Barack Obama-Arroyo Meeting: Issues on Myanmar, North Korea and Mindanao

(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.

Dear Filo: Where's the vision?

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.

FG will not be arrested by the FBI due to diplomatic immunity

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....

Why is Defense secretary Teodoro not in the official delegation to Washington?

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.

Open Letter to Barack Obama: Bloggers Help!

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.

Cheap Medicine by Double Talking Trapos

Mrs. Arroyo just signed Executive Order 821 mandating a 50% slash in 5 of about 22 medicines recommended by the DoH. Out of this list, pharma companies voluntarily submitted 16 medicines for a price cut by half. That's only 21. What was the drug that Mrs. Arroyo did not approve to be cut?

That's the problem here. Mrs. Arroyo said that she's protecting and taking care of the poor. Why settle for just 21 drugs when the Cheaper Medicines Law actually gives power to the government to slash all prices of medicines by more than half? The palace said, they're doing a balancing act. Why balance it when for many years these pharma companies have been raking profits after profits at the expense of the poor and sick Filipinos?

Also, what happened to the alleged bribery attempt by Pfizer Philippines? No probe? Not even a singular investigation? Senator Ponce-Enrile's accusation was very serious. Is Malacanang protecting its hide and those of giant pharmas? By the way, the E.O. takes effect on August 15 for big drug stores while smaller ones need to adjust their prices a full month after.

A week ago, Senator Mar Roxas reportedly called for an investigation into this. Today though, we did not hear anything about it. Is Roxas fidgeting? That supposed bribery incident is still fresh in the public's mind. Where's the supposed letter that the good senator submitted to the US State department to check on the record of Pfizer? And when is the Senate probe on this very crucial issue?

That's the BIG problem here. These politicians are just pulling our leg. A day after I asked my friends to give Mrs. Arroyo the benefit of the doubt, here comes this signing of an E.O. which, for all intents and purposes, is really a half-baked measure.

And here comes the author of the bill, spewing fire and brimstone after that supposed fidgeting incident by Arroyo and now, he fidgets as well? If you accuse someone of being "bribed" or "lobbied" by these giant pharma companies, then, the most logical thing for you to do is avoid being "bribed" or "lobbied" yourself. These trapos are playing the emotions of the people.

Mar Roxas should push ahead of his plan to get to the bottom of this bribery scandal and ensure that he prosecutes and files charges against those responsible for attempting to corrupt government officials. It's so easy to use an issue as a campaign platform but people expect their "champions" to back their words up with concrete actions.

We really need to get rid of these people and fast.

The color of the SONA

Mrs. Arroyo wore a fushcia colored dress, described a radio reporter who covered the State of the Nation address (SONA) yesterday. There were instances where Mrs. Arroyo wore shades of red or a simple fiery red dress--when she gave that SONA that condemned rebel soldiers who trooped to a posh hotel just to make a statement.

Now, many people, especially those who criticize her, see this as an expression of her fighting stance. Yes, many would definitely give some "color" into this. Though Mrs. Arroyo's color selection is simply out of touch and definitely NOT the fashion color of this year (yellow is 'IN'), observers believe this highlights her main message---fight for the Filipino People.

Arroyo believes that she's fighting a good fight---improving the economy, giving houses to the poor and enhancing the investor environment. For some though, she failed, and failed miserably.

She's fighting to stay in power, some say. Her speech yesterday was not what we expect her to say--that she'll step down from that perch come June 2010. But, we're not that naive. Her greedy husband and son just told us the truth---she intends to leave Malacanang and we must believe them. Why?

They know the implications of such a thing. If they renege on this, they know that they'll be courting disaster. It's really their fault. Arroyo made a mistake when she announced her political plans on Rizal day in Baguio. And they love giving double-talks. If Arroyo lied, then, let her be. She knows her accountabilities.

This is something which I observed. Instead of relaying the right message, Mrs. Arroyo actually showed her tendency to be really out of touch of reality. That summarizes her entire administration.

For example, she gave us a glowing rundown of economic policies, which, are really excellent. Yet, what she probably failed to say is there is still a growing segment of our population that did not see or even felt this. GDP and GNP are two indicators of economic progress. Yet, for those in the lowest rungs of society, these terms mean nothing.

She talked about the vastly improving ICT sector but what she failed to say is, those who belonged to the 600,000 or so people who got jobs from this sector, all belonged to the educated (at least) segment of the society. Of course, there is some spillover effects, like in the construction business. And indirectly, some segments of the poorest classes benefited by working as masons and construction workers. Yet, as I said, this is still a work in progress.

Now, if we ask then, should we then conclude that she failed in her performance as president? Not entirely. She was able to weather all these storms that came in her way---political and economic instabilities. It takes a strong willed leader to survive all that. And for that, let's give her credit.

It takes a very strong political will to be able to realize the dreams of 1.8 million Filipino families to own their own house and lots. It takes a strong political desire to keep the economy afloat despite the strong surges of the global financial tsunami. Strong leadership is also needed in a patron-client kind of political system, where people's loyalties are based on "what is in store for me?" instead of "what do you offer as a vision so that my performance as a public servant is enhanced?" And surely, it takes more than patience to deal with rapacious business suit-wearing ass-lickers and opportunists who lurk in the shadows inside the palace.

What is important is, Mrs. Arroyo's administration just proved one glaring fact---we need a change in the system. Honestly, our choices to succeed her lack one or two very important leadership qualities. Of course, these people have their own management styles and concepts of governance. But, these are, at best, unproven. They are all abstractions.

