So many to blame, so little time to go after them. This is probably what coursed through the mind of 12 year old Princess Mae Joy Villanueva, daughter of OFW Sally Villanueva, who was executed yesterday for drug charges in China.
Princess will graduate as salutatorian today in Isabela. In an interview, Princess said that she, her brother and the rest of her relatives have accepted the fate of her mother.
What surprised me was her response when asked what she thought of the fate of her mother.
“What happened to my mother has opened my eyes. I have to defend the poor and the oppressed,” Princess said.
Such thoughts from a young lady, whose family was indeed, victimized by a very cruel and very brutish system. Those thoughts have probably germinated in her young mind after learning of the way the government handled the case of her mother.
Princess' mother is just one of more than seventy Filipinos waiting for their own executions in China. There are at least 7,000 more languishing in several jails in several countries, including the Middle East.
Her mothers' death has opened the eyes of many--that we continue to live in a fantasy, with the government always assuring us of a prosperous life, but has given us a prosperous lie.
More than 15 million Filipinos settle abroad. Their eyes have surely been opened.
These executions would surely lift the fantasy veil that this administration has conjured ten months or so that uplifted the hopes of many, but the many continue to hold an empty bag.
Yes, we are all victims of a vicious cycle of oppression, we who were born poor.
This system has perpetuated a cruel cycle of alienation, where the poor stays where they are while the rich profits from the miseries of many.
The approach of the elite-run government is simple---give every single one 500 pesos, and be contented of it.
Yes, we who were born poor, follow our laws. We respect our government, and what do we get in return? Nothing but crumbs from the tables of those who manage us.
More than 15 million of us realized this early on, and hopes to escape this dangerous situation by going abroad--whatever it takes, wherever our feet would take us.
Our diaspora has become a cash-cow for those who exploit us. Our government, mindful of the revenues that it can get from us, systematized the diaspora, and made billions of dollars from us.
IMagine, this government, who has perpetuated and created this cruel and brutish system, which forced us to leave the comforts of our homes to work abroad, is the same government that continues to profit from our us when abroad. And when crunch time comes, we are left fending for ourselves.
Such is the fate of oppressed peoples like us, like Sally Villanueva, and her daughter Princess Mae.
And what is the response of government whenever it fails in protecting its own people: pray and accept your fate.
For Princess Mae Joy, she will not accept the fate already waiting for her when she grows up. No, Princess Mae Joy say, I will not accept this fate provided for me by this degenerate, cruel, inhumane and brutish system.
" I will defend the poor and the oppressed," she said while her mother waits for her turn in the lethal injection chamber. " I will be your angel. I will look after you, while in heaven, " that was all her mother said while the executioner injects those lethal fluids into her body. She slowly closes her eyes, with tears slowly forming there, and slowly dropping from her lids.
She may have closed her eyes, but her daughter's eyes have been opened. And the eyes of millions have also been opened.
The struggle remains.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Willie Revillame, Lim Seng, the 2 OFWs in China and Thoughts of a Poor Pinoy
Dear Kuya Alex,
It was about noon when I heard about the execution of the three Filipinos in China. I cried. And the entire world fell silent.
I was walking then when I saw several people watching the tele. Their gaunt faces betray the hurt and the sadness of seeing their fellow Filipinos, victims of a brutal and brutish system, getting this punishment. Then, I remember Lim Seng, the Chinese drug lord, falling after one of the bullets fired from the volley of shots of a firing squad of Filipino soldiers hit him in the body.
That scene happened in the seventies, when China was still economically backward and the Philippines in turmoil over what future holds for 30 million or so Filipinos. The Philippines was under Martial rule. The first casualty was Lim Seng. His execution was swift and lethal. That execution was shown over live television. After he fell, the entire country fell silent. My mother and grandmother said that drug pushers and drug syndicates were so afraid, drugs literally went invisible shortly after that live execution.
I am not entirely sure if the Chinese people militated and prayed before Lim Seng was executed. I really don't remember what transpired shortly after the Philippine authorities wrapped the body of the criminal. And I was'nt able to read any news article that even intimated if Chinese officials went to Marcos and pleaded Lim Seng's case, or that the criminal's body was even transported back to China.
It was a long time ago, when the Pasig river was still clean and you can still swim at Manila bay. It was the time when the peso was still respected and you can even use those centavos.
Forty years past, and we see China become the third biggest economy in the world, while we sank to 126th. Forty years, and the drug problem in the Philippines has reached alarming proportions, with more than 7 million drug addicts and the number of drug syndicates rose from just two in the seventies to about 40 in the 21st century.
Forty years, and we see China as a global player, while our country remains the sick man of Asia. Corrupt officials have spawn everywhere and even built their own clubs. Lawlessness became a fixture in Philippine society, with criminals and syndicates doing their thing here, even considered this country not just as a convenient transshipment point, but also as a rest and recreation center.
Forty long years, and China recovered from a brutal civil war, while, the Philippines further slid down the prosperity avenue, not knowing what direction to take, clueless about the future, even more fearful of what that future meant or hold.
Forty years and we see Filipinos, all ten million of us, leaving our homes, looking for a better place to live and breed, like rats out of their holes. While most of China's sons and daughters who abandoned their country while in turmoil, are now back, ready to live in a more prosperous nation.
China takes care of a billion people, while, us, the Philippines only has our ninety million. But things are getting worse, and people are clueless as to what the future holds, given the sorry state of our economy. Prices have gone up, while salaries remain as they are. More and more of us are being victimized by men exploiters of other men's miseries. Filipinos are looking outwardly, far as possible from here, unmindful of the risks, just to survive.
Forty years ago, it was the Chinese man who did that. Now, the Chinese man stays contented in his house somewhere out there, while the Filipino scampers almost in all directions, trying desperately to escape the brutal and brutish system that not just enslaves people but alienates them.
Today, the execution of three innocent Filipinos remind us of reality, of the sorry state of our affairs. Had our leaders did their jobs right and prioritized country over self, this diaspora would not have happened. People like Sally Ordinario-Villanueva, Credo and Batain would have stayed and lived on as responsible parents to their kids.
