No work today due to massive flooding all throughout Metro Manila and nearby provinces. Torrential rains have been observed for the past two hours. No typhoon says PAGASA, just the Habagat.
This flooding, mind you, reminds us of government neglect. Instead of preparing for disasters like these, our government remains reactive, at best. Don't tell me that we cannot mitigate flooding in the Metro? We have enough engineering knowledge and modern technologies are available for us to avail of. What lacks us is vision and political will.
Government is busy trying to pass the RH bill when more than 50 Filipinos have already died due to this flooding and non-stop rains.
The first days of the Aquino administration, Noynoy blamed the head of the PAGASA for not being responsive to the needs of the citizenry. Now, two years under him, and PAGASA acts just like the very first few days of his administration.
Global warming may have contributed to stronger than usual weather disturbances, but massive flooding in areas where traditionally no previous ones have occurred, shows severe government neglect. Fact is, it seems that government is unable to make its presence felt even in relocation sites.
Where is government when you need it?
Showing posts with label noynoy aquino. Show all posts
Showing posts with label noynoy aquino. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Monday, February 20, 2012
Vice President Binay---next on the Aquino agenda?
Several sources have confirmed a plot to launch an attack against Vice President Jejomar Binay. The alleged anti-Binay plan has been hatched reportedly upon the suggestion of an influential member of the "Firm".
Malacanang, according to these people, are preparing a plan to urge Binay to open his own bank and dollar deposit accounts.
The plan is reportedly a response to the alleged plan of the Binay group to form their own and complete Senatorial slate come 2013. PDP-Laban, according to sources, has decided to field their own after getting some feedback from the Liberals that the administration party will be fielding a complete slate without any nominee from the PDP-Laban side.
Apart from the political reason, there is also a "business" side to the plot. Binay is reportedly not too keen on allowing Aquino's closest classmates and business partners to corner most of the "business" in government. Several people also confirmed that Binay is really not too keen on supporting Justice Antonio Carpio's ascension as Chief Justice once Corona's impeachment is affirmed by the Senate. Carpio, according to close Binay sources, is one of the GMA advisers who pushed for Binay's ouster as mayor of Makati.
Malacanang, according to these people, are preparing a plan to urge Binay to open his own bank and dollar deposit accounts.
The plan is reportedly a response to the alleged plan of the Binay group to form their own and complete Senatorial slate come 2013. PDP-Laban, according to sources, has decided to field their own after getting some feedback from the Liberals that the administration party will be fielding a complete slate without any nominee from the PDP-Laban side.
Apart from the political reason, there is also a "business" side to the plot. Binay is reportedly not too keen on allowing Aquino's closest classmates and business partners to corner most of the "business" in government. Several people also confirmed that Binay is really not too keen on supporting Justice Antonio Carpio's ascension as Chief Justice once Corona's impeachment is affirmed by the Senate. Carpio, according to close Binay sources, is one of the GMA advisers who pushed for Binay's ouster as mayor of Makati.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Mar-Korina dispels breakup rumours
Fact is, the two newly married couples were like lovely dovely lovers. Mar really loves Korina. And to dispel further rumors, Korina gamely posed with her "rumored" rival in the person of Noynoy's social secretary Susan Reyes. Reyes was rumored to be Mar Roxas' "querida". Of course not.
Reyes is formerly wife of Toyota legendary guard Francis Arnaiz.
Korina is still the "boss" of Mar's house. At last, with Mar at the helm of DOTC, expect an honest government from now on.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Hyatt 10---the sequel?
There is a nasty rumor doing the rounds--of Noynoy officials resigning en masse. Possibility? Probably.
The thing about this resignation en masse is its irrationality. Why on earth will you abandon an honest guy doing exactly the opposite of what his predecessor did?
One source say that the answer is also simple: indecisive leadership. But, is resignation the most apt answer to this? No. As part of government, one's duty is to enhance it, not just be a part of it.
The thing about what's happening right now is simple: the Aquino administration is hard put in housekeeping that they forgot the most fundamental principle of all---having a definitive plan.
The bad thing about being in government is the thinking that you'll earn millions just for being a director or an undersecretary of a government. When you enter government, expect the worst.
Expect a drastic pay cut. Expect to be frustrated because you are actually battling a humongous and very traditional organisation that has not changed since the Spanish times.
If you're idealistic, expect to be very disappointed simply because the bureaucracy is a closed one. It has'nt changed and will not change in the next few decades.
Change will only happen if we oust the present system and re-engineer it to suit the Pinoy tastes, not the colonial tastes. FOR that to happen, the only ones worthy of such a calling are the New Patriots of the New Generation.
Let a thousand Mayor Dutertes spring from the loins of the nationalistic segments of Filipino society. Let a million Noynoy Aquinos stand up and be counted.
As for the next Hyatt 10, you better explain yourselves fully to the People, why.
The thing about this resignation en masse is its irrationality. Why on earth will you abandon an honest guy doing exactly the opposite of what his predecessor did?
One source say that the answer is also simple: indecisive leadership. But, is resignation the most apt answer to this? No. As part of government, one's duty is to enhance it, not just be a part of it.
The thing about what's happening right now is simple: the Aquino administration is hard put in housekeeping that they forgot the most fundamental principle of all---having a definitive plan.
The bad thing about being in government is the thinking that you'll earn millions just for being a director or an undersecretary of a government. When you enter government, expect the worst.
Expect a drastic pay cut. Expect to be frustrated because you are actually battling a humongous and very traditional organisation that has not changed since the Spanish times.
If you're idealistic, expect to be very disappointed simply because the bureaucracy is a closed one. It has'nt changed and will not change in the next few decades.
Change will only happen if we oust the present system and re-engineer it to suit the Pinoy tastes, not the colonial tastes. FOR that to happen, the only ones worthy of such a calling are the New Patriots of the New Generation.
Let a thousand Mayor Dutertes spring from the loins of the nationalistic segments of Filipino society. Let a million Noynoy Aquinos stand up and be counted.
As for the next Hyatt 10, you better explain yourselves fully to the People, why.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Ambassador Albert del Rosario: From Arroyo to Aquino
Former Arroyo ambassador Alberto del Rosario will take over the post to be vacated by long-time Foreign Affairs secretary Roberto Romulo. I am not about to pass judgment on del Rosario since he is a different animal in the previous dispensation.
Del Rosario was fired by Arroyo after the Philippine ambassador exposed the Venable LLP PR DEAL. That deal, which cost the Filipino People, several hundreds of thousands of dollars, was allegedly the brain child of presidential brother, Buboy Macapagal. Norberto Gonzales was just a front man.
Del Rosario, undeniably, is a well respected man in the diplomatic community.
Although, less we forget, Alberto del Rosario was named by businessman Yuchengco as one of those who harassed him and forced him to sell his PLDT shares. No probe was undertaken. Del Rosario issued a statement denying Yuchengco's allegations.
Del Rosario was still part of the First Pacific when Yuchengco sold his shares. He was still in the private sector and was never part of government, Del Rosario, in a statement alleged.
Other than this, there are no serious charges against Del Rosario.
The only thing I am curious about is---why not hire somebody from inside the DFA, an ambassador who earned his spurs there, instead of an outsider, as Department head. Del Rosario has been out of diplomatic circles since he was ousted as Philippine envoy to Washington.
Again, I am not questioning the integrity nor the competency of del Rosario. It is that del Rosario has been more of a high ranking executive of several foreign-based companies like First Pacific, than a full-pledged diplomat. Surely, del Rosario will favor the "deals" by these companies.
