It is like 1899 all over again, with the traitors of the Revolution sipping wine, and eating sumptuous meals with their new master.
That state dinner which Malacanan sponsored for and on behalf of United States president Barack Obama features the recent crop of Ilustrados who betrayed the Filipino people. As what several sites have featured, they represent the best and the worst of this country, a motley crue of opportunists and of rent seekers, all wanting for that selfie photo with the world's strongest Chief Executive.
What they don't know is that even Americans themselves detest their own president, the very same one who led them to an abyssmal financial mess, and who led several troops in killing thousands of innocents in a war where nobody expects to win.
Now, that same behemoth who killed thousands in Samar and Leyte during the height of the Philippine revolt against the Americans in the 1900s, who razed huge Muslim communities in Basilan and Sulu to the ground, who killed and raped several Filipinas in Mindanao and who slaughtered several thousands more in Luzon and the Visayas, is now toasting another defense agreement meant to deter growing Chinese aggression in the Asia-Pacific region.
When I heard that Pnoy had just signed a cooperative military agreement with Barack, the scenes of 1990 flashed in my mind once more.
Twenty four years ago, I was with hundreds of young Filipinos who raised the Philippine flag infront of the National Museum where the first post-Marcos Senators voted to junk the Military Bases Agreement or MBA.
Inspite of the drizzle, we stood there to witness an historic spectacle---true patriots standing infront of their fellow Filipinos and announcing to the whole world, their independence against the world's only superpower.
That scene is still fresh in my mind. I was holding the Philippine flag and when the votes were announced, we were all in jubilation, some in tears, some raising their clenched fists. That was a victory of the Filipino people.
Yet, even in those times, a senator, I think it was either Jovy Salonga or Rene Saguisag who said that that was just the start of something new. That we, that generation who witnessed the signing, must be vigilant because the Mammoth is not expected to just give up that readily.
That, the possibility of the US asserting its presence in this beloved country of 100 million souls remains a very strong threat.
I also remembered how Nature even went with us, with Pinatubo spewing millions of tons of ashes and sand and rocks just to stress a point--that even the gods do not favor the white men here.
When the gods went ballistic, the Americans packed their bags and left Clark and Subic in disarray. It took the collective courage and will of every Filipino to raise these bases back to normalcy.
Now that everything is in order, these Americans who once abandoned us for dead all because of a volcanic eruption, are now raring to again, transform the entire archipelago into a place of rest and recreation.
The defense situation may have changed, the geo-political dynamics have likewise altered the global landscape, and in response to a growing Yellow Threat coming from the East, the Americans want their bases back.
When those patriots voted the bases out, I was just barely in my twenties. Now, I am in my forties, with six kids and a lovely wife to feed. I have a career to take care. I have a parent who needs to feel loved and a sister who wants to discover the riches of the Americas.
I was taught to love God, Country and Family, in that order.
Every single day, I worship and pray to God, that nothing untoward happens to me, my family and friends.
Now, it is time to once more defend this very country that gave me everything, my life, my family, everything.
When I remember the sacrifices I did during the nineties, when I risked life, limb and my future just to stress a point, I can't help but shed a tear.
Now, no tears. It is time to raise those fists again.
Showing posts with label barack obama. Show all posts
Showing posts with label barack obama. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Romney concedes to Obama inspite slim margin
Republican presidential bet and former Governor Mitt Romney has just conceded the election to President Barack Obama. BY popular vote, Obama leads by the slimmest of margins, only 1% or 50 compared with Romney's 49%. As the votes are counted and fewer and fewer counties offer hopes for a Romney surprise pull from the tie with Obama, it is clear that the former Governor's efforts were still not enough to surpass those of the incumbent President.
Obama becomes the only Black American President re-elected into office with the slimmest of all margins.
This election will be the least of Obama's worries as he clearly should perform better this time. Obama's dismal record in alleviating the economic plight of America was the one which his political opponents take him into account.
Obama should focus on fixing his domestic economic problems. He should likewise take a firm grip in shepherding the rest of the West slowly out of the global financial rut.
With the continuation of the Obama administration, it is expected that China will likewise continue treating the US with equal respect since, during this administration, both countries have exercised a respectable space between each other, focusing more on mutual benefit rather than taking an aggressive stance against each other.
However, global terrorism remains a big problem for America.
Obama becomes the only Black American President re-elected into office with the slimmest of all margins.
This election will be the least of Obama's worries as he clearly should perform better this time. Obama's dismal record in alleviating the economic plight of America was the one which his political opponents take him into account.
Obama should focus on fixing his domestic economic problems. He should likewise take a firm grip in shepherding the rest of the West slowly out of the global financial rut.