Kuya, if you hear me, listen closely.
I know that one of the little things that we're supposed to do is tell foreigners how lucky we are to live in a beautiful country such as the Philippines.
I know that it is the responsibility of ordinary Filipinos to tell these foreigners how fortunate we are that God placed us in this land, of many splendours and of amazing wonders.
But, I cannot bear and fool myself any longer.
Kuya, those Filipinos who were executed today and those who still languish in hundreds of jails not just in China but in other countries as well, most of them are just victims.
Yes, Kuya, they are victims of cruel circumstances. They wanted to fight the inhumanity here, but were'nt able to. This brutal and brutish system is so strong that no man is capable enough of defeating this implosion.
Kuya, how can I say that we are lucky, when we have government officials, even the Highest of those officials, who tell us to accept the verdict calmly because their innocence or guilt depended on the laws of other countries.
Kuya, there were pieces of evidence which proved their innocence, but the Courts of China closed their ears and eyes and handed down the verdict of death.
How would I tell these foreigners that it is fortunate to live here, when prices of commodities have gone up, and standards of living here have become a hellish nightmare?
How will I tell my kids that their futures are secure here, when there are more than 35 million families unable to eat thrice a day and about 11 million fathers and mothers without jobs?
How will I be able to tell my kid to respect the laws of this country when these laws enable people to steal billions of pesos worth of our monies kept in Bangko Sentral vaults?
How will I tell my kid to respect the laws when the very people who are expected to implement them are the very ones who violate these laws with impunity?
How will I even share my pride as a Filipino when we allow foreign drug lords to escape jail time and those innocents kept in filthy barbaric prisons?
And how will I ever be so faithful with this government and pay my taxes when I see the roads they built, pot-marked by craters and the bridges they built fall by the weight of just 2o tons?
We, who were born poor and defenseless, we suffer the brutality of the system which our leaders asked us to respect.
We, who were born proletariats, we suffer the cruelty and the barbarity of a system partial to those who have and inhumane to those without.
We, who were born poor, can only cry as Willie Revillame ask us to make a fool out of ourselves in exchange for a few thousands of pesos.
We, who were born poor, have been asked by this government to persevere, be patient, and promised that prices of commodities would soon go South, while we slowly await our deaths.
We, who were born poor, can only grit our teeth and clench our fists, as capitalists and traders exploit our weaknesses and our native intelligence by raising the prices of goods while this government tells us to just grin and bear it.
And, we, who were born poor, are being accused of rebellion and of other crimes when we shout out our souls, our frustrations, our opposition against alienation.
The deaths of Ordinario, Credo and Batain have opened our minds to the truth--the reality that we are being exploited, the Truth that we are being made slaves and the Truth that we are being made zombies, programmed to believe the empty promises of change by someone who does not know even where to go while driving his Porsche.
We cling to the hopes that that day will come, when millions of us, would just rise up and demand that our voices be heard, that these promises be fulfilled and these publicly announced dreams be realized.
When that day comes, those who oppress us, those who mock us, like Willie Revillame, those who make fun of our miseries just to sell their products, they will get the brunt of our anger. Our anger will rise unto the heavens, and God, in His bountil mercies, will send His angels to avenge us. God, we always believe, is a God of Justice. This inhumane system will be crushed. This system which bred corrupt men will be stumped to the ground. This system, which many have exploited and fed with lies, and with bovine wealth, will be split in the middle. True change will come, I believe it will, tomorrow.
It was about noon when I heard about the execution of the three Filipinos in China. I cried. And the entire world fell silent.
I was walking then when I saw several people watching the tele. Their gaunt faces betray the hurt and the sadness of seeing their fellow Filipinos, victims of a brutal and brutish system, getting this punishment. Then, I remember Lim Seng, the Chinese drug lord, falling after one of the bullets fired from the volley of shots of a firing squad of Filipino soldiers hit him in the body.
That scene happened in the seventies, when China was still economically backward and the Philippines in turmoil over what future holds for 30 million or so Filipinos. The Philippines was under Martial rule. The first casualty was Lim Seng. His execution was swift and lethal. That execution was shown over live television. After he fell, the entire country fell silent. My mother and grandmother said that drug pushers and drug syndicates were so afraid, drugs literally went invisible shortly after that live execution.
I am not entirely sure if the Chinese people militated and prayed before Lim Seng was executed. I really don't remember what transpired shortly after the Philippine authorities wrapped the body of the criminal. And I was'nt able to read any news article that even intimated if Chinese officials went to Marcos and pleaded Lim Seng's case, or that the criminal's body was even transported back to China.
It was a long time ago, when the Pasig river was still clean and you can still swim at Manila bay. It was the time when the peso was still respected and you can even use those centavos.
Forty years past, and we see China become the third biggest economy in the world, while we sank to 126th. Forty years, and the drug problem in the Philippines has reached alarming proportions, with more than 7 million drug addicts and the number of drug syndicates rose from just two in the seventies to about 40 in the 21st century.
Forty years, and we see China as a global player, while our country remains the sick man of Asia. Corrupt officials have spawn everywhere and even built their own clubs. Lawlessness became a fixture in Philippine society, with criminals and syndicates doing their thing here, even considered this country not just as a convenient transshipment point, but also as a rest and recreation center.
Forty long years, and China recovered from a brutal civil war, while, the Philippines further slid down the prosperity avenue, not knowing what direction to take, clueless about the future, even more fearful of what that future meant or hold.
Forty years and we see Filipinos, all ten million of us, leaving our homes, looking for a better place to live and breed, like rats out of their holes. While most of China's sons and daughters who abandoned their country while in turmoil, are now back, ready to live in a more prosperous nation.
China takes care of a billion people, while, us, the Philippines only has our ninety million. But things are getting worse, and people are clueless as to what the future holds, given the sorry state of our economy. Prices have gone up, while salaries remain as they are. More and more of us are being victimized by men exploiters of other men's miseries. Filipinos are looking outwardly, far as possible from here, unmindful of the risks, just to survive.