Yet, again, I do not want to even discuss this. But, these things do come to mind, especially now, that our diplomatic problems are escalating mainly because of the existence of amateurs as head of our external affairs department.
Del Rosario was fired by Arroyo after the Philippine ambassador exposed the Venable LLP PR DEAL. That deal, which cost the Filipino People, several hundreds of thousands of dollars, was allegedly the brain child of presidential brother, Buboy Macapagal. Norberto Gonzales was just a front man.
Del Rosario, undeniably, is a well respected man in the diplomatic community.
Although, less we forget, Alberto del Rosario was named by businessman Yuchengco as one of those who harassed him and forced him to sell his PLDT shares. No probe was undertaken. Del Rosario issued a statement denying Yuchengco's allegations.
Del Rosario was still part of the First Pacific when Yuchengco sold his shares. He was still in the private sector and was never part of government, Del Rosario, in a statement alleged.
Other than this, there are no serious charges against Del Rosario.
The only thing I am curious about is---why not hire somebody from inside the DFA, an ambassador who earned his spurs there, instead of an outsider, as Department head. Del Rosario has been out of diplomatic circles since he was ousted as Philippine envoy to Washington.
Again, I am not questioning the integrity nor the competency of del Rosario. It is that del Rosario has been more of a high ranking executive of several foreign-based companies like First Pacific, than a full-pledged diplomat. Surely, del Rosario will favor the "deals" by these companies.
Yet, again, I do not want to even discuss this. But, these things do come to mind, especially now, that our diplomatic problems are escalating mainly because of the existence of amateurs as head of our external affairs department.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Siyete
Lumago raw ng siyete puntos ang ekonomiya natin nitong nakaraang taon, ayon ito kay NEDA secretary general Cayetano Paderanga. O, me ganun?
Sinabi ni Paderanga na bunsod ito ng election spending, at paglago ng foreign investments. Ngunit, me catch--hindi pa ito mararamdaman ng taumbayan at siguradong dalawang taon pa ang hihintayin bago maramdaman ang mga pagbabagong dulot ng papagandang ekonomiya. Ows?
Kung gumaganda ang ekonomiya, bakit napakataas ng presyo ng mga bilihin? Bakit super taas ang diesel at gasolina? Bakit tumaas ng piso ang pamasahe at bakit walang pagtataas sa buwanang sweldo?
Ito ang problema sa kapitalismo--kung may pagbabago man, ang nakalalasap nyon ay ang mga dambuhalang kapitalista, hindi ang ordinaryong manggagawa.
Sa totoo lamang, walang magandang naidudulot ang pananatili sa kapangyarihan ng bagong administrasyon. Sa mahigit pitong buwan, wala namang pagbabago.
Ah, mali pala ako--me pagbabago naman: tumaas lahat ng presyo ng mga bilihin at tumaas ng tatlong piso ang presyo ng diesel.
At me nagbago rin---inutil sa lahat ng ito ang pamahalaan.
Sinabi ni Paderanga na bunsod ito ng election spending, at paglago ng foreign investments. Ngunit, me catch--hindi pa ito mararamdaman ng taumbayan at siguradong dalawang taon pa ang hihintayin bago maramdaman ang mga pagbabagong dulot ng papagandang ekonomiya. Ows?
Kung gumaganda ang ekonomiya, bakit napakataas ng presyo ng mga bilihin? Bakit super taas ang diesel at gasolina? Bakit tumaas ng piso ang pamasahe at bakit walang pagtataas sa buwanang sweldo?
Ito ang problema sa kapitalismo--kung may pagbabago man, ang nakalalasap nyon ay ang mga dambuhalang kapitalista, hindi ang ordinaryong manggagawa.
Sa totoo lamang, walang magandang naidudulot ang pananatili sa kapangyarihan ng bagong administrasyon. Sa mahigit pitong buwan, wala namang pagbabago.
Ah, mali pala ako--me pagbabago naman: tumaas lahat ng presyo ng mga bilihin at tumaas ng tatlong piso ang presyo ng diesel.
At me nagbago rin---inutil sa lahat ng ito ang pamahalaan.
Friday, September 10, 2010
President Aquino's Harapan did him more harm than good: Aquino Coverup
Yesterday's Harapan segment pitted President Noynoy Aquino with three anchors from three different TV stations. Based on Facebook and Twitter reactions during the broadcast of the interview, said to be a "no-holds barred" one, that interview gave Aquino more harm than good. Fact is, since it was broadcasted shortly after the conclusion of the fact-finding probe of Justice secretary De Lima, some, including this writer, thinks that it was what we call a "broadcast exoneration".
I really don't know why the Palace decided to pit Aquino, their principal, "to the wolves". I mean, the President did not look nor appeared "presidential" in that interview. He looked harangue, stressed out and clearly, in some instances, lying and trying to hide some facts from us.
For example, the president said "he does not want to pre-empt" the findings of the De Lima commission and promised that "heads will roll."
Yet, thrice did the President cleared the names of his bosom buddy, DILG Undersecretary Rico Puno and that of DILG secretary Jesse Robredo. Puno was questioned by the De Lima panel and admitted before the world, how incompetent he was and still is.
Adding insult to injury, the President again reiterated that Robredo is still "in acting capacity" and therefore, he is spared from all of these despite the very clear signs that Robredo and Puno failed in their duties to provide leadership during the hostage fiasco.
Worse, Aquino continually defended his incompetent communications group. Inspite of the fact that this communications group failed in its objective of shepherding the media during those critical moments, Aquino still defended the incompetency and the ineptitude of the group.
These images stuck in the minds of many yesterday and reminded them of one person who haunted us for nine years---Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Aquino sounded and appeared like Mrs. Arroyo yesterday. And quite frankly, I am not amused.
It is also very sad that Aquino said that he did not mind losing his enormous political capital, something which actually pertains to what we know as "people's trust". Aquino said he is not aspiring to be popular, he just wants things done.
How in the world will his administration accomplish all these things in the proper manner, when Aquino refuses to acknowledge the incompetence of his men and even show tolerance for their foibles.
Why is Aquino so stubborn to admit that his men erred? Why is he covering them up?
I really don't know why the Palace decided to pit Aquino, their principal, "to the wolves". I mean, the President did not look nor appeared "presidential" in that interview. He looked harangue, stressed out and clearly, in some instances, lying and trying to hide some facts from us.
For example, the president said "he does not want to pre-empt" the findings of the De Lima commission and promised that "heads will roll."
Yet, thrice did the President cleared the names of his bosom buddy, DILG Undersecretary Rico Puno and that of DILG secretary Jesse Robredo. Puno was questioned by the De Lima panel and admitted before the world, how incompetent he was and still is.
Adding insult to injury, the President again reiterated that Robredo is still "in acting capacity" and therefore, he is spared from all of these despite the very clear signs that Robredo and Puno failed in their duties to provide leadership during the hostage fiasco.
Worse, Aquino continually defended his incompetent communications group. Inspite of the fact that this communications group failed in its objective of shepherding the media during those critical moments, Aquino still defended the incompetency and the ineptitude of the group.
These images stuck in the minds of many yesterday and reminded them of one person who haunted us for nine years---Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Aquino sounded and appeared like Mrs. Arroyo yesterday. And quite frankly, I am not amused.
It is also very sad that Aquino said that he did not mind losing his enormous political capital, something which actually pertains to what we know as "people's trust". Aquino said he is not aspiring to be popular, he just wants things done.
How in the world will his administration accomplish all these things in the proper manner, when Aquino refuses to acknowledge the incompetence of his men and even show tolerance for their foibles.
Why is Aquino so stubborn to admit that his men erred? Why is he covering them up?