With the continuation of the Obama administration, it is expected that China will likewise continue treating the US with equal respect since, during this administration, both countries have exercised a respectable space between each other, focusing more on mutual benefit rather than taking an aggressive stance against each other.
However, global terrorism remains a big problem for America.
Obama-Romney tied in Presidential Race: Romney still hopeful
The fact that it is a 50-50 tie between incumbent US president Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney tells you much about how Americans regard the Obama administration. Obama, whose meteoric rise to the Presidency, was perceived as a mythic figure by most Americans in the 2009 elections, so much hype has been heaped upon him, that expectations went over the roof during that elections. Obama won on his continued critique of the economic policies of the Bush administration, which he blames for the present financial crisis bedeviling the nation.
Now, Romney accuses Obama with the same sins as that of Bush. The financial crisis which is still a major concern among Western powers, remains a crucial factor in this year's US elections. Obama's economic prescriptions proved insufficient in solving problems such as unemployment and closure of small and medium enterprises. Some analysts say, the problem is beyond Obama, which I agree. The global financial slump really happens as part of the cycle of capitalism.
The solution really lies not on America but on external factors such as the continuing redefinition of the world's capital and labor configuration. The nexus of production has shifted from the United States to the East, specifically, China. China is reaping the economic rewards of being at the midst of global production, and it remains stable because China, by itself, is both a market and at the same time, a big production house.
The world waits with bated breath as the polls close in. CNN has just reported wins in favor of Obama in New Hampshire, a place where Romney calls home. Romney lags for about 15,000 votes behind Obama in Florida, with 86% of the votes in. If Romney loses Florida, he's toast, says Pierce Morgan of CNN.
Now, Romney accuses Obama with the same sins as that of Bush. The financial crisis which is still a major concern among Western powers, remains a crucial factor in this year's US elections. Obama's economic prescriptions proved insufficient in solving problems such as unemployment and closure of small and medium enterprises. Some analysts say, the problem is beyond Obama, which I agree. The global financial slump really happens as part of the cycle of capitalism.
The solution really lies not on America but on external factors such as the continuing redefinition of the world's capital and labor configuration. The nexus of production has shifted from the United States to the East, specifically, China. China is reaping the economic rewards of being at the midst of global production, and it remains stable because China, by itself, is both a market and at the same time, a big production house.
The world waits with bated breath as the polls close in. CNN has just reported wins in favor of Obama in New Hampshire, a place where Romney calls home. Romney lags for about 15,000 votes behind Obama in Florida, with 86% of the votes in. If Romney loses Florida, he's toast, says Pierce Morgan of CNN.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Sandy could be Obama's worst nightmare
Thirteen are now confirmed dead, as Tropical Superstorm Sandy continues to wreck havoc in thirteen states in the United States. More than 6.5 million people are now living in darkness as electricity was cut in these areas. Federal authorities say, it will take a week before power is completely restored in these areas. Meaning, the effects of this catastrophe will still be felt by people come election time.
The presidential elections is just eight days away, and the devastation wrought by Sandy in several states, according to some analysts, will make or break someone's presidential ambition. President Barack Obama intends to exploit this catastrophe by the hilt, says Mike Reagan, the senior strategist of the Republican Party. He intends to portray his government as a pro-active one, and trying to tell people that government is on top of the situation, and so it seems.
There's clearly an attempt to gain political points given the fact that Mitt Romney and the re-electionist Barack Obama are tied in terms of voter preference. Now, Obama's subsequent acts may determine his ultimate fate.
Should he appear with his trademark smile and his bravado, Obama may see himself in a middle of quagmire. Analysts say Obama faces a tightrope situation in dealing with the effects of this Superstorm. If he appears to be overly caring, people would suspect that he's trying to act like a politician. If he appears presidential, some people would also suspect that he's trying to court a doubting public. If he appears non-presidential, which, in the last years and months of his administration, he was and still is, then, he risks his re-election.
Unlike in his initial foray into the presidential political pond, Obama's election rode on the quest of a political re-awakening of sorts. There was a popular call for change during those times, and Obama's entry was perfect timing.
Now, with several sectors accusing Obama of mismanaging the economy and the affairs of the state, there seems to be a rising movement of people discontented with Obamasque. A survey conducted by Gallup shows that people are raring to go to the polls to elect Romney while a rising number of voters are raring to waiting for a reason not to vote for Obama.
This catastriphe, if not handles properly by the Obama administration, may break the re-election bid of America's first ever Black American president.
The presidential elections is just eight days away, and the devastation wrought by Sandy in several states, according to some analysts, will make or break someone's presidential ambition. President Barack Obama intends to exploit this catastrophe by the hilt, says Mike Reagan, the senior strategist of the Republican Party. He intends to portray his government as a pro-active one, and trying to tell people that government is on top of the situation, and so it seems.