Forty years ago, it was the Chinese man who did that. Now, the Chinese man stays contented in his house somewhere out there, while the Filipino scampers almost in all directions, trying desperately to escape the brutal and brutish system that not just enslaves people but alienates them.
Today, the execution of three innocent Filipinos remind us of reality, of the sorry state of our affairs. Had our leaders did their jobs right and prioritized country over self, this diaspora would not have happened. People like Sally Ordinario-Villanueva, Credo and Batain would have stayed and lived on as responsible parents to their kids.
Kuya, if you hear me, listen closely.
I know that one of the little things that we're supposed to do is tell foreigners how lucky we are to live in a beautiful country such as the Philippines.
I know that it is the responsibility of ordinary Filipinos to tell these foreigners how fortunate we are that God placed us in this land, of many splendours and of amazing wonders.
But, I cannot bear and fool myself any longer.
Kuya, those Filipinos who were executed today and those who still languish in hundreds of jails not just in China but in other countries as well, most of them are just victims.
Yes, Kuya, they are victims of cruel circumstances. They wanted to fight the inhumanity here, but were'nt able to. This brutal and brutish system is so strong that no man is capable enough of defeating this implosion.
Kuya, how can I say that we are lucky, when we have government officials, even the Highest of those officials, who tell us to accept the verdict calmly because their innocence or guilt depended on the laws of other countries.
Kuya, there were pieces of evidence which proved their innocence, but the Courts of China closed their ears and eyes and handed down the verdict of death.
How would I tell these foreigners that it is fortunate to live here, when prices of commodities have gone up, and standards of living here have become a hellish nightmare?
How will I tell my kids that their futures are secure here, when there are more than 35 million families unable to eat thrice a day and about 11 million fathers and mothers without jobs?
How will I be able to tell my kid to respect the laws of this country when these laws enable people to steal billions of pesos worth of our monies kept in Bangko Sentral vaults?
How will I tell my kid to respect the laws when the very people who are expected to implement them are the very ones who violate these laws with impunity?
How will I even share my pride as a Filipino when we allow foreign drug lords to escape jail time and those innocents kept in filthy barbaric prisons?
And how will I ever be so faithful with this government and pay my taxes when I see the roads they built, pot-marked by craters and the bridges they built fall by the weight of just 2o tons?
We, who were born poor and defenseless, we suffer the brutality of the system which our leaders asked us to respect.
We, who were born proletariats, we suffer the cruelty and the barbarity of a system partial to those who have and inhumane to those without.
We, who were born poor, can only cry as Willie Revillame ask us to make a fool out of ourselves in exchange for a few thousands of pesos.
We, who were born poor, have been asked by this government to persevere, be patient, and promised that prices of commodities would soon go South, while we slowly await our deaths.
We, who were born poor, can only grit our teeth and clench our fists, as capitalists and traders exploit our weaknesses and our native intelligence by raising the prices of goods while this government tells us to just grin and bear it.
And, we, who were born poor, are being accused of rebellion and of other crimes when we shout out our souls, our frustrations, our opposition against alienation.
The deaths of Ordinario, Credo and Batain have opened our minds to the truth--the reality that we are being exploited, the Truth that we are being made slaves and the Truth that we are being made zombies, programmed to believe the empty promises of change by someone who does not know even where to go while driving his Porsche.
We cling to the hopes that that day will come, when millions of us, would just rise up and demand that our voices be heard, that these promises be fulfilled and these publicly announced dreams be realized.
When that day comes, those who oppress us, those who mock us, like Willie Revillame, those who make fun of our miseries just to sell their products, they will get the brunt of our anger. Our anger will rise unto the heavens, and God, in His bountil mercies, will send His angels to avenge us. God, we always believe, is a God of Justice. This inhumane system will be crushed. This system which bred corrupt men will be stumped to the ground. This system, which many have exploited and fed with lies, and with bovine wealth, will be split in the middle. True change will come, I believe it will, tomorrow.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Noynoy Aquino's ratings dip 13% drop according to SWS
Analyzing the latest SWS survey shows that this is not just a dip in the public's perception of the President's performance but a precarious drop that is expected to continue as this administration enters its one year rule.
The fast slide came shortly after President Aquino purchased a Porsche, and the absence of concrete programs and solutions that defined what he termed as a "straight road" administration.
Aquino is being judged by the people under a "moralscope", and not as objectively as say, his performance against graft and corruption. Notice how vulnerable Aquino is. His ratings continue to drop across all socio-economic classes after just one contentious issue--a moral one.
Perceptions of the president's easy-going style of governance also harmed and continues to harm this administration.
So, Aquino is being judged not on actual performance but on his moral mis-steps. This is dangerous since political governance is different than moral governance. This is subjective assessment. How can an administration put up with that type of assessment?
This is why it is so dangerous for any political administration to mouth moral platitudes when it is supposed to govern based on established political principles, most of which are dependent not on moral values.
The fast slide came shortly after President Aquino purchased a Porsche, and the absence of concrete programs and solutions that defined what he termed as a "straight road" administration.
Aquino is being judged by the people under a "moralscope", and not as objectively as say, his performance against graft and corruption. Notice how vulnerable Aquino is. His ratings continue to drop across all socio-economic classes after just one contentious issue--a moral one.
Perceptions of the president's easy-going style of governance also harmed and continues to harm this administration.
So, Aquino is being judged not on actual performance but on his moral mis-steps. This is dangerous since political governance is different than moral governance. This is subjective assessment. How can an administration put up with that type of assessment?
This is why it is so dangerous for any political administration to mouth moral platitudes when it is supposed to govern based on established political principles, most of which are dependent not on moral values.
Monday, March 28, 2011
Willie Revillame and the Jan-Jan Episode
I am now doubting the gender of Mr. Willie Revillame. I mean, come on!
Who, in his right mind, would love to see a 6-year old boy gyrate before him? Who, in his right mind, would love slapping, cursing, and pulling the hair of a hapless woman, wife and all?