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Sade, Drops of rain and feelings of invincibility
A nice one, this day is. The sun is shining, neither thunderbolts nor signs of rain. For the past few days, I've been getting myself drenched, my own fault. I should have bought myself an umbrella. Or a hat. Or something to cover my balding head. Don't know what came over me. Is it because sometimes you feel invincible? That a few drops of rain cannot really make me sick?
I can understand how members of Aquino's official family are feeling nowadays. President Noynoy Aquino, their principal, enjoys an 88% popularity rating. Good way to start one's day, isn’t? That you are serving a very popular president. Feeling invincible? Sure.
A popular president enjoys most of the trust of a believing public. The only head of state who maintained such a high trust rating was Ramon Magsaysay. Opps. I don't want Joma to read this. Magsaysay, they say, won thru CIA manipulation (and you know what CIA means right?). Joma once accused the Aquino family of cooperating with some shady characters of the world's biggest spy organization to propel their brother Noynoy to victory. What Joma probably forgot is Noynoy did not need a CIA to win. With Erap and Manny Villar as choices, plus a bubbling Teodoro, who will not choose Noynoy? A newbie versus veteran politicos. In a fight where trust depends on perception, the obvious winner is someone who positions himself as "new" despite being an old timer.
Opps again. I hope Joma does not hear about this. President Aquino "the third" just publicly announced his desire to have a communications structure similar with that of Magsaysay, with a caveat of course. Instead of snail mail, Aquino wants to receive criticisms, suggestions and opinions from the public by way of Tweeter and Face book. The question really is-- will those suggestions reach the eyes and ears of a very busy president?
I hope so, like when rain reaches your rooftops and falls to the ground due to gravity. That precious drop enriches the soil and keeps it moist. The question really and truly is, with so much damage wrought by the previous dispensation, where to start?
How many tweets would it require then to make Aquino listen? That Alvarez appointment is wrong and that he stands to take the heat once Congress opens its mouth, err, its sessions?
How many tweets would it take to make Aquino listen? Those cartels are manipulating food prices and keeping oil prices at prohibitive prices? These tweets and Face book updates are all over but, sadly, no appropriate responses....yet.
Oppss....think I better stay at my HDB. I see trickles of rain at my window pane. I intend to walk to City Hall in a while, search for old books and some paints. I am painting again. The last time I did was several years ago, when, alone in my flat, I sketched myself an image of the Motherland. Easy to draw when you’re all alone, you have the entire universe at your disposal.
When you’re enjoying an 88% rating, chances are, you’ll be isolated and these men around you would simply feed you with wonderful and very optimistic news. Forever 88? I hope so, like when a woman celebrates her thirty, the obvious response whenever she’s asked about her age is a redundant thirty.
Changes are ideals. Ideals are dreams. Dreams are slices of reality. Reality is what you say it is. When you say reality is being optimistic, then, some slices of your dreams are optimistic ones.
"Cherish the day. I won't go astray" croons my favorite singer, Sade. Tell that to Noynoy's men, especially Singson who salivated for the MWSS position, only to be discovered a few days later. I remember seeing a thin, blackened image of a man, on the verge of sitting on a chair made of gold. That gold is water, actually. Water is not a free resource, it is now a commodity. Even rain that hits your window pane, has a value. Thanks to "minister" Singson for transforming God's gift into a product.
That's one of the reasons why, if I ever go back to Philippine reality, I'll buy myself a hectare of Tanay soil near a spring. Spring water is still free, right?
" You are the lover's rock, the rock that I cling to. You're the one the one that I cling to in a storm.." sings Customs chief Alvarez after Noynoy publicly defended him. For Noynoy, there's nothing wrong if you cheated a golf game. If you don't perform, goodbye, says Noy. Well, Alvarez just reneged in his promise of presenting one big fish every week. Is this why you put him there in the first place Noy, to rid Customs of unscrupulous operators? Now, he's not performing at par. What do you do?
I'll not go out of my HDB. No. I will just stay here and listen to Sade. Maybe, I'll get some nuggets of wisdom from her songs.
I can understand how members of Aquino's official family are feeling nowadays. President Noynoy Aquino, their principal, enjoys an 88% popularity rating. Good way to start one's day, isn’t? That you are serving a very popular president. Feeling invincible? Sure.
A popular president enjoys most of the trust of a believing public. The only head of state who maintained such a high trust rating was Ramon Magsaysay. Opps. I don't want Joma to read this. Magsaysay, they say, won thru CIA manipulation (and you know what CIA means right?). Joma once accused the Aquino family of cooperating with some shady characters of the world's biggest spy organization to propel their brother Noynoy to victory. What Joma probably forgot is Noynoy did not need a CIA to win. With Erap and Manny Villar as choices, plus a bubbling Teodoro, who will not choose Noynoy? A newbie versus veteran politicos. In a fight where trust depends on perception, the obvious winner is someone who positions himself as "new" despite being an old timer.
Opps again. I hope Joma does not hear about this. President Aquino "the third" just publicly announced his desire to have a communications structure similar with that of Magsaysay, with a caveat of course. Instead of snail mail, Aquino wants to receive criticisms, suggestions and opinions from the public by way of Tweeter and Face book. The question really is-- will those suggestions reach the eyes and ears of a very busy president?
I hope so, like when rain reaches your rooftops and falls to the ground due to gravity. That precious drop enriches the soil and keeps it moist. The question really and truly is, with so much damage wrought by the previous dispensation, where to start?
How many tweets would it require then to make Aquino listen? That Alvarez appointment is wrong and that he stands to take the heat once Congress opens its mouth, err, its sessions?
How many tweets would it take to make Aquino listen? Those cartels are manipulating food prices and keeping oil prices at prohibitive prices? These tweets and Face book updates are all over but, sadly, no appropriate responses....yet.
Oppss....think I better stay at my HDB. I see trickles of rain at my window pane. I intend to walk to City Hall in a while, search for old books and some paints. I am painting again. The last time I did was several years ago, when, alone in my flat, I sketched myself an image of the Motherland. Easy to draw when you’re all alone, you have the entire universe at your disposal.
When you’re enjoying an 88% rating, chances are, you’ll be isolated and these men around you would simply feed you with wonderful and very optimistic news. Forever 88? I hope so, like when a woman celebrates her thirty, the obvious response whenever she’s asked about her age is a redundant thirty.
Changes are ideals. Ideals are dreams. Dreams are slices of reality. Reality is what you say it is. When you say reality is being optimistic, then, some slices of your dreams are optimistic ones.
"Cherish the day. I won't go astray" croons my favorite singer, Sade. Tell that to Noynoy's men, especially Singson who salivated for the MWSS position, only to be discovered a few days later. I remember seeing a thin, blackened image of a man, on the verge of sitting on a chair made of gold. That gold is water, actually. Water is not a free resource, it is now a commodity. Even rain that hits your window pane, has a value. Thanks to "minister" Singson for transforming God's gift into a product.
That's one of the reasons why, if I ever go back to Philippine reality, I'll buy myself a hectare of Tanay soil near a spring. Spring water is still free, right?
" You are the lover's rock, the rock that I cling to. You're the one the one that I cling to in a storm.." sings Customs chief Alvarez after Noynoy publicly defended him. For Noynoy, there's nothing wrong if you cheated a golf game. If you don't perform, goodbye, says Noy. Well, Alvarez just reneged in his promise of presenting one big fish every week. Is this why you put him there in the first place Noy, to rid Customs of unscrupulous operators? Now, he's not performing at par. What do you do?