There's clearly an attempt to gain political points given the fact that Mitt Romney and the re-electionist Barack Obama are tied in terms of voter preference. Now, Obama's subsequent acts may determine his ultimate fate.
Should he appear with his trademark smile and his bravado, Obama may see himself in a middle of quagmire. Analysts say Obama faces a tightrope situation in dealing with the effects of this Superstorm. If he appears to be overly caring, people would suspect that he's trying to act like a politician. If he appears presidential, some people would also suspect that he's trying to court a doubting public. If he appears non-presidential, which, in the last years and months of his administration, he was and still is, then, he risks his re-election.
Unlike in his initial foray into the presidential political pond, Obama's election rode on the quest of a political re-awakening of sorts. There was a popular call for change during those times, and Obama's entry was perfect timing.
Now, with several sectors accusing Obama of mismanaging the economy and the affairs of the state, there seems to be a rising movement of people discontented with Obamasque. A survey conducted by Gallup shows that people are raring to go to the polls to elect Romney while a rising number of voters are raring to waiting for a reason not to vote for Obama.
This catastriphe, if not handles properly by the Obama administration, may break the re-election bid of America's first ever Black American president.
Monday, October 22, 2012
Will the American electorate vote Obama out of office?
US President Barack Obama's voting numbers are the same as that of Republican bet Mitt Romney, a clear set-back already for the First Black American president. Three years ago, Obama's numbers were astronomically high, compared with his nearest competitor. The American public was caught with the Obama bug.
Now, with the economic downturn and the rising pessimism within American society, Obama's star waned and is on the brink of death. There is not enough "Obama-nisms" to counter Republican accusations of economic and external affairs mismanagement. The public is not enamored anymore with stirring speeches reviving the American dream nor talks about overcoming the present problems being encountered by the capitalist giant. With the global recession entering its sixth year, and economic analysts predicting another financial winter coming, there is simply no words anymore fit to reduce anxieties and worries.
Many Americans are realizing that these problems are direct results of the genetic ills of a capitalist state. Overproduction has resulted to stoppage of production in small and medium sized enterprises, the bedrock by which capitalist America depended on for so many years. With the death of SMEs came the rise of giant corporations which knows no race, no nation, and no government when it comes to cutting down costs of production. The locus of production has shifted from American factories to China's million man production crews. This translated into Chinese having jobs, while Americans were left in the lurch.
The middle class, the vanguard class of the American state and society, has dwindled, while the numbers of America's billionaires ballooned. Resources have all been centralized and controlled by a few. With a global downturn, these resources remained under close control and management of a remorse-less elite.
Obama's re-election depended on the fulfillment of his promise of making life more comfortable for Americans. His administration, however, even failed in pushing for substantial legislation which would have eased the hardships being experienced by Americans. Peace and order worsened, and the economy remained in the doldrums.
Will the American electorate negate Obamanism and usher in an iron-fisted Republican crew to save them and their economy from further damage?
Now, with the economic downturn and the rising pessimism within American society, Obama's star waned and is on the brink of death. There is not enough "Obama-nisms" to counter Republican accusations of economic and external affairs mismanagement. The public is not enamored anymore with stirring speeches reviving the American dream nor talks about overcoming the present problems being encountered by the capitalist giant. With the global recession entering its sixth year, and economic analysts predicting another financial winter coming, there is simply no words anymore fit to reduce anxieties and worries.
Many Americans are realizing that these problems are direct results of the genetic ills of a capitalist state. Overproduction has resulted to stoppage of production in small and medium sized enterprises, the bedrock by which capitalist America depended on for so many years. With the death of SMEs came the rise of giant corporations which knows no race, no nation, and no government when it comes to cutting down costs of production. The locus of production has shifted from American factories to China's million man production crews. This translated into Chinese having jobs, while Americans were left in the lurch.
The middle class, the vanguard class of the American state and society, has dwindled, while the numbers of America's billionaires ballooned. Resources have all been centralized and controlled by a few. With a global downturn, these resources remained under close control and management of a remorse-less elite.
Obama's re-election depended on the fulfillment of his promise of making life more comfortable for Americans. His administration, however, even failed in pushing for substantial legislation which would have eased the hardships being experienced by Americans. Peace and order worsened, and the economy remained in the doldrums.
Will the American electorate negate Obamanism and usher in an iron-fisted Republican crew to save them and their economy from further damage?
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Political and Economic Challenges of 2012
China continues to perform as the new global economy's powerhouse. As it strives to grow itself into the world's strongest economy, it also tries to flex its military muscles to protect its economic gains. As the Middle East rages due to political crises one after the other, the lost opportunities there shift to other economies, like us. However, to fully maximise this opportunity, the Philippines must fully modernize its structures, particularly communications, to benefit from this expected windfall.