Only someone who probably fantasizes something of a pedophilic show or a wrestling match with a frail woman would love these scenes of another individual being tortured or being made a mockery before a lusty public, hungry for cheap thrills from a cheap person.
Will you enjoy seeing a crying child being bastardized before millions of eyes around the world? ONly a sick mind would allow that.
Entertainment has its limits. A gyrating 6 year old, mimicking a macho dancer, is not entertainment. Its pure and simple exploitation of a weak individual.
This is like seeing an American soldier being beheaded by a terrorist. Or a lola being kept in a cage by her daughter and a sadistic son-in-law.
Probably, and some people guess, Willie suffered the same humiliation from some thugs in his neighborhood when he was still a kid, that's why he want the same done to another.
Willie, will you be so kind to indulge us the pleasure of you gyrating before us, while we throw tomatoes and rotten onions at your face, in exchange for 1 peso?
Had I been there watching, probably, what I'll do is something which millions of us want---arrest Willie Revillame.
It was a clear case of violation of the law, Republic Act 7610. Under our Revised Penal Code, citizen's arrest is allowed when you see someone clearly violating the law.
By the way, we have'nt seen Willie Revillame behind bars, inspite of these violations of our laws. Is Willie so "malakas" that he always, always escape the thugs waiting for him at the Quezon City jail?
And if Willie's protectors still see this as part of entertainment, of showbiz, think again. It's a crime and a sin for someone to gain from this.
Is this the corporate practice of some of Willie's sponsors to gain from allowing such inhumanity shown on primetime television?
If Willie escapes the long arms of the law this time, I'll militate in the streets. Such man should not be allowed to entertain us. Clearly, we are not amused, not at all. Entertainment is simply not a Greek comedy.
Who, in his right mind, would love to see a 6-year old boy gyrate before him? Who, in his right mind, would love slapping, cursing, and pulling the hair of a hapless woman, wife and all?
Only someone who probably fantasizes something of a pedophilic show or a wrestling match with a frail woman would love these scenes of another individual being tortured or being made a mockery before a lusty public, hungry for cheap thrills from a cheap person.
Will you enjoy seeing a crying child being bastardized before millions of eyes around the world? ONly a sick mind would allow that.
Entertainment has its limits. A gyrating 6 year old, mimicking a macho dancer, is not entertainment. Its pure and simple exploitation of a weak individual.
This is like seeing an American soldier being beheaded by a terrorist. Or a lola being kept in a cage by her daughter and a sadistic son-in-law.
Probably, and some people guess, Willie suffered the same humiliation from some thugs in his neighborhood when he was still a kid, that's why he want the same done to another.
Willie, will you be so kind to indulge us the pleasure of you gyrating before us, while we throw tomatoes and rotten onions at your face, in exchange for 1 peso?
Had I been there watching, probably, what I'll do is something which millions of us want---arrest Willie Revillame.
It was a clear case of violation of the law, Republic Act 7610. Under our Revised Penal Code, citizen's arrest is allowed when you see someone clearly violating the law.
By the way, we have'nt seen Willie Revillame behind bars, inspite of these violations of our laws. Is Willie so "malakas" that he always, always escape the thugs waiting for him at the Quezon City jail?
And if Willie's protectors still see this as part of entertainment, of showbiz, think again. It's a crime and a sin for someone to gain from this.
Is this the corporate practice of some of Willie's sponsors to gain from allowing such inhumanity shown on primetime television?
If Willie escapes the long arms of the law this time, I'll militate in the streets. Such man should not be allowed to entertain us. Clearly, we are not amused, not at all. Entertainment is simply not a Greek comedy.
Willie Revillame to be charged for violation of RA 7610: Exploiting Jan-Jan
For Willie Revillame, host of the primetime evening show, Willing Willie, exploiting the weaknesses of people is ENTERTAINMENT.
For Revillame, host of the primetime evening show, Willing Willie, being financed by PLDT's Manny Pangilinan and Viva Entertainment, exploiting old people, children and women is ENTERTAINMENT.
I am not surprised that another 6 year old child was exploited by the same man whom his former partner accused of wife beating. see link
I am not at all surprised that this same man caused the deaths of some people in that classic stampede at the ULTRA.
I am not at all surprised to see every single night, poor people flocking to his show for goodies in exchange for humiliating them in public. Our poor folks, sorry to say, are accustomed to being humiliated by the rich. They don't have any option. Rather than be hungry, they will do everything possible,just to win 1,000 or 10,000.
What I am surprised about is that this man is being supported by big businessmen, like Manny Pangilinan and Manny Villar. These people are supposed to be the shakers and movers of this Nation. These men are supposed to be of high integrity.
Do these businessmen realize that their names are also being dragged as protectors of Mr. Revillame, every single time this man gets caught with a misdemeanor or a crime?
Both Villar and Pangilinan are known for their "rags-to-riches" stories. Why are they allowing Willie to exploit the very class which they claimed to have belonged in the past?
Villar is a member of the committee in the Senate on women and children. Will he file a case against Revillame, for child exploitation? This is clearly a case not of entertainment, but of a violation of the law, Article V, Section 9 of Republic Act No. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act:
Imagine, how crass and how inhumane Willie Revillame was, when he coerced this boy, all of six years old, to dance before a crowd lusty for cheap tricks and cheap thrills.
Probably, Willie experienced the same humiliation when he was a kid. Probably a group of school thugs forced Willie to dance before them, while they throw rotten tomatoes at him. That explains why Willie's face is all cratered.
I will not be surprised if Willie will, again, escape the fangs of the law. The law here in this country recognizes only one thing, and that is money. Fact is, the laws here do not have fangs.
This person who was once charged with wife molestation, who was repeatedly sanctioned by MTRCB for his dirty jokes and toilet-humour, who nearly escaped imprisonment for causing the injury and deaths of several people and now, like a sad joker, exploiting a weak child.
Don't tell me that Jan-Jan is a professional artist willing to do what Willie did to him.
Will Senator Pia Cayetano file a resolution to investigate this matter, or will she just let this incident go unnoticed?