I'll not go out of my HDB. No. I will just stay here and listen to Sade. Maybe, I'll get some nuggets of wisdom from her songs.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Rogelio Singson's sudden attack of delicadeza and Customs Chief's Alvarez empty fish net
Singson only had this "epiphany" shortly after an interview over DZMM and when he already assumed the post. And to think that Singson is proud of telling the people that he's a "minister" of God.
If he, really, is a minister, then, Singson would have the decency of resigning altogether as DPWH secretary, not just giving up the MWSS post. Imagine, he just barely warmed his seat and he now has this problem about "delicadeza"? How many more delicadeza-related issues would he encounter in the future? Noynoy has six more years to go.
Singson, before assuming the DPWH post, is the top executive of Maynilad, a public utilities corporation. If Singson really felt "hiya", he should have refused the offer of Noynoy Aquino the very first time he was offered the public works portfolio.
Singson only gave up the chairmanship after media reminded him of a conflict of interest. I don't believe that he did not know that there's a problem prior to assuming the post.
Fact is, his very appointment smacks of the absence of delicadeza.
He's the representative of Big Business in government and we all know that Big Business right now is eye-ing other government businesses and services which the State plans to privatize.
Had we not pointed this out to him, Singson would not have relented and would have taken over the MWSS with impunity. Such is the lack of delicadeza of a few of the President's men.
What is there at the MWSS that is so juicy and so salivating that Singson wants nothing more than its chairmanship?
Water rates. MWSS is now acting as the regulatory body that protects the public's interest in water services of two concessionaires--Maynilad and Manila Water. MWSS is the one who approves water rates. Probably, Singson is so desirous to control it because his backers are salivating on increasing water rates.
Woe is the Filipino consumer! We already have a cartel over oil prices. We have a mammoth and inefficient electricity cartel, likewise in rice cartel. Now, even water is slowly being cartelized and commodified.
WHY IS IT TAKING HIM TOO LONG TO PRESENT ONE WHEN HE BRAGS THAT HE KNOWS THE "INS" AND "OUTS" OF THE BUREAU?
ALVAREZ IS A VETERAN PLAYER, WITH MORE THAN 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE FREIGHT AND CUSTOMS INDUSTRY.
SO MUCH FOR THIS GUY WITH LOTS OF AIR IN HIM. WELL, WHAT DO YOU EXPECT FROM A GUY WHO CHEATED HIS WAY TO A GOLF WIN?
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Customs Chief Alvarez reneging on his promise to present one big fish every week?
Customs chief Angelito Alvarez promised to present at least one big fish involved in smuggling and illegal activities at the Bureau of Customs.
His promises were broadcasted over at Ted Failon's program in DZMM. He said that he will do a weekly press conference and show people how serious he is in cleansing Customs from unscrupulous individuals.
Its now Thursday and unfortunately, no big fish yet. Are you using an old fishing net, Mr. Alvarez? Or, you are still conferring with your old buddies over there on who'll be the sacrificial lamb or lambs?
Is this another one of your lies? You lied in golf, remember? Now, you're still lying.
The People expect you, as part of Noynoy's administration, to be like your boss. Noynoy Aquino always do what he promises. We expect you to do the same.
However, I have this gut feeling that you'll renege on this.
Chaos in Metro Manila after Basyang hits
Let's call a spade a spade, shall we?
The Philippine weather bureau failed to inform government agencies of the possibility of Typhoon Basyang actually hitting Metro Manila. This information is crucial. It could have prompted the national leadership to mobilize state agencies for immediate emergency response. People crucified PAG-ASA yesterday for failing to do its simple job of informing this possibility. Therefore, when President Noynoy Aquino berated them publicly, it was justified.
PAG-ASA is the first agency in our government's risk reduction strategy. How will government react with promptness if we give forecasts that are not as accurate as desired? Twenty people died in the process and scores were injured.
Worst actually is the failure of MERALCO to provide a better risk reduction solution. Imagine, it plunged the entire island of Luzon into total systemic breakdown. Everything stopped.
There was total chaos in the streets last night. There were no traffic enforcers, no traffic lights and obstructions filled the streets.
It was like the entire state machinery broke down.
I am sure we not only lost 20 lives, we lost billions of pesos worth of economic opportunities yesterday.
Government must come out with a better risk reduction strategy.
We all know that our country is disaster-prone. Government must prioritize crafting a better risk reduction plan.
There must be an agency of government that will continue to function effectively even in crises. It does not augur well that even Malacanang suffered from blackouts yesterday. It revealed how weak we are as a government.
The Philippine weather bureau failed to inform government agencies of the possibility of Typhoon Basyang actually hitting Metro Manila. This information is crucial. It could have prompted the national leadership to mobilize state agencies for immediate emergency response. People crucified PAG-ASA yesterday for failing to do its simple job of informing this possibility. Therefore, when President Noynoy Aquino berated them publicly, it was justified.
PAG-ASA is the first agency in our government's risk reduction strategy. How will government react with promptness if we give forecasts that are not as accurate as desired? Twenty people died in the process and scores were injured.
Worst actually is the failure of MERALCO to provide a better risk reduction solution. Imagine, it plunged the entire island of Luzon into total systemic breakdown. Everything stopped.
There was total chaos in the streets last night. There were no traffic enforcers, no traffic lights and obstructions filled the streets.
It was like the entire state machinery broke down.
I am sure we not only lost 20 lives, we lost billions of pesos worth of economic opportunities yesterday.
Government must come out with a better risk reduction strategy.
We all know that our country is disaster-prone. Government must prioritize crafting a better risk reduction plan.
There must be an agency of government that will continue to function effectively even in crises. It does not augur well that even Malacanang suffered from blackouts yesterday. It revealed how weak we are as a government.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Davide in cahoots with former leader Arroyo, Estrada charges
Mikey Arroyo expects former Chief Justice Hilario Davide to clear his parents, the disgraced leader Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her husband, former First Golfer, err, Gentleman, Mike Arroyo. Davide, who was appointed by President Noynoy Aquino to head the commission that will investigate the numerous controversies that hounded the Arroyo administration, is a former lapdog of the previous dispensation.
Shortly after his retirement from the bench, Davide was appointed Ambassador to the United Nations by Arroyo. He was kept away from Philippine politics until 2010, when he reportedly broke away and supported Noynoy during the elections.
His strongest backer this time is Liberal party chairman emeritus former Senate president Jovito Salonga, who previously asked Noynoy to appoint the controversial Chief Justice to the Foreign Affairs portfolio. Davide was instead appointed to the commission.
Seems like this administration is really not serious in its promise to prosecute Arroyo and her Mafia men from the numerous crimes they committed against the Filipino People. And former president Joseph Estrada believes so.
In his interview last night over at DZMM, Estrada said he believes Davide will just be used to clear the name of the Arroyos. Estrada accuses Davide of being partial to the hands that fed him for nine years. The ousted leader is still bitter over the treachery of Davide in 2001.
Estrada admits that he appointed Davide for two (2) reasons: he was most senior among the Associate justices at that time and that tobacco magnate Lucio Tan convinced him to sign Davide's appointment as Chief Justice.
The former leader recounted how he was invited to Lucio Tan's suite where Davide and a host of others were there. Tan reportedly asked Estrada to appoint Davide as Chief Justice. Unknown to the president, Tan allegedly had a deal already with Davide to clear him of the 26 billion tax evasion case which the government filed against him.
Estrada recounted that he ordered the BIR to pursue the case before the Supreme Court. The Davide Supreme Court remanded the case to a lower court where Tan managed to secure a not guilty verdict.
It appears that Davide was instrumental in clearing Tan from that big TAX EVASION CASE.