Natural and man-made calamities will continue. It is just a matter of how many casualties. Graft and corruption will remain a fixture of our everyday lives because the very system adopted by so-called "democracies" remains flawed. It is just a matter of how much.
Wars and rumours of wars will reverberate especially in the Middle East where thousands of Arabs want nothing more than establish their own interpretations of democracy based on Quranic principles. Governments in that region remain highly influenced by the West and the fall of old hegemons will lead to the rise of new ones.
Technologies and modernity will rise much faster than last year. As humans discover newer technologies, several problems relating to health will be solved. Other deadly strains however, will sprout and will pose a greater challenge to human ingenuity.
The Philippines remains on the right path. First, the government's priority is to further develop its infrastructures. The economy is expected to benefit from the downloading of funds per provinces.
HOwever, I question the 39.2 billion pesos allocated by government to the DSWD for the Tawid Pamilya program. These amounts should have been used in other note-worthy and with longer-lasting benefits. This humongous amount, if re-allocated to some things like building an industry altogether might benefit the poorest of the poor better than giving the monies to them.
2012 is election year to us. Those who will run for higher positions will make their presence felt in the media.
This early, Midgs Zubiri is preparing for the Senate. He is forming his team already.
Those expected to relinquish their posts for the Senate are the following: RUffy Biazon, Riza HOntiveros (which garnered a best finish of 14th in the senate race), and General Danilo Lim. Justice secretary Leila de Lima is also expected to resign from her post to prepare for the elections. De Lima, in my estimation, is a sure winner. However, she must hurdle her greatest challenge---the impeachment and the cases filed against PGMA.
Actually, for the Senate, there is only about six positions out of twelve, open for new comers. Expect the "oldies" to come out strong for a comeback. The Senate race is a totally different ballgame since it requires the candidate to have a very strong and traditional mass base for him to win. Without a solid mass base, a candidate, even if he is wealthy, will not make it.
Manny Villar will probably field his wife, Cynthia, as his replacement. That leaves it to five positions free for newcomers.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Obama got Osama: Implications in the global fight against Terror
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| Osama: Hero or villain? |
And Barack knows that. That's why he's squeezing every publicity juice from the killing of Osama.
He went to ground zero and met those victimized by 9/11 attacks, reminding the world that Osama did this to us, hence, we did something to him. Obama was just saying without even uttering one word, that what happened was revenge by America for something which happened ten years ago.
Fact is, it took America ten long years to finally get Osama, when it only took them two or three years to punish Japan for blowing up Pearl Harbor.
What Obama wanted to say was when you commit a crime against America, you'll definitely get it wherever or for as long as it takes.
Even if America violates every single international law just to get the job done.
Pakistan has just condemned their security ally for attacking the compound in Abbottabad, telling the world that what America did was something alarming to say the least. With America's sophisticated war machine, it could strike any nation, anywhere, without warning. America knows no law, be it international or even universal, for as long as it gets what it wants.
And that's exactly how one describes the methods of Osama bin Laden. He was an internationalist. He knows no international law. His organisation, the Al Qaeda, operates with impunity in all parts of the world. They are capable of striking almost anywhere.
Al Qaeda meanwhile issued a fresh threat against America for the loss of Osama Bin Laden. Like America, Al Qaeda knows no law except its own. We can surely say that the war against Western imperialism will remain and will continue to hug the headlines even years after Bin Laden's death.
Obama said that justice was served. I doubt it.
What America promoted in that attack was plain and simple--the laws of the jungle--an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. They pursued revenge against one individual whom they heaped all blame for 9/11.
Osama,honestly, was just one personality in an entire global jihadist organisation. His death will not even harm the current state of struggle of Muslims everywhere. Fact is, Muslims and even Obama expected his death from these crusaders.
When U.S. troops assassinated Bin Laden, in the eyes of Muslims everywhere, Osama was given a martyr's death. Osama died while fighting for his beliefs, something expected of a mujaheed.
For Barack, it is probably a win-win solution.
He gets all the publicity for killing Osama and the eternal distinction of his name being mentioned everywhere for assassinating the Al Qaeda leader.
For that, he earns his re-election.
Forget about the U.S. economy. Don't mention about joblessness or health care. Whenever you mention Obama, think of Osama. That's just B.S.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Obama's income shrunk to US$ 1.7 million as President
The former law professor now the first African-American president even donated 14.2% of his income to 36 charities, with the biggest, around US$36,000 to the Fisher House Foundation---a charity for members of the US Armed Forces.
Imagine this, the strongest and most influential man in America and the leader of the world's top economy, getting only a measly 1.7 million in income.
