrs. Arroyo's support and Teodoro is slowly being eased out, like what's happening with Puno?

For the latest update, go to http://www.newphilrevolution.com.

I heard what Press secretary Cerge Remonde told Ted Failon over DZMM this morning. He said that the open letter which a few Patriots published in selected newspapers today will not even reach the eyes and ears of Barack Obama. The letter urged Barack Obama to look at the real situation of the Philippines.

I was challenged. Ganon ba? Today, I vowed to populate the Internet and all sites, even the Pentagon and even the US.gov site to be able to reach Obama.

Let me publish here the Open Letter of Drilon and a host of others. I'll make sure that this reaches the White House ahead of the meeting. To all bloggers all over the world, especially those in the United States:

HELP US SPREAD THIS OPEN LETTER AROUND SO THAT IT REACHES THE EYES OF US PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA AHEAD OF THE MEETING

Here's the Open letter. It was signed by Teofisto Guingona Jr., former Senate Presidents Jovito Salonga and Franklin Drilon, former SC justice Camilo D. Quiason, former senators Wigberto Tanada, Sergio Osmena III, Vicente Paterno Jr., Agapito "Butch" Aquino, and former secretaries Josefina T. Lichauco, former solicitor-general Frank Chavez, Corazon Soliman, Juan Santos, Jejomar Binay, and Bro. Eddie Villanueva, Sr. Mary John Mananzan, Atty. Harry Roque and Jun Lozada.

AN OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

July 29, 2009

HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA
Washington District of Columbia
United States of America

Dear Mr. President,

We shared the wonderful jubilation of the American people during your historic election triumph. When you assumed office early this year, we rejoiced at the audacious hope that you inspired, and on your promise of change for the common good.

We joined all freedom loving people of the world who exulted when you declraed that "those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent...are on the wrong side of history."

The Filipino People share the same morals, ideals and aspirations that define the envied way of life of the American people. Filipinos yearn for the same kind of leaders that the American people yearn for themselves; leaders who are imbued with the right values, lead principled lives, and govern with the highest ethical standards. The ideals of justice, democracy and the upliftment of human rights animate the Filipino people's dreams of a better world in much the same way that these ideals animate the dreams of the American people.

Upon your invitation, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will have the chance to meet with you on July 30, 2009. In your meeting with Ms. Arroyo, it may serve you well to be mindful of Ms. Arroyo's legacy of corruption, extra-judicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, bribery, election cheating, among others. We do not wish to belabor you with the details of these high crimes which have surely been documented and reported by the U.S. State Department to your office.

The Filipino People also yearn for change from the effrontery of hopelessness and the curse of decadence that Ms. Arroyo represents. In your meeting with Mrs. Arroyo, we feel confident that you will make clear to her that a Government that does not comply with Principles of Democracy and respect for Human Rights cannot have the approval and support of your administration. We implore you Mr. President to inspire hope and be an instrument of change for the common good of the long suffering Filipino People.

signed.

More than 10 million Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC) members celebrated the 95th year of God's work throughout the world yesterday. After going to Commonwealth to hear what Mrs. Arroyo has to say, my family and I went to Araneta Center.

The scenes are surreal. If you watch this video, people look like ants. This is one of the most phenomenal crowd scenes I've seen in years. The entire Araneta center was filled with people.

The INC is the only Philippine-based religious group with thousands of chapters throughout the world. It started at my birthplace, Punta Santa Ana Manila on July 27, 1914, the day when Austro-Hungarian forces invaded Serbia. INC Founder Felix Ysagun Manalo, a young preacher then, with his wife, Honorata, preached to workers of the AG&P (where my mother used to work also in the 1970's before she transferred to Malayan Insurance). A series of bible studies led to the baptism of the first INC members--fourteen workers of the AG&P.

Now, the INC has growth by leaps and bounds, with affiliate branches called "locales" in different parts of the world. Between 1994-1996, the INC has re-established its links with Jerusalem, the center of the true Christian faith. It has now established different locales in various parts of the globe, even with eccleastical branches in six continents. The work in Israel and Greece is a fulfillment of the biblical prophesy that the true and original church of God would "come back" to its original birthplace.

Why is the INC so successful in establishing the only multinational Filipino organization the world has ever seen? Simple.

It preaches the true message of God---belief in the One True God. This is the original message sent by God's messengers to His true people---believe only in ONE SUPREME GOD who created everything. And belief in this message requires membership to His True Church--the body of Christ.

Ariel Radovan,a Facebook friend made a comment about your note "Senator Manny Villar got my vote today". He wrote thus:

"..you are not asking a question because you have already concluded on the facts... since you are referring to the C5 project kindly be reminded that the Senate Committee on Finance approved and past the budget for that project. there was no finding by the same comm of any irregularity neither was there any anomaly found by the Comm until the national budget was approved. With reference to your question about the properties, Villar did not hide the fact that he was engaged in the real estate business, it was his bread and butter even before he ventured into politics. The properties you mentioned was bought even before the project was considered.
That is why I told you if there really was an anomaly behind the project and that he allegedly benefited from it... then bring the issue before the Ombudsman and let the issues be settled. What I am not in favor is that many of us Filipinos always resort to trial by publicity. That should not be the case, otherwise what are courts for..."

Ariel, let me direct you to a provision of the Constitution which prohibits Senators like Villar on things like these:

Sec. 12, Article VI. No Senator or Member of the House of Representatives
shall, upon assumption of office, make a full disclosure of their financial and
business interests. They shall notify the House concerned of a potential
conflict of interest that may arise from the filing of a proposed legislation of
which they are authors.

Ariel, Senator Villar did not disclose this neither did he actually refrained himself from the C-5 road project. That, to me, is an expressed violation of this provision, and worst, even sponsored the project. It is not just violation, but an IMMORAL act.

Yet, like I said, his singular act of giving away 6 house and lots is, by itself, a worthy one.

Thousands flocked to that long stretch of Commonwealth avenue, many of them flag-carrying youngsters and old street parliamentarians. There were young and old ones the same faces that have marched since 2002. It was one of the biggest congregation of anti-Arroyo forces. They were all there, a few kilometers away from Batasang Pambansa, to hear what Mrs. Arroyo has to say about the Philippine state of affairs.

I was also there. I braved the rains and tried to get as much footage as possible of the thousands of young men and women all marching together to express their rage against Mrs. Arroyo. Many hoped that this is the last State of the Nation address (SONA) of the most hated president of Philippine history. Veterans of the First Quarter Storm, senators, congressmen and those who considered themselves "opposition" were all in attendance. We were all ready to hear Arroyo's speech.

Her speech was what many expect it to be---a litany of achievements which she did for all these years. 700,000 poor and impoverished families saved from hunger thru the poverty-alleviation program. Eight million jobs created by encouraging foreign investments and improving the local economy. Almost two million Filipino Families given homes. Several Overseas Filipino Workers (about 700 of them) saved from the Arabian gallows. Roads and bridges were constructed. Foreign debt somewhat lessened to about 7% of GDP and pump priming the economy to a level has never before seen in the history of the young Philippine Republic.

If you seriously look at the economic data, especially from the National Statistics Office (NSO), Mrs. Arroyo was not joking at all when she boasted that we're not in pretty bad shape (not yet, I guess). Mrs. Arroyo and her administration really tried to improve the economy. That 5-7% inflation rate and those annual 7-8% economic growth are nothing to sneeze at. Even at the height of the former Ramos administration, we did not see that kind of growth.

Admit it---Mrs. Arroyo did an extremely good job in the economy. Through her efforts, we were insulated from the dire effects of the global financial crisis. The fact that we're not under recession (yet) shows you that serious efforts are being made by the Arroyo administration to somewhat protect us from further slipping into a very serious economic meltdown.

And that is not an easy thing to do. Inheriting a government burdened by a 500 billion peso debt seems a tall order. But, not for Mrs. Arroyo who worked her ass off just to prove that her administration has the political will to see us thru the hard times.

Why am I saying this after hundreds of entries demolishing Mrs. Arroyo for her failure to address certain sensitive issues, like unemployment and peace and order and of course, graft and corruption?

I realized that it's time to give Mrs. Arroyo a chance to redeem herself. When she told the throng who were there in Congress that she's determined to finish her term and possibly retire after, I believed her. I believe that, this time, she had had it. She's done. She already proved to all that, despite the demonising and the mud-slinging, she can still hack it.

Critics and some allies alike say, Mrs. Arroyo is not done yet. She did'nt categorically say that she's stepping down. There was no categorical yes and no categorical no. So, echoing what Prof. David said, Mrs. Arroyo has still some ace in her sleeves. Democracy is still threatened by her continued presence at the palace.

Crap. Come on.

Mrs. Arroyo already gave what she believes is her valedictory address. If you're the president, you' would not say those "categoricals" simply because you want to avoid a situation where people would mistakenly conclude that you're already a lame duck. There are still tons of unfinished business for Mrs. Arroyo and she wants to pursue them before she calls it a day.

If she states "categorically" that she's done, people would pounce on her and declare that she's already a lame duck, a spent political force, a dud. And if you're considered a dud, a lame duck, you simply would not be able to finish what you've started, especially when these "political vultures" around.

It is time to give Mrs. Arroyo the benefit of the doubt and try to help her with her unfinished projects. That, I think, is the best way for us to be assured that she'll be stepping down come June 2010.

Some people, I think, Professor Randy David say, don't believe her. She has the tendency to "double talk".

Let me then ask Prof. David--so, what will we do? Do you have suggestions? Are we just going to wait for her " yes, I'll not run" speech before we help her and act? Or, are we waiting for the heavens to fall? We're not that stupid I presume. For me, it's enough that Mrs. Arroyo already said that she does not have any intention of staying one minute longer come June 2010.

Here's an excerpt from the "Philippine Situationer: 2001-2010". Get your free copy at http://www.newphilrevolution.com.

Professor Paul Bancroft of the University of Wisconsin has a very insightful summary of the kind of governance and political turmoil the Philippines is facing now. Writing in the Journal of Democracy, Bancroft described the present state of Philippine democracy as a failure of the political leadership to provide direction out of the political turmoil:

In her seven years as Philippine president, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has found political legitimacy elusive. She has survived numerous travails by very effectively wielding the substantial powers of her office, but exhibits no qualms about further undermining the country's already weak political institutions. Post-Marcos Philippine democracy can boast many strengths, including a vibrant civil society, but it has been battered in recent years by a major electoral scandal, extrajudicial killings, attacks on the press, a recurrence of military adventurism, and on-going patterns of corruption and violence. The Arroyo imbroglio strains the country's longstanding but patronage-infested democratic structures, thus highlighting the necessity of well-considered political reform. A central goal should be the fostering of stronger and more programmatic political parties.

Indeed, Philippine governmental institutions continues to weaken due to the weight brought by cronyism, graft and corrupt practices and an absence of political parties that act as balancers or fiscalizers in the state. This lead to what some political observers call a stagnation of democracy.

To restore these institutions to order, we propose the following steps towards National Transformation.

1. Strict and no-nonsense implementation and respect of the Philippines’ regime of laws.
 The legal or juridical system is not defective. It is in the administration of justice that causes the problem.
 The unequal application of laws hinders the workings of democracy and greatly impacts on the perception of the Philippines as a partially free or non-functioning democracy.
 In all aspects of public life, government should ensure that all members of the polity respect and honor the laws passed by Congress.


2. Eliminate cronyism and decrease executive influence over major government institutions, affiliates and agencies
 The devolution of executive powers should be undertaken. Executive power is so strong that it plays a major role in all spheres of public life. Due to a lack of a major political force in Philippine society, the Executive has taken over the vacuum, leading to a dis-equilibrium in the exercise of State power.
 Political subdivision should be undertaken with

3. Promote a regime of fair play in all spheres of private and public life. Professionalize the bureaucracy and implement a meritocratic regime.
 There is a current perception among investors that doing business in the Philippines requires authorization from those in power. To eliminate this, government should cut red tape further by streamlining the bureaucracy and promote further computerization of the system.
 The Codes of Ethics should be strictly implemented and violators put to justice.
 Promotions in the government service should be based on performance and integrity in service.

4. Promote a two-party system, with the minority party exercising effective fiscalizing duties within the boundaries of parliamentary ethics.
 A two-party systems works well in a small democracy such as the Philippines.
 To do this, government must encourage small parties and people’s organizations to merge or align with bigger political parties.
 Political parties should promote philosophical or ideological platforms that conform with the general world-view of their constituencies.

5. Increase stakeholder participation from civil society, the academe and people’s organizations in national policy-making.
 NGO participation plays a pivotal role in nation-building. The inputs made by members of the academe in further improving the dispensation of basic services should always be part of the process of governmental policy-making.
 People’s participation in policy-making should not be limited to public consultations. Instead, members of stakeholder groups should be appointed as “consultancy” bodies in all branches of government to enhance democratic participation.

6. Pursue peace with revolutionary and insurgent groups while implementing an all-out war against terrorist organisations.
 Government should pursue peace efforts with revolutionary and insurgent groups through continuous talks.
 Military action, however, should be intensified against known terrorist organizations in the country.
 Members of the AFP and the PNP accused of political crimes should be immediately pardoned and released.
 People’s participation in peace efforts should be prioritized.
 Third party mediators are encouraged particularly in the area of developmental assistance.

7. Insulate the national economy against the damaging effects of globalization by protecting national industries while liberalising non-critical sectors of the Philippine economy.
 Government should limit the entry of foreign companies particularly in ownership and access to critical sectors of the economy.
 Foreign participation should be limited in enhancing the IT outsourcing sector and SME.
 Foreigners should not be allowed to own land. Land resource should be strictly relegated to the enjoyment of the Filipino people.

8. Exploitation of the natural resources of the Philippines shall be limited to Filipinos. Joint venture agreements with foreign firms should strictly be under the BOT Law.
 The law on Joint Venture agreements should be revised to lower the entry rate of foreign firms in resource exploitation and use.
 Genuine Agrarian reform shall be strictly enforced.
 The 60-40 parity law should be amended. Instead, 70% local ownership and 30% for foreign companies.

9. Launch a Nationalist moral recovery program centered on emphasizing and stressing the need for every Filipino to go back to the traditional moral systems.
 Government shall spearhead a moral recovery program centered on changing the cultural mindset of every Filipino.
 Promote a unitary philosophical worldview with greater emphasis on increasing the morale of the Filipino as a race and nation.
 Enhance the educational system and transform it as a lead agency in promoting patriotism in all spheres of public life.
 Moral recovery must start from the top down. Government should utilise the educational system to spread patriotic values not just in the young but likewise in all sectors of the populace.



10. Enhance financial support mechanisms for small and medium-sized enterprises and promote entrepreneurship.
 Small and medium-sized enterprises are the prime motors of Philippine economic growth and development. Support structures are already in place. However, government should increase credit and loan facilities and encourage banks and financial institutions to assist in widening the number of SMEs in the country.
 Entrepreneurship training seminars should be further increased and widened in scope to allow other services and products.

11. Increase food security in the Philippines through strengthening the production capability of the agricultural and agri-business sectors.
 Food security should be one of the top priorities of the government. With a growing population, it is most critical that the internal production capabilities of these sectors be enhanced.
 Dependence on imported goods should further be delimited.
 Farm-to-market roads should further be increased in number to assist in the smooth delivery of agricultural products straight to the consumer market.

12. Modernize the armed forces and transform it into a 21st century fighting machine.
 Threats against the Philippine state are increasing. In the 21st world, every state is vulnerable not only coming from terrorism but also possible aggressive actions against neighbouring states.
 The Philippine defence doctrine should be changed, from a purely insurgency-oriented one to increasing state and border security.
 Naval defence capability should be strengthened and enhanced with the acquisition of modern sea vessels capable of defending a large part of the territorial waters of the Philippines.
 Air defence capability should likewise be enhanced as an important component in AFP modernization.
 Intelligence capabilities should be enhanced with state-of-the art technology.

Over at the New Philippine Revolution, a new online news magazine blog, there is a comprehensive report on the State of the Nation Under Arroyo. This report assesses the Arroyo administration using the lenses of other think tanks. It is a unbiased assessment from the time she seized political power from former president Joseph Estrada to the time she addresses the nation and reports her achievements.

Support http://www.newphilrevolution.com. And the new Filipino user generated news blog http://www.filipinonewsnetwork.com.

Manila archbiship Gaudencio Rosales today urged Arroyo to tell the truth. It's best, says Rosales, that Arroyo reveals the unblemished truth on the state of the nation so that everyone especially the next administration, would know what to do next.

But, will Arroyo heed the church call and show the Filipinos the true state of the nation? I doubt it, especially now that Mrs. Arroyo would face US president Barack Obama. Surely, that would spoil the broth, so to speak, since, as what the Washington Times said, echoing the previous statement by NPR, that the visit would just be a political subterfuge by Arroyo. Even the Americans know that it was a bad judgment call by the White House in inviting Arroyo. If they're so concerned with terrorism in Asia, the White House should have invited Indonesia instead.

Everyone knows that Senator Manny Villar gets so many negative comments in this site. And really those comments express utter dismay especially when Villar was involved in the C-5 road controversy.

Pero, let's be honest. What Villar did today at the Wowowee show of Willie Revillame, giving away six (6) house and lots to these OFWs, really got my vote. As a former Overseas Filipino Worker myself, I can't help but admire Villar's act. At least, he did his part. Call it a political propaganda. Call it a publicity coup. Call it whatever you want. But, one can't just dismiss what he did today.

That's the way to go for Senator Manny Villar. People who aspire that top post should act now, not later. I just hope that he continues to do what he did today. People, especially OFWs, really need help. I did when I was in Singapore. Working abroad is not just like eating apple pie. It's really hard work. And for some, depressing.

I hope other presidential aspirants help our people now.

Port operators at the Manila International Port terminal are up in arms against what they described as the "interventionism" of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group Task force led by Undersecretary Antonio "Bobby" Villar. These operators tag Villar's group as the "Presidential Abu Sayyaf Group". What's the real story behind this? Check it out at http://www.newphilrevolution.com.

Pharma companies are expected to slash the prices of their medicines by August 15. The real question is---where's the price slash on Novarsc, the drug being protected by Pfizer from a 50% price off? Yes, pharma companies agreed to reduce the prices of their 41 drugs in compliance with the Cheaper Medicines Act. However, they refused to lower their best selling drugs, those being used by so many Filipinos but barely afford to buy. That's a featured story in http://www.newphilrevolution.com. Check it out by today.

Frankly, I don't really mind if Ed Panlilio runs for the presidency or not. I just think that Manong Ed would better serve the Filipino People if he decides to concentrate first on improving the lives of his Kabalens in Pampanga. People who read my take on Manong Ed are misinterpreting my intentions on writing these articles. It aims to actually help supporters of Manong Ed to really discern where the good Governor should be of the most help. If you read my previous articles on Manong Ed and Isabela governor Grace Padaca, there were all very supportive of the two for being our "alternative candidates". Now, I am shifting gears because I really think that Manong Ed still has a lot of things to do in Pampanga.

Bishop Oscar Cruz already articulated what I meant in these articles. He bluntly told the entire Filipino People on what he said were "dangerous precedents". Cruz said that Manong Ed's performance as governor is still a work in progress. Now, those who sent me harsh comments for agreeing with Bishop Cruz may do so for all they want. Pero, kung ganyan na kayo na hindi pa nanalo ang kandidato ninyo, what more kung nasasa Malacanang na kayo? Ngayon pa lang, pinapakita ninyo na kung papaano ninyo titignan ang isang taong me negatibong artikulo laban kay Manong Ed. Masama yan. Your actions show the true character of your candidate.