Estrada also accused Davide of spending close to 800 million pesos just for the renovation of the Supreme Court building and the rest houses of the justices in Baguio. Instead of using the money to benefit poor employees of the lower courts, Davide reportedly favored the remodeling plan.
By the way, the Department of Justice secretary Leila de Lima is waiting for the Truth Commission to release its guidelines on the handling of cases filed against the Arroyos. Seems like this early, the present dispensation is arranging the "predicate" so to speak, for the eventual clearing of the name of Macapal-Arroyo.
Shortly after his retirement from the bench, Davide was appointed Ambassador to the United Nations by Arroyo. He was kept away from Philippine politics until 2010, when he reportedly broke away and supported Noynoy during the elections.
His strongest backer this time is Liberal party chairman emeritus former Senate president Jovito Salonga, who previously asked Noynoy to appoint the controversial Chief Justice to the Foreign Affairs portfolio. Davide was instead appointed to the commission.
Seems like this administration is really not serious in its promise to prosecute Arroyo and her Mafia men from the numerous crimes they committed against the Filipino People. And former president Joseph Estrada believes so.
In his interview last night over at DZMM, Estrada said he believes Davide will just be used to clear the name of the Arroyos. Estrada accuses Davide of being partial to the hands that fed him for nine years. The ousted leader is still bitter over the treachery of Davide in 2001.
Estrada admits that he appointed Davide for two (2) reasons: he was most senior among the Associate justices at that time and that tobacco magnate Lucio Tan convinced him to sign Davide's appointment as Chief Justice.
The former leader recounted how he was invited to Lucio Tan's suite where Davide and a host of others were there. Tan reportedly asked Estrada to appoint Davide as Chief Justice. Unknown to the president, Tan allegedly had a deal already with Davide to clear him of the 26 billion tax evasion case which the government filed against him.
Estrada recounted that he ordered the BIR to pursue the case before the Supreme Court. The Davide Supreme Court remanded the case to a lower court where Tan managed to secure a not guilty verdict.
It appears that Davide was instrumental in clearing Tan from that big TAX EVASION CASE.
Estrada also accused Davide of spending close to 800 million pesos just for the renovation of the Supreme Court building and the rest houses of the justices in Baguio. Instead of using the money to benefit poor employees of the lower courts, Davide reportedly favored the remodeling plan.
By the way, the Department of Justice secretary Leila de Lima is waiting for the Truth Commission to release its guidelines on the handling of cases filed against the Arroyos. Seems like this early, the present dispensation is arranging the "predicate" so to speak, for the eventual clearing of the name of Macapal-Arroyo.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
A Singson to head DPWH and a politico now at DBM: Lopez proxy in energy department?
The appointment of a former campaign manager as Budget Management secretary is understandable. Butch Abad, the Liberal party campaign manager, is a former politician. He will head the DBM, the agency tasked specifically on disbursements of government funds. And you know what will definitely happen next?
Expect those local executives who supported Noynoy Aquino to get what they want. Expect other local executives who jumped ship to be pampered with pork barrel funds. And expect those who are intending to follow suit to get the same. As the saying goes, politics is a rewarding enterprise.
With a former politico as the DBM head, what will then happen to the anti-poverty program of the government? What will be prioritized first? Will the Aquino administration limit debt servicing in exchange for increasing the budgets of needy agencies such as DECS and others? Or will they put greater emphasis on giving those meaty pork to those who rah-rah with them last elections?
Another one, a certain Rogelio Singson, president of Maynilad waterworks system, is being eyed to head the public works department. Nothing wrong, except that he's a very close relative of Ilocos governor Chavit Singson, who happens to be very close to the previous dispensation AND a certified big time operator here in the Philippines.
A Singson to head DPWH? We all know what happens inside that old building along North Bay boulevard. DPWH, according to Transparency Network, is one of the most graft-ridden agencies in the Republik.
While Singson heads the Maynilad, look at our water rates--they are higher than water rates in the entire ASEAN region. Imagine, a country rich in water resources selling water to its citizens at a price they can't ill-afford!
Probably, Singson is good in numbers. If he prices cents per cubic meter of water, he can very well price ten pesos for every cubic inch of asphalt. Or even higher. How then can we sleep well at night knowing that our money is being treated like water?
Jose Almendras, another water executive, is being asked to head the energy department. Are Singson and Almendras now the Lopez company proxies in the Aquino administration? Probably yes.
We all know that the Lopezes' have a stake in the energy generation department, a direct competitor of close Arroyo associates, the Aboitiz.
Is the new administration now saying err assuring the Lopezes, very close political allies of the Aquinos, that what they lost in Meralco, they will now regain by putting their man at the helm of the energy department?
Hmmm....at this early, what we are seeing are danger signs ahead. Imagine, two critical government agencies--public works and energy---in the hands of proxies of the Lopezes. Are we now saying, Mr. President that all is game in the name of politics?
Its like saying, go after big-time rice smugglers yet spare those who are responsible for jacking up our water and electricity rates.
Wow. Talk about "new administration", this one is showing signs of being old.
Expect those local executives who supported Noynoy Aquino to get what they want. Expect other local executives who jumped ship to be pampered with pork barrel funds. And expect those who are intending to follow suit to get the same. As the saying goes, politics is a rewarding enterprise.
With a former politico as the DBM head, what will then happen to the anti-poverty program of the government? What will be prioritized first? Will the Aquino administration limit debt servicing in exchange for increasing the budgets of needy agencies such as DECS and others? Or will they put greater emphasis on giving those meaty pork to those who rah-rah with them last elections?
Another one, a certain Rogelio Singson, president of Maynilad waterworks system, is being eyed to head the public works department. Nothing wrong, except that he's a very close relative of Ilocos governor Chavit Singson, who happens to be very close to the previous dispensation AND a certified big time operator here in the Philippines.
A Singson to head DPWH? We all know what happens inside that old building along North Bay boulevard. DPWH, according to Transparency Network, is one of the most graft-ridden agencies in the Republik.
While Singson heads the Maynilad, look at our water rates--they are higher than water rates in the entire ASEAN region. Imagine, a country rich in water resources selling water to its citizens at a price they can't ill-afford!
Probably, Singson is good in numbers. If he prices cents per cubic meter of water, he can very well price ten pesos for every cubic inch of asphalt. Or even higher. How then can we sleep well at night knowing that our money is being treated like water?
Jose Almendras, another water executive, is being asked to head the energy department. Are Singson and Almendras now the Lopez company proxies in the Aquino administration? Probably yes.
We all know that the Lopezes' have a stake in the energy generation department, a direct competitor of close Arroyo associates, the Aboitiz.
Is the new administration now saying err assuring the Lopezes, very close political allies of the Aquinos, that what they lost in Meralco, they will now regain by putting their man at the helm of the energy department?
Hmmm....at this early, what we are seeing are danger signs ahead. Imagine, two critical government agencies--public works and energy---in the hands of proxies of the Lopezes. Are we now saying, Mr. President that all is game in the name of politics?
Its like saying, go after big-time rice smugglers yet spare those who are responsible for jacking up our water and electricity rates.
Wow. Talk about "new administration", this one is showing signs of being old.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Re-branding EDSA
Before I publish this, let me just say that I have nothing against Mar Roxas. Fact is, I voted for him. Whatever negative things you'll find in this entry are actually connected with one proposition--the re-branding of EDSA.
Its already a foregone conclusion--that between thirty five to forty percent of the present electorate have jaundice in their minds. Yes, they all prefer yellow as their favorite color. Only about 10 to 12% of the electorate probably are Communists--they simply don't vote at all, consistently since 1987. Or, they are Marxists. Marxists dont believe in elections.