Don't tell that to former Philippine presidents Ferdinand Marcos and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyos. These two are legends in their own fields. Marcos income skyrockted to 300% every single year in his 20 year or so reign. While Arroyo, well, she's a class all by her lonesome. After only nine years in power, Arroyo is now one of the wealthiest thief, err, legislator in the Philippines.
How about President Noynoy Aquino? Did his income increased? Who really paid for that Porsche worth 4 million pesos. I'm sure that alone says something---that Aquino earned MORE THAN 4 MILLION, since he can afford to pay for a wonderful Porsche.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
North Korea wants of more attacks
North Korea, a Stalinist state modified, warned the United States and South Korea of possible escalation of the ongoing strikes if the South continues on its "attacks" against its territory.
North Korea has engaged the South in a barrage of missile attacks which already killed at least 3 soldiers and wounded several others. In response, the US sent its nuclear warship ready to defend the South if the conflict escalates.
More than 50,000 Filipinos have been warned already by our consulate in South Korea.
Analysts say the reason why North Korea has upped the ante is simple---the 26-year old successor for the North's undisputed leader, wants some military accomplishments. The North's leader is said to be sick and ready to hand over the State's powers to his son.
Some analysts have pooh-poohed this latest strike from the North, saying that the Stalinist state is just muscle flexing. However, these strikes may have dire consequences in the near future.
The United States is just looking for a way to distract its citizens from the worsening economic situation and the rising discontent coming from the jobless. JOblessness has hit an all-time high and Barack Obama has no other solution to the deteriorating situation.
This may be the event Obama is waiting for, to show his strength and might as a Leader. Since his assumption as President, Obama has slowly lost the trust and confidence of his people. He has failed to even uplift the economic plight of the Americans and this incident could provide him with a convenient escape route.
However, this issue also shows the weakness of the Obama leadership in terms of diplomacy. The United States is expected to show leadership in the Asia-Pacific region. The Obama-led administration has repeatedly failed to re-establish leadership and dominance in Asia, mainly due to its poor economic performance since 2009.
If Obama fails to exploit this, it would be China who will greatly benefit from this. China is a strong ally of the North, and it is now in the best position to counsel its ally to cease or stop its attacks against the South. If China succeeds in pacifying the North and regain the status quo, it would now establish itself as the undisputed leader not just in East Asia, but in the entire Asia-Pacific region.
North Korea has engaged the South in a barrage of missile attacks which already killed at least 3 soldiers and wounded several others. In response, the US sent its nuclear warship ready to defend the South if the conflict escalates.
More than 50,000 Filipinos have been warned already by our consulate in South Korea.
Analysts say the reason why North Korea has upped the ante is simple---the 26-year old successor for the North's undisputed leader, wants some military accomplishments. The North's leader is said to be sick and ready to hand over the State's powers to his son.
Some analysts have pooh-poohed this latest strike from the North, saying that the Stalinist state is just muscle flexing. However, these strikes may have dire consequences in the near future.
The United States is just looking for a way to distract its citizens from the worsening economic situation and the rising discontent coming from the jobless. JOblessness has hit an all-time high and Barack Obama has no other solution to the deteriorating situation.
This may be the event Obama is waiting for, to show his strength and might as a Leader. Since his assumption as President, Obama has slowly lost the trust and confidence of his people. He has failed to even uplift the economic plight of the Americans and this incident could provide him with a convenient escape route.
However, this issue also shows the weakness of the Obama leadership in terms of diplomacy. The United States is expected to show leadership in the Asia-Pacific region. The Obama-led administration has repeatedly failed to re-establish leadership and dominance in Asia, mainly due to its poor economic performance since 2009.
If Obama fails to exploit this, it would be China who will greatly benefit from this. China is a strong ally of the North, and it is now in the best position to counsel its ally to cease or stop its attacks against the South. If China succeeds in pacifying the North and regain the status quo, it would now establish itself as the undisputed leader not just in East Asia, but in the entire Asia-Pacific region.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
The Marginalization of Barack Obama
US President Barack Obama just lost the initiative. Republicans seized control of the House, effectively sending a dire message to Obama that Americans are losing their patience with him. Obama won by using the rhetoric of change. Now, he is as traditional as those he once criticized. Fact is, Obama is even more traditional than Palin or Bush.
Obama's highly criticized economic policy has done nothing to improve the job environment in the United States. His plan to improve the health care system is nothing short of a failure while his fiscal policy remains largely criticized due to its ineffectiveness.
With the Republicans practically in power, Obama right now is as marginalized as an Inouki tribe. Obama can't seem to weave himself out of the rut he is in. The state of the economy is still bad.
A think tank says that Aquino will likely suffer what Obama is now suffering--a marginalization of power.
Well, to the credit of Obama, Aquino seems unlikely to tread the same path of Obama for one reason---from the very start of his administration, Aquino has been marginalized already.