We live in a democratic society. If someone writes a contrari view, then, the most logical thing for someone to do is answer his questions as straight forward as possible. Huwag iyong sasabihin ninyo na disappointed kayo dahil hindi ako nagsusulat ng magagandang salita kay Manong Ed. Bago kayo ma disappoint, isipin ninyo muna bakit maraming mga tao ang hindi pabor sa pagtakbo niya. There are legitimate reasons why some well-meaning people like me want sana Manong Ed to re-consider because there are still a lot of things to do to repair the political dynamics sa Pampanga, especially now that Mrs. Arroyo wants to run as Congressman dun.

I question Manong Ed's performance as governor because that's the proper thing to do--if you want to run for higher office, you need to show people the things you already accomplished. Show me proof that Bishop Oscar Cruz's allegations are wrong. Present me data. Don't go around town telling people that I'm just making these things up. Itaas ninyo ang antas ng diskursyon sa pamamagitan ng presenting data about Ed Panlilio's performance as a public servant.

I question Manong Ed's true resolve against graft and corruption after a former supporter (the owner of Pampanga's Best) of his presented evidence on the alleged 5 million pesos or so that she reportedly contributed to Manong Ed's governadorial run na allegedly nawawala at hindi nai-reflect sa statement of electoral expenditures ng kagalang-galang na governor.

I question Manong Ed's true capability to unify the disparate political groups and forces in this country because of incidents where some urban poor and transport groups conducted rallies against him at the capitol. There were news reports saying that even some mayors and some Board members are not working together with him.

And do you know why I want Manong Ed to answer these things? PARA matulungan siya laban sa mga ibang political forces who will definitely attack him pagka nagsimula na ang campaign period by February. Anong masama dun?

Ang masama ay ang mga aksyon at salita ng mga supporters ni Manong Ed. Ngayon pa lamang, pinatutunayan ninyo na na you are doing a great disservice to your candidate. Ibig ninyo palang sabihin, kapagka nanalo na si Manong Ed, ay dapat walang magsulat ng negatibo against him? Or, dapat walang magsalita laban sa kanya. Na dapat tumameme na lang tayong parang tuta o parang tupa pag siya na ang pinaguusapan? Hindi naman yata tama yan.

Ang totoong kaibigan, hindi nagsisinungaling sa kapwa kaibigan. May kasabihan nga sa atin dito sa Pilipinas--kung mahal mo ang kaibigan mo, huwag mo siyang itulak sa pulitika. At dahil, tulad ninyo, mahal ko si Manong Ed at suportado siya ng mga tulad kong aktibista diyan sa Central Luzon, hindi ako magsisinungaling sa kanya at sasabihing tumakbo ka when all the prospects are against his favor. Hindi ko siya itutulak sa kapahamakan.

The true supporter will not act like Hitler's SS just to hide the flaws of his candidate. You engage me with facts. You engage me with data and pieces of evidence. Don't try to tell people that we just need a moral candidate for president. Tell people that aside from having a solid moral foundation, Manong Ed is a performer and a staunch anti-graft and corruption advocate.

Captain Nicanor Faeldon is one tough cookie. Let me publish what Atty. Trixie Cruz-Angeles wrote in her Facebook wall last night. This is for the benefit of those who have'nt read this yet. Let me express the unbending desire and will of the True Filipino Patriots throughout the Philippines and the world to bond with the brave captain and pursue the New Philippine Revolution.

“In the name of the best within you,
do not sacrifice this world to those who are its worst.
In the name of the values that keep you alive,
do not let your vision of man be distorted
by the ugly, the cowardly, the mindless,
in those who have never achieved his title.
Do not lose your knowledge that man's proper estate
is an upright posture, an intransigent mind and a step
that travels unlimited roads. Do not let your fire go out,
spark by irreplaceable spark, in the hopeless swamps
of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all.
Do not let the hero in your soul perish,
in lonely frustration for the life you deserved,
but have never been able to reach.
Check your road and the nature of your battle.
The world you desired can be won, it exists,
it is real, it is possible, it's yours.”
~ Ayn Rand

In July 2007, Cpt. Faeldon issued a statement explaining why he did not enter into a plea bargain the way his co-accused did. He acknowledged that his course of action is not easy and quite possibly the least understood.Some think his quest is the modern day equivalent of tilting at windmills.

To me and his other friends, this is simply his way. He joined the AFP not to fashion a career or to make money, though he did need to keep body and soul together. He was a student leader in college and it just made sense for him to further the nation's cause by staking his life for his country. This same idealism propelled him to Oakwood, and fueled his two escapes. It is, I suspect, what keeps him going, even now when the going is tough.

He has not faltered in this course. He has not allowed the naysayers to become demons in his mind. He has stayed true.

On the 27th of July, it will be the 6th anniversary of the Oakwood incident. On the 29th, he should be celebrating his birthday. For the record, he has publicly stated that he is not running for office, nor is he willing to accept any elective position in this government or the one after it.

No Plea Bargain

This statement is intended to explain why I refuse to enter into any form of plea bargaining in any of my cases arising from the Oakwood incident.

To begin, I must make it clear that I respect my co-accused, and hold no adverse opinion on their decisions to consider or enter into plea bargains. Their beliefs are their own, as is their right to chart the courses of their own lives.

When I went to Oakwood, four years ago (this was issued in 2007), it was clear to me that in order for me to bring the truth to my countrymen, I could stand to lose my life, my career or everything I hold dear. Standing trial and facing possible conviction for various offenses are natural consequences of my decision to tell the truth. Thus, I hold no rancor for those who must compel me to submit to the legal processes, even as I expect no justice to come out of such processes.

Years later, it is to my sorrow that no significant changes have taken place despite our warnings, our concerns and our acts in Oakwood. The system is as corrupt as ever, the military is now more politicized than ever before and the highest executive in the land holds office in spite of the absence of a clear mandate. Even sadder, our soldiers are still needlessly dying out there.

I have since learned that I must cast my lot with the majority of the Filipino people who, despite the recent electoral exercises, remain outside of the decision making processes exercised by our public officials, and therefore remain powerless. - PILIPINO.ORG was born from this difficult lesson.

With these in mind, I refuse to bargain with the dubious authorities who exercise power without conscience and who are responsible for the ills that I felt compelled to report to my countrymen. At any rate, an agreement of this nature would be a tacit ratification or recognition of Presidential powers that lie uneasily in the wrong hands.

If this refusal to bargain means a prison term or the loss of my life, I am prepared, now, as much as I was four years ago, to pay the price for telling the truth.

CPT NICANOR E FAELDON PN(M)

I received a report from the Investigative team for Peace in Mindanao. This story is very disturbing.

A girl in her teens was found raped, robbed and killed at the swampy areas of Barangay Pagatin, Datu Saudi Uy Ampatuan in Maguindanao during early Friday night of July 17.

The cadaver of Rahima Lasid (also called Aisa) 15, who had just returned home from overseas contract employment was found at a banca with multiple wounds on her head believed to be caused by hard object her assailant/s had mercilessly used against her in crushing her skull.

Her mother recounted that Rahima asked permission that night to go to a comfort place at the swampy areas. As she has been doing since her return, she rode a banca alone and went to a distant to shield herself of the dark while answering the call of nature.

Alarmed by Rahima’s failure to return back after lapse of hours, her mother pursued her immediately and reached for the area she usually gets to when she eases herself. She then found her daughter lying dead at the banca she boarded just while ago with jewelleries and other personal possessions stolen.

As of this writing, Rahima’s rape and murder case has not yet hit the local news. Even worse, it is still uncertain whether there is a blotter of her case at the local PNP of the municipality for record, let alone for investigation purposes.

Here is another excerpt from my paper, " The Philippine Situationer: 2001-2010". You could order your copy by sending me an email at mangubat.patricio@gmail.com.

Global Peace Index places the Philippines in 114th place with a score of 2.357(1), suggesting a higher incidence of political and non-political violence outbreaks in the Philippines compared with its neighbours in Asia. Global Security.Org attributes this to the weakening of the Philippines’ capability of addressing threats posed by insurgent, criminal and terrorist groups. Instability is described in the Philippines by global security agencies as a “way of life” in the Philippines. (2)

Philippines is considered a terrorist haven. Security researcher Preeti Bhattacharji of the Council on Foreign Relations in his article last June 1, 2009 sums up the security threats that the Philippines now faces:

The U.S. State Department has considered the southern Philippines a "terrorist safe haven" since the classification was created in 2006. According to the State Department's 2008 report, the Philippine government has little control in the Sulu archipelago and the island of Mindanao. The government has also had trouble combating resentment among the local Muslim minority regarding policies of the central government. As a result, the Philippines is home to a number of militant groups, including the Abu Sayyaf Group, the Communist Party of the Philippines/New People’s Army, Jemaah Islamiyah, the Alex Boncayao Brigade, the Pentagon Gang, the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). These groups have conducted over one-hundred attacks within the Philippines since 2004, the largest of which was a ferry bombing that killed 130 people. The Philippine government has taken significant steps to combat terrorism, but terrorists continue to use the country as a base to organize, raise funds, train, and operate. (3)

The Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs of the US State Department 2009 report describes the security threats against Philippines as thus:

The government continues to face threats from terrorist groups, including three terrorist groups on the U.S. Government's Foreign Terrorist Organization list. The terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), which gained international notoriety with its kidnappings of foreign tourists in the southern islands, remains a major problem for the government, along with members of the Indonesian-based Jemaah Islamiyah (JI). Efforts to track down and interdict ASG and JI members have met with some success, especially in Basilan and Jolo, where U.S. troops provide counter terrorism assistance and training to Philippine soldiers, along with conducting humanitarian activities. In August 2006, the Armed Forces of the Philippines began a major offensive against ASG and JI on the island of Jolo. This offensive was successful and resulted in the deaths of Abu Sayyaf leader Khadafy Janjalani and his deputy, Abu Solaiman. The U.S. Government provided rewards to Philippine citizens whose information led to these deaths in the military operations, as well as to many other operations against terrorist leaders. The broad-based efforts to weaken terrorist organizations resulted in the death or capture of over 200 terrorists in 2007 and 2008.

An international monitoring team continues to watch over a cease-fire agreement between the government and the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). In June 2003, the MILF issued a formal renunciation of terrorism. In August 2008, during peace talks mediated by the Government of Malaysia, the Philippine Government and the MILF reached agreement in principle on a territorial agreement. However, intervention by the Philippine Supreme Court, and its subsequent October 14 ruling that the draft agreement was unconstitutional, have forced both parties to seek new ways to reach a peace agreement. Fighting flared up after the agreement was struck down in court and has continued sporadically in central Mindanao. (4)Terrorist organizations: Abu Sayyaf Group (5)

External Threats

The Philippines renounces war as an instrument of national policy and adopts the generally-accepted principles of international law. There are no active external threats against the Philippine state.

The US State department, however, cautioned the Philippines and its allies against possible aggressive actions from the Chinese in relation to the Spratlys issue. Global Security considers the Spratlys as a possible flashpoint among contending claimants, including the Philippines. (6)

Crime Incidence

Crime Incidence increased by 115.6 per 100,000 population (2007 figures), compared with 81.9 in 2006. Index crimes increased by 65.5 (2007) from 47.8, while non-index crimes almost doubled from its 34.1 (2006) to 50.1 (7)

__________________


1. http://www.visionofhumanity.org/gpi/results/rankings.php

2. Global Security.org country profile of the Philippines.

3. http://www.cfr.org/publication/9365/terrorism_havens.html#2

4. http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2794.htm

5. Considered as a terrorist organization, the 2008 U.S. State Department estimates the group to consist of between two hundred and five hundred members.

6. The CIA World Factbook, 2009.

7. PNP crime incidence report 2008 as reported by the National Statistical Coordination Board, 2009.

Here is an excerpt of my paper entitled, " The Philippine Situationer: 2001-2010". If you want a copy, email me at mangubat.patricio@gmail.com.

In her State of the Nation address in 2001, shortly after the tumultuous EDSA Dos coup d’état, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo laid down her vision for the country. In her speech, Mrs. Arroyo recognized that her role as president is to adequately solve the five (5) basic needs of the Filipino. Let me quote from her 2001 speech:

Years later, Mrs. Arroyo gave flesh to her vision by announcing the birth of a Strong Republic in 2002, which she describes as a government fighting the evils of underdevelopment. Yet, after three more years, in 2005, Mrs. Arroyo later admitted that change cannot happen under what she termed as a “political-ly degenerated” system. She said, and I quote:


What led Mrs. Arroyo to conclude that it is the system that hinders growth rather than promote it?

Quality of life has greatly decreased in the Philippines over the past ten years. The risk of living in the Philippines has increased due to rampant violence and the inability of the present administration to effectively implement the laws. At the start, the administration envisioned a “Strong Republic”, predicated on effecting a firm hold or rein in the functions of governance.

This report assesses the Philippines in terms of three (3) variables: global competitiveness, governance and security.

Investors see the Philippines as a “low cost, but higher risk” country. It means it is cheaper to do business in the Philippines compared with other Asian countries but the risk is definitely higher than others. Meta Group Incorporated defined that risk as political. The Philippines, says MetaGroup, is second largest IT outsourcing hub, but political instability is affecting competitiveness. Since 2003, the global competitiveness of the Philippines has seen good and better days due to rampant graft and corruption, worsening peace and order situation and political instability.

The World Economic Forum’s “The Global Competitiveness Report, 2008-2009” ranked the Philippines in 74th place, lower than its neighbour Indonesia (58th) and Vietnam (73rd). Compared to Malaysia (24th place) and Singapore (8th), our country lags behind in terms of competitiveness.

Global competitiveness is affected by poor governance. In the World Bank’s Governance Index, the Philippines performed poorly in governance, registering a negative 0.59% since 1998 to 2008, well below Indonesia’s (-0.14%). There is a high incidence of political violence (negative 1.41%, down to about negative 1.25% since 1998) compared with other countries in the region.

Governance has been largely affected by perceptions of rampant graft and corruption and crony practices. A survey of 1,400 business leaders carried out by Economic Risk Consultancy Ltd, a Hong Kong based company, found that the Philippines was considered the most corrupt of the 13 Asian economies, followed by Thailand, China, and Indonesia. The Philippines was separately ranked number 131 out of 179 countries by corruption watchdog Transparency International in its 2007 report, placing it on a par with Libya and Burundi.

Global Integrity Report (2008) has this to say about the Philippines:



In terms of peace and order, the Global Peace Index places the Philippines in 114th place with a score of 2.357 , suggesting a higher incidence of political and non-political violence outbreaks in the Philippines compared with its neighbours in Asia.

According to the World Economic Forum Executive Opinion survey, the top five issues which the Philippines needs to address are the following: corruption, inefficient bureaucracy, inadequate infrastructure, crime and theft and policy instability. Furthermore, the Philippines needs to address irregular payments in public contracts, prevalence of illegal political donations and the rising business costs of terrorism.

I found time to scour the Net and there are two (2) very interesting blogs. One is http://www.betterphilippines.com and the other http://www.pinoybiz.blogspot.com. If you have time, please visit these blogs. Interesting insights.

Better Philippines had a very interesting entry on making sense of all these political propaganda. Benigno and BongV started it in FilipinoVoices and I agree with them. That's why I wrote entries about Manong Ed's run. Rom also had written a very nice piece on this. PinoyBuzz, meanwhile, is full of interesting insights.

There's also a nice blog, very entertaining, but I forgot the name already. I'll try to look for it again. The site actually is not highly ranked, that's why it's hard to find it. But, very, very entertaining. Maraming maingay sa Filipino blogging community who claims to have many hits but when you check, wala pala. Or wala man lang silang Google page rankings. Magaling lang sila mag ad hominem attacks para bisitahin yung mga sites nila.

By the way, a new online news magazine is in the works. You'll find it online possibly on July 27. I also included an Alexa widget in here. And technorati. Thanks my friends for reading this blog.

Starting September I think, I'll be concentrating more on the other site, so you'll not find me writing posts here. Besides, I think there's no more time for me, since August would be very, very interesting especially for political observers. I already wrote everything I know and let's just wait for it to happen. Whenever I write something here, it happens. And when I stop writing here, that means only one thing---lumubog na ulit ako sa pakikibaka and I'll re-emerge na lang when I accomplished my mission.

Anyway, as I said in previous entries, things would surely worsen when I rest my pen. That means I'm engaged in a more serious fight. And that means I already abandoned my online Sierra Madre and already decided to fight in the real world. Time na to shift the fight from the online battlefield to the true battlefield. Pray for us.

A confidential document tells of US apprehension over tensions at the Korean peninsula. US President Barack Obama's official policy regarding North Korea is what analysts call "engagement policy". Three years back, writing for Foreign Policy, Obama termed his view on how America should conduct itself with the North, he wrote that US policy must be a "sustained, direct and aggressive diplomacy." Now, some analysts say, this might change after the North tested another nuclear missile (underground test) last May. But, shortly after the June 15 meeting, it seems that Obama has not changed tack. And Forbes magazine seems to fear that Obama is just another Carter when it comes to foreign policy.

What analysts probably misread about Obama's action is his tendency to use every available diplomatic tactic first before he deploys armed forces. That is what he did in Afghanistan. More than this though, Obama seems to be totally agreeable on strengthening US military might first before implementing any military action against the North.

Now, before anti-nukes activist balk, let me just say that the US needs a military base only as refuelling, landing and ammo dump---nothing more. In a sustained fight with the North, the US needs closer areas where they can immediately refuel and possibly, arm their subs and carriers and fighters.

With this in mind, the possibility of further strengthening US military facilities inside the AFP Western Mindanao military base in Zamboanga is, I think, a top Obama concern. US forces need strategically placed launching pads to strengthen the US Pacific fleet. And Mindanao seems a very good place to actually have one, since their Diego Garcia base (which serves as their present refueling station), is a good hundreds of miles away.

IN an event of an armed engagement with the North, that would probably happen in the South China sea, in the air and eventually, some nuclear strikes. Now, what is dangerous is the high possibility of Mindanao as one of the North's target should that happen. Probably, that's why Mrs. Arroyo visited South Korea?

Are we expecting also a possible re-activation of the Subic and Clark military bases and a possible installation of another one in Ilocos and Cagayan? And is this the topic of interest between the two leaders come July 30? Will Obama request such accommodations from the Philippine government? And what would be the concessions? Would Obama sacrifice democracy and stability in the Philippines in exchange for the return (of the comeback) of the US bases?

(update)

A commenter on this space told the truth about my stand on Panlilio. She says that the reason why I discourage Ed Panlilio, who today announced his bid for the presidency in 2010, is I am frustrated over the alternative candidates of the past and taking this out on the Pampanga governor.

Jemaima, that is true. And frustration seems so lame a word to describe what I felt. In 2000, many of my generation, including those who were extremely promising were enticed by the sweet prospect of an economist cum president. Nine years later, we're not only frustrated---we're totally angry.

We thought that the problem was economic and the solution, an economist. Now, the problem is graft and corruption rooted on immorality and people generally thought that the solution lies on transforming this Republic to a Catholic colony.

Now, on Ed Panlilio, I am not only frustrated--I'm exasperated with him. Why? Because probably he misinterpreted the voice of God. Probably God asked him to continue his mission to cleanse Pampanga of dirty politics and gambling and not the entire country. Or, probably it was "Batasang Pampanga" instead of "Batasang Pambansa."

It also sent a wrong message to those who want to serve God---serve country first or serve the Mammon first. Or, a message which says " presidency instead of the priesthood." With a declining number of men going to the seminaries to apply as priests, Panlilio's act would probably worsen the number.

I remember one case similar to that of Manong Ed---Apolinario dela Cruz. Dela Cruz led a revolt in Northern Luzon against the Spaniards under the Confradia. He said God asked him to, he said. Leading thousands to slaughter, De La Cruz was eventually arrested and murdered.Others followed after him, including the 1967 massacre at the Mendiola bridge under the leadership of a certain De Los Santos.

It would have been better if Manong Ed announced his support and leadership to the New Philippine Revolution against this administration. That would have been great. That would have been inspiring. It would have been a great video grab showing Manong Ed leading thousands of flag-carrying people going to Malacanang armed with Godly will and passion.