In a culture such as ours, weak leadership means one thing---an unstable and weak government, susceptible to attacks against all political forces, be it beneficent or malevolent. In a state of transition, weaker political players wait in the wings for the opportunity to strike. To her credit, Mrs. Arroyo successfully handled the government despite charges of corruption, power monopoly, and interventionist actions by her husband.

Mrs. Arroyo's actions are good studies in state dynamics and public administration. It is a classic case of balancing power.

INC celebrates 95th year of God's work

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.

Senator Villar's Conflict of Interest

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.

2009 SONA: Arroyo should be given the benefit of the doubt

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.

Towards a Transformative National Agenda

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.

The State of the Nation under Arroyo

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.

Senator Manny Villar got my vote today

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.

Cheap Medicine

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.

Manong Ed Panlilio and his supporters

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.

Capt. Nick Faeldon--a Patriot Thru and Thru

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)

Muslim girl raped, robbed and murdered in Maguindanao

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.

Political Stability in the Philippines

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Mrs. Gloria Arroyo's Unfulfilled Vision

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:

Napakalinaw, napaka simple ang hiling ng mga anak ng Payatas: Trabaho, Edukasyon, sariling tahanan. Idagdag na rin: Pagkain sa bawat mesa. Ito ang mithiin ng masa. And this, in common sense and plain talk, is the core of my vision. A vision for the future must be rooted in the past. A revolution gave birth to the first Republic in Asia.

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:

“...political system has degenerated; people want a government that works.... the system needs fundamental change—the sooner, the better time to take the power from the center to the countrysides.”

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:

Despite some impressive world-class anti-corruption safeguards, such as formal "cooling-off" employment periods for senior officials leaving government, the Philippines remains challenged by the lack of a formal access to information regime and an election system that breeds cronyism and corruption in the political process. Improvements in the transparency surrounding government procurement remain promising, and civil society groups continue to play an important role in the debate around governance reforms. Restrictions on financial donations to candidates and parties from those with business before the government are an interesting and rare regulation internationally.

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.

Better Philippines and Pinoy Buzz--great blogs

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.

Teofisto Guingona stands up once more

There comes a time when everyone, every Filipino, needs to decide, decide on what to sacrifice for the sake of his country. History would show that events of the greatest magnitude happen, when ordinary people decide to finally stand up and say "Enough is Enough!" And my friends, this is the time.

When people of all ages, of all ideological beliefs and of differing religious views unite together for the sake of the greater good, beautiful things happen. The last time that we truly did it was in 1986, when all of us, all of us, went to EDSA and side by side, faced the forces of tyranny. In those times, everyone, every single one of us, became Patriots.

Extraordinary times call for extraordinary sacrifices from ordinary people like us. We don't need heroes, for everyone has the power and the will to become one. And when thousands of us decide to stand up and be one with those who desire for change, change do happen, in an instant, in a blinking of an eye, we break the camel's back.

Tomorrow, former Vice President Teofisto "Tito" Guingona Jr. will once again stand up. At 10 o'clock tomorrow, at Club Filipino, Tito will announce something that will shake the very foundations of this evil regime. I admire this man. At 81 years old, Tito never fails to amaze even the strongest of us. Kung yung ibang ka-edad niya ay magreretiro na, Tito continues to fight for the Filipino.

The question of the day is---ikaw, tatayo ka ba at lalaban? Simula na!

US Bases in Mindanao?

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?

Total Solar Eclipse to last 6 minutes--longest in 21st Century

(update)

People from China already saw the solar eclipse and what I know, the natural phenomenon is being watched right now by people from Japan and the Asian micro-islands. (photo on the left was taken in China this morning.)

The natural phenomenon started this 8:25 am and will last until 11:25am--a full 3 hours at least. However, the real thing, meaning the eclipse itself will only last 6 minutes, the longest one in this century.

Here in the Philippines, terrorists exploited the situation by bombing Cotabato City. Two people died and scores injured today.

Here, we will just see a partial one. The last time it happened was in 1999, yet Europe was the one who saw that.

The last time that we experienced a total solar eclipse was last 18 March 1988. The whole of Mindanao saw that. The photo on the left was taken by a Japanese photographer in Davao in 1988. (previous dates were May 9, 1929 and June 20, 1955).

I remember that it was in 1988 when numerous cults went out of their "caves" and forecasted the end of the world. My family was "victimized" by one. My grandmother, a devout Catholic, pasted numerous papers with Latin words in the four corners of our house at that time. What was the political and social circumstances in our country in 1988?

Well, we were under the tumultuous administration of Cory Aquino. Elements of the military were threatening to launch another coup against her (surely they did in 1989---the longest and the bloodliest coup in Philippine history). It was also in 1988, when the Economist interviewed the Marcoses who expressed their desire to return to the Philippines (March 5, 1988 edition). A revinvigorated CPP-NPA-NDF was on the height of their Protracted People's War and the military was busy killing insurgents and arresting people suspected of supporting the revolutionaries. And Mt. Bulusan was spewing small ash and stone projectiles in the sky, which eventually led to an eruption.

Ancient Chinese writers say that solar eclipses are bad omens daw. It precedes major political and economic events.

Ed Panlilio---be our Moral Leader

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.

Noli de Castro running as president

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.

Declaration of War Against Drugs an excuse for more sonas

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.

What would life be without Arroyo?

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.

Anti-Drugs Inquirer story---kuryente!

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.

New Society, part II: What's wrong with a transition government?

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.