The on-going clash between the Balai and Samar blocks, all traditional political players, is proof positive of the marginalization of Aquino. The existence of these groups only show how marginalized Aquino is.
For one, Aquino's promise of ridding the bureaucracy of graft and corruption continues to be that--a promise, fact is, an empty one.
BIR Chief Kim Henares in an article (http://www.mb.com.ph/node/285500/not-our-lifetime) admitted that graft will remain in the BIR even beyond her lifetime, directly admitting her failure to rid her own agency of the scourge that afflicts our government.
Aquino won largely on the platform of anti-graft and corruption. The people responded with positive approbation, only to realize later on, that Aquino is unable to fulfill such a campaign slogan.
The only possible way out of the graft and corruption scourge is simply rid the entire bureaucracy of all its personnel and replace all of these scoundrels with new ones. It takes great political will to do this. Early on, however, Aquino has shown his unwillingness to tread the straight yet narrow path towards change.
And the problem is simply not Aquino, really. The problem is the lack of an ideological platform for this administration. There is no rule nor concrete policy to follow.
Actually, all regimes, with the exception of the Marcos administration, have no ideological platform to follow. That explains these regimes failure to effectively rid the country of poverty and graft and corruption.
And it seems highly likely that the same thing will happen in this administration.
Obama's highly criticized economic policy has done nothing to improve the job environment in the United States. His plan to improve the health care system is nothing short of a failure while his fiscal policy remains largely criticized due to its ineffectiveness.
With the Republicans practically in power, Obama right now is as marginalized as an Inouki tribe. Obama can't seem to weave himself out of the rut he is in. The state of the economy is still bad.
A think tank says that Aquino will likely suffer what Obama is now suffering--a marginalization of power.
Well, to the credit of Obama, Aquino seems unlikely to tread the same path of Obama for one reason---from the very start of his administration, Aquino has been marginalized already.
The on-going clash between the Balai and Samar blocks, all traditional political players, is proof positive of the marginalization of Aquino. The existence of these groups only show how marginalized Aquino is.
For one, Aquino's promise of ridding the bureaucracy of graft and corruption continues to be that--a promise, fact is, an empty one.
BIR Chief Kim Henares in an article (http://www.mb.com.ph/node/285500/not-our-lifetime) admitted that graft will remain in the BIR even beyond her lifetime, directly admitting her failure to rid her own agency of the scourge that afflicts our government.
Aquino won largely on the platform of anti-graft and corruption. The people responded with positive approbation, only to realize later on, that Aquino is unable to fulfill such a campaign slogan.
The only possible way out of the graft and corruption scourge is simply rid the entire bureaucracy of all its personnel and replace all of these scoundrels with new ones. It takes great political will to do this. Early on, however, Aquino has shown his unwillingness to tread the straight yet narrow path towards change.
And the problem is simply not Aquino, really. The problem is the lack of an ideological platform for this administration. There is no rule nor concrete policy to follow.
Actually, all regimes, with the exception of the Marcos administration, have no ideological platform to follow. That explains these regimes failure to effectively rid the country of poverty and graft and corruption.
And it seems highly likely that the same thing will happen in this administration.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Barack Obama is tired
The US presidency is not your typical kind of job. Yes, its the most powerful and yes, its also the most stressful. Imagine yourself dealing with petro-billionaires now and talking with pet owners the next, who would not be tired?
And he's on his 10th state visit. His popularity has somewhat diminished after his decision to re-deploy troops in Afghanistan, his budget which many think would cause inflation, and more of his decision to bail out banks instead of people.
And imagine the stress that Nigerian bomber gave him some days ago. That young pious religious bomber hailed from the same country Obama got his surname from. Symbolic? Maybe.
That's what I'm talking about here---why is it that young men, like Obama, want to be president of their respective countries. I mean, like, here in the Philippines, we have a fortish in the person of JC delos Reyes and Gilbert Teodoro who want nothing more than sit at the centuries old chairs in the palace. We have fiftish people like Noynoy Aquino and Dick Gordon all waiting for that chance to meet those dignitaries and convene their own Cabinet. And of course, we have sixty plus men like Villar and Erap, all dying to prove that they are still politically virile and can still govern this country of 90 million people.
To be prince is a tough job, ask Machiavelli who wrote many things about power at the time when he was out of the power circle. What urges these people have that makes them work hard for the presidency?
As others know, the presidency is a thankless job. Officially, you get a salary of a young executive of a multinational corporation. You sign foot high papers every day, shake hands every day and must always have that perpetual smile on your face, like Arroyo does every, single day. You're like Batman's nemesis, the Joker, except that you wear a clean tuxedo and he does not.
Is it the money or the power?
For Barack, it is basically the power to change things, while receiving a huge paycheck. Being US president is really something--you get to change things not just in America but around the world and get a humongous pay for doing so.