That, I think, is the TRUE MISSION of Manong Ed---be the inspiring leader of our age. Be our Cardinal Sin. Be our moral guide. Be our Rock. That is, I think, God told Manong Ed when he was contemplating on his next political move. Unless of course, another god or a lesser being masquerading as "God", communed with him.

ABS-CBN anchor Ted Failon and beautiful and talented co-anchor Pinky Webb interviewed Vice President Noli de Castro today. Webb (congrats by the way. Webb is really promising. She's even better than Karen who reported a lop-sided (PR?) story yesterday about the Ruby Barrameda case) asked De Castro if he's running for the presidency.

De Castro said he's done as vice president so it's confirmed that he's running for another post. The question really is---what political party would he be running under? It's confirmed that he's talking with the stalwarts of administration party Lakas-KAMPI. He admits that the party has a very strong machinery. The question that De Castro wants to resolve is very simple---does he really have his own funds and his own machinery before he plunges himself in the race.

Lakas-KAMPI members are urging De Castro to reveal his political plans. De Castro, however, said that he's not doing that AT THIS TIME since he needs to finish many things first as Vice President. He does'nt want people to think of politics when he does his job as V-P. He thinks that it's still a few months away anyway from the deadline in filing his certificate of candidacy. Webb hinted that it may be in September when De Castro would declare his candidacy.

What De Castro does not know is this---October would be the month where political parties would nominate their official candidates for all elective posts. So, if ever he wants to really run, he needs to declare it as early as August to allow him some time to visit the areas of Lakas-KAMPI members and feel the pulse of the people there.

Simple--KABAYAN does not have the luxury of time to dilly-dally.

Same thing with the "opposition". They need to decide who among them would bear the tag "opposition standard bearer", because UNO needs to submit the name of their standard bearer and the names of their other candidates this October 2009. So, if they want to win, Erap Estrada should really decide who to support as their candidate.

What is clear at this point is:

1. Liberal Party would be fielding Mar Roxas as their standard bearer. The only question is--who between Senators Ping Lacson and Kiko Pangilinan would be his running mate?

2. Nacionalista Party is clear that they're fielding Manny Villar. Question is, who'll be his running mate? Would it be Bong Revilla? Or, would he slide down to the vice presidential post in deference to the entry of a Noli de Castro?

3. Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC) has Chiz Escudero. His proclamation would be on October 10. Question is--who'll be his running mate? Would it be Loren Legarda?

4. UNO is sure to field Erap Estrada. Question---would Legarda allow herself to slide down to the vice presidential post? It seems likely. Now, should Legarda decide to put her fate in the NPC, then, definitely UNO would field an Estrada-Binay tandem.

5. Lakas-KAMPI has four (4) aspirants: Gilbert Teodoro, Noli de Castro, Bayani Fernando and Richard Gordon. Gordon, obviously, if asked, would slide down to a re-election as senator. Teodoro already said that he's only interested to run for the presidency; meaning, he'll not slide down. Fernando, by the way, seems to just be posturing. I think Fernando would be asked to just run as senator. Yet, even among the top senatoriables being surveyed by PulseAsia and SWS, Fernando's position is between 28 to 45---very, very far.

So, you see, only Lakas-KAMPI has (1) few options and (2) their candidates are weak in the popularity game, with the exception of De Castro. Now, if they field De Castro, would Teodoro give way and run as his V-P? That would surely alienate Ronnie Puno who already proclaimed his bid for the second top post. If they do not nominate De Castro, then, the only way for him is declare his independent candidacy.

Hay naku...again! Is this so-called "declaration of war against drugs", part of the administration's strategy to justify the sonas (special raiding operations) that the police and the PDEA would undertake in depressed areas in relation to the SONA?

It seems so since Malacanang had found a convenient excuse to rationalize so-called anti-drugs raids in depressed areas in Metro Manila. My sources in the urban poor groups say additional military and police personnel are frequenting their place more often than before. Why? It seems very suspicious since its only a few days before the State of the Nation Address (SONA). Are police and military elements targetting anti-Arroyo urban poor groups preparing for the biggest rally against Arroyo come July 27?

This validates my earlier entry on the planned sona activities of the police in depressed areas. Also, these areas are being militarized, in the name of anti-drugs campaigns. I just hope that Magdalo elements in PDEA will not allow themselves to be used as Mrs. Arroyo's version of Macoy's once dreaded police force.

Honestly, I love Gloria Arroyo. Why? Because she gives me so many things to write. Example--this "tug of war" between the palace and these giant pharmaceutical companies. The DOH gave a list of 22 drugs that they think deserve a maximum retail price ceiling. Today, the pharmas came back with just 14 medicines. Question---will the real Gloria stand up and please state for the record if she'll damn them for this or just meekly bow her head in utter defeat?

Mrs. Arroyo immediately issued an EO to quelch a so-called coup. She immediately ordered state security agencies to pounce on the state's enemies. And she's very strict when it comes to the Muslims who just want their own land.

Now, this. She'll just sign an E.O. that would help countless of sick Filipinos and she's fidgeting? What for?

It's really all posturing for Gloria. Pfizer, that pharma company who tried to wiggle its way out of the rut they call Cheaper Medicines Law by offering suhol...err...sulit cards, is still out there. Gloria did not even charge Pfizer president Albert Mateo with attempted bribery. Talk about the anti-graft and corruption czarina.

Mateo should be fired from his job and charged criminally for that alleged bribery attempt. But, I think we'll just wait for the next administration to just do that. Coz the one we have right now, the one who told us that we need a Strong Republic, is really, a sissy.

Heto na naman po tayo. Remember today's Inquirer headline? This is about the story of the daughter of an alleged anti-drugs operative who was allegedly kidnapped and sexually abused. It turned out the story is a big DUD. Yup. It's not true. It's just a figment of the imagination of...tadah! Press secretary Cerge Remonde. Yeah.

Presidential Anti-Drugs Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief General Santiago denied the story. In fact, he checked it and found that it was just a concoction of someone's wild dreams. There was no police nor military officer or even a confidential agent that was involved in such a crime.

A PDEA official also denied the story. It was good that the Inquirer redeemed itself by publishing a followup story. But, how about Malacanang?

Worst, katawa-tawa that the palace, especially Madame Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo reacted in dramatic fashion, as in, parang me concern with what happened. May golay, Arroyo did not even know that the story was a farce.

And all we know that the presidential office knows everything. Katawa tawa ang palasyo. Nakuryente.

Manolo Quezon III had a very interesting take on concepts and ideas being entertained by certain groups to solve a problem like Gloria. His column today talks about talks between Arroyo's intel chief, Bert Gonzales and Chief Justice Reynato Puno. Sources from the opposition, whom Manolo did not mention, say that Puno and BertGon are in the "thick of things", talking about the possibility of a transition government, austensibly along the lines of Macoy's New Society. And since these men are either beneficiaries or victims of that New Society, there is now, what Manolo believes to be common ground among them.

Actually, the idea of a council-type of government has been there since 1989. During the Cory administration, a group of idealistic military officers, along with several civilians, formed this concept to address the main issue that hinders the full democratization of governance---the issue of power.

Power, under the present Constitution, is lodged solely in the Executive. Yes, there is what we call "balancing acts" or three branches of government enjoying "equal powers"; but in reality, most of the power is being exercised by the Executive.

The problem with a very powerful Executive is in only applies to unitary governments established in one contiguous area. Power is exercised only thru effective implementation. If you have several major islands and your communication infrastructure is still underdeveloped, you definitely have a problem of fully implementing good policies. Or if your infrastructure is at best, only responsive to certain areas of your territory and the rest is left to the discretion of local executives who do not know any better, then, obviously, governance fails each and every time.

Hence, devolution is the answer. Yet, if the power of the purse still resides on the Executive, then, expect that nothing will ever change because local governments function only when financially equipped. Giving local governments the power of the purse and being responsible for the overall administration of their territories require charter change. And since major economic and political powers here disdain that idea because that would obviously affect the status quo, no substantial change would ever occur. In such a situation, drastic measures ought to be implemented as soon as possible before the entire system collapses due to its inability to give adequate social services.

The best way to save the system from total collapse is entertain the idea of a surgical operation. Seize political power and establish a Council-type of government that would oversee the transition from partially free to full democracy is the best solution. Now, democrats would probably say, that's un-democratic. Probably, even America would issue a public condemnation.

But, if you look closely, there was a point in American history that they resorted to such similar measures. When a country faces the total deterioration of its governmental and political institutions, drastic measures ought to be done immediately either on the short or long-term. Honestly, there's nothing wrong with the concept of New Society. In Marcos time, the problem was Macoy used that only as a propaganda platform. He needed to justify his militarist action and mouthing terms as "pagbabago" or "Bagong Lipunan" gave him political legitimacy.

In our case, pushing for a New Society is the order of the day. Change is a necessity. Now, some people say, why entrust to a few people the fate of our country? I ask them---why entrust it to those now in power when we already know that they're big-time thieves and liars? We've always been under the strong spell of a few elites. And even with another election, that political reality would never, ever, change. For us to really change the present power structure, we need an event that would justify a change in that structure. We need new elites that would serve the people first before anything else.

I think a sizeable number of the populace would agree on a transition government provided that no other member of the Arroyo regime is there. Should this indeed happen, let the major players do it properly. They must not cut corners. For as long as they:

1. Jail Mrs. Arroyo and her husband---there must never be a compromise on this. Mrs. Arroyo has to go.
2. Imprison others who stole billions from the public coffers. Arrest Joc-Joc Bolante and the rest of these big-time operators.
3. Allow members of people's organizations, academe and civil society to take part in national policy-making
4. Enforce the laws.
5. Make peace with revolutionary groups.

...then I see no point of strongly fighting these people. In fact, they need our support. Now, should they fool us, then, they all know what happens to governments that fool the people--they are shot on sight.

Everybody knows Washington's stand---no elections means trouble for Mrs. Arroyo. That is as clear as the bright blue sky in Rio de Janeiro. And, true to form, Mrs. Arroyo did, indeed, said that elections would definitely push thru. And I believe her.

She'll push thru with it, but there's one more question---how credible would the elections be and how "peaceful" would that 2010 exercise be?

Some moderate elements of civil society would say, it all depends on us. Yeah. Sure. Right. But, we're not born yesterday.

Automation of the elections is simply no guarantee that the next elections would be as clean as we hope it would be. Why? Because associates of the First Gentleman already control it. They already won first base (COMELEC-SMARTMATIC/TIM contract). Now, what's the second base? Obviously, a smooth operations need the support of military and police officials. They're sure to get it once they replace Verzosa's men with Roberto Rosales or when the AFP changes leadership with the early retirement of Ibrado.

The crux of the matter is simply trust. Many people don't trust the current administration. And it is unfortunate. The credibility of these elections does not depend much on automation. No. It's the integrity of the present administration and sadly, there's none left.

The elections would only be credible if, say, we change the present leadership. That's the only way that elections would be deemed and viewed as "credible". There's so much distrust on the real intentions of Mrs. Arroyo's gang that people can't avoid being anxious on the future come 2010.

It's not enough that Mrs. Arroyo gives us assurance that she'll respect the electoral process. It's definitely not enough that Mrs. Arroyo speaks of an election when her dogs in Congress push for amendments on the economic provisions of the Constitution. And it hell sure is not reassuring that Mrs. Arroyo is visiting her province in Pampanga more than twenty times to believe that everything's fine. No.

It's not that she'll push thru with it---it's the conduct and integrity of the entire enterprise that is now, in question. And for the interest of the entire country, it's definitely important to ask her to either go on a leave of absence or oust her immediately. That would surely give everybody a big sign of relief.

Tita Cory, are you in pain? Don't be. God is looking at you, up there. He's sending His angels to take care of you, as you fight it. I know you can do it. For you have God's spirit.

Tita Cory, are you in pain? If you are, be happy. For millions pray for your recovery. I know it's difficult. We know it's hard. But, bear it a little longer. God is looking at you, up there. You still are being used as His vessel of love, of peace, of happiness.

Tita Cory, here, eat some honey. It would take your worries away. You have'nt eaten for a while. I'm scared that you actually told one of your closest friends that you want to be with Ninoy. Ah, yes, that man who gave his life so that others may live, yes, I remember him.

I remember seeing him on television, sprawled at the airport pavement, lifeless, with a gunshot wound on his face. I remember how his brother cried and how you, Tita Cory, bravely faced the media, still shocked at what happened.

I remember how Macoy denied that he had a hand on that despicable crime and blamed the Communists for killing Ninoy. I remember how Meldy just danced the night away as if no tragedy, no crime so foul had happened.

I remember how thousands of Pinoys braved the curfews and trooped to your husband's wake. You must have been so tired shaking all their hands. But, never did I see you harangue, for I think you pulled all their love and used it as your strength. But, I know, that, you broke your heart that day, for God took your precious love away.

I remember how millions mourn as Ninoy's casket went by. I know. My tita tugged me along to see for myself how a young man who bravely told the world, " The Filipino is worth dying for" has now been a victim of injustice himself. I saw you, you as radiant as Joan of Arc, wearing that yellow dress, a symbol of serenity.

I remember listening as you speak calmly over Radio Veritas, urging Filipinos to boycott San Miguel products. I remember how I deliberately threw my cigarette and vowed never to light one again since it came from Lucio Tan's company, a known Marcos crony.

I remember my tita telling me to dress up coz we're going to EDSA. I thought we're just going to VV Soliven building, owned by her friend. But, nay. We went to Camp Aguinaldo and we're the first to be there, before the tanks and the soldiers and the helicopters came.

I remember your sweet voice as you swore allegiance to the Constitution, give justice to every man and invoked the name of God. That was your vow and you never waivered.

I remember when you faced the throng of soldiers and I was then living in one of UP's dormitories and how you bravely stood your ground against them.

I remember you smiled when you attended Ramos oath-taking and how you calmly and silently faded from the public scene and devoted your time with God and His Causes. I never heard your sweet voice again.

I remember you stood up and asked the people to decide on where they want their future to lie. When you stood up against Erap, everybody clapped and went straight to EDSA. After the smoke had died down and Gloria took her oath, you, again, faded into the darkness and went back to your God.

I remember I heard your voice again when Gloria admitted fooling the people and admitted that she did, indeed, called a COMELEC commissioner. You went out of your comfort zone again and this time, with the nuns behind you, you stood up and challenged Gloria. It was a sight to behold. Rally after rally, you were there, though your health was failing.

When my friend Joey and his friend Jun went out of their comfort zones, you were there, with them. When idealistic soldiers stood up and say "Enough is enough! Oust Gloria", you were also there, with them, praying and giving them courage.

Now, my love, my Tita Cory, you're fighting the battle which only God can conquer. Rest, my Tita Cory. I know you still want to fight because there's still no one out there to replace you at the frontlines.

Rest easy, my Tita Cory. Someday, some one will stand up and fight this evil regime. Someone, somewhere will emerge and like you, brave the darkness for Light to shine once again in this blighted land. And it will not be just one. It will be many. It will be a legion. It will be millions who'll bravely say that Enough is Enough, we need our freedoms back! And that would be the day, my Tita Cory, that God will close your eyes and say, " You have done enough, my sweet daughter. Go back home in peace."

this damned war
has reached the shore
killing that stupid boar

at the frontline.

those who want power
are coatin those raisins with flour
they scamper about and scatter
tryin to make things brighter
yet no light comes from them
they don't seem to matter

at the frontline.

someone say let's padyak our way
while other say hell let's just pay
one guy with a honeycomb
gives the mob a sweet foam
in the mouth
as he speaks with lies
entertaining those flies

at the frontline.

a lady wants to be president
yet she even can't fix her resident
another one wants to be "it"
yet he even can't stand the itch
of licking the butt
of that sonafabitch

at the frontline.

a prayerful man offers himself for the job
but he can't even find the right mob
to convince that he meant well
no one can even tell
'cos he's hidin the scars

at the frontline.

a man with a past
dreams of getting the post
but he's the most undecided
he's afraid that he'll be cited
with two wives he mated
saying he's a Muslim
when he prays before the Nazarene
and even pulls the figurine

at the frontline.

Who's worthy for the crown
among the people in this town?
Will no one stand up
and hold the fuckin cup?

Is there a horseman who can ride
gallop and proudly stride
down memory lane
of glory's past?

Who'll say I'll be happy
to bring down America's puppy?
When all are like Starbuck's
frappy

at the frontlines?

They'll be cookin my future
in hell's kitchen
spicin up my mind
with all sorts they can
find
in hell's kitchen.

they're thinkin
what's up for today
for little boys to play
in hell's kitchen.

sortin what they'll gonna say
or some news they gonna play
to help me forget what to say
when i'm in hell's kitchen.

on july the twenty seventh
they say we're gonna make
you have it
for the Mammon speaks
and no shrieks
in hell's kitchen.

those who reside beside the murky waters
they're confident they got it covered
with billions they got
seems one hell of a shot
in the arm of the little
demon who sits
in that beautiful
pit
waiting for those who spit
and bathe in the showers
of hell's daughters.

they're cookin
and i'm not eatin'
waitin for the right stew
seems more than just a flu
in hell's kitchen.

Makati, 20 July 2009

I have one question for my friend and colleague over at Filipino Voices. Cocoy wrote an entry entitled " The President Priest" which he asked Pampanga governor Ed Panlilio to go run for the presidency. He says Panlilio's "gift of discernment" could be used to solve the nation's problems. He also says that Panlilio could provide the "rallying point" for "deep thinkers and strategists" to come together and solve the people's problems. Sure.

Cocoy, if Panlilio can't even unite the fragmented political groups in Pampanga, asa pa tayo that he can do such a thing as president. Okey, so how would he lead a peace negotiation, by prayer? Would Panlilio be expected to pray over the peace negotiators from the MILF? How would Panlilio act before the atheistic members of the CPP-NPA-NDF? Would Panlilio lead them all to a prayer session before resuming peace talks?

How would Panlilio approach the Reproductive Health bill? Would he sign it? How about an abortion law? Would he sign it? Or, how about when Congress passes a law that bans prayers in Catholic schools, would Panlilio sign it?

How would he then talk with the leaders of the Iglesia Ni Kristo? Or Eli Soriano of the Dating Daan? How would he feel about the Hindus and the Buddhists living in this country? What if a Catholic institution or a Catholic corporation encounter graft charges? What then would be the position of Panlilio?

If, say, terrorists again bomb Mindanao and kidnap members of the civilian populace there and the only measure is a military strike which, obviously, would mean killing scores of people, what then? How would Panlilio decide on this? Will he wage war against the enemies of the state? Or, will he just ask everybody to just pray that we tide these things over?

Let's admit it---Panlilio's win as governor of Pampanga is, at best, an aberration. The reason is quite simple---at that time, the people faced both the devil and Beelshebub. A known big-time jueteng lord wants to be governor while a political scion of a discredited name also wants to continue his graft-filled governance. Faced with no better option, the people voted for Panlilio.

IN 2010, the people will be faced by so many options, better than Panlilio. Let me ask the handlers of Panlilio---are you friends or two-faced enemies of the governor? Why are you pushing him out of Pampanga politics where he's actually the best bet of the people there? You're pushing Panlilio to hell. Why, because you're disappointed of his performance and you want a sequel of the Macapagal-Lapid-Pineda triumvirate?

If Panlilio and his supporters really want to help the country, ask him to run again as governor. That way, he'll be able to destroy this triumvirate and continue on the reforms he already started in Pampanga.

Manong Ed---your mission is thwart the plans of the evil triumvirate of Macapagal-Lapid-Pineda. Do it. Run again as governor. Don't go for the presidency. Or maybe you're decision was made out of fear. You're afraid that the people might not vote for you anymore? Prove that your governance in that province is no fluke.