I found this complaint to be filed against Willie and I support this 100%
For Revillame, host of the primetime evening show, Willing Willie, being financed by PLDT's Manny Pangilinan and Viva Entertainment, exploiting old people, children and women is ENTERTAINMENT.
I am not surprised that another 6 year old child was exploited by the same man whom his former partner accused of wife beating. see link
I am not at all surprised that this same man caused the deaths of some people in that classic stampede at the ULTRA.
I am not at all surprised to see every single night, poor people flocking to his show for goodies in exchange for humiliating them in public. Our poor folks, sorry to say, are accustomed to being humiliated by the rich. They don't have any option. Rather than be hungry, they will do everything possible,just to win 1,000 or 10,000.
What I am surprised about is that this man is being supported by big businessmen, like Manny Pangilinan and Manny Villar. These people are supposed to be the shakers and movers of this Nation. These men are supposed to be of high integrity.
Do these businessmen realize that their names are also being dragged as protectors of Mr. Revillame, every single time this man gets caught with a misdemeanor or a crime?
Both Villar and Pangilinan are known for their "rags-to-riches" stories. Why are they allowing Willie to exploit the very class which they claimed to have belonged in the past?
Villar is a member of the committee in the Senate on women and children. Will he file a case against Revillame, for child exploitation? This is clearly a case not of entertainment, but of a violation of the law, Article V, Section 9 of Republic Act No. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act:
“Obscene Publications and Indecent Shows. – Any person who shall hire, employ, use, persuade, induce or coerce a child to perform in obscene exhibitions and indecent shows, whether live or in video, or model in obscene publications or pornographic materials or to sell or distribute the said materials shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period. If the child used as a performer, subject or seller/distributor is below twelve (12) years of age, the penalty shall be imposed in its maximum period. Any ascendant, guardian, or person entrusted in any capacity with the care of a child who shall cause and/or allow such child to be employed or to participate in an obscene play, scene, act, movie or show or in any other acts covered by this section shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period.”
Imagine, how crass and how inhumane Willie Revillame was, when he coerced this boy, all of six years old, to dance before a crowd lusty for cheap tricks and cheap thrills.
Probably, Willie experienced the same humiliation when he was a kid. Probably a group of school thugs forced Willie to dance before them, while they throw rotten tomatoes at him. That explains why Willie's face is all cratered.
I will not be surprised if Willie will, again, escape the fangs of the law. The law here in this country recognizes only one thing, and that is money. Fact is, the laws here do not have fangs.
This person who was once charged with wife molestation, who was repeatedly sanctioned by MTRCB for his dirty jokes and toilet-humour, who nearly escaped imprisonment for causing the injury and deaths of several people and now, like a sad joker, exploiting a weak child.
Don't tell me that Jan-Jan is a professional artist willing to do what Willie did to him.
Will Senator Pia Cayetano file a resolution to investigate this matter, or will she just let this incident go unnoticed?
I found this complaint to be filed against Willie and I support this 100%
Hon. Loretta Ann P. Rosales, Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights
Sen. Pia S. Cayetano, Committee Chair, Youth, Women and Family Affairs
Hon. Corazon "Dinky" Juliano-Soliman, Secretary, Department of Social Welfare and Development
Hon. Grace Poe Llamanzares, Chairman, Movies and Television Ratings and Classification Board
Mr. Manny Pangilinan, Chairman, TV5
Justice Santiago M. Kapunan, Officer in Charge, Integrated Bar of The Philippines
Mr. John Rojo, President, Philippine Association of National Advertisers
Ms. Charmaine Canillas, Chairman, Ad Standards Council
Ateneo Human Rights Center
Council for the Welfare of Children
SUBJECT: CHILD ABUSE ON WILLING WILLIE SHOW OF TV5
We wish to bring to your attention a deplorable incident that occurred during the March 12, 2011 episode of Willing Willie, hosted by Mr. Willie Revillame which was aired during TV5's primetime block. In the said episode, also posted on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YRCxh9q64w, a six-year-old boy named Jan-jan was shown dancing “ala-macho dancer," much to the delight of the host and the studio audience. As seen in the video, however, the boy was clearly distressed and humiliated by the said experience as evidenced by his crying while supposedly “entertaining” Mr. Revillame and his audience.
Children should be at school studying or playing at home. They should not be used as cheap sources of entertainment. The act of making children work is already unfortunate; however, the said act is even more deplorablewhen they lose their dignity and self respect in the process.
If TV shows that employ child actors are required to secure the necessary permits from the DSWD, are reality shows like Willing Willie required to do the same? Are representatives from the DSWD present to monitor these activities, especially for shows that air live?
We quote Article V, Section 9 of Republic Act No. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act:
“Obscene Publications and Indecent Shows. – Any person who shall hire, employ, use, persuade, induce or coerce a child to perform in obscene exhibitions and indecent shows, whether live or in video, or model in obscene publications or pornographic materials or to sell or distribute the said materials shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period.
If the child used as a performer, subject or seller/distributor is below twelve (12) years of age, the penalty shall be imposed in its maximum period.
Any ascendant, guardian, or person entrusted in any capacity with the care of a child who shall cause and/or allow such child to be employed or to participate in an obscene play, scene, act, movie or show or in any other acts covered by this section shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period.”
Clearly, what transpired during this episode of Willing Willie was a violation of this provision of the law.
We condemn the blatant act of subjecting poor Filipinos -- especially minors, a group that history has shown to be one of the most vulnerable sectors of our society -- to humiliation in shows like these in exchange for some quick cash. Given the financial hardships that they have to endure, they often feel forced to do acts that violate their dignity as human beings in exchange for keeping body and soul together.
We condemn the host, not only for failing to stop the boy, who was clearly uncomfortable with what he had to do, but more importantly for milking similar situations for the sake of selling the show and increasing its ratings.
We condemn the producers of the show and the management of TV5 not only for failing to act appropriately on this incident, but also for tolerating these kinds of shows, as well as the host's tasteless and humiliating antics.
We express disappointment towards the parents of the boy for subjecting their child to this horrible experience.
We express concern for the studio audience and others at home who found this incident amusing and entertaining.