Its expected though. Most of the members of this so-called "Yellow Army" were teenagers during Cory's time or they simply joined that great social experiment called EDSA uno. Some, our present generation of "enarians" or senior citizens were probably victims or hate the Marcoses so much, they erased blue from their minds and stuck with yellow. Yellow, they say, represents the color of delivered mail. And you know what retirees always expect at the end of the month.
More than this though, Kris Aquino also did a lot in bridging the generational gap and kudos to ABS-CBN too. Kris and the bunch of creative writers over ABS-CBN succeeded in re-creating the conditions that justified collective action. Social vigilance was resurrected from its lethargic state during the time of Arroyo to a vanguard position. Its now simply part of Filipino street fashion to be caught wearing Che Guevarra or those Filipino maps plastered in poloshirts.
Behind these published statements and actions though lie a far deeper, even sinister reason--the silent reconditioning of the minds to accept that this social experiment called EDSA is simply owned by just one group--the Liberals.
We all know who really worked very hard in creating that social phenomenon. In the original EDSA, majority of the people there simply wore RED, not yellow. Some activists in the Social Democratic mold, yes, they wore yellow. Yet, the post-mortem analysis was simply stark mad--this was the experiment of socially conscious members of the petty bourgeois and the nationalist bourgeosie who seriouly studied and tinkered Filipino consciousness and conspired to create a more acceptable mode for regime change. And they had pure-blooded rebels as counsels.
Yes, in pre and post-1986, it was vogue to be a dissident, a dissenter, even a rebel. That's why from a mere 67, the NPA ballooned to 23,000. From just one person, the MNLF grew close to a million.
Those who are simply too weak to hold a gun or simply too lazy to go to street demonstrations, made themselves content with just wearing yellow teeshirts or flashing those Laban signs. Behind those pretensions lie a deeper social conscience or a personal yearning to be part of something that would eventually change society. Those whose conscience never went beyond Constantino, satisfied themselves with just watching those rallies on GMA Channel 7 and within the confines of their homes, chanted themselves hoarse. Or simply curse Marcos to death. (That explains why he contracted lupus.:-)
There were no Facebook or Twitter accounts back then nor cellphones with texting capabilities. Engagement was simply too personal more than social. That deeper engagement we find during those times recorded themselves as memories. These memories or experiences are what made those lines longer last May 10. People wanted nothing more than oust Arroyo from power. And since there are no NPA armies in sight, they chose a Yellow Army instead.
EDSA, the original one, is a people's fight. Yes, it was inspired by songs and marches created in mountain bases of the CPP-NPA and most, if not all who worked for the downfall of Marcos at least found time reading Marx's Manifesto and Amado Guerrero's PSR. It was the people who made it happen, never mind if Enrile's Gringos claim all the fame, the fact simply is the People trooped infront of Camps Aguinaldo and Crame just to save their sorry asses from Ver's firepower.
EDSA, to the minds of many simply equates collective action. It is a weapon of the People, a democratic exercise operationalizing several concrete provisions of a Freedom Charter. Never mind if, after the assumption of Cory into power, the only basic operationalizing principles of EDSA was simply an approved mechanism of veto-ing a law passed by Congress. (to be continued. Have to leave. Read more on my book)
Its already a foregone conclusion--that between thirty five to forty percent of the present electorate have jaundice in their minds. Yes, they all prefer yellow as their favorite color. Only about 10 to 12% of the electorate probably are Communists--they simply don't vote at all, consistently since 1987. Or, they are Marxists. Marxists dont believe in elections.
Its expected though. Most of the members of this so-called "Yellow Army" were teenagers during Cory's time or they simply joined that great social experiment called EDSA uno. Some, our present generation of "enarians" or senior citizens were probably victims or hate the Marcoses so much, they erased blue from their minds and stuck with yellow. Yellow, they say, represents the color of delivered mail. And you know what retirees always expect at the end of the month.
More than this though, Kris Aquino also did a lot in bridging the generational gap and kudos to ABS-CBN too. Kris and the bunch of creative writers over ABS-CBN succeeded in re-creating the conditions that justified collective action. Social vigilance was resurrected from its lethargic state during the time of Arroyo to a vanguard position. Its now simply part of Filipino street fashion to be caught wearing Che Guevarra or those Filipino maps plastered in poloshirts.
Behind these published statements and actions though lie a far deeper, even sinister reason--the silent reconditioning of the minds to accept that this social experiment called EDSA is simply owned by just one group--the Liberals.
We all know who really worked very hard in creating that social phenomenon. In the original EDSA, majority of the people there simply wore RED, not yellow. Some activists in the Social Democratic mold, yes, they wore yellow. Yet, the post-mortem analysis was simply stark mad--this was the experiment of socially conscious members of the petty bourgeois and the nationalist bourgeosie who seriouly studied and tinkered Filipino consciousness and conspired to create a more acceptable mode for regime change. And they had pure-blooded rebels as counsels.
Yes, in pre and post-1986, it was vogue to be a dissident, a dissenter, even a rebel. That's why from a mere 67, the NPA ballooned to 23,000. From just one person, the MNLF grew close to a million.
Those who are simply too weak to hold a gun or simply too lazy to go to street demonstrations, made themselves content with just wearing yellow teeshirts or flashing those Laban signs. Behind those pretensions lie a deeper social conscience or a personal yearning to be part of something that would eventually change society. Those whose conscience never went beyond Constantino, satisfied themselves with just watching those rallies on GMA Channel 7 and within the confines of their homes, chanted themselves hoarse. Or simply curse Marcos to death. (That explains why he contracted lupus.:-)
There were no Facebook or Twitter accounts back then nor cellphones with texting capabilities. Engagement was simply too personal more than social. That deeper engagement we find during those times recorded themselves as memories. These memories or experiences are what made those lines longer last May 10. People wanted nothing more than oust Arroyo from power. And since there are no NPA armies in sight, they chose a Yellow Army instead.
EDSA, the original one, is a people's fight. Yes, it was inspired by songs and marches created in mountain bases of the CPP-NPA and most, if not all who worked for the downfall of Marcos at least found time reading Marx's Manifesto and Amado Guerrero's PSR. It was the people who made it happen, never mind if Enrile's Gringos claim all the fame, the fact simply is the People trooped infront of Camps Aguinaldo and Crame just to save their sorry asses from Ver's firepower.
EDSA, to the minds of many simply equates collective action. It is a weapon of the People, a democratic exercise operationalizing several concrete provisions of a Freedom Charter. Never mind if, after the assumption of Cory into power, the only basic operationalizing principles of EDSA was simply an approved mechanism of veto-ing a law passed by Congress. (to be continued. Have to leave. Read more on my book)
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Efraim Genuino: PAG COR-rupt, Macapal Arroy-ko
He has two (2) things on his mind and believes he can successfully convince Noynoy: first, his so-called "unsullied" record as Pagcor chairman, saying that when he took over the office, there was no single case of controversy, much less, graft case filed against him.
True, Genuino has no graft case because no one dared file something against him simply because he's very close to the Arroyos and the Ombusman, Merceditas Gutierrez is just an Arroyo puppy. Genuino, many actually will attest to this, is part of the Arroyo mafia gang.
But, is Genuino really that "clean"?
Noy, don't believe every single word this charlatan says. Why? IN the last elections, did you know that his son, a mayoral candidate here in Makati, spent millions of pesos for his candidacy. Where in the world did he get those millions?
Genuino was also instrumental in providing campaign funds for the Arroyos in the 2004 elections. Where did he get those millions?