Honestly, the chances of Pampanga governor Ed Panlilio winning in a multi-party presidential contest is very slim. First, Panlilio is not as popular as an Erap. Second, you need an expansive grassroots organization, especially since the elections has now been automated. And third, since you need a humongous political organization, you need a large campaign kitty.

Besides, Panlilio is also not the ideal presidential candidate. Is three years as governor enough for him to really say that he's qualified for the highest executive post? Is Pampanga so much better now than before that he can confidently say that its the perfect governance model for the entire country to adapt? Panlilio should present his performance or service record as a governor first to prove that he has the wherewithal and the skills and experience to qualify as our president.

If its integrity that Panlilio thinks he has, then, he needs to resolve questions on campaign funds first. He is not entirely clean.

He also needs to re-assess his leadership style. Did he successfully united all political forces in his own province? No. Did he instilled discipline and morality in government service? No. How about his relationship with his constituents? Is Panlilio working very closely with his vice governor, board members, mayors and councilors in his province? No. In fact, the reason why they're all silent on the governor's plan is they want him out of Pampanga local politics.

Let's be realistic for a while. Do we actually need a moralist to be our president? Is morality the root cause of our miseries? If it is indeed, then, the solution is not to install or vote for a moralist. We need a socio-cultural thought regime change to do just that. We need the entire country to at least pause for a while and "re-imagine" our moral values.

I think this ploy of Panlilio is not a good thing. First, it aims to divide the opposition vote. Second, Panlilio's campaign would cause further division in the anti-administration ranks, leading to what observers think as a win for the administration. I don't know if Panlilio and his handlers deliberately want this to happen. Wittingly or unwittingly, Panlilio should desist from his plan. Probably, this is a scheme by Panlilio to divert public attention to the worsening economic and political situation in his province. Panlilio knows very well that should he run for another term, he'll surely lose. The experiment for open democracy in Pampanga failed because of Panlilio.

When I was still studying at the University of the Philippines-Diliman, I had the chance to befriend five great men, and I'm not ashamed to write them all here because I believe that, given the chance, they definitely would contribute towards a better Philippines.

Let's start off with Bong Bongolan. Bong used to be our student Council Chairman. He ran and won under SAMASA, the dominant student political party during our time. I remember that it was during his term that I also ran for the CSSP vice chairmanship post and won. Bong is a very intelligent man. He's one of the best economists. He's now helping the government thru the National Home Finance Corporation (?). Bong has brilliant ideas and given the chance, he'll be a very good Congressman should he choose to run.

Alex Lacson was my "kuya" when I stayed for four years at the Narra dormitory (now closed after a great fire). He finished his law studies and I think, is now in private practice. Last time I heard, he ran and lost in the running for a local post in his hometown in Bacolod. We're supposed to be fraternity brothers but sadly, I choose to be with the masses.

One of Mike Defensor's best buddy (and frat brother) Miro Quimbo, finished his studies at UP Law and went on to become of one of this country's best lawyers. When Mike started his political career as a QC councilor, Miro has been with him since then. After EDSA dos, Miro was appointed as president of Pag-Ibig. I have'nt heard one single graft case or complaint against Miro. In fact, I think that Pag-Ibig is one of the best performers among government's companies. There are talks that Miro will be running for a local post in Marikina. Miro deserves to win.

There's another one, Ariel Nepomuceno, who also ran as one of our best student councilors in my time. Ariel helped form the Independent Student Alliance (ISA). The last time that we met was so many years ago. He was appointed as VP of the Food Terminal Incorporated (FTI). After that, no more news about him. Should he decides to run for a local post, he'll have my firm support.

Lastly, there's another one and his name is Atty. Jijil Jimenez. Jimenez was also a former student council chairman. When he finished his law studies at the UP, Jijil decided to carve a career at the labor department, serving I think as attache. Sometime ago, he was appointed as Deputy Administrator of the OWWA. Last time I heard, he ran for a congressional (?) post in his province and lost. He's now in private practice but should he decide to run, he'll have my support.

Speaker Prospero Nograles Jr. today said charter change is still the top priority in the legislative agenda this coming Congress. Nograles Jr.

By the way, Mrs. Arroyo just arrived from Egypt and assured that elections would push thru, although it is still unclear what kind of elections would that be--would it be only a parliamentary one, sans presidential? Former president Fidel V. Ramos already asked Mrs. Arroyo to disclose her true political plans to erase apprehensions and anxiety.

So, ganon pala--ipipilit talaga nitong si Noggie the doggie ang Constituent Assembly. We should call on the People to stand up and fight Noggie the Doggie and the Arroyos. There is no other way for these people but down. They must be made to realize their mistakes.

Brigadier General Danny Lim is a person of high integrity. A West Pointer, Lim dedicated most of his life to the service of the Filipino People. Yesterday, Lim said he's seriously considering running for a senatorial post. He says that he's still committed towards achieving lasting peace through an improvement in the political system.

Another officer who is also thinking of running is General Ariel Querubin. Like Lim, he's also under detention for alleged mutiny charges.

Teddy Casino is rumoured to be eyeing a senatorial seat himself. Good. Like Lim and Querubin, Teddy exemplifies the kind of legislator we need for the Upper Chamber. He's young. He's idealistic and has an electrifying charisma.

Joey de Venecia III has also intimated his desire to run for a senatorial post. The younger de Venecia, if you remember, went out of his comfort zone as a businessman and sacrificed almost everything just to at least make that ZTE transaction above board.

Pia Hontiveros' sister Hontiveros-Paraquel, is also gunning for a senatorial seat. Like Teddy, she has a very strong will and principles for the benefit of the Filipino People. She deserves our attention and support.

Governor Grace Padaca, I heard, is also running for a higher post. Her achievements in her hometown deserves emulation.

Susan "Toots" Ople, the daughter of former Labor secretary and Senator Blas Ople, is also Senatorial material. Toots has been helping OFW's through the Blas Ople Labor Policy Center. She's one of the OFW's hopes for them to at least be heard in the chambers of Congress.

If Roilo Golez intends to run for a senatorial post, many people would be extremely happy. Golez is an expert in security matters and our security infrastructure would definitely be enriched with his contributions.

Is Ruffy Biazon, son of nationalist Senator Rodolfo Biazon, running for a higher post? I hope so. He could be one of our finest senators in the new generation.

I heard bar topnotcher Atty. Kiko Pimentel III is expected to resume his campaign. He nearly won the 2007 elections after a bitter contest with Senator Juan Zubiri. Hope things turn out different this time, since automated na ang elections.

Adel Tamano, son of former Senator Mamintal Tamano, is running under the Nacionalista Party. His ratings are really not that high and I heard that many Muslims do not like him. Nonetheless, I think Adel has the qualities of a good senator. He deserves a chance. He's intelligent and has the vision to pursue the Bangsamoro agenda in the upper chamber.

Lastly, there's another idealistic officer who wants to run for a senatorial post. I am still not at liberty to reveal his name except that if this person stands up and tells me that I need to go out of my comfort zone and fight for my country even with my bare hands, I will. This guy has the highest integrity. And even if he's past fifty, the last time I talked with him, he still has the same fire in his belly. He is, to me and others, the true Maginoo.

Mar Roxas just released his latest television ad. I think this is, by far, the strongest ever commercial I have seen in a long while. It still has the trademark "bandwagon effect" strategy, positioning Mar in the middle of a throng. What is commendable in this second Padyak installment is the very strong and emotionally-charged script. Ramdam mo. Ako randam ko dahil dumadaan ngayon sa matinding financial na pagsubok ang aking pamilya. Pero, kailangang lumaban.

I think Mar redeemed himself in this commercial. Question---ano kayang gagawin ni Itik? Or ni Bigote? There are very strong rumours of a Mar Roxas-Kiko Pangilinan tandem. By the way, commercials of other candidates are open here. Just send it to my Facebook account and i'll publish it here.



BY the way, COMELEC has just published Resolution No. 8646 detailing their Calendar of Activities for the 2010 Elections.

For those who want to register their organisations as partylist, the last day of filing is on August 17. Overseas Filipino workers last day of filing their transfer of registration records is on 30 September 2009. From October 21 to November 19, the last period for political conventions to select and nominate official party candidates for all elective posts. While the filing of candidacies starts on November 20 and ends on the 30th, 2009. Campaigning starts in February 2010.

Our colleague, Ding Gagelonia has a very witty entry about the meeting between Mrs. Gloria Arroyo and Barack Obama. Ding has the exclusive scenes already. Check it out.

By the way, Gloria should not have accepted the invitation. I am not authorized to say except that Gloria would definitely regret having accepted the invitation.

Question---will the First Gentleman accompany Gloria at the White House? Abangan!

Puno has just arrived and denied that he underwent heart surgery, contrary to reports that came from the palace. However, notice his face. It's so swollen. Did Puno lied like what his boss did when she underwent a breast reduction surgery (which palace spokesperson described as biopsys)?

Puno also denied that he already fell from presidential grace. He just brushed off speculations that he's on the way out. Puno said that he still enjoys the "trust and confidence" of Arroyo. He even showed his force---a retinue of PNP officials---whom, as I was told, were asked to attend the press conference. What was the purpose of the "show of force"? To tell the palace that he's not a sissy?

Despite his denials, there are very strong talks about a Cabinet "reshuffle" shortly after the State of the Nation Address (SONA). Puno is reportedly being "eased out" of Arroyo's inner circle, not because of his opposition to cha-cha, but his reported "closeness" with Defense secretary Gilbert Gibo Teodoro who is now (confirmed) out of the loop. Malacanang is just waiting for the "right time" to do the re-shuffle. And why is Malacanang intent on changing Cabinet members? Another jab at Hello Garci two?

No. This is a classic display of self-preservation, to avoid a Honduran solution. Unknown to many, the Honduran coup is actually a covert US operation. It has the blessing of the Obama administration. It is part of the so-called "roll-back strategy" of the Obama administration to re-assert their presence in Latin American politics.

Now, the question really is---will the same thing happen right here? Yes, it will.

By the way, former president Fidel V. Ramos again urged Mrs. Arroyo to announce her political plans by way of the SONA on July 27. But, why now when Mrs. Arroyo's absent from the political scene? Naku, idol, I think you're just positioning. Why not tell that straight to Mrs. Arroyo's face? O, dare?

Maganda ang kinalabasan ng isinagawang presidential forum ng PPCRV at COMELEC ngayong gabi. Bagamat nabasa ako sampu ng pamilya ko sa ulan, hinamak namin ang bagyo, makadaupang palad lamang ang mga makabayang mga pinunong ito na handang handang pagsilbihan tayo at ituwid ang kamaliang ang pangalan ay Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Dama ko ang sinseridad sa tinig ni Senator Richard Gordon. Sa kabila ng samu't-saring komento hinggil sa kanyang panukalang patawarin ang mga Abu Sayyaf, hindi siya nakitaan ng anumang klaseng bahid ng katiwalian o ng anumang di magandang asal sa harap nito. Isa siyang maginoo, sa pananaw ko. Ang tanong lang ng karamihan---handa na kaya tayo para sa isang Richard Gordon?

Mukhang malamlam ngayon si Loren Legarda. Inaasahan ko pa namang magkalapit sila ni Erap, na ilang araw lang ay sinabi niyang tanging puwersang aaniban niya sa pagtakbo sa 2010. Sa gabing ito, magkatabi sina Legarda at Chiz Escudero. Ibig bang sabihin nito, sila ulit ang magtatambal sa halalan sa ilalim ng Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC)? Yan na nga ba ang sinasabi ko. Pero, tingin ko, blessing in disguise pa rin ito. Dahil, maaga pa lamang, nakita na natin ang "teka-teka" attitude ni Loren.

Walang dudang handang-handa na si Erap para tumakbong muli bilang pangulo. Kumpara sa kanyang mga pahayag noong ANC Leadership forum, mas direktang sinasabi ni Erap ang kanyang kakayanan at intensyong manumbalik sa kanyang puwesto. Ang tanong--handa na ba tayo sa Erap restoration? Kung oo, handa ba tayong maipasailalim sa isang pamahalaan sa loob lamang ng tatlong taon?

Mukhang pagod naman sa biyahe itong si Chiz Escudero ngunit pagsampa pa lamang niya sa entablado, bumira na agad ang pinakabatang kandidato. Ang lagi ko lamang namang kritisismo sa kanya ay ang sinseridad sa kanyang mga salita. Tunay nga bang may lamang maganda ang kanyang mga bulaklaking pahayag? Tunay nga ba at taos sa puso ang kanyang naising mapaganda ang kalagayan nating mga Pinoy? Eksperto si Escudero sa P.R. Pero, sa kalaunan, ito bang klase ang kailangan ng taumbayan sa harap ng sanlaksa at sandamukal na suliraning kinakaharap natin?

Para namang magkapatid sina Governor Ed Panlilio at Mar Roxas. Kapwa nila suot ang Collezione Philippine shirt na pagmamay-ari ni Joey (secret ang surname) at disenyo ni Red. Alam ko, dahil kilala ko si Joey. Senyales ba ito na si Manong Ed ang magiging katambal ni Mar? Sayang. Mas maganda sana kung magsasanib puwersa sina Mar at Kiko, yan ang dream team.

Damang dama ko ang marubdob at malinis na hangarin ni Mar para sa ating bayan. Dangan nga lamang at maaga siyang sumubsob sa kampanya. May positibong epekto rin naman ang gayong istratehiya dahil pinatutunayan lamang niya na handang handa siyang tumayo para baguhin ang kasalukuyang kalagayan nating mga Filipino. Ang palagiang tanong lamang ay---handa rin ba siyang talikuran ang bilyong pisong kayamanan niya sakaling siya ang ihalal bilang pangulo?

Kung handang tumayo sa Plaza Miranda ang mga magigiting na mga kandidatong ito, ano naman kayang palusot ang sasabihin nina Bayani, Noli, Gibo at itik, este Villar?

Dahilan ba sa trapik at baha kaya hindi nakadalo si Bayani? Nagtatago ba si Noli sa takot dahil baka matanong sa kanya ang papalalang kalagayan ng housing sector sa Pilipinas? Kinakausap pa ba ni Gibo ang kanyang esposa para payagan siyang tumayo sa Plaza Miranda? O, natatakot si Gibo sa maaaring negatibong palahaw sa kanya ng mga Muslim sa Quiapo?

Ang pinaka nakakawalang gana ay ang patuloy na nag-isnab ni Manny Villar sa mga ganitong pagtitipon. Anung akala niya sa sarili niya, hari na? Oo, baka siguro sa Las Pinas. Pero, sa buong Pilipinas? Talagang nababastusan ako sa inaasal nitong si Villar. Bakit, ayaw ba niyang makilala siya ng lubusan ng taumbayan? Natatakot ba siyang mabulgar ang tunay niyang karakas?

Natatakot ba siyang matanong kung magkano ang kinita niya sa C-5 road scandal at papaano niya dinaybert ang daan para maambunan ng grasya ang mga pag-aari niya? Teka, ano nang nangyari sa ethics trial ni Villar? Bakit biglang nanahimik sina Jamby Madrigal at Senator Juan Ponce-Enrile, pati na ang magiting na si Senator Ping Lacson? Nabusalan na ba ng Camella ang mga bibig nila? O, me pag-uusap nang naganap sa pagitan ng mga nag-aakusa at ng inakusahan?

Sayang si Villar. Nalulungkot ako sa kinasasapitan niya sapagkat ang anak niya ay kasanib sa aming kapatiran. Ang duda ko, ill advised siya. Akala siguro niya, kahanay na niya si Erap na noong 1998 ay umiwas din sa mga debate at fora.

Malayo pa si Villar. Sa tingin ko, pambabastos yan dahil akala siguro ni Villar na kung nagagawa niyang busalan ang trapong midya ng kanyang pera, hawak na niya pati puso't abdo ng masa. Ang kawalang respeto ng isang katulad ni Villar na makadaupang palad ang mga maralita at ordinaryong mamamayan ay senyales lamang ng kung anong uring pamahalaan tayo sa ilalim ng isang big-time real estate magnate. Isang pamahalaang walang pagmamahal at konsiderasyon sa masang Pilipino. Pwe!

Wala ni anino ni Manny Villar sa ginaganap ngayong presidential forum sa Plaza Miranda. Bakit? Hindi ba niya napapagtanto na ang kanyang ginagawa ay direktahang pambabastos sa taumbayan? Naging mahalaga ang forum na ito sapagkat lumagda sa isang kasunduan o covenant ang bawat isang presidentiable na nagsasabing isusulong nila ang isang malinis at mahinusay na halalan. Isa rin itong malakas na pahayag laban sa isinusulong na pagbabago sa saligang batas ng kasalukuyang pamahalaan.

Sa kawalang partisipasyon ni Villar, malinaw na indikasyon ito na hindi kaisa ng masa si Villar sa pagsusulong ng isang malinis na halalan. Ibig bagang sabihin ni Villar, mas naniniwala siya sa paggamit ng bilyon-bilyong piso upang makuha ang panguluhan? Kawalang galang ito sa sambayanang Pilipino.

Sa pagiging absent ni Villar, ibig bagang sabihin nito ay naniniwala siya sa cha-cha at handa siyang hindi tumakbo sa halalan? Kung gayon, dapat lantaran nang sabihin ni Villar ang pakay niya bakit niya gustong tumakbo? Pagtakas ba ito sa mga katiwaliang kanya umanong ginawa at patuloy na ginagawa bilang senador?

Pfizer representative Angel(?) Pascual was interviewed over DZMM last night. Pascual did more harm than good. She revealed that the Sulit card was launched 2002 and has benefitted close to 1.9 million. Though she's a good speaker, Pascual however revealed too much info to be desired. First, she said that Pfizer is really not amenable to the Cheaper Medicines law which only shows that these current efforts to do a CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) are geared towards undermining the implementation of the law. So, that Sulit card is really a "suhol card" (as described by Ted Failon) coached in marketingspeak. Why? They offered it last May. Although Pfizer wants to emphasize that the offer was made prior to the release of the 22 drugs which Duque wants to tag an MRP. Surely, the purpose of this discount card program is delimit the coverage of the law.

Pfizer is really on the forefront of efforts to undermine a Filipino law. And based on the tone of Pascual, it seems that the multinational giant really wants to impose their will, their desire upon us. Which is revolting to say the least.

Pfizer should be taught a lesson. Maybe a wide and expansive mass movement should do the trick.

Malacanang is now lost for words. Gary Olivar, Mrs. Arroyo's spokesperson, doubts how to describe the visit. Surely, it's not a state nor a working visit. What is it is a summons, according to former Arroyo Cabinet member Teresita Deles. And its not lovely, when you're being summoned.

What this trip is is a variation of what Barack Obama did to Mexican president Felipe Calderon. When Calderon encountered problems on security, Obama went to Mexico, a sign that Washington was concerned.

Since the Philippines is just a minor player in the region, and a former colony of the mighty States, a summons is enough. But, Malacanang has a problem.

The White House just said, Mrs. Arroyo's entourage should only be up to seven people. Yet, there are 100 Congressmen itching to meet Obama. Pano yan Gloria? Pano mo ngayon ipapaliwanag sa mga tuta mo na ang trip mo eh actually pagalit sa iyo?

Comelec just extended the time for you to vote to 11 hours, justifying the move as an accommodation for new voters. For some, that's okey since it will allow more people to go to the polling centers and cast their votes. I have a different take though.

Historically, the percentage turnout has always hover between 70 to 80% of the total voting population. So, even if we increase the time to vote, the figure will remain the same. The extra time will not really increase the actual voting percentage.

But, that's not the point I'm driving at. My concern is the counting of the votes would probably start at 7pm, meaning after night fall. And you know what it means, right?

Computer machines depend on electricity supply. If there's no electric supply in an area, how would they actually count the votes? Surely, some areas would resort to manual counting. Of course, COMELEC would say that there are generators at hand. What if these suddenly conk out or are physically sabotaged? What then? Definitely, some BEI members would decide to count the votes manually.