Here in this beautiful side of the Pacific, being president is like having to suffer numerous critics while officially getting a salary fit for a junior manager.
Expect your critics to mangle your reputation and your family's during the time of your administration. And definitely you'll try very hard to defend each and every thing that you do even if its not necessary to do so.
Is it the reputed billion peso a month kickback jueteng lords reportedly give the president that attracts men of beautiful reputations to bid for it? Or the novelty of having a dedicated group of men armed with sophisticated weapons following you and your family around? Or, that sense of being important in every function you attend, and being treated like a veritable King or the strongest Sultan everywhere you go?
At the end of the day, being president is something of a burden. It is a burden which men of fine character want. It is what JC delos Reyes wants. And definitely, it is the dream of Noynoy Aquino too.
How about Manny Villar? I doubt very much if Erap dreams of changing things when re-elected. He knows for a fact that no one here is strong enough to repulse traditional forces. That calling for change and including that in one's platform of government is just sloganeering. That's why Gibo Teodoro, for all his boasts that he's witty and intelligent, did not even mind drafting one. Why call for change when you could very well live with the same things now?
Obama is tired. And he wants to play golf.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Gloria's stepping down and a failure of elections
Now, it can be revealed. US President Barack Obama categorically asked and demanded from Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to adhere to the democratic process by allowing the elections to push thru as scheduled and "step down gracefully". Arroyo answered by saying that she will step down on June 30,2010.
As I wrote here in this space many entries ago, Mrs. Arroyo's promise to step down is not entirely re-assuring. For one, there is still the possibility of a failure of elections. This early, IT experts have noted certain inconsistencies and possible anomalies in the SMARTMATIC-TIM automated elections plan with the COMELEC.
Second, there is that conscious effort to place close associates of the First Family in sensitive posts in the AFP and the PNP. Just recently, Gloria's fair-haired boy, Supt. Roberto Rosales (PMA Class 1978) just received his two-star rank. Other members of the class have already occupied sensitive posts in the PNP, particularly in regional and provincial directorships.
Lastly, Congressional allies of Mrs. Arroyo revived the mouth-balled charter change thru the constitutional convention route. Ortega's Committee just passed the Con-Con resolution, 6-1 yesterday. If this passes in the Congress, then, the election of CON-CON delegates will coincide with the election of elective posts in May 2010. Sources say even the minority agreed to pass this resolution.
So, expect this 2010 elections to be very noisy, very chaotic and very dangerous. Dangerous because the more participants in the elections, the more chances that this create violence.
And the more chances of a failure of elections.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
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:
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.
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.
Monday, July 27, 2009
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.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
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?
Friday, July 17, 2009
Obama summons meeting with Arroyo
Our colleague, Ding Gagelonia has a very witty entry about the meeting between Mrs. Gloria Arroyo and Barack Obama. Ding has the exclusive scenes already. Check it out.
By the way, Gloria should not have accepted the invitation. I am not authorized to say except that Gloria would definitely regret having accepted the invitation.
Question---will the First Gentleman accompany Gloria at the White House? Abangan!
By the way, Gloria should not have accepted the invitation. I am not authorized to say except that Gloria would definitely regret having accepted the invitation.
Question---will the First Gentleman accompany Gloria at the White House? Abangan!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Obama summons Mrs. Arroyo
Malacanang is now lost for words. Gary Olivar, Mrs. Arroyo's spokesperson, doubts how to describe the visit. Surely, it's not a state nor a working visit. What is it is a summons, according to former Arroyo Cabinet member Teresita Deles. And its not lovely, when you're being summoned.
What this trip is is a variation of what Barack Obama did to Mexican president Felipe Calderon. When Calderon encountered problems on security, Obama went to Mexico, a sign that Washington was concerned.
Since the Philippines is just a minor player in the region, and a former colony of the mighty States, a summons is enough. But, Malacanang has a problem.
The White House just said, Mrs. Arroyo's entourage should only be up to seven people. Yet, there are 100 Congressmen itching to meet Obama. Pano yan Gloria? Pano mo ngayon ipapaliwanag sa mga tuta mo na ang trip mo eh actually pagalit sa iyo?
What this trip is is a variation of what Barack Obama did to Mexican president Felipe Calderon. When Calderon encountered problems on security, Obama went to Mexico, a sign that Washington was concerned.
Since the Philippines is just a minor player in the region, and a former colony of the mighty States, a summons is enough. But, Malacanang has a problem.
The White House just said, Mrs. Arroyo's entourage should only be up to seven people. Yet, there are 100 Congressmen itching to meet Obama. Pano yan Gloria? Pano mo ngayon ipapaliwanag sa mga tuta mo na ang trip mo eh actually pagalit sa iyo?