We express disappointment towards all the advertisers of the show for failing to consider the content and the values of the shows in which they advertise.
We challenge our government agencies, particularly the DSWD and the MTRCB, to act promptly on this and other similar incidents, and to institute measures to protect young children when they appear on Willing Willie and similar shows.
In this regard, we would like to request the following actions from your office:
- For Mr. Manny Pangilinan and the management of TV5 to immediately implement a temporary moratorium on the guesting of children on Willing Willie and similar shows;
- For Mr. Willie Revillame and the producers of the show to issue a public apology to Jan-jan and all their other guests whom they have humiliated in the past, and to promise never to commit the same acts in their future episodes;
- For the MTRCB to conduct an investigation and review of the said episode to determine the violations made by the host and the producers of the show of the standards and regulations set by law and the Board, and impose corresponding penalties on those found guilty;
- For the DSWD and the CHR to conduct an investigation into the said incident to determine the violations of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, committed by the host, the producers and the management of TV5, and initiate legal action against those who will be found responsible;
- For the DSWD and the MTRCB, in partnership with the TV networks in the country, to formulate regulations that will cover the appearance of children on game shows and other reality-TV themed shows, especially those that are aired live;
- For the Committee on Youth, Women and Family Affairs of the Senate to conduct an investigation, in aid of legislation, to institute amendments to Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 to protect children from similar violations;
- For the DSWD to provide counselling to Janjan and to all other children who participated on the show in the past for possible trauma and other physiological distress, as well as to their parents who consider subjecting their children to such experience as acceptable;
- For the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to provide legal support to the victims of these abuses who may want to pursue legal action against those who will be found responsible by the relevant government agencies; and
- For the Philippine Association of National Advertisers and AdBoard to forward this complaint to all their members, especially those who advertise on Willing Willie, and to request their members to temporarily cease placing ads on the show until the host, the producer and the management have complied with this request and instituted reforms to avoid a repeat of this incident in the future. Otherwise, we will be constrained to start a call to boycott the products of those who will refuse to heed this request.
We are expecting a prompt reply and action on your part. We will be continuously monitoring this issue and will continue to gather support from the general public through a Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Para-kay-Jan-jan-Shame-on-you-Willie-Revillame/102087546543288) we have started, as well as the mainstream media.
Signed:
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Western Neo-Imperialism Against Middle East
Syria is next victim of the United States in the country's quest for more glory, says Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez. He revealed what analysts have been saying all along, and for decades now---that the US has revived the neo-imperialist template to be able to survive.
The US, along with their Western partners, are ransacking the Middle East not just for their oil, but also for their territories. They are striking Libya, hitting not just military but civilian infrastructures to control not just the country's vast oil resources, but also the right to rebuild the country shortly after the war.
The rest of the world have been silenced effectively, even the American people. Unlike what happened in Iraq, peoples around the world have been miffed into silent acquiesce.
It is now up to the Arab, African and South American nations to rise up against this creeping global dictatorship being perpetuated by these Graeco-Roman ascendants.
It is now up to the true believers of Islam to protect the very land given to them by Allah SWT. Regardless of who rules them for a while, the order of the day is repulse the onslaught being undertaken by the non-believers.
The US, along with their Western partners, are ransacking the Middle East not just for their oil, but also for their territories. They are striking Libya, hitting not just military but civilian infrastructures to control not just the country's vast oil resources, but also the right to rebuild the country shortly after the war.
The rest of the world have been silenced effectively, even the American people. Unlike what happened in Iraq, peoples around the world have been miffed into silent acquiesce.
It is now up to the Arab, African and South American nations to rise up against this creeping global dictatorship being perpetuated by these Graeco-Roman ascendants.
It is now up to the true believers of Islam to protect the very land given to them by Allah SWT. Regardless of who rules them for a while, the order of the day is repulse the onslaught being undertaken by the non-believers.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
GLOBE'S 599 1 MONTH UNLIMITED GLOBE-TO-GLOBE CELL AND LANDLINE PROMO--THE BIGGEST SCAM EVER
Imagine thousands of pesos lost just because of a telecommunications promotional gimmick. And I am referring to Globe Telecommunications 599 1-month unlimited Globe-to-Globe cell and landline call promo.
Based on my experience, this is the most scandalous, the most antiquated, and the greatest scam ever. AND I AM SUING GLOBE FOR MAKING MY LIFE MISERABLE.
Really, I never really subscribed to any gimmick except that my wife wanted me to avail of this promo simply because my cellphone pre-paid card use usually runs in the thousands of pesos every month. This is like having a post-paid line, right?
Paying 600 pesos is not bad especially if its UNLIMITED. THE PROMISE? 1 MONTH USE.
I haven't used this for two weeks and here I am having SIM CARD REGISTRATION FAILED MESSAGES AND NOT BEEN ABLE TO CALL OTHER GLOBE CELLPHONES.
THIS IS STUPID! TOTALLY CRAZY AND SCANDALOUS!
This is an outright scam perpetuated by Globe Telecommunications just to appease Senator Juan Ponce-Enrile, who used this issue to get his second gig at the Senate.
NOW, PAGING SENATOR ENRILE---I AM NOT HAPPY WITH GLOBE. CAN YOU DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS?
IF ENRILE REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS TELECOMM, THEN, ME KUMITA DITO.
Based on my experience, this is the most scandalous, the most antiquated, and the greatest scam ever. AND I AM SUING GLOBE FOR MAKING MY LIFE MISERABLE.
Really, I never really subscribed to any gimmick except that my wife wanted me to avail of this promo simply because my cellphone pre-paid card use usually runs in the thousands of pesos every month. This is like having a post-paid line, right?
Paying 600 pesos is not bad especially if its UNLIMITED. THE PROMISE? 1 MONTH USE.
I haven't used this for two weeks and here I am having SIM CARD REGISTRATION FAILED MESSAGES AND NOT BEEN ABLE TO CALL OTHER GLOBE CELLPHONES.
THIS IS STUPID! TOTALLY CRAZY AND SCANDALOUS!