Counting these votes under the dead of the night is really very risky. It attracts mischiefs. Knowing how traditional politicians think, they would surely do everything possible to still influence the votes to sway in their favor, inspite of automation.

Likewise, some areas in the Philippines suffer from communication problems. Weak signals occur in certain areas in the provinces after night fall. What then? How then would they solve such a problem like that should it happen, especially when it's already dark.

COMELEC should re-visit and re-assess its decision to give extra time to vote. This is too risky.

The Cheaper Medicines Law is a classic example of how strong multinational lobbying muscle is. Prior to that July 8 meeting these pharma companies had with Arroyo, they first had a meeting with Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita. In that meeting, they discussed their apprehensions over the impending implementation of an Executive Order which would mandate a maximum retail price ceiling on at least 22 pharmaceutical products which the Department of Health submitted to Mrs. Arroyo. Remember that it was last June 8, 2008 that the Cheaper Medicines Law was signed by no less than Mrs. Arroyo and it took Malacanang a full year before they decided to implement it.

There is no law that bars multinationals or any other company from lobbying. And there are ethical rules on this. What is so worrisome, to say the least, is the brazenness that these pharma companies are showing.

Pfizer, for example, is too abrasive that it even claims that we're all wrong about the alleged bribery issue. Pfizer made a faux pas when it even stated in its statement that their Sulit card program was implemented a full year ago, at the time when the Cheaper Medicines Law was signed by Mrs. Arroyo. Why only now that it is being offered to the Department of Health (DoH)? If Pfizer indeed went ahead with this program with clean intentions, then, at the onset, they should have partnered up with the DoH.

What Pfizer and the rest of these giant pharmas want is to limit the coverage of the law by voluntarily giving discounts to just 5 million Filipinos. That is a veritable offer to present an alternative solution to the Cheaper Medicines law. The law states that everyone should benefit from lower priced medicines, not just 1.5 million GSIS members or 400,000 indigents under the Philhealth program (the coverage right now of the Sulit Card program). And granting that Pfizer indeed wants to expand the coverage of their sulit cards, 5 million is too small a number just to consider. Why not make it 40 million? And then, further increase it to 60 million then 80 million? Why settle just for 5 million?

These pharmas want to skirt the law and delimit it thru an Executive action. They were unsuccessful in Congress, they're now trying their best to do the lobbying inside Malacanang. And palace occupants are too happy to accommodate them, except Health secretary Francisco Duque.

Duque should be praised by the Filipino People for standing his ground against these multinational companies. Duque categorically stated that "50% price slash or we don't talk." That's the kind of toughness we need at this point. Duque has just shown how government can be effective against these vicious pharmaceutical companies who think that they can just throw their weight around. Of course, these pharmas will still try to lobby when Mrs. Arroyo goes to Washington this July 30, but it remains to be seen whether Mrs. Arroyo would ever compromise government policy over multinational interests.

Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita just announced that they will be releasing implementing rules and regulations on the Cheaper Medicines Law. Question---why the haste? Ermita should resolve the raging controversy regarding the alleged bribery attempt by Pfizer first, before they jump into another issue. It seems that this is just a diversionary tactic meant to dilute the effects of the reported attempted bribery.

And what is this I heard that the US State department will ask Mrs. Arroyo not to implement the Cheaper Medicines Law? It's not surprising since read the Huffington Post how Pfizer uses its contacts in the US State department before to deter the implementation of the law.

By the way, this is now a personal advocacy. I've set up a public service blog titled "Cheap Medicine". You can find it here at http://cheapermedicine.blogspot.com.

( By the way, read The Huff on history of Pfizer's alleged moves to "bully" the Philippine government to protect its anti-hyperintensive drug Norvasc from price ceilings. Read this link. Pfizer pala sued government in 2006 and even used its ties with the US State department to pressure our government to succumb to its whims)

Pfizer explained that the alleged offer to provide 5 million Sulit Patient Care discount cards was actually a plan to partner up with the Department of Health. Pfizer says its sulit cards are being used by 1.8 "indigent" patients throughout the Philippines. Pfizer just thought it wise to expand the program to include an additional 5 million people. The offer daw was made last May, weeks before the release of the list of drugs with maximum retail price ceilings.

Crap. Bull. Pfizer is definitely not telling us the truth.

Look, Pfizer and their PR handlers probably surmised that we're all suckers. In fact, their statement opened a Pandora's box of questions. Tangekngek ang mga PR nitong Pfizer!

First, if Pfizer was really telling the truth that the offer was "genuinely for indigent patients", then, why did they not offer it to the Department of Health at the time they conceptualize it? Why did Pfizer entered into agreements first with GSIS and Philhealth before going to DOH? What's so special with employees of GSIS and of PhilHealth?

Second, if Pfizer really was on this "with clean hands and with clean intentions," then, why was the offer made months before it was launched? The timing is very suspicious to say the least.

Third, if their sulit card program is really "above-board", then why was it rejected outright by Health secretary Francisco Duque Jr.? Some say, Duque favors Wyeth kasi. But, I don't think that's right. Duque probably thought it wise not to succumb to the tempting P100 M. Good for Duque.

Pfizer will find it very, very hard to wiggle themselves out of this mess. One principle in effective crisis management is---admit the truth. Don't lie. Try to be very transparent. In this case, palpak na agad ang Pfizer.

And this is a challenge to Senators Mar Roxas and Juan Ponce-Enrile and even to Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo----HUWAG PALAMPASIN ANG GINAWANG ITO NG PFIZER PATI NG MGA PHARMA COMPANIES. I ADMIRE YOU GENTLEMEN. DON'T LET THE PUBLIC DOWN. IF THESE PHARMA COMPANIES ARE NOT PUNISHED DESPITE ENRILE'S ASSERTION THAT THEY TRIED TO BRIBE GOVERNMENT, THEN, I'M SORRY BUT I HAVE TO WRITE THE TRUTH. DO NOT COMPROMISE YOUR PRINCIPLES, HONORABLE SENATORS.

I CHALLENGE MRS. ARROYO TO ORDER THE DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE TO FILE ATTEMPTED BRIBERY CASE AGAINST PFIZER AND OTHER PHARMA EXECUTIVES WHO WERE THERE LAST JULY 8, 2009. IF ARROYO IS REALLY HONEST IN HER ANTI-GRAFT CAMPAIGN, START WITH PFIZER.

PETER FAVILA SHOULD ALSO COME CLEAN AND REVOKE THE LICENSES AND REGISTRATION OF THESE PHARMA FIRMS, PARTICULARLY PFIZER. IF THEY DO THESE, I WILL STOP CRITICIZING THIS REGIME.

O, KAYA MO BA HA GLORIA?

The offer was, by the way, NOT an indirect bribery since there was a concrete offer by Pfizer Philippines to deter the implementation of the Cheaper Medicines Law by proposing an alternative way of enforcing it, thru its Sulit Card Patient Care program, according to Senator Juan Ponce-Enrile.

Article 210 of the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines penalizes an attempted bribery. While Republic Act 6713 and RA 3019 are specific as to the conduct of public officers in relation to acts considered as bribery.

Now, the palace is trying to delude the public by re-defining the act of Pfizer. They are doing what we in the business calls "re-imagination" by proposing a new set of definitions. The act, however, satisfies the requisites of the law on bribery. It is NOT enough that the government thru Department of Health secretary Francisco Duque Jr. rejected the offer. The very fact that the offer was made already constituted a perfected crime of attempted bribery.

Duque may be held liable for this since he did not report the matter immediately to prosecutors or fiscals. If that July 8 meeting happened in Manila, Duque should have reported the alleged attempted bribery to the fiscal in Manila for proper disposition. Otherwise, Duque is probably liable for the crime of misfeasance for his inability to report what Senator Juan Ponce-Enrile considers a crime.

Oh, by the way, others including Trade secretary Peter Favila and Congressman Benny Abante are also liable since they did not report the alleged incident immediately after the commission of the reported bribery attempt by Pfizer, according to some lawyers.

With this, there's another reason to file an impeachment case against Mrs. Arroyo? Or, we just wait for Mrs. Arroyo to finish her term and file a case against her?

Why is Celso de los Angeles still not in jail? He's supposed to be in jail after a court issued a warrant of arrest against him? His lawyer, Atty. Noel Malaya says that Celso de los Angeles suffers from stage 4 cancer. Whatta? Celso got cancer after people got wind of his syndicated or Ponzi scheme? Like Joc-Joc Bolante before him, Celso went to St. Luke’s Medical Center to avoid incarceration. St. Luke’s Medical Center is really having the reputation of being the “safe haven” of big-time schemers and scammers in this country.

Unlike Joc-Joc though, Celso will have to face the music though. Joc-Joc escaped prosecution because he knows many things and his crime was simply gift-giving—giving many syndicate members at the DA and in this administration billions of pesos worth of liquid fertilizers. Celso’s case is different. Aside from having links only as far as the Vice President’s office, Celso scammed even his closest friends. If Joc-Joc got only 700 million pesos, Celso’s scheme netted him 14 billion pesos. Wow.

What’s surprising, Celso and his lawyers just discovered that he has cancer shortly after learning a judge ruled in his behest a few days ago? Remember that previous to this, Celso even went to Sto. Domingo town in Albay to “resume his duties as mayor”. Residents of Sto Domingo did not seem to know that he has cancer.Now, after a few days, he suddenly went sick. Wow. Talk about transformations.

Is Celso and his lawyers plan to “wait it out” for Celso to reach the age of 70 years old to avoid jail time? Under the law, the courts would be constrained not to incarcerate De los Angeles due to “humanitarian reasons”. Is that the reason for the hospital arrest?

I would just believe Atty. Noel Malaya’s words that this is not the case, if he’ll allow his client to spend his time in jail while waiting for his next chemotheraphy session.

By the way, I ask citizens of this country to arrest the following people if they see them. Under the law, every citizen has the right to make citizen's arrests of those people wanted by the law.

Today, Pfizer Philippines tried to wiggle itself out of the bribe mess when they denied that they offered government a P 100 million peso bribe.

For those who just read this, Senators yesterday accused Pfizer of an attempt to bribe Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo by offering her 5 million discount cards worth P 100 million in exchange for not signing an executive order (in fact, part of the implementing guidelines of the Cheaper Medicines Law). The order is supposed to release a list of medicines with maximum retail price ceilings, an important component of the law. The bribe offer reportedly happened last July 8, just before the DOH released the list of drugs affected by the price ceilings.

Pfizer denied that a bribe offer happened, yet it was Reiner Gloor, executive director of the pharmaceutical company representing 50 pharmas who confirmed it. The discount cards, says Gloor, are to be distributed to alleged "indigent patients" under a program called Sulit Patient Care card program which is already being implemented by Pfizer with an agreement with GSIS and PhilHealth.

The sulit card patient care program is the brain child of Mr. Albert G. Mateo Jr., Pfizer's country manager. Legislators, including Cong. Hontiveros-Baraquel condemned the program saying its discriminatory since it would only cover areas where Pfizer med reps go to. Pfizer med reps are the ones who distribute the cards.

Senator Juan Ponce-Enrile said the purpose of these discount cards is to impede or stop the implementation of the Cheaper Medicines Law. That constitutes bribery. And Pfizer Philippines is the alleged mastermind behind the bribery attempt.

The question really is---why did Mrs. Arroyo stayed her hand on this? If I'm the president, all the more will I sign the E.O. and not give these pharma companies a day more to react. Why? Because Mrs. Arroyo pledged to uphold the interests of the entire Nation, not just the interests of these giant pharma companies.

What's more, Mrs. Arroyo could be charged with culpable violation of the Constitution by misfeasance. She's supposed to ministerially implement the Cheaper Medicines Law. Why the hell is she dangling the law like a carrot to these pharma companies? Is she waiting for a better offer from them?

And please, Trade Secretary Peter Favila---don't go around town impressing upon us that you're "angry" with these pharma companies. You're just faking it. You're part of this scheme to lure these pharma companies to a trap so that they give a better offer. Better for you, Mr. Favila, to just implement the law and start with Pfizer by cancelling their registration. Same with Wyeth Philippines, Roche, and Sanofi who were with Pfizer representatives when they met Mrs. Arroyo last July 8.

Mrs. Arroyo, this is the time for you to redeem yourself. Show your power by punishing Pfizer and the rest of its pharma cohorts by cancelling their registrations. If not, then, be prepared for a strong showing of anger by the People very, very, very soon.

Assalamu alaikum wah rahmatullah!

I just received word that Imam Boratong, the alleged notorious big-time drug dealer who operates the Pasig shabu tiangge is still in operation. I humbly ask our fellow Muslim brothers to form a strike force and obliterate Boratong's group who continues to besmirch the good name of Muslims in Pasig and throughout the Philippines. Let all Muslims throughout this land condemn the illegal drug trade especially this is haram, a sin, a totally despicable and spiteful thing which only Muslims themselves should excise from the face of the earth. Let all true believers of Islam arm themselves with the Will of Allah SWT and put an end to this perversity.

Unknown probably to Enrile and Senator Mar Roxas, Pfizer has already been implementing its Sulit Patient Care card thru its PhilHealth and GSIS agreements. Just this year, Pfizer entered into an agreement with GSIS president Winston Garcia to give 50% discount cards to GSIS members.

In fact, Pfizer just launched its Sulit Card gimmick as a trial balloon. The sulit card reportedly already benefitted 1.9 million "indigent Filipinos", an obvious gimmick says Business Mirror columnist Lito Gagni since the card is being given to patients in expensive hospitals, allegedly being visited by Pfizer medical reps.

But, what Lito Gagni does not know, the bulk of the supposedly 1.9 million actually came from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). GSIS and Pfizer just entered into an agreement last May which gives GSIS members 50% discount in Pfizer products thru the use of the e-card. So, there's only about 400,000 indigents who are supposedly benefitting from the Pfizer sulit card scheme, a miniscule number compared to the benefits that the Cheaper Medicines bill will give to all 90 million Filipinos.

These pharmaceutical companies are supposed to course the P100 million thru the Gawad Kalusugan, although, some say, the non-stock, non-profit organization does not know that they would be used by the following companies: Pfizer Foundation Philippines,Boehringer Ingelheim (Philippines) Incorporated,Wyeth Philippines Incorporated, Natrapharm Incorporated and United Laboratories Incorporated.

Likewise, I'll expose the links of Mr. Reiner Gloor to Rotary Club of Makati South, the chapter of First Gentleman Mike Arroyo and Mr. Albert G. Mateo Jr. Mateo Jr., according to the transcript in the Senate probe, was reportedly the one who offered the P 100 million pesos "discount card bribe" to Mrs. Arroyo.

Who is Mr. Mateo Jr. and why is he very powerful with the Arroyo regime? Abangan!

Reiner Gloor, executive director of the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines and chair of its ethics committee, confirmed that Pfizer thru its Country Manager/representative Alberto Mateo allegedly made the Offer to Department of Health secretary Francisco Duque. The offer was made before the publication of the list of the maximum retail price (MRP) for essential medicines last month. The offer, however, was supposedly rejected by Duque.

Gloor once headed Zuellig Pharma in the Philippines and now serve as vice chairman of the Zuellig Foundation, a non-stock, non-profit corporation. While Alberto Mateo serves as General Manager of the pharmaceutical division, a promotion after serving for some years as Finance and Business Development director. He's also Pfizer Foundation chairman.

Enrile described the offer as tantamount to a "bribe".

During the questioning, Gloor also confirmed that it was Pfizer Philippines which initiated the meeting with Mrs. Arroyo. Present during that closed door meeting were Duque, Trade secretary Peter Favila, representatives of Pfizer and Roche Philippines.

The meeting, which was held during the inauguration of the Dr. Eva Macaraeg Macapagal Geriatric Hospital last July 8, was requested by Pfizer. The President was accompanied by Secretary Duque, Trade Secretary Peter Favila, Trade Assistant Secretary Ma. Lourdes Baua, Congressman Benny Abante, Congressman Junie Cua and DOH-National Drug Policy Program Manager Dr. Robert Louie So.

The multinational industry, on the other hand, was represented by top management namely Mr. Albert Mateo of Pfizer, Mr. Augusto Villanueva of Roche, Mr. Reiner Gloor of PHAP/Zuellig, Mr. Andrew Santos of Wyeth and Mr. Caloy Realuyo of Sanofi.

Arroyo reportedly remarked that she'll sign the Cheap Medicines bill into a law if " they (pharma companies) can't come up with something commendable and good." Gloor and Augusto Villanueva, Roche Philippines representative, however, did not say what Arroyo meant by "commendable and good."

Before you read my previous entry, a challenge to Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

I will only stop exposing what you plan to do to perpetuate your evil reign in this country, ONLY, if you start these things:

1. Tell the truth. Organize a presscon and tell the entire Filipino People that you're not planning to stay a second longer than 12 o clock of June 30, 2010.

2. Lower gasoline and diesel prices by as much as 8 pesos.

3. Support Enrile's bid to erase the royalty tax. That way, I don't need to pay 4,000 pesos every month for electricity.

4. Don't run as a Congresswoman in Pampanga. You caused us so much harm already. Tama na. Pahinga ka na, Gloria. You should learn when to stop.

5. Increase the loanable amount sa SSS and Pag-Ibig so that people like me would just build a water-refilling station. Para hindi na kami magsulat.

Opps! Sorry. I vowed pala never to write bad pieces again....Hindi ko mapigilan eh. Daming katangahan at kagaguhan kasi dito sa bansa natin.

My friends, starting today, I'll start writing good stories about the Philippines. Yes, all good stories. I figured, nothing will ever come out of writing exposes anyway.

Since I started as a journalist in 1992, I've been writing investigative pieces that it's time probably, to stop. In 2000, prior to EDSA Dos, I exposed the "coup plans" which eventually happened. They were shown on TV because they were complete reports, with interviews and documents. I don't write entries here based on nothing or unverified documents or interviews that are misleading or patently wrong, no. I adhere to the tenets of journalism. I verify my info through triple sources.

Yes, there's nothing to be gained nor gleaned from investigative reports. It even puts your life in danger or puts you under the radar. One of my friends said this site is being monitored and I'm now included in the "black list". Good. Why?

Because that shows that government is trying to listen. Yeah, they ought to. Why do I write these things in the first place? Well, I have nothing to gain from all of these things. I don't have any political clients. Yes, I do have many politicians as friends, but I don't meet them regularly. I seldom go out of my house, except of course, for meetings with clients, who are NOT political personalities nor have interests in politics. I'm not even paid to write these entries. No.

I just think that for a mischievous or machievellian plan to fizzle out, exposing them at the earliest time is the best thing to do. As a citizen of this Republic, I have the duty to beat the drums, sound the trumpet and tell my fellow Filipinos, that hey, we're being scammed here and you should also raise your voice so that these fellows would stop their schemes.

Also, no one would ever really act to change our situation anyway. Even if I write investigative pieces anyway, no one cares. Yes, no one.

For example, if I write that there's a brewing plot, people would just dismiss that as "agitation propaganda" or "another conspiracy theory" even if evidence and recent events are there for everybody to see and analyze. You don't need to be an expert political scientist to figure things out. You need adequate research skills though and a full grasp of theoretical models to figure how to connect the dots though.

By the way, for those who think that this site was the originator of that term "Oplan August Moon", you're wrong. Though I wrote entries which tell of a plot, I was not the one who named that ridiculous plot, "August Moon." These plots, if ever they really implement it, are usually "un-named" and no one in his right mind would mask it with such as term as "August Moon." Why August moon when the plot reportedly would cultimate in October? Should be October moon, right?

What am I saying? I really think that government would win this time. Yes, the Arroyo regime will win. They have the advantage of terrain, of the weather, of discipline and of numbers. As I wrote in previous posts, what Arroyo wants, Arroyo gets. And nothing can stop her.