Remember that Probe story on the lifestyle check on efraim genuino of Genuino? What happened to that?
If our memory serves me right, there's this August 2003 expose of Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson on Genuino's participation in the mafia operations of the First Golfer gang. Genuino, it says, gave monies to the Arroyo's campaign chest. Genuino was part of the devil's gang. He was involved in the Jose Pidal operation.
Fact is, a PCIJ report tagged Genuino as the Arroyo's operator who pays off media and eccleasiastical people. http://www.pcij.org/blog/?p=342. He was also instrumental in the Hello Garci operation, who was the one who proposed to pay off election operators.
Instead of retaining him, Noynoy should actually include him in his list of the very first persons to be punished for their crimes against the Filipino people.
The second thing Genuino wants Noynoy to consider is his involvement in the projects being handled by Pagcor and what are these projects?
What projects? The mushrooming of poker rooms and gambling joints throughout the country? The rise of gambling rooms even in malls and buildings near schools and churches?
One multi-billion project Genuino wants the new administration to continue is the plan to transform the reclaimed land in Paranaque as an integrated resort complex. Construction continues in building a New Nayong Pilipino.
Nothing wrong with the project, in fact, it is one of the most innovative projects that this outgoing administration should actually trumpet before the people. Yes, it will bring more jobs and yes, it will definitely be a landmark in Manila.
But, is the project trademarked by Genuino? No. The project is a project of the Filipino People and no one, not even someone who has a so-called "excellent marketing background" that his online PR guys wrote about him, can claim that these projects are "originally his". There are other I.R. project around, foremost is the Sentosa model in Singapore. Definitely, Genuino just copied the concept there and adopted it here.
There are more deserving people other than Genuino.
Instead of being retained, Genuino should be booted out and he should be subjected to a lifestyle check. After that, somebody should file a case against him, if there are sufficient evidence.
Genuino should be made accountable for his role in the Hello Garci scandal. He should not be pardoned even if he offers to be a state witness against the Arroyos.
I bet that GENUINO WILL BE THE VERY FIRST PERSON TO BE CHARGED AND POSSIBLY 'HANGED' BY THE NEW ADMINISTRATION.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Noynoy---the People's President
That's quite refreshing to know. We have'nt had a people's president since former president Joseph Estrada.
Estrada claims to be the "People's Champion." In the 1998 polls, Estrada got an overwhelming mandate from the Filipino People--37%. If the electronic results jibe with the Certificates of Canvass, then Noynoy Aquino would have eclipsed Estrada by 3 or 4 percent. So, in the minds of ordinary people, Noynoy is more loved by the people than Erap.
With a very convincing win behind him, Noynoy Aquino should also realize the very big responsibility the people have reposed to him.
And I have full faith that Noynoy will definitely be instrumental in changing the lives of People, if he just listens to Vilfredo Pareto---solve 20% of the problems, you solve at least 80% of everything.
Example, if Noynoy manages to contain the predatory nature of cartels, he would have solved one of the most pressing problems of our times---prices of goods and commodities. We all know that the reason why foodstuffs are priced higher is simply manipulation by cartels. You pressure these cartels, jail some of them, or just fight them off, and you solve the problem.
Implement at least 20% of all laws and orders, you solve 80% of the problems. Is that simple. Or is it, really?
Another advice is simply, simplify the expectations of people. I suggest that Noynoy lays these down before the public in his proclamation. There should be, at least three things, doable within a period of 90 days:
1. Lower prices of basic commodities
2. Prosecute grafters in the former administration
3. Reach out to dissident groups
These are "doable" things. Or Noynoy could further simplify these things into more concrete promises.
By the way, wait for the publication of my book, " 20 Greatest Stories of the Filipino People".
Friday, May 14, 2010
Clash of the Ilustrados: Consequences of Early In-Fighting between the Hyatt 10 and the Cojuangco Clique
Clearly, we cannot afford to have a government with two contending forces jockeying for power. It seems like that in Fe Zamora's report over at the Inquirer. Yes, this is inevitable. Every single administration, in democracies, pseudo-democracies, monarchies and what-have-you, has this problem. This is common, yet, in the case of an Aquino administration, avoidable.
The survival of democracy in the Philippines depends on the future actions of Aquino. If Aquino appoints new faces in his cabinet, appointed based on skills, experience and intelligence, not on blood relations or close association with any of his relatives or that of his friends, then, we are assured of six years of stability.
Aquino should heed the advices of many well-meaning people and appoint competent people in government, those who will not fear possible reprisals from the high and mighty and will just do their jobs and prosecute grafters and thieves in barongs, even those close to Aquino.
The overwhelming cry of the Filipino electorate is clear---there should be justice. The Filipino interprets justice as equity or patas ang laban. If Aquino, early on in his administration, shows willingness to level the playing field for every Filipino, and avoids the pitfalls of appointing these discredited Ilustrados in his Cabinet, then, expect the entire Nation to rally behind him.
However, if Aquino shows partiality and acts like a true-blue politician, and appoints people once involved in anomalies and corruption charges, like the factotums of his uncle, Jose Peping Cojuangco, or any of the people who once benefitted from the largesse of the first Aquino administration, then, by God, save us.
Even at 39 years old with many kids and a beautiful wife, I will fight him to the death, for lying before the People and frustrating the will of the Nation. Just like what I vowed to do with Arroyo, I will lead the people in exposing the possible excesses and the nefarious activities of the Kamaganak Incorporated of Peping Cojuangco, their associates and their ass-likers (not just lickers but likers) and even of the Hyatt 10. If these people will ruin and frustrate the mandate given by the People to Noynoy Aquino, then God forgive me, but I will not stop until the People themselves correct the injustice.
Aquino should show consistency at this early stage in the game; otherwise, he may lose the people who supported and voted for him. And this will have extremely direct consequences on the survival of ilustrado democracy in this country.
This elections, as correctly pointed out by many, is the last time that people will use democratic means in order to effect change. If Aquino, through the actions and actuations of groups surrounding him, loses the trust of the People and frustrates many, I will not be surprised if many people will again hinge their support behind caudillos and entertain thoughts on extra-constitutional means to effect change.
With this, let this be said---this site, the New Philippine Revolution, will continue. I had hoped that this is the right time for me to close this site and start a new one. I spoke too soon.
This early, signs of the resurrection of the broad smiling, and pickpocketing ilustrados is upon us. God help us. God protect us from these new thieves in barongs. We fought Arroyo for nine years. If Aquino will not be able to nip this in the bud, then, by God, let the war begin!
Kala ko tapos na ang pagdurusa ng siyam na taon sa ilalim ng mga Ilustrado at mafia ni Arroyo. Mayroon pala tayong mga papatayin pang mga ilustradong nabuhay kung magkakamali si Aquino.
Gathering Storm: Electronic Garci in last May 10, 2010 elections?
Was there a "grand conspiracy" to manipulate the results of the May 10, 2010? Was there a "grand plan" among the elites to rally behind Noynoy Aquino and manipulate the elections to favor him?
Electronic Garci--that's what some presidential contenders including Senator Jamby Madrigal, Bro. Eddie Villanueva, JC delos Reyes, Nicanor Perlas and even former president Joseph Estrada are saying. They are now gathering pieces of evidence which point to the possible "rigging" of the elections through pre-programmed flash cards. My good friend, Atty. George Garcia, the lawyer of the former president, says that this highly plausible given that the Comelec was reportedly successful in replacing 76,000 compact flash cards, previously tagged as "defective". Garcia said these flash cards could have been pre-programmed to favor certain candidates without mentioning Aquino.