This is an outright scam perpetuated by Globe Telecommunications just to appease Senator Juan Ponce-Enrile, who used this issue to get his second gig at the Senate.
NOW, PAGING SENATOR ENRILE---I AM NOT HAPPY WITH GLOBE. CAN YOU DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS?
IF ENRILE REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT THIS TELECOMM, THEN, ME KUMITA DITO.
Catholic Church Show of Force Against RH Bill: A Serious Challenge for Pro-RH Bill Advocate and to the Aquino administration
In what could be billed as the very first "big demonstration" against this new administration, the Catholic Church yesterday rallied some 40,000 plus people at the Rizal park against the Reproductive Health bill.
Three things about this event:
First, this was something of a strong showing of collective force against the RH bill, countering pro-RH bill propaganda that the bill enjoys strong public support.
Second, this is a political message to the Aquino administration. That figure, 40,000, is best remembered only in EDSAs. There is some subtle message being sent by the Church, and that is, if this administration does not want to be toppled by a popular revolt, it better withdraw its support of the bill.
And third, this is a challenge to those who support the RH bill---mount a bigger rally than what we did.
Question--is the pro-RH bill advocates up to the challenge?
The Catholic Church is determined to pursue this issue up to the very end. The question is---does the administration and those who support the bill feel the same thing?
President Aquino has consistently issued support for the Reproductive Health bill. Publicly, he was quoted as having second thoughts about it. However, there are reports that Malacanang is moving its allies and marshalling them to support the RH bill, in deference to the United States.
Reports also verified the strong lobby of the makers of condoms and contraceptives. This billion dollar industry is moving its muscles and using its lobby money to make this bill a reality.
Really, this issue broke the tenuous relationship of the Church with that of civil society, who largely support the bill. Fact is, this bill seems to have split the ranks of civil society so much so that groups allied with the Church, and once populated the ranks of the political and ideological opposition have broken themselves from the coalition.
Most of the opposition centers on the use of public funds to buy contraceptives and distribute them to the poor. Most of those opposing the bill say the funds have better uses. Most feel that immorality will somewhat rise when the State allows the mandatory teaching of sex education to students as young as ten or twelve years old.
Use of public funds is not an expression of free choice. Rather, it is a subtle way of the State telling the individual to exercise extreme caution.
Free choice means respecting the right of the individual to engage in sexual activity and the liberal use of any method to avoid contraception, be it natural or artificial.
The State does not have the right to dictate upon an individual what method of contraception he should use. It is up to the individual to determine that.
Using public funds to distribute contraceptives is not an expression of free choice. By procuring these condoms, the State already expressed its preference towards artificial contraception, something which violates the religious beliefs of majority of Filipinos.
Three things about this event:
First, this was something of a strong showing of collective force against the RH bill, countering pro-RH bill propaganda that the bill enjoys strong public support.
Second, this is a political message to the Aquino administration. That figure, 40,000, is best remembered only in EDSAs. There is some subtle message being sent by the Church, and that is, if this administration does not want to be toppled by a popular revolt, it better withdraw its support of the bill.
And third, this is a challenge to those who support the RH bill---mount a bigger rally than what we did.
Question--is the pro-RH bill advocates up to the challenge?
The Catholic Church is determined to pursue this issue up to the very end. The question is---does the administration and those who support the bill feel the same thing?
President Aquino has consistently issued support for the Reproductive Health bill. Publicly, he was quoted as having second thoughts about it. However, there are reports that Malacanang is moving its allies and marshalling them to support the RH bill, in deference to the United States.
Reports also verified the strong lobby of the makers of condoms and contraceptives. This billion dollar industry is moving its muscles and using its lobby money to make this bill a reality.
Really, this issue broke the tenuous relationship of the Church with that of civil society, who largely support the bill. Fact is, this bill seems to have split the ranks of civil society so much so that groups allied with the Church, and once populated the ranks of the political and ideological opposition have broken themselves from the coalition.
Most of the opposition centers on the use of public funds to buy contraceptives and distribute them to the poor. Most of those opposing the bill say the funds have better uses. Most feel that immorality will somewhat rise when the State allows the mandatory teaching of sex education to students as young as ten or twelve years old.
Use of public funds is not an expression of free choice. Rather, it is a subtle way of the State telling the individual to exercise extreme caution.
Free choice means respecting the right of the individual to engage in sexual activity and the liberal use of any method to avoid contraception, be it natural or artificial.
The State does not have the right to dictate upon an individual what method of contraception he should use. It is up to the individual to determine that.
Using public funds to distribute contraceptives is not an expression of free choice. By procuring these condoms, the State already expressed its preference towards artificial contraception, something which violates the religious beliefs of majority of Filipinos.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Ding Gagelonia and Filipino Voices Friends: Bloggers and Nationalists all
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| Ding Gagelonia with fellow bloggers |
He was surprised to find out that Patricio Mangubat happened to be this frail writer from U.P. Diliman who does not smoke and who always lug a napsack. That same PM was actually Richard Rivera, who left DZBB to teach and take his Masterals.
That PM was both a teacher (teaching History to a bunch of kids at UP-Manila) and a student of journalism. I was very young then, barely out of University and making sense of the real world. I took a real fancy of journalism because that was my job. Eventually, that job became a profession and an obsession.
Now, I'm several pounds heavier and Ding several pounds less.In his prime, Ding was more than 200 pounds I think. After his stroke, Ding lost several pounds. That's why when I met him again, he was probably a little off my own weight.
This is our picture, together with fellow political bloggers. Now that the Filipino Voices site is gone, the connection slowly diminished. That site became our Plaza Miranda. For reasons only a few people know and I dein say here, the voices just suddenly became quiet.
I was planning to revive a site like Filipino Voices. I was actually thinking of calling Ding and Dean dela Paz. This never materialized. I was so busy.
This, for me, is a real tragedy. I lost Filipino Voices and I lost the only rationale voice there, Ding Gagelonia. Filipino blogging will never be the same again.