As what Bugs Bunny always say, if you can't beat them, join 'em. I have an alternative saying though---if you can't beat them, wait for a while. Evil things always come to a disastrous end.

Kung gaano nila kabilis pina-init ang tungkol sa bombing, ganon din nila kabilis pinatay ang isyu. Why?



Simple---this regime is weaker than before. The situation now is actually a reverse of the previous one where the Arroyo regime gets its way whenever there's a destabilized situation. If you notice, destabilization efforts strengthen instead of weaken the regime. When it sees an occasion to use military power, this regime never hesitates. The use of military action to diffuse a supposed power grab was meant to stress authority and power over their enemies. And for every action that this regime takes to neutralize its enemies, the stronger it becomes in the minds of the people. And why is that? Because there was a perception that the regime stands on a higher moral ground than its critics. That impression leaves a lasting mark in people's minds, convincing many that being in the good side of the regime is better than risk being its enemy.

Now, it's different. People think now that this regime is out to extend its stay, whatever means possible. These talks of martial rule are starting to create an impression on the minds of the people that the regime is desperate to prolong its stay, at any cost. For the people, this is unacceptable. Filipinos can tolerate one or two terms, but another six years with Gloria? That is too much.

Advisers of Mrs. Arroyo might have realized this. That's why they made every effort to diffuse the situation. Try to look at the list of stories of both ABS-CBN and GMA---there is but casual mention of the bombings any longer. And take a hard look at the headlines tomorrow and you'll know what I'm talking about.

Likewise, the Arroyo regime might have noticed that one or two military groups or factions tried to add fire to these talks (or rumours if you believe government). Look at how NCRPO denied the presence of terrorists in Metro Manila. And see how fast government tried to impress us by arresting so-called bombing experts of the Abu Sayyaf Group. These incidents are like road shows, easy to dismantle whenever necessary.

What a lovely sight. Or is it?

Checking if the news are true? Seeing it for himself? He does'nt know?

Or, maybe, he's out to make a clean breasts of things?"

I never fail to watch ShopTalk, the show of my friend and colleague, Pia Hontiveros-Pagkalinawan. We once covered the defense beat together. Shoptalk airs over at ANC, every Monday to Friday, 3-4pm.

Anyway, what impressed me was the chance to listen to timeless standards sang by the country's top jazz legends. Pia invited Richard Merk, Jacqui Magno and Pat Castillo, all Filipino Jazz legends. And you know what? They're terrific! They sang some jazz standards, and boy, they're really amazing. Merk is truly a very gifted singer, very creative and timeless. Jacqui Magno sang those songs with amazing range and sensibility while Pat Castillo is still the epitome of grace and very beautiful voice. You should have watched them perform. They electrified my television screen. I was not able to tape it but if ShopTalk would give me a copy, I'll pay for it.

I don't know why they don't have a show together over at ANC. It's time for them to really show us their gifts once more. They really their viewers a very nice feeling.

One of these days, I'll go and watch their show over at Merk Bar and Bistro. I don't know where it is but, I'll look for it. Thanks to ShopTalk for giving us an hour of fun and a great show.

Local government secretary Ronnie Puno is supposed to be back from his trip to the States. Malacanang issued a statement saying that Puno went on a medical leave, a clear contradiction with Puno's own statement saying that he'll be there to attend his daughter's wedding. Puno has not been seen in public since a few weeks ago.

What people don't know is Puno was seen hob nobbing with Washington royalty. Who are these men? Members of the former Bush administration and the present one. Where are they connected? They're connected with the State department and the Pentagon. And what were the things they talked about and what were those things which Puno shared with them? That's a secret.

Is Puno on a secret mission to either (1) negotiate with Washington for and on behalf of Mrs. Arroyo or (2) tell all against his boss? If he's there for Mrs. Arroyo, what is that issue that the palace wants to explain to Washington? Well, nagging tongues say it could be about con-ass. Yes, con-ass. Is that the reason why Washington has been using both diplomatic and non-diplomatic channels to send a clear and unequivocal message that they oppose the plan?

And if it's a "tell all", is Puno repeating the mistake of Ping Lacson on the eve of Estrada's demise when the former PNP chief offered himself as an alternative to his boss? Surely, Puno is not that self-absorbed to think that he'll be an acceptable solution to a problem known as Ate Glo.

For sure, whatever it was, it created a big stir inside Washington that Gates, the US defense chief, made doubly sure that they heard it right by sending his own man, CIA chief Leon Panetta, to see for themselves what's happening in this small republic in South East Asia. Maybe Gates thought that his visit was not clear enough for Mrs. Arroyo to understand. Gates and State department head Hillary Clinton were very emphatic--toe the democratic line or else, we will not hesitate to intervene in case. That's clearly what US ambassador Kristie Kenney said last week.

By the way, what's that question I asked a few entries back? What were the things that Jaime Zobel de Ayala and Mrs. Arroyo talked about in Cartagena that were so important, the entire palace entourage had to spend some time there and cause a diversion of the official itinerary? Was it, as some surmise, a talk, nay a negotiation, between civil society and Mrs. Arroyo? Was it a negotiation for Mrs. Arroyo's exit plan? And was Ayala used as the unofficial emissary of Washington to impress the desire of the Obama government for Mrs. Arroyo to "cut and cut cleanly"? And was the reaction of Mrs. Arroyo adverse? Surely shortly after that, bombs went off and bomb threats spread. Are these things Mrs. Arroyo's answer to Washington's attempts to make her think clearly?

Lastly, these things happened very fast, just a few days after the celebrated Teodoro birthday bash, described by some as the Filipino version of a Munich Putsch. Are groups within the palace fighting each other for supremacy? Surely, we really don't know. What's clear is that groups within the AFP and PNP are fighting against each other mainly to impress Madame.

A witty entry from BarakoJam. Let's read:

Ah, heavenly, I say, as I smell the aroma coming from my freshly brewed barako. I lighted my cigarette and inhaled the heavenly smoke. As I was about to open my Inquirer, my eyes gazed upon the headline: "AFP: Next Target Metro; Security Forces on Alert." Wow. Talk about a headline.

Thoughts suddenly raced inside my mind, probably due to nicotine and caffeine both kicking in. If they already know that these stupid terrorists are roaming the metropolis a few weeks back, why the hell did they even allow them to (1) launch their bombing attacks in both Metro Manila and Mindanao and (2) even let them sleep and rest in their safehouses. NCR Command Major General Jogy Leo Fojas (PMA Class 1976) said they already know where these terrorists are hiding. Okey. So, what will you be doing about that, Mr. General? Are you just going to watch them on CCTV, hoping to get them urinating somewhere or committing a crime before you even arrest them? What's the use of the anti-terror or Human Security Act?

Then, my eyes saw the very words of NCRPO chief Roberto Rosales (PMA Class 1978). He says that he beat Fojas to the punch by declaring red alert ahead of Fojas. What? Is this a race to impress Madame?

Then, I read the next page. Ah, so that's it. Fojas is not preparing against real terrorists. No. If what his mistah, PNP Chief Director Jesus Verzosa is to be believed, they will be doing some "sona" work, that is special clearing operations, "one or two days prior to SONA (State of the Nation Address)" in places near Congress and others where rallyists traditionally converge or come from.

So, what these esteemed gentlemen plan to do is use the law against anti charter change rallyists. That belies the real plan of Malacanang---prevent rallyists from getting their critical numbers come July 27. Why? If there's so much people chanting and shouting together in unison against cha-cha, that'll be sending the strongest possible message of condemnation against this regime.

But, no, those hawks inside the palace will not allow that. Joe de Venecia Jr. said that as early as 2007, his former friend, Mrs. Arroyo has been toying around the martial law card. Hawks who share her bed, err, mind, would fight tooth and nail, "patay kung patay", should groups move against the regime. Now, would they do the same thing now? Of course, JDV say.

Yet, look at this thing very closely. Two officials, both heads of our security agencies in all of NCR, are somewhat both breast beating. They, Fojas, a member of PMA Class 1976 and Rosales of PMA Class 1978, are both trying to impress Madame that they're capable of defending her against her enemies. Talk about doggish loyalty.

So the games of the generals are on and the play against so-called terrorists continues. And who'll suffer the most should this regime ram charter change down---you guessed it right---the people.

Former Arroyo ally, ex-Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. thinks that Mrs. Arroyo is planning to declare martial law.

He says that Arroyo's body language speaks for itself--the purported plan to isolate her defense secretary and replace him with a trusted general and former putschist and the worsening situation in Mindanao. De Venecia said, Mrs. Arroyo could use this to justify a declaration of martial rule. Now, if this fails, there is another opportunity--failure of the 2010 elections.

Earlier today, the palace denied talks of a Cabinet reshuffle, saying that there are no plans to replace Teodoro.

De Venecia is speculating that if these bombings hit sensitive areas or escalate, that would surely give Mrs. Arroyo enough reason to declare martial rule. Or, at the very least, declare a selective martial law, covering only Mindanao.

Rumours of martial law has been talked about in certain circles as early as January. The plan involves the escalation of violence in Mindanao. Military insiders say the plan is expected to hit paydirt in August 6. However, recent intelligence reports show that Mrs. Arroyo is planning to actualize the plan as early as the third week of July, even ahead of the State of the Nation address in July 27.

These talks are spreading fast and loud that even Washington took notice. This Sunday, CIA chief Leon Panetta will be visiting the Philippines. Panetta expects to have an audience with Mrs. Arroyo. The visit is reportedly a routine government to government matter, mostly a protocol to reiterate commitments in intelligence sharing. Some quarters however, insist that Panetta's mission is to discuss political developments with Mrs. Arroyo. Like US Defense secretary Robert Gates, Panetta's visit is Washington's way of telling Mrs. Arroyo to "come clean and toe the democratic line."

Metro Manila has been placed on full alert, a few days prior to the expected visit of Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Chief Leon Panetta this Sunday. It's still unknown why America's chief spy is visiting the country, although some say it's part of Washington's policy to convey to Mrs. Arroyo it's views on both security and political developments in the Philippines.

Panetta's visit is a short one---only 12 hours. Yet, it is significant because it comes at the heels of a previous visit of another top Obama official--Defense secretary Robert Gates.

Gates came to the Philippines while Mrs. Arroyo was on a state visit to Japan. He was welcomed by Defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro. During Gates' visit, he expressed Washington's desire for Malacanang to push thru with the 2010 elections.

A few days ago, US Ambassador Kristie Kenney reiterated Gates' message in public, emphasizing Washington's belief in term limits and adherence to the democratic way in political succession.

Panetta's hush-hush visit reminds me of moves Washington made in two occasions: during Marcos' last days in the palace and Erap's. Washington always send its message on two channels--both official (diplomatic) and unofficial (through envoys without official standings). Is this similar? Is Panetta out to get Arroyo's commitment to democracy? Or, he'll be here to assess, share and monitor what could possibly be a rise of terrorist activities in Mindanao?

Better for Panetta to just talk with Mrs. Arroyo and help her think clearly.

By the way, where's DILG secretary Ronnie Puno? Is he being pushed out also from Malacanang?

Definitely, forces are moving to push both Teodoro and Puno out of the palace. These very close associates of Mrs. Arroyo are using these series of bomb attacks to justify their plan. Will they succeed? Heard that their plan would coincide with the trip of Mrs. Arroyo to Egypt. A Honduran solution is a possibility?

Speculations are rife that Washington has also opened itself for talks with the opposition. Are groups preparing for a showdown?

What's certain is this---Mrs. Arroyo and her minions want to push the envelope. Yes, they are determined to push their luck. They would try to implement a selective implementation of martial rule, first in Mindanao, then, here, in the metropolis.

The question is---are we ready to defeat them? Let me quote what Hyatt 10 said: " With God's will..."

Let God's will be done. Laban Na!

National Capital Region Command Major General Jogy Leo Fojas should be investigated for possible complicity in the bombings in Mindanao or at the very least, dereliction of his duty. Fojas told reporters that the AFP monitored the presence of Jemaah Islamiya, ASG and MILF elements in the Metropolis, a few weeks prior to the bombings in Metro Manila and Mindanao.

WTF?! Nakita ninyo na pala ang mga terorista sa Metro Manila, bakit hindi ninyo pa hinuli? Hogwash. Either Fojas wants these terrorists to do their thing or he does not know his job.

Seriously, is this the kind of soldier we expect to defend the capital from terrorists?

O, kitam? After blaming opposition groups for the bombings, even pointing to an "opposition figure" as the one behind the bomb attacks, now, the administration changed tack and says that the Jemaah Islamiya are now " in Metro Manila" and plans to do some bombing.

This validates my earlier entries on the script that Malacanang will follow---blame these things to foreign terror groups so that wala nga namang tamaang malaking isda sa mga political groups in the Philippines. Hay, naku. This is a common alibi made by this government, when pushed by the public for answers.

Net 2.0 Media has a very good entry, an advise actually, on how to handle these kinds of situation.

The reason why we can't really fully identify the perpetuators behind these bombing attacks is simply this government has so many enemies. Obviously, we really can't pinpoint the real suspects because many people want this regime out.

A PNP general was quoted as sharing this vital piece of intelligence info. Is he kidding? If this is A-1 info, hindi niya dapat ishini share ito sa publiko. This is probably hog-wash, because the S.O.P. in the military is simply not share confidential security info.

Hyatt 10, the group of former government officials of the Arroyo regime issued their strongest condemnation against their former boss today. After hearing mass at St. Jude church, the one near Malacanang, seven of the 10 tried to serve their damning statement to Mrs. Arroyo by marching to Malacanang. They were, however, stopped at the sentry gate.

These seven, former Education secretary Florencio Abad, Poverty Commissioner Teresita Deles, Imelda Nicolas, Budget secretary Emilia Boncodin, Cesar Purisima and Rene Villa. All ten signed the manifesto, including three others, Bert Lina, Juan Santos and Guillermo Parayno.

The group accused Mrs. Arroyo of instigating and creating a scenario of instability to perpetuate herself to power. " Dont push your luck", says the group, stating that the people will not anymore tolerate an extension of Mrs. Arroyo's regime. Part of the statement reads, and I quote:

“Don't push your luck. You have crossed the line too often enough. With impunity, you have exploited our people's cynicism and apathy for your own narrow and selfish ends. As with all things, this too will come to an end. Of this, we are certain. With God's help, the Filipino people will put an end to this despicable Arroyo regime."

Hyatt 10 is a group composed of former Arroyo confidante and close Cabinet members who bolted the administration shortly after the Hello Garci scandal broke out.

At the height of public confusion and finger-pointing, more people believe that these bombings happening in Mindanao and Metro Manila are being instigated by a group close to Mrs. Arroyo. In the past, destabilizations are exploited by Mrs. Arroyo. Historically, shortly after a destabilization event, Mrs. Arroyo took the occasion to cleanse her administration with disloyal subjects. Political pundits agree that this is the same tactic being employed by Mrs. Arroyo now. Hyatt 10 believes Mrs. Arroyo is not just fighting for her post-2010 survival; she is now consumed with the lust for more power. These ex-officials believe Mrs. Arroyo will try to do everything to keep herself safely in Malacanang.

“From mere survival, the President is now consumed by schemes, however illegal
or unconstitutional, to perpetuate herself in power –- indefinitely,”

Senator Frank Drilon, citing sources from the palace, says that Secretary Ebdane will head the Department of Defense (DND)--a move interpreted as a precursor to the declaration of martial law in the Philippines. What's curious is the expected "lateral" transfer of Defense secretary Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro to the Justice department, with now current head Agnes Devenadera to go back to her solgen post.

Why the justice department for Gibo? Is he not an effective soldier anymore for Gloria? Probably because of his strong public condemnation of martial rule yesterday, when he said that there's no such thing and he'll be first to oppose it, same stance as former president Fidel V. Ramos. Or, possibly, Gloria is afraid that Teodoro is gaining more and more adherents not just in the military, but moreso in civil society. I, myself, admired Teodoro's grit. He seems to be the perfect leader, having a good grasp of things and with a good and strong heart.

Maybe Teodoro is being eased out because he's getting bigger than his boss. Being a professional in Arroyo's Cabinet is not an admirable trait. What Gloria wants and likes are dogs. These people serve her well and calms her troubled mind.

Or possibly, maybe the justice portfolio is more apt for Gibo, since the post is more "controversial" and one can get more publicity juice out of it. Or, maybe, Gloria suspects that some group within the Cabinet is sabotaging her and wants a Honduran solution soon?

I asked my classmate what he thinks and he says that Gibo and Gloria are not seeing eye-to-eye anymore after Gibo's lavish birthday party. Gloria was not there, but her Cabinet members were. That party was interpreted by close Arroyo associates as a virtual Munich Putsch. Remember that even Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita was there to toast for Gibo.

An Oddity

It's so odd that, a few months prior to her downfall, err, the end of her term, Gloria is still making all these moves. Ebdane was formerly PNP chief and commands his own men inside the Philippine National Police (PNP) and AFP. Like DOTC secretary Leandro Mendoza, Ebdane was one of those who remained loyal to Madame, because they're friends of her husband, First Gentleman Mike Arroyo.

Ebdane remains very relevant to Mrs. Arroyo since his former subordinates now occupy highly sensitive posts within the AFP and PNP.

Consolidating power for what?

For an administration with a few months left, it's totally suspicious why the sudden re-shuffle. Is Gloria easing those not in her inner circle anymore and moving to consolidate all power to her group? Teodoro revealed that he's not too privy to what Arroyo thinks anymore, a possible sign of disengagement to the power center. (some say that the reshuffle will happen shorly during or after Arroyo's trip to Egypt)

Why consolidate power when you're virtually a lameduck at this point, except that you're preparing for something big soon?

The transfer of Ebdane, Arroyo's closest general, says something. This is actually an indirect admission that internal squabbles are really happening within the military establishment, for both glory and gold.

The defense department has a say on appointments in the AFP. With the current wrangling within the military and police, Arroyo probably sees the need to appoint someone very close to her so that her favored PMA class gets the top posts even while AFP Chief of Staff General Victor Ibrado stays as head.

The plan really is to undermine the leadership of Ibrado, subverting him by snatching the ranks beneath him, while allowing him to act as Chief of Staff. This is reminiscent of the moves by Lacson's group when he allowed his men to undermine then PNP Chief Roberto Lastimoso's leadership while allowing Lastimoso to "act" as PNP chief.

Bombings related to efforts to "delimit" Gibo's power as defense sec?

Arroyo's men know that its hard to dislodge Gibo from his seat, given his rising popularity. What would, however, justify this?

Instability. As what I wrote previously, this administration thrives in destabilization. It always gets what it wants shortly after a destabilized situation.

By creating a destabilized environment, Malacanang can now justify the removal of Gibo from defense and transfer him to the justice portfolio. The question really is---what's next?

More on this at http://daily2020.blogspot.com/. See you there.

Today's the last time that the public will see Michael Jackson. Just this morning, a sombre tribute was made for him, with his friends and relatives telling the world how they love him. His closest friends, Diana Ross and Elizabeth Taylor were not there. They would like to mourn him in private, an admirable trait. Like them, I also do it to my friends and closest people. I don't want to see anyone of my loved ones in a casket.

Everytime I hear Michael Jackson's songs, especially those when he was still a kid, it makes me smile. It makes me forget the silly things this government does, like this planned Cabinet reshuffle in the midst of all these bombings in Malacanang.

See you again, MJ. Billions of people love you, MJ. I just pray that you're happy where you are. Let the angels take extra care of you.

Are all those bomb attacks meant to force the resignation of Southern Command General Juancho Sabban?

A source says that there's a plan to force Sabban to resign. Sabban, a member of PMA Class 1978, is considered not a loyal subject to Herr Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. Some says he's a threat to other members of his class for his previous association with the RAM.

Sabban has been previously meted a punishment for engaging in a word war with Senator Richard Gordon. Gordon is a close administration ally. Sabban was forced to relinquish his post to a subordinate.