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Barack to meet Arroyo at White House. Why???
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Friday, June 19, 2009
Mrs. Arroyo on her way out?
Secretary of Defense Robert Gates recent visit to the Philippines shows the concern by Washington on the increasing tendency towards totalitarianism by the Arroyo administration. Gates told Philippine defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro of Washington's desire to see a peaceful transition of power in 2010. Gates reiterated Washington's desire for Malacanang to uphold democracy through elections.
Mrs. Arroyo was not in the country when Gates, a close adviser of US president Barack Obama, visited the country. Was it a deliberate snub by Malacanang?
Then came a series of disturbing reports about the state of Philippine affairs, the latest this Trafficking of Persons Report 2009 by the US State Department. The US placed the Philippines in its watchlist. The report describes the Philippines as:
Gates appeal was directed to Malacanang. Kenney's on the other hand, puts the onus of responsibility in ensuring a peaceful transition of power, in the hands of the "Filipino People".
Washington just said that if they cannot rely on Mrs. Arroyo's word to put the democratic process of succession in motion come 2010, maybe the Filipino People would.
Is this Washington's way of telling the Philippine counter-elite to put the People Power process in motion?
As if there's a prepared script, former president Fidel V. Ramos issued a scathing remark against the Arroyo administration, urging the palace to "refrain" from "titillating" the public with "cha-cha" and "running for Congress" and instead, announce its true political agenda come 2010.
And as if on cue, Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita responded with a warning---toe the line or else, Mrs. Arroyo will declare martial rule. Ermita just wittingly or unwittingly revealed the true plan of the palace---a term extension via the martial law route.
Ermita's statement just answered the pleas and appeal of US Defense secretary Robert Gates and Ambassador Kenney's with an emphatic shrug---we're not interested in a democratic transition because we want to extend ourselves in power.
Is Mrs. Arroyo getting back at President Barack Obama for all those snubs and shrugs? Remember that Mrs. Arroyo was like a scorned kid (a scorned devil enfant?) a few months back. Is Mrs. Arroyo just positioning herself as a possible dictator to get Washington's attention?
Yet, the most important question is---is Washington listening and is Barack Obama interested on what Mrs. Arroyo says?
We'll know in a few weeks.
Mrs. Arroyo was not in the country when Gates, a close adviser of US president Barack Obama, visited the country. Was it a deliberate snub by Malacanang?
Then came a series of disturbing reports about the state of Philippine affairs, the latest this Trafficking of Persons Report 2009 by the US State Department. The US placed the Philippines in its watchlist. The report describes the Philippines as:
After this, another pronouncement, this time from US Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie Kenney. Kenney echoed what Gates told Teodoro---Washington's desire to see a peaceful transition of power in 2010. However, if you look very closely, you'll find that there is a distinct difference between Gates' pronouncement and Kenney's statement."...a source, transit and destination country for men, women and children
trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation and forced labor. " US State
Department, Trafficking in Persons Report 2009."
Gates appeal was directed to Malacanang. Kenney's on the other hand, puts the onus of responsibility in ensuring a peaceful transition of power, in the hands of the "Filipino People".
Washington just said that if they cannot rely on Mrs. Arroyo's word to put the democratic process of succession in motion come 2010, maybe the Filipino People would.
Is this Washington's way of telling the Philippine counter-elite to put the People Power process in motion?
As if there's a prepared script, former president Fidel V. Ramos issued a scathing remark against the Arroyo administration, urging the palace to "refrain" from "titillating" the public with "cha-cha" and "running for Congress" and instead, announce its true political agenda come 2010.
And as if on cue, Executive secretary Eduardo Ermita responded with a warning---toe the line or else, Mrs. Arroyo will declare martial rule. Ermita just wittingly or unwittingly revealed the true plan of the palace---a term extension via the martial law route.
Ermita's statement just answered the pleas and appeal of US Defense secretary Robert Gates and Ambassador Kenney's with an emphatic shrug---we're not interested in a democratic transition because we want to extend ourselves in power.
Is Mrs. Arroyo getting back at President Barack Obama for all those snubs and shrugs? Remember that Mrs. Arroyo was like a scorned kid (a scorned devil enfant?) a few months back. Is Mrs. Arroyo just positioning herself as a possible dictator to get Washington's attention?
Yet, the most important question is---is Washington listening and is Barack Obama interested on what Mrs. Arroyo says?
We'll know in a few weeks.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
US Marines and How They
A friend just sent this photo. Is this the way the United States want the War on Terror conducted? By running roughshod over another country's religious beliefs and sacred worship sites? US President Barack Obama should review the current military campaign against terrorism. How can the world re-define or re-imagine their view of America if these soldiers are not culturally sensitive about their perceived enemies?
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