Elizabeth Taylor
Taylor represents a glamourous generation, totally different and probably alien to most of us. Liz Taylor lived a full life. She's an respected actress, a style and fashion icon, and a class of her own.
That blue eyes and captivating smile lit up thousands of cinemas during her prime. She mesmerized millions with her convincing role as Cleopatra, the temptress who nearly caused the downfall of an empire.
In real life, she was evidently her generation's temptress, marrying seven and divorcing six times. Many men fell for her, as she was the symbol of sexiness during her prime.
Beneath that beautiful alabaster skin and radiant face hides a soft and warm soul. She dedicated herself with causes, especially when her friend, Rock Hudson succumbed to aids in the late 80's. Her dedication to aids work filled up her time.
And now she's gone, probably one of the last surviving members of that glam generation, we can all just fill our memories with her iconic images and tell ourselves that it would take a thousand years before another one of that same electricity will once again light up our world.
The Value of a Man
A man's value is measured by the length and breadth of his influence on other people's lives. When a man touches the lives of others by his actions, his words and his care, his value is worth a thousand diamonds.
Wealth is nothing, absolutely nothing. He may have the most number of cars, he may probably own thousands of hectares of land, but if these were all fruits of his vicious and evil ways, this man is valued as nothing. Zitch. Zero.
A man who already conquered the world with his sword yet did nothing to uplift the lives of those who lived in this world, is like a puny maggot, munching specks of dirt and ingesting detestable things.
And a man who shared his knowledge with those around him, animating their lives with his wisdom, and counselling them on what to say or do, is like a pariah in a beautiful island Eden.
We live once, only once. If we tread the evil path, our lives amount to nothing. If we remain pious and strong, our lives begin to have relevance.
When we live based on our principles of saving the lives of widows, teaching the orphans how to feed themselves and enriching the lives of the poor, we live according to the universal plan.
Living is not just living just to survive. It is living by acknowledging that weaknesses are strengths and these only transform as such if we share this struggle with others.
Ding, Manong Jules, Manong Max, Jocab, Lito Villarosa and the rest of the old guards have nothing to show in terms of wealth. They are not your Forbes' top billionaires.
During their times however, they tread these paths like giants, shaking the very foundations of Philippine society and began the re-imagination of this Nation.
They don't have tons of money to flaunt their friends, but their memories will live forever! Their words have immortalized them. Their flesh has succumbed to the inevitable law of the universe, yet, their memories, their works and their words will remain forever!
We, who remain in this earth, will send you paeans every single day of our lives.
Ding, friend, mentor and colleague, may you live forever!
Wealth is nothing, absolutely nothing. He may have the most number of cars, he may probably own thousands of hectares of land, but if these were all fruits of his vicious and evil ways, this man is valued as nothing. Zitch. Zero.
A man who already conquered the world with his sword yet did nothing to uplift the lives of those who lived in this world, is like a puny maggot, munching specks of dirt and ingesting detestable things.
And a man who shared his knowledge with those around him, animating their lives with his wisdom, and counselling them on what to say or do, is like a pariah in a beautiful island Eden.
We live once, only once. If we tread the evil path, our lives amount to nothing. If we remain pious and strong, our lives begin to have relevance.
When we live based on our principles of saving the lives of widows, teaching the orphans how to feed themselves and enriching the lives of the poor, we live according to the universal plan.
Living is not just living just to survive. It is living by acknowledging that weaknesses are strengths and these only transform as such if we share this struggle with others.
Ding, Manong Jules, Manong Max, Jocab, Lito Villarosa and the rest of the old guards have nothing to show in terms of wealth. They are not your Forbes' top billionaires.
During their times however, they tread these paths like giants, shaking the very foundations of Philippine society and began the re-imagination of this Nation.
They don't have tons of money to flaunt their friends, but their memories will live forever! Their words have immortalized them. Their flesh has succumbed to the inevitable law of the universe, yet, their memories, their works and their words will remain forever!
We, who remain in this earth, will send you paeans every single day of our lives.
Ding, friend, mentor and colleague, may you live forever!
Ding Gagelonia: Friend, Mentor and Colleague
Ding Gagelonia, the man with the infectious smile, the astounding wit, and with the Panda-like hug, dead? Nah. There must be something wrong here.
For months now, I was'nt able to contact or call Ding. After our collaborative efforts during the elections, we parted ways. I went back to corporate and he, well, I really don't know what he did after the elections. He did not email. He was not writing stuff at the FV (Filipino Voices) and his Facebook updates were not as regular as before.
His last post can be seen at http://dinggagelonia.blogspot.com. That is still AtMidfield. Last date: March 20, 2011 or about five days away.
He describes himself in his blogs as:
I've been a journalist all my life and am so passionately in love with the Philippines, warts and all. Our country will really prosper only if we stand up to be counted and not leave it to self-serving politicians and the corrupt to sell out the Philippines. Andres Bonifacio, Jose Rizal, and Ninoy Aquino did their bit. So should we. Am also at midfield.wordpress.com and www.youtube/dingg458
Ding was proud to be a journalist.
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| Ding and I with Mar Roxas |
Ding opened doors for us.
I started my journalistic career over at DZBB, when Ding was station manager. I haven't graduated school yet when I was hired as Newswriter together with Norlyn Temblor and Tina Panganiban. Julius Babao was still with us, back then, and Ira Panganiban. Arnold Clavio was still doing the defense beat and Susan Enriquez the southern part of Metro Manila.
He taught me how to write news pieces. I was accustomed to writing academic ones. He taught me how to become a journalist.
The most memorable was when he suddenly arrived one early morning with balut for every body.
After I left DZBB, it took more than a decade before we met again. I was now in the corporate world and blogging as Patricio Mangubat.
He was so surprised that the one whom he reads everyday happened to be one of his acolytes. Since then, I decided to make him a part of my world.
There were great times and not so great times with him. We had a common friend, Jules Fortuna, who left us one and a half years ago.
I cried back then. Now, I don't know how to approach this.
Still, I don't believe what I'm hearing or reading. I must see my friend.
If this is true, then, all my prayers are for him. His writings will live forever.
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