With all these bombs going off in his turf, there are confirmed reports that people within the AFP are asking for his head. Why? Why do these people want Sabban out?

Aside from the strategic goal of placing a more trusted Arroyo man out there, getting Sabban out of a very sensitive and large command is actually tactical. In an event where Arroyo allies move for a self-coup, they want eveything covered. They don't want a trouble maker to spoil the broth.

Sabban, as some sources say, is considered the black sheep of his class for having an independent streak. He's not close to Mrs. Arroyo. He's widely perceived as a professional soldier.

Fuelling the flames of confusion and chaos in Mindanao is more than enough reason for the government to move in and dislodge Sabban from his post there.

Are we about to lose democracy to a bunch of greedy misfits again? After living in a democracy for twenty three years, we are now on a verge of losing it again. Why?

Are we on the verge of another paradigm shift? Some of those in power desires for more power. While those without desires for more slavery.

Those who push for the restoration of despotism and elite domination all lived and thrived under the fascist dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. They tasted power back then. They were the first born of a dictatorship committed to the fascistic concept of domination. These people think its their birthright to lead the charge and restore the very monster we slain over twenty years ago.

I think of our situation as like that of Cory Aquino's. She's down with an illness, many considered fatal. She lost her appetite but trying to hold on. She and her family have all surrendered her fate to God.

Like Cory, our people have lost the appetite to fight and instead, have left it to God to determine their fates. Are we about to lose the very thing which Cory and a host of other patriots sacrificed their lives for? What did we do to deserve such a dishonor?

The very fact that, for the last couple of years, our situation got worst simply justifies some people re-imagining the model for governance. More and more people are believing that democracy is not for us and the right one is a system where we let the elites decide for us. That thing called parliamentary is actually elite domination in another form. In such a system, we just lost our right to decide for ourselves since we will all leave the decision-making to a bunch of rich kids.

Do we deserve this? No.

We deserve a better government. We deserve leaders that think and act with all respect for other people's rights. We deserve a system that rewards our good deeds and punish us when we commit bad deeds. We don't deserve a plutocracy or even an aristocracy, no.

We deserve democracy. For all its flaws, democracy remains the very aspiration of our forebears. It is therefore, our responsibility to preserve and defend democracy whenever it is being threatened by the forces of fascism.

It all started late last year when National Security adviser Norberto Gonzales floated the idea of having a transition government. He then followed it up with another trial balloon, this time suggesting a revolutionary government. Now, things are heating up, especially in Mindanao. Today, six bombs went off, and six people got killed.

Coincidence? Maybe. Or maybe not.

What's certain is, this government would not allow itself to go down in defeat. No. It has gotten itself deeper and deeper into trouble that it now fears the future. Even its own shadow, it fears. The frightful prospect of living without power fuels this government's drive to commit even more atrocities for self-preservation. Here, a person deprived of power loses all. And these people have enjoyed most of the gains all these eight years and the very thought that it could still pull some strings, or some rabbit out of their hats makes them ever so bold.

An example---House Resolution 1109. Despite tremendous opposition and wise counsel, allies of this regime pushed ahead and won. Yes, everything's quiet now. Yes, things could possibly be achieved now. The very thought that they could replicate what happened last June 2, makes these people bolder and bolder. Brazen even. And that makes them so dangerous.

The very fact that these people are motivated not solely by greed but by their passion for ideologically based revolts. Their dedication is unquestionable. Their will, steeled by experience. They want to push for an authentic revolution. But, the more they do so, the more they transfrom from genuine revolutionaries into unrepentant despots and tyrants.

Their desire for change have blinded them. They think that they can do the surgery themselves. They think that these drastic changes they so desire can be achieved by a surgical strike.

What they're doing though is not doctrinaire but plastic surgery. Yes, plastic bordering on fakery.

These past few days we saw how Malacanang's spin meisters crumbled under pressure to tell the truth about Mrs. Arroyo's health condition. We see how communication channels seemed to have vanished inside the image machinery of Malacanang. One, the "leak" could not have happened if Malacanang maintained strong relations with the media. Those articles just show how weak Malacanang is in that department. Second, subsequent commentaries and jokes just show how amateurish Malacanang's PR handlers are handling the entire thing. And lastly, there seems to be miscommunication among government agencies. No unified message. And no one is brave enough to lead the charge or hold the baton.

This is simply an indication of a crumbling communication infrastructure, a trait shared by regimes about to fall flat on their faces.

One explanation seems to be a steady stream of resignations from Mrs. Arroyo's press team. Mrs. Arroyo is slowly being isolated. People close to her are leaving her and going to the private sector. Again, these are signs of the end of this regime.

It's really expected since Cerge Remonde is no communication expert. Yes, he's a former journalist but unlike former press undersecretary JoCab, he knows nothing about effective crisis and image strategies. Even Lorelei Fajardo seems inadequate and ineffective on her job.

Malacanang needs a plumber and fast. Otherwise, expect a further deterioration and eventual demise of this regime, sooner than later.

" War is showbusiness. That's why we are here."

---Connie Bean, in the Movie "Wag the Dog", 1997

Defense secretary Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro says that government does not plan to declare martial law for one obvious reason---it is legally unjustified.

First, he says that there's no insurrection or rebellion. And second, public safety, at this point, is simply not compromised, as yet. He also indicated that Malacanang does not plan to even declare a State of Emergency, since, he considers these as counter-productive.

While I'm writing this, a bomb exploded in Jolo, injuring one policeman. This is the 39th time a bomb exploded in Mindanao.

Now, Teodoro said that if these bombing incidents are being perpetuated even by one single member of the government, he'll prosecute them. Teodoro likewise said that he'll disassociate himself with those who want to further confuse and sow terror. For Teodoro, these acts are counter-productive.

The AFP has blamed a certain Baja Usman, an alleged member of the MILF special ops group as the mastermind behind the bombings. The military even connected the regional terror group to the MILF, which the MILF immediately condemned in a statement.

What Teodoro, however, failed to say is what if government, particularly those hawks within Arroyo's inner circle plan a self-coup, similar to previous God Save the Queen plans? Will he stand up and condemn it when it happens? That's obviously the plan of some ideologues within the regime---to launch a coup and institute a "revolutionary government". This is what National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales suggested a few weeks ago. Shortly after Bertgon's statement, bombs subsequently went off in successive fashion in Mindanao and Metro Manila.

Will Teodoro also disassociate himself and condemn this coup if it ever happens?

Important also to note that Teodoro's statement now contradicts the statement made earlier by Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita. Ermita said that Malacanang will not tarry a minute longer in declaring a State of Emergency if violence breaks out in the SONA. Is this indicative that Teodoro no longer enjoys exclusive privilege as a member of Arroyo's inner circle?

My, my, my, this news on Mrs. Arroyo's boob job is getting interesting by the minute. The Inquirer today reported that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have been tasked to probe on the source of the leak on Mrs. Arroyo's operation. NBI agents are now questioning medical staff of the Asian Hospital.

Why? Is the NBI interested on knowing the size of Mrs. Arroyo's cysts? Or, probably, they want to know how Mrs. Arroyo reacted during the operation? Or, probably, they want to know if the Asian Hospital did a good job so that they'll be able to recommend the hospital to others who want a mammoplasty or a biopsy which, hold your breath, costs 38,000 pesos.

This is getting out of hand. Why do they want to know the source of the leak? Because, they say, it constitutes a crime. Under the Revised Penal Code, information about the Office of the President is not to be shared publicly since it is considered as "matters of national security." Okey. So, a boob job is actually a cause of national concern, is that it?

Crap.

Anyway, expect this under a mafia-like government such as Arroyo's. In previous occasions, those who leaked out information are always ostracized and persecuted. Look at what happened to Jun Lozada. Lozada is an example of someone who leaked information on a crucial contract which the First Couple was reported to have engaged in.

Leaks always happen especially in a dying government. When a government enters its twilight stage, expect former benefactors to abandon ship and squeal.

You can't prevent people from leaking information, as sensitive as this, because people nowadays are already aware. People have been made as cadres already and have realized their social roles.

What's the purpose of all of these? Is Malacanang afraid that people will again remember the fakeries this government have instituted since it assumed power. Are they afraid that people might remember these tyrannical implants that minions of Mrs. Arroyo implanted on all government institutions? Or they're fearful that people might connect the word "fake" with "Mrs. Arroyo"?

I don't want to sound like a fatalist or a believer in the occult arts, but I like to direct your attention to the date of Mrs. Arroyo's Ninth State of the Nation Address.

The date is July 27, 2009, right? July is the seventh month of the year. If you add 7 to 27, it becomes 34. Add 34 to 2, then 0, and another 0 and 9, what do you get? The sum would be 45, right? Add 4 and 5, and it comes out as 9.

Eerie, is'nt? The numerological equivalent of the date coincides with the number of times of Mrs. Arroyo's SONA. Even if you add 9 to 9, you'll get 18 which, add 1 and 8, it still produces 9.

What's the significance?

Nine symbolises the end. It presents a conclusion. It is also a mystical number to the Masons, ascribing it as the eternal number of humanity and also a number considered by many civilizations as a number expressing completion and humility.

In the Tarot, the number signifies completion of a cycle. While the Baha'i faith considers the number 9 as unity.

For us, truly, this ninth SONA of Mrs. Arroyo should be considered as the ending and the final show of the greatest pretender and destroyer of democracy in this country. And as always, when there's an end, renewal and change always follows.

I just pray that what follows after this SONA would not be another Arroyo. Or an Arroyo, albeit, in a totally different form but with the same devilish laugh.

Deputy palace spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo castigated the Philippine media for writing about Mrs. Arroyo's alleged boob job. Fajardo said that those articles regarding Mrs. Arroyo's breast reduction surgery at the Asian Hospital were "below the belt" and "personal attacks".

Question--what's so wrong with publishing the true reason why Mrs. Arroyo checked herself in the first place? What's so wrong with mammoplasty? What's so wrong with Mrs. Arroyo undergoing such an operation? None.

Fajardo said that if people, especially journalists do not like the president as a person, then, at least, people should respect the office she holds. Why, Mrs. Fajardo, who are the people who actually do not respect the Office of the President?

Who issued that patent lie that Mrs. Arroyo underwent quarantine procedures instead of a biopsy? Was it not the palace? How then will people respect the very Office that Mrs. Arroyo holds when they're peddling lies?

Is a boob job a matter of national security? Is the operation on Mrs. Arroyo's groin to detect the cause of the lump a matter of extreme national security?

In fact, this morning, Press secretary Cerge Remonde admitted yet again that Mrs. Arroyo underwent a "biopsy" to replace a "leaking silicone breast implant." and another biopsy in her groin. So, there, Mrs. Fajardo. So what if Mrs. Arroyo got those operations?

Respect is earned. How can people respect the president if people like you Mrs. Fajardo are peddling lies and hiding the truth?

Transparency is the real issue here. Ano ba naman? Ilang buwan na lang kayo dyan sa palasyo, nagsisinungaling pa rin kayo.

If you think about this, talks surfaced when authorities found bombs planted in some government offices in Quezon City. In fact, one bomb exploded at the Office of the Ombusman. What came afterwards were bomb threats. That's in Metro Manila. In Mindanao, it's different. Bombs were really going off, injuring and even killing people. Yesterday morning, a bomb exploded in Cotabato City, near the Cotabato Immaculate Concepcion Cathedral. This is one mean and sick joke.

Who made the presumption that there were destab efforts? It was a Cabinet member, Agriculture secretary Art Yap, a close associate of Mrs. Arroyo. While the AFP was quick to deny Oplan August Moon and the like, members of Mrs. Arroyo's own cabinet are the ones peddling these talks about certain groups out to overthrow the regime.

Yesterday's Malacanang statement made shortly after the Cotabato blast indicates that the palace is privy to some pieces of information that is wont the public to believe.

Deputy spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo said that the blast was the handiwork of "destabilizers", a clear contradiction to the statement made by the AFP, attributing the blast to special ops teams of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Was this a clear miscommunication between the AFP and the Palace? Or, the palace deliberately used the occasion to cry wolf or wag the dog?

Clearly, the palace is anticipating something big, since the explosion occurred at the time when the AFP was parading its forces on Camp Aguinaldo grounds. AFP spokesman Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner Jr. said that Saturday's parade was "no show of force"; but was meant as an exercise in preparation for the AFP's role as an augmentation force come SONA on July 27.


There is a pattern, so to speak, if we are to believe Brawner. That pattern points to a clear and present danger. Yet, it is wrong to presume that these efforts are part of what National security adviser Norberto Gonzales (another close Arroyo associate and part of her ideologue group) calls concerted efforts by an opposition leader to sow terror ahead of the SONA. No.

These incidents confirm talks of an internal squabble for power between two PMA classes within the AFP and the PNP. A source confirms that officials are trying to outdo each other ahead of the 2010 elections. Why? Because these officials want to be appointed to juicy posts prior to the elections. We all know that the palace has now shifted strategy from cha-cha to elections, after Mrs. Arroyo's public pronouncement that the elections will push thru as planned. Provincial posts mean big money since traditionally, police and military officials serve as "kingmakers".

There is now an effort to carve "territories", so to speak, ahead of the elections. This is also a reason why one class wants to dislodge AFP C-S General Victor Ibrado and his close associates. Efforts to replicate Hello Garci 2 is clearly now the direction being taken by the Arroyo regime to ensure that the administration bet wins in 2010.

Welcome to the new design of New Philippine Revolution!

I decided to change the look and feel of NPR, simply for one reason---palace web operators tried to hack and damage this site. Yep. I noticed it just this morning. It seems that following my stories about Mrs. Arroyo's alleged boob job and the revelations of this site about Oplan August Moon, there seems to be a renewed effort to destroy NPR.

Well, they can try. As I said in previous posts, this is my Sierra Madre. If they will try to stifle even my net presence, go ahead. But, I'll not going to just let them do it to me, no.

The Internet is the last bastion of democracy here in this country. It is a frontier which Filipinos are trying to conquer. Some wants to understand it; others, well they try to manipulate it for their own interests. As far as I'm concerned, I just want to blog for the heck of it. I want to analyze things that's happening around the world, and make full sense of everything. I am not doing it for personal glory, no. I'm doing this so that future generations of Filipinos would understand why many people struggle against this despotic regime and why people like me express this anger in public.

I realized now that NPR has made an impact on some of our friends, and I thank God for it. Starting today, with the new design and all, NPR will be more circumspect when it comes to sensitive matters such as governance and personal lives of certain public personalities. Expect NPR to come out with more posts that are A1 information and well researched.
NPR will remain combative particularly against people in government who cheat and steal the people's money. NPR will remain subservient only to the interests of the Filipino People.

By the way, for more indepth analysis, go visit http://daily2020.blogspot.com. There's also a very good site called http://filipinoobserver.blogspot.com. Try to visit it if you have time.

I wrote a piece over at FilipinoVoices, urging Malacanang to "come clean" and "be transparent", particularly in the status of Mrs. Arroyo's health. The piece is actually a constructive one, aimed at helping them handle these sensitive image problems that they're encountering.

Sources told me thru email that many of Mrs. Arroyo's closest advisers and operators are leaving the palace. NPR was able to confirm some, particularly the one that involves my former colleague who now works in a business processing firm. He was formerly an undersecretary of Mrs. Arroyo handling the press. I learned from a media friend that he already resigned and went back to the corporate world.

So, what convinced these decent people to leave Mrs. Arroyo? Well, for one, indications point to a "softening" stance inside the palace over plans to extend her term, thanks to relentless efforts made by civil society over charter change and subtle threats which came from political and military personalities.

Simply put, we made her "reconsider" her future plans because we, the People, repulsed her and her forces of evil every step of the way. We showed our disgusts when they pushed for House Resolution 1109. Nearly a hundred thousand people registered against charter change online.

Indications point to Malacanang now doing the "right" thing and it started yesterday when Cerge Remonde revealed the true medical condition of Mrs. Arroyo. We expect similar gestures in the next few months of this administration.

We expect them to come clean by revealing what were the issues discussed during the meeting of Arroyo and Jaime Zobel de Ayala. They also must come clean and reveal if they really have an agenda regarding charter change. Likewise, they should also come clean regarding talks that Malacanang is actually behind the bravado of PMA Class 1978 in contesting sensitive posts in both the AFP and the PNP.

Why is that? Because Malacanang should realize that it has the responsibility of ensuring a smooth transition of power AND make doubly sure that the damage they wrought against institutions of governance remain transitory, not permanent. They still have some months to do just that.

Daily 20/20, a newly formed blog on issues that matter, provides us an insider look on what really caused the initial break up between TIM and Smartmatic and what caused them to go back to the negotiating table again and sign the poll automation contract. Let me add though that inspite of this, people must be very vigilant since it is not enough that Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo already verbally committed herself yesterday to push thru with the elections. The palace only reacted when US Ambassador Kristie Kenney (who, by the way, will remain as US ambassador to the Philippines contrary to reports) issued a statement reiterating the desire and commitment of the US to see the Philippine government adhere to the democratic process of succession. Kenney's statement reiterated a previous one announced by US Secretary of Defense Robert Gates but spiced with an offer for Mrs. Arroyo to meet US President Barack Obama "later this year."

We, as a united Filipino people, should constantly bear in mind that the fight, this struggle towards the restoration of the moral integrity of our governmental institutions, should end only when Mrs. Arroyo steps down from power on June 30, 2010 and hands the reins of power to the new president.

There is still enough time for Mrs. Arroyo and her minions to do some mischief. For example, it can still marshall the forces of evil (let me use the words of Filipinovoices colleague Bencard, a lawyer loyal to Mrs. Arroyo, referring me and Buencam and Ding and a host of others as "forces of hate") to convene Congress into a Constituent Assembly.

They can still cause great misery should they proceed with their initial plan to oust AFP Chief of Staff Victor Ibrado from power and install members of PMA Class 1978. Remember that despite the automation of the polls, this administration can still pull its strong muscles by dominating regions with their loyal military and police officials. We all know that police officials and military generals caused the Hello Garci scandal. They were mobilized to actually assist in the cheating operations.

The only way for us to really ensure a clean, honest AND reputable elections is simply pressure this government to act as a TRANSITION government. Meaning, it should maintain a status of neutrality. It should at least allow some breathing room for government to act normally, with no pressure coming from minions of the First Family.

Let me first congratulate Palace spokesperson Cerge Remonde for admitting that indeed, doctors at the Asian Medical Hospital found cysts in Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's breasts and groin. Remonde admitted this much in a press conference today at the palace.

Remonde said that doctors found the cysts during an MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging procedure at the Asian Hospital.

When Mrs. Arroyo checked herself in the hospital, she underwent an MRI and found lumps in her breasts and groin. Asian Hospital, in a statement, said that these lumps or cysts were benign. A classmate of mine who works in the hospital said that the cysts were caused by leaking silicone breast implants. This confirms what Jarius Bondoc wrote that those implants were inserted into the breasts of Mrs. Arroyo in a breast augmentation procedure done in the late 80's.

What Mrs. Arroyo underwent was called breast reduction surgery. The lumps or cysts meanwhile, were taken out through laser surgery. The cysts found in her groin are scheduled for operation next week, according to sources in Malacanang.

That's the way to go. At last, Malacanang did the right thing in addressing issues such as this in the fastest way possible.

This is a sample of a patient needing a mammoplasty. I looked and found that those with these problems are often irritable and sickly. A leaking silicone breast implant, according to doctors, affects the liver of the patient. Some cases are fatal.

It's not a delicate operation. Even a lawyer from the States can actually do it as a sign of lap doggish loyalty.:-)

Since this is a Friday, let me write a "soft piece", so to speak. Rumours are circulating that KC Concepcion, daughter of Megastar Sharon Cuneta, is also a victim of a sex video, involving, who? You guessed right---Dr. Hayden Kho.