Is that possible? Yes, it is possible, the pre-programming of the CFCs. The question is--did the Aquinos or the Liberals undertook such a wild adventure? 50/50.
First, capability--are these groups close to Aquino capable of doing this? Yes. They belong to the moneyed class.
Second, motive--do they have the motive to do this? Yes, they have. However, with Aquino leading by 37% in the last surveys, will you still spend money to undertake such an operation? Possibly, especially if you know your rivals are doing it.
Third, moral fortitude--do you think such an operation was undertaken without the knowledge of Aquino? Possibly. These kinds of operations, consistently termed "black ops" are best left to the hands of the strategists, not the principal.
I hate to say this but these kinds of "loose talk" should be relegated to the dustbin. Politicians should learn the true meaning of "concede". If you "concede", you do so with finality and with firmness. You don't say you concede and then you go to the media and tell them, hey, really I conceded YET I am receiving reports of electronic fraud.
Some will definitely be saying that yes, I concede but I never conceded the interests of the People. That I am doing this for the sake of the country, b-s.
Look, the elections ended days ago. Another issue like this is not at all good for us. Let's learn to move forward. Anyway, even if there's an "electronic Garci", I don't think that that will make Jamby, JC, Perlas or Erap overtake Aquino. Aquino's lead is insurmountable. And that's according to my black hat friend.:-)
I therefore ask other political parties to refrain from spreading these loose talk because, it will not be beneficial to all of us. It is hoped that we start a-new, without this negativity.
Noynoy Aquino, if you become president, should do the following in his first 100 days:
1. Cleanse the ranks of the Commission on Elections
2. Establish an independent commission that will try Arroyo
3. Appoint good people in government, and do not appoint any of your kamaganaks in government, particularly P. Cojuangco.
Electronic Garci--that's what some presidential contenders including Senator Jamby Madrigal, Bro. Eddie Villanueva, JC delos Reyes, Nicanor Perlas and even former president Joseph Estrada are saying. They are now gathering pieces of evidence which point to the possible "rigging" of the elections through pre-programmed flash cards. My good friend, Atty. George Garcia, the lawyer of the former president, says that this highly plausible given that the Comelec was reportedly successful in replacing 76,000 compact flash cards, previously tagged as "defective". Garcia said these flash cards could have been pre-programmed to favor certain candidates without mentioning Aquino.
Is that possible? Yes, it is possible, the pre-programming of the CFCs. The question is--did the Aquinos or the Liberals undertook such a wild adventure? 50/50.
First, capability--are these groups close to Aquino capable of doing this? Yes. They belong to the moneyed class.
Second, motive--do they have the motive to do this? Yes, they have. However, with Aquino leading by 37% in the last surveys, will you still spend money to undertake such an operation? Possibly, especially if you know your rivals are doing it.
Third, moral fortitude--do you think such an operation was undertaken without the knowledge of Aquino? Possibly. These kinds of operations, consistently termed "black ops" are best left to the hands of the strategists, not the principal.
I hate to say this but these kinds of "loose talk" should be relegated to the dustbin. Politicians should learn the true meaning of "concede". If you "concede", you do so with finality and with firmness. You don't say you concede and then you go to the media and tell them, hey, really I conceded YET I am receiving reports of electronic fraud.
Some will definitely be saying that yes, I concede but I never conceded the interests of the People. That I am doing this for the sake of the country, b-s.
Look, the elections ended days ago. Another issue like this is not at all good for us. Let's learn to move forward. Anyway, even if there's an "electronic Garci", I don't think that that will make Jamby, JC, Perlas or Erap overtake Aquino. Aquino's lead is insurmountable. And that's according to my black hat friend.:-)
I therefore ask other political parties to refrain from spreading these loose talk because, it will not be beneficial to all of us. It is hoped that we start a-new, without this negativity.
Noynoy Aquino, if you become president, should do the following in his first 100 days:
1. Cleanse the ranks of the Commission on Elections
2. Establish an independent commission that will try Arroyo
3. Appoint good people in government, and do not appoint any of your kamaganaks in government, particularly P. Cojuangco.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Aquino is majority President: 40% of 37.5 million voters supported Aquino
COMELEC announced that only 75% of the 50 million registered voters were able to cast their votes. That is about 37.5 million votes cast. The lower turnout was caused by technical glitches and longer queus.
As of 6:41 AM, today, May 11, 2010, Liberal party standard bearer Senator Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III still leads the pack of presidential hopefuls with 12,233,002 votes, 4.48 million votes bigger than former president Joseph Estrada's 7,749,597 and about 7.90 million votes from Manny Villar's 4,329,215 votes.
Gilbert Teodoro has 3,243,688 votes. Eddie Villanueva 916,543, Richard Gordon 431,954, Nicanor Perlas 42,205, Jamby Madrigal 37,119 and JC de los Reyes 34,833
With about 30,431,735 of the expected 37.5 million already counted, or 81.1% of all votes cast, it seems that it is still possible for Estrada to catch up with Aquino. However, if current trends remain, with about 40.1% of the votes going to Aquino, and only about 25-26% for Estrada, then, it is very safe to presume that Aquino will clinch this and becomes the second majority president post-Marcos era.
Villar, the biggest spender in this elections (estimated to have spent close to 3 billion pesos) is a poor third, with just 14.2% of the votes. As what I wrote in previous posts, this is the natural constituency of Villar. As I said, Villar will lose this elections if Estrada successfully recovers the territories Villar snatched from him. This just shows that money is not the end all and be all in an elections.
IN our democracies, the losing contenders will have surely declared defeat and rallied behind Aquino by this time. I expect that from JC delos Reyes, Nicanor Perlas, Jamby Madrigal, Richard Gordon and Gilbert Teodoro. These gentlemen and fine lady should accept defeat now and rally behind Aquino.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Villar should blame his media handlers if he loses the elections: Better luck next time Manny siguro by 2024
Now, why is he now slipping--latest Pulse Asia survey shows him at 20% at par with Joseph Estrada, with Aquino at 39%--or about 19 or so percentage points away. Villar was once statistically tied with Aquino. Noynoy has since broken away, far, far away from the billion peso reach of Villar. Why?
First, Aquino did not lie in his campaigns. What he is, that's what the public got. He never lied about his roots, never engaged his enemies to dirty mudslinging and never accused his enemies of being loonies.
Villar did all that. He lied about his roots. What is so wrong with telling people he was once a member of the middle class? That is better than being haciendero. Villar should have at the oneset claimed to have been a member of the middle class, nakuha pa niya ang sympathy votes of the ABC class. Now, because doubts have been raised about his true roots, Villar is now getting the brunt of anger and mistrust from the public.
Villar did not stoop soooo low as to accuse his political enemies of mental diseases or illnesses. In the Philippines, okey lang if you accuse your enemies of graft and corruption but accusing him of being a mental patient? Excuse moi! Okey lang if you accuse somebody who shows like she's a loony, there's basis. Noynoy does not exhibit such. And that, to us voters, is the lowest form of campaigning.
Other than these two, well, his involvement in the bourse scandal is yet another mismanaged thing.
Net---Villar should blame his media handlers for the mess he is in. It's a pity. He spent millions on public relations and billions more on advertising, yet he failed. Oh, by the way, his ads should have been more effective if he chose sana na calibrated response, not yung series upon series of ad placement. Like I wrote over at FV, voters suffered from Villar fatigue and that showed on the surveys.
I don't think Villar will ever recover from this, no. Anyway, there's always a 2016 or even a 2024. By that time, Baby James and his gang of kids in the Villar television ad ay mga voters na. Villar is sure to win by 2024.
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