Hay naku. This doctor is really a messed up guy. The video reportedly shows KC while having a body sculpturing job inside the Belo Medical Group clinic. Kho reportedly shot KC with his mobile phone. And KC allegedly did not know about it.

There are also rumours of a sex video, this time, with Anne Curtis. While Curtis "sex video" simply shows her kissing a guy, KC Concepcion's "video" seems to have generated more buzz over the net and percolated even in the mainstream because Sharon reportedly paid 20 million pesos to the guy who threatened to release the video in the mainstream.

Sharon has denied all of these things. There's no "sex video" and she did'nt pay anyone 20 million pesos. I believe her.

Why pay when she can very well ask police to arrest the guy with that video? Sharon is not that foolish to allow an extortionist to do that to her family. Question is---how about Gabby? Ano kaya ang pupuwede niyang sabihin tungkol dito? He's supposed to protect his daughter.

BY the way, speaking of videos, remember that controversial video showing FF Cruz signing alleged poll automation papers inside the COMELEC toilet room? Sources say the ones who leaked it out were PR operators of Smartmatic. That one, did not involve 20 million pesos.

National security adviser Norberto Gonzales and ISAFP Chief Gen. Rey Prestoza and even AFP spokesperson, Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner Jr. were all one in saying that the military is not the ones behind the spate of bombings that happened in Metro Manila this week. They all say there's a destabilization plot, allegedly being committed by two groups and funded by an opposition politician. While PNP chief Jesus Versoza denied that there is a destabilization plot on-going.

Which is which? Who to believe? The chief of the PNP saying there's no destab, or these three gentlemen?

To help you, my dear readers and friends judge who to believe, let's go back to the very words Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo told reporters last June 21.

During her working visit in Japan, Mrs. Arroyo said that she's not out to scrap the elections. What she's after, Mrs. Arroyo said, is to reform the political system through constitutional amendments. She categorically stated her desire for charter change through "political and economic reforms". “What I have always said, and it was part of my campaign platform in 2004, is that the political system needs to be reformed,” the President told reporters covering her working visit in Japan.

Mrs. Arroyo said the political and economic reforms she wished to implement would entirely depend on the efforts of her allies and “ultimately on the people of the Philippines.”

Okey, two things---charter change is on and the elections. Its clear that Mrs. Arroyo will push ahead with amending the constitution prior to the elections, so expect the fight against cha-cha to really be messy and protracted, since it just spewed out of Mrs. Arroyo's mouth that she's routing not just for economic reform (as what Speaker Nograles only wants) but "political reforms" as well. Meaning, Mrs. Arroyo is really gunning for a shift to parliamentary, a desperate move, says her detractors, to prolong her stay in power.

So, come July 27, allies of the President will not just change economic provisions of the 1987 Constitution--they will also try to change political provisions--a clear violation of the "gentleman's agreement" made by administration allies in the Lower House.

Okey. So the elections are on. What kind? Partial automation, the palace said. So, what would happen is Comelec will have a joint venture (or whatever that arrangement is) with Smartmatic only to partially automate the elections. But, why is the palace and Comelec insiders preparing for partial instead of full elections?

Because they are anticipating that the elections will fail anyway. Why do I say that?

Note the statement made by Norberto Gonzales regarding a "revolutionary government" setup with Mrs. Arroyo as head. These ideologues and hawks within the palace are deliberately sabotaging the elections to create the necessary scenarios for justifying an action like this.

Why float an idea if these palace men have'nt thought about it and considered it within the confines of Malacanang?

That said, going back to the original question---who to believe? I believe Verzosa when he says that there's no destabilization because he knows very well that its government who's doing those scare tactics and government troops are no destabilizers. Why do it in the first place?

To precipitate a crackdown of anti cha-cha group leaders, to instill fear in them enroute to July 27. Its not martial law that this government intends to achieve ultimately, although its a sweeter, if we are to believe what Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita said previously, but merely to derail the organizing efforts being undertaken by anti charter change agents.

Now, this is getting to be very, very interesting. You know why Mrs. Arroyo went to Venezuela? There are two (2) versions.

First one, she reportedly met a high profile real estate agent in Cartagena. For what, you might ask? People say that Mrs. Arroyo is trying to buy pieces of real estate properties in Portugal. Last year, when the First Family got entangled with the Lehman Brothers financial mess, and lost substantial monies from the fall, they reportedly uploaded some of their properties in the US to buy properties outside the US. And you know why they don't want to maintain those properties, right? Because of fears that the FBI will actually make good its threat of arresting the First Golfer for alleged money laundering activities.

I doubt this story simply because why the trouble of going to Venezuela just to buy properties when you can do it online or simply ask the agent to visit the Arroyos here or elsewhere. It's a normal business for agents to go to the place where their clients are instead of clients going to them, right?

The second version begs some verification. Wagging tongues say Mrs. Arroyo met with Smartmatic International Armando Yanes and Antonio Mugica. Yanes is Smartmatic International CFO and head of the firm's Strategic Customer, Financing, Mergers and Acquisition. While Mugica serves as CEO. Why? What's the reason for the side trip?

Was it because of a possible business transaction in Panama, South America's version of Switzerland? What was the business transaction all about? To transfer funds, as alleged by UNO spokesperson Jejomar Binay, which the palace denied.

Cerge Remonde, the palace press secretary said Mrs. Arroyo was invited by Misha, the wife of Jaime Zobel de Ayala. If this is the official statement, then, all the more Mrs. Arroyo should be made accountable.

What earth-shaking thing that the Ayalas and the Arroyos discussed that necessitated the entire presidential entourage to make that all important sidetrip to Venezuela? Imagine, at the behest of a businessman, the Philippine president has to use government resources just to accommodate it? Was it just a leisure side trip? I doubt it since if that is true, the Arroyos and the Ayalas may have discussed a very important thing to have the entire palace crew go there. And if it was a leisure trip, that was too costly for Mrs. Arroyo to do especially in these times of great financial distress.

Mrs. Arroyo and Mr. Remonde have lots of explaining to do.

We all know how close the Aboitizes are with First Gentleman Mike Arroyo and of Mr. Winston Garcia. These personalities have histories of business deals, one of which is the billion-peso GSIS card contract. GSIS, a government corporation, hired TIM for its GSIS cards. TIM was the technical supplier, while UnionBank, the bank owned by the Aboitiz clan, served as the banking services provider. They all have close personal ties.

Now, is this wrong? No, definitely, it is not. Legally speaking, there's nothing wrong with this except that its morally wrong to monopolize all government contracts under the same clans and personalities belonging to just one group, and a group with strong and very close personal ties with the First Family. This is simply a lopsided business environment.

More than this, why involve close associates of the First Family with a very sensitive issue such as poll automation? Everybody expects the poll automation to provide us with a clean rendering of electoral results come 2010.

Of course, there's no law prohibiting close business associates of the First Gentleman to make profits out of this. But, this is simply too much that even the very mechanisms that allow our voices to be heard are being manipulated, controlled and monopolized by these personalities close to the powers-that-be.

Again, going back to the initial theme of this entry---what went wrong? Where is the First Gentleman in all of these? Who served as his de-facto representatives in the deal?

After getting so much flak before, surely, the First Golfer's Group would want to cover its tracks. Surely, it needs some layers. And one of the layer is simply Smartmatic-Sahi.

If you research on Smartmatic International, it's a multinational company specializing in the design and end-to-end deployment of complex purpose-specific technology solutions. It was involved in the Venezuelan elections and some states in the US. Sure, it has technical muscle.

Now, it says that its contact in the Philippines is Global Contact Philippines. However, for the 2010 elections, Smartmatic International teamed up with Smartmatic Sahi. In August 2008, Smartmatic-Sahi managed the ARMM automated elections. Antonio Murgica, Smartmatic International's Chief Executive Officer even visited the Philippines for this.

As you already know, Smartmatic Sahi is controlled by Cezar Quiambao, Jorge Yulo and the Villas. Sixty percent of this company is controlled by Stratdec, a real and personal property firm. Stratdec has been involved in numerous government contracts, one of which is the LTO computerization. Quiambao, as earlier pointed out, is part of the ABC group of Alderito Yujuico and Bonifacio Sambilla. Now, what is the connection of the ABC group with the First Golfer Group?

Quiambao is not just a golfing buddy of the First Gentleman Mike Arroyo at Wack-Wack Golf and Country Club. He is also the biggest contractor in the Philippines, whom Mrs. Arroyo credited of having "realized the dreams of government to construct roads." Nothing wrong with just being a golf buddy of the First Gentleman, since, FG is a private citizen, no law bars him from fraternalizing with a big-time contractor involved in numerous government deals. Yet, you would agree with me that this is immoral.

So, if you look at the Smartmatic-TIM consortium, you'll find that the Arroyos are involved in both groups--through the Aboitiz clan with TIM and Smartmatic-Sahi with Quiambao. Now, what was the deal breaker if these groups pala share the same connections?

To understand this, let me go back to that meeting when a lawyer of TIM saw a powerful man conferring with an Aboitiz and principals of Smartmatic International. If you read my previous entry, sources identified the man as GSIS President Winston Garcia.

Now, you ask, there's nothing wrong with Garcia being seen with the Aboitizes since they're both from Cebu and their families are very close to each other. And again, there's nothing wrong with Garcia even talking with the principals of Smartmatic since, for all intents and purposes, he's a Filipino and his PR handlers would just simply say that he's quite interested in helping these two companies resolve their differences. Nothing wrong. And I agree.

Yet, the timing is really off. For months, critics of the administration have been accusing Mrs. Arroyo of trying to undermine the electoral process and here comes a very close Palace associate, the head of a government agency, again involved in what is turning out to be a very serious scandal.

What is Garcia doing there, playing counsel for the Aboitizes? Are the Aboitizes part of the consortium? It is not. And what is the meeting for? Reports say the Aboitizes were involved because its freight forwarding company 2GO will be the ones who'll handle the 82,000 counting machines. True. They're suppliers. Are the Aboitizes just concerned with how they'll be paid, since, in the joint venture agreement between Smartmatic and TIM, it's clear that all checks are to go thru TIM. Are you saying that the Aboitizes have an issue with Jose Mari Antunez inspite of being a relative and all?

It's true that the Antunez family and the Aboitizes have close ties. In fact, Julio Antunez works as one of the Aboitiz officials. And who'll bankroll the initial funds for the automation? Is it not Unionbank, a bank which the Aboitizes are involved?

Simply put, Garcia, as some high-profiled businessmen privy to this say, wants to get a piece of the action, although I am wont to believe this. Why? Because that would be too obvious.

Was Garcia there as a rep of the FG group and that meeting, which involved the Aboitizes, was a last ditch effort to persuade TIM to "toe the official line"? Why the meeting to assure? Read on...

The most critical thing of all of these is who financed the performance security bond of 350 million for the project? Is it not TIM through Unionbank? Is it not thru the combined monies of Antunez, Aboitiz and the Quiambaos? And of course, E. Villareal, who's participation in this scandal remains top secret.

So, TIM has the money, the legitimate papers and the technical wherewithal for this project. And the chance to rake in billions from this deal, why withdraw from it?

Answer---because TIM does not want to get entangled later on with the shady characters lurking and trying to get a fast buck in this scandalous marriage of convenience.

Jose Mari Antunez may have been forced to withdraw their involvement shortly after the Senate hearings. He may have thought that its not worth the trouble. If the Senate this early is trying to poke its nose to this uncanny marriage of convenience, better to drop out early rather than face the wrath of the people should anything bad happens in the elections.

Antunez, some sources say, was quite afraid when the Senate probe exposed that even Smartmatic International has dubious corporate papers. Jose Mari, says a close staff, decided unilaterally on behalf of TIM to break the deal. Besides, it was only during the Senate hearings that Antunez learned that Smartmatic International pala was registered in Barbados, a known haven of "dubious companies."

More than this, what made this worst is the suggestion made by Smartmatic to fully control the project, especially the technical work. Atty. Boy de Borja of TIM expressed this much in an interview. If trouble breaks out during the elections, TIM would be dragged into a very costly and very serious battle which, Antunez is really not ready and willing to be engaged in.

That said, it would only be a miracle if this consortium would still push thru. Why? Because the public, especially the Senate, has started its probe and that would simply drag certain powerful people again in the project.

So, the deal breaker was not money---it was the fear of these men of getting entangled with a very public controversy. TIM has so much to lose if people drag it into a messy scandal with its Aboitiz links.

A Prayer for Cory

Heavenly Father, the God of all gods, the Lord of all Lords,
I glorify your Most Holy Name.
Father, forgive us, your people, for all of our sins.
Forgive us if we ever blaspheme your Most Precious Name
Cleanse us if we ever harm our fellow men.

Father, we come before you
to ask for Your blessing.
We humbly bow our heads
and ask this simple prayer to You, our Most Glorious God,

Father, heal Cory Aquino.
Make her well.
Cure her so she can fight with us.
Strengthen her so she can walk with us again.

Father, if It is Your Will, comfort her
in her times of distress.
Bless her O Father
Give her the strength.
Make her strong again.
Make all her afflictions go away
and if it Your Will, O Father
Grant her still a long life
as a reward for all her sacrifices
for us, the poor of this Nation.

O Father, we come humbly before you
seeking your Will.
Strengthen our sister, Cory Aquino.
If it Your will for her to still be with us,
bless her with courage and strength
strengthen her,
lift her up and make her well again.

We ask this through the intercession of Jesus Christ
Ameen.

Thousands of my fellow Filipinos are praying for the safe recovery of former president Cory Aquino. Deedee Sytangco said that the widow of Filipino martyr Ninoy Aquino is in "serious yet conscious" condition. Aquino was rushed to the Makati Medical Center after complaining of difficulty in eating. Her son, Noynoy and youngest daughter Kris, are beside her as she fights the greatest battle of her life.

The 76 year old Aquino was diagnosed with colon cancer. She went under the knife a month or so ago and reports indicate that she was on her way to full recovery. However, in the last few weeks, she had difficulty eating. Right now, family and friends say she's being fed intravenously, with tubes stuck in her body.

A novena attended by some of Cory's friends was held. Like millions of Filipinos, my family and I have been praying to God to prolong the life of Cory. She served as the greatest Filipino icon for democracy. Through her sacrifices for the restoration of democracy here in this country, we enjoy now enjoy a sense of freedom and liberty.

I remember Cory as a reluctant leader. After Ninoy died in 1983, Cory was asked to lead the fight against Marcos. Despite all odds, Cory and the multitude of patriots persevered and won the fight. Marcos fled and the entire Filipino people became a nation. For a week, Filipinos stood side by side as one sea of humanity against the forces of tyranny. Leading the charge was a woman, Cory, who wore that iconic yellow dress and armed with just her courage to see change happen in the country which her husband dearly loved and fought for with his own life.

As Cory struggles with cancer, I think about our own struggle as a people against the cancer created by the minions of Mrs. Arroyo. Like Cory, we are fighting a cancer that is getting more and more malignant by the minute, because of unbridled greed, immorality, insensitivity and ambition of self-appointed leaders.

In contrast, the pervert of our generation, the cause of our rants and our miseries, lie in a dim hospital room at the Asian Hospital. She too is in a hospital, tired after spending our precious money touring the world. Unlike Cory, Mrs. Arroyo got none of our sympathies nor prayers. No one even minded if she's okey or if she caught that deadly h1n1. I know some who silently prayed that she gets it. Or others who silently pray that she does not leave that hospital and stay there for good.

A friend of Cory's, I think it was Frank Drilon, told a reporter in an interview about what he thinks about Cory. Drilon said that she was once the most powerful woman in the Philippines; yet she tempered it with humility.

Ah, what a way to describe Corazon Cojuangco Aquino. Drilon is telling the truth. Yes, in that glorious chapter of our History, Cory, indeed was the most powerful woman on earth. For six years, Cory held this very nation by the hair, ruling as the head of a revolutionary government and managed the transition from dictatorship to democracy. I thank GOD the Father that He gave Cory to us and not Gloria. If He allowed a Gloria, we would have seen the perpetuation of elite domination and the bastardization of our feeble institutions.

That is the contrast between Cory, the hero of the first EDSA with that of Gloria, the beneficiary of the second EDSA.

The Filipino People gave the first heroine power, more than anyone can imagine but instead of using it for fiduciary gain, Cory went out and threw herself at the mercy of the poor. She ruled the country armed with a courage so strong that was enough to rouse the nation to unity against coup attempts and a weak economy. Cory used that power with humility and with responsibility. She had the chance to continue as president, but she graciously went into semi-retirement and consecrated her life to help the poorest of the poor.

Whereas, Gloria, the beneficiary of EDSA dos, was the perfect anti-thesis of Cory. Gloria was Cory's exact opposite. Imbued with a selfish and seemingly unquenchable hunger for power, Gloria broke her covenant with the people when she ran in 2004. She ran and destroyed the very institutions of democracy that her predecessor assiduously built and protected.

She promoted immorality in government transactions. She allowed her family to do business with every governmental agency. She politicized the military by giving rewards to those loyal to her and her husband. She tainted the very integrity of the elections by promoting dagdag bawas and protecting the very people who created it.

Years from now, someone will write about this day, when two women of power lie in their sick beds. One lies sick with cancer, yet millions pray for a miracle to happen to prolong her life. And the other, well, millions pray that she gets sick or she leaves office soon and retire.

Inquirer headlined " 500-M demand did it" referring to the cause of the split between Smartmatic and Total Information Management (TIM). Makati Cong. Teddy Locsin revealed that lawyers of Smartmatic International received an "indecent proposal" from TIM President and CEO Jose Mari Antunez to the tune of 500 million pesos. Locsin said TIM suddenly played "hardball" when COMELEC announced the notice of award to the consortium.

Now, certain info has leaked especially on the circumstances that led TIM to play hardball. One of those information is the sudden appearance of a very powerful person into the picture. Who is this very powerful man?

Antunez revealed that his lawyers reportedly met and saw this powerful man with a member of the Aboitiz family at the Manila Peninsula hotel coffee shop last week. This powerful man is Winston Garcia, who was the one allegedly who nominated the Aboitizes to the deal. Garcia was talking with Don Enrique Aboitiz, Cezar Quiambao and Cesar Flores of Smartmatic International.
A few days after this, Antunez reportedly received a call from Aboitiz, demanding that he toe the line otherwise, he'll "offend very powerful people." That prompted TIM to play hardball to deliberately break the deal, because some sources said, Antunez does not want to be associated with "Mr. Gentleman."

Why did Mr. Antunez decide to break the deal? Sources say Antunez is an honest businessman who does not want to be associated with the "dirty antics" of this group. Which group? Read my next entry.

(By the way, who is Jose Mari Antunez? That will be my next entry.)

Two things that people here in the Philippines are very concerned about---the rising prices of basic commodities and the increasing number of firms closing due to the recession. Prices of rice, chicken, beef and canned goods have risen to astronomically ridiculous heights. Gasoline prices, which some experts including Consumer Oil Price Watch head Raul Concepcion said were overpriced by 8 pesos, are spiralling out of control. What happened to the Senate probe? What happened to calls for these big oil companies to open their books? Nada. Our leaders are really a useless lot.

What's worst---government admits that vegetable and meat dealers are raking huge profits with these price hikes---and they're not doing anything. DZMM interviewed Department of Agriculture secretary Arthur Yap this morning and he admitted that, indeed, suppliers and sellers in the markets are making a killing. DA is not doing anything about it and surely, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is likewise,inutile.

There are, however, some doubts expressed by some people, suspicion even. They say that prices of goods were artificially raised now so that come the SONA, prices will again "normalize". Mrs. Arroyo would then be able to say that job accomplished. Kumbaga, lulutuin muna tayo ng pamahalaan sa matataas na presyo ng mga bilihin ngayon para pagdating ng Hulyo 27, uutusan ng pangulo ang DTI na pipiliting maibaba ang mga presyong ito para maging accomplishment ng administrasyon. Galing ano?