TALIM NG ARAW

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Open Letter from the People of Sitio Kabute

2008-09-25T00:40:00.000-07:00

21 September 2008

TO ALL FRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS

Warm Greetings!

We are indigent residents of Sitio Kabute, Brgy. Real, Calamba City composed of 150 families, which at present is facing an impending threat of displacement from our homes in view of the forced demolition order perpetrated by Metrobank.

The area has been our peaceful abode in the past three decades. We raised our families there and it’s strategic to our line of livelihood as dispatchers, tricycle drivers, vendors, and laborers among others.

But in January this year, we were alarmed by a written notice declaring our land as property of Metrobank, purportedly through a land title dated only in 2006. We are suspicious of the fact that for a long time, no party has claimed ownership to it. But due to intimidation and given our meager understanding of the law, we voluntarily demolished our homes. Left with no option to relocate but with understanding of our fundamental right to abode, we decided to regain possession of our land and settled back.

Subsequently, in the past 8 months, we faced systematic forms of harassments from private security elements of Metrobank to force us to vacate our land. But these dirty tactics only pushed us to unite and organize ourselves and defend our right to our land.

Unfortunately, last September 11, the Regional Trial Court of Calamba, through Judge Alberto Serrano handed a decision notifying us to vacate the land and ordering demolition of our homes.

Hence, at present we are faced with a legal battle, notwithstanding the fact that we are really short of finances to sustain this tough challenge in court. We‘ve already conducted protests to concerned government offices instrumental in setting up Metrobank’s claim. Anytime this week, the people of Sitio of Kabute will face a violent demolition, thus we set up a Camp Out in the area as a common place and outright defense whenever the demolition is at hand.

In this regard, we appeal for financial, material, and moral support to sustain our fight for right to land and decent homes. We are also inviting you to visit the area to further understand our plight.

We hope for your kind understanding and support.

For the people of Sitio Kabute,

NANAY MELICIA ALMARIO

Samyo ng Makiling

2008-09-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

Samyo ng Makiling

Sisilo't kumawala na parang isang paslit
sa sinapupunan mong dalit ay habag
Hahayo ako sa dahilig mong katawan
kakandong sa palad ng ulan.

Sisinghot sa yelong tunaw sa hangin
na kinusot mo ng punong umugat na sa limot
Sisigla ako't mangatatayo sa lagapak
ng iyong tila burol na unan.

Ako'y samyuhin sa iyong sabakan
ihele mo ako sa lubid ng araw
At sa tutok ng gabi ako'y pagsarhan
ng haplos mo na tungkod sa lunangan.

*alay sa hiwaga ng bundok makiling at kay dalandan.

edge 9.23.08, LB

RIGHTS v. 2 Launch

2008-09-15T00:14:00.000-07:00

RIGHTS v.2

September 19, 16pm UP-CMC Media Center. Admission is FREE!

Artist's ARREST - "Awit"
Artist's ARREST - "Tula"
Bon Labora - "Warrant"
Emil Mercado - "Peace"
Ging Flores- "Luya"
J Pacena - "Left Turn"
JP Carpio - "Tao Po"
Keith Sicat - "SIlenced"
Kodao Productions - "Quenching Fire"
Ron Papag - "Rights 101"
Sinepatriyotiko - "Stop the Killings"
Southern Tagalog Exposure - "Bakwet"
Southern Tagalog Exposure - "Eduardo Serrano"
Ted Edward Ferreras - "Terorista Ka Ano?"
Zig Dulay and Recci Bacolor - "Tagu-Taguan"

Program:

National Anthem with shadowplay performance by Anino shadowplay Collective

Welcoming Remarks from College of Mass Communication Student Council

Intro: From the Producer of Rights v.2 – Southern Tagalog Exposure

Intro: HR Situatione from Karapatan – Ruth Cervantes

Film screening

Acknowledgement of present filmmakers

Reactors: Bibeth Orteza, Roland Tolentino, Doy Del Mundo, Axel Pinpin and Sarah Raymundo

Musical Performance - Cynthia Alexander

Q&A with fimmakers

Rights Background:

RIGHTS is a pioneering compilation of independently produced and human rights themed short films/public service advertisements (PSAs). Initiated originally by artists involved with Southern Tagalog Exposure and the Free Jonas Burgos Movement, RIGHTS exposes the incessant human rights hostilities in the Philippines. It is an open and continuing call for filmmakers to participate in the growing movement to defend and uphold human rights.

However, timely of its launching on September 21 last year, blatant state censorship rendered RIGHTS' non-exhibition atIndie Sine following MTRCB's X rating to some of the PSAs. Filmmakers decried MTRCB's X-rating on RIGHTS as a form of violation of freedom of expression, validating their opinion on the human rights situation in the Philippines. Yet despite the censorship, organizers and filmmakers were determined to continue to reproduce and distribute copies for the benefit of the people's right to know and reach out further to the broad mass of people.

For almost a year following the systematic state intervention, the struggle of RIGHTS' independent filmmakers for a free and relevant disposal of their craft continues. The repression of freedom of expression and worsening human rights situation only gives them more reason to produce more films and actively participate in the struggle for justice and peace.

Thus, as an offshoot to last year's unyielding and remarkable production, comes RIGHTS 2. Some 15 relatively new set of artists and artists collective from the independent film movement will display their artistic prowess and social relevance.

The Anti-Progressive Pope (repost)

2008-09-08T02:12:00.000-07:00

Pope John (XXXIII) the initiator of the Second Vatican Council in 1962, sought to release the millennium old Church, inter alia, from the shackles of hierarchical order, bishops' authority, centralisation of power, canonical discipline and inquisition, theological and intellectual suppression.

When John Paul (II) ascended the papacy in 1978, the first thing he did was "to oppose the definition of the Church as 'a people of God,'" says Penny Lernoux, an authority on the Catholic Church.

Steeped in conservatism and the century-old orthodoxy teaching of the church, John Paul (II) has been consistent in his policy of a traditional hierarchical definition of the Church, in which the laity works under the direction of priests and bishops to achieve "truth".

Many Vatican watchers quickly noticed that "from the beginning of the John Paul (II) pontificate, he diagnosed the Church as suffering "internal weaknesses", springing from a reform process which had been underway since the middle 1960s, notes Jack O'Sullivan, a Vatican watcher for many years.

According to O'Sullivan, John Paul (II)'s answer then as now, to the perceived problem, has been a stiff dose of strong and generally conservative leadership from the centre, in order to maintain discipline all round.

Inevitably, therefore, from the early days of the John Paul (II) papacy, one of the most formidable constraints on the church's ability to strengthen its presence in the daily lives of the many Catholics all over the world, has been his insistence and persistence in restoring the authority pattern and traditional moral doctrines of the pre-Vatican (II) (1962-1965) era.

Madame Lernoux observes that the Pope's type of Catholicism is "a throw back to a Christendom when the Church was both the mediating force in secular society and the only source of spiritual salvation".

The earliest signal in the John Paul (II) papacy, that his "counter-reformation" agenda was headed for a confrontation with the progressive forces within the Church was the tensions that dominated the Vatican and Latin America Church immediately after he assumed office.

In Latin America, where the great majority of the world's Catholics live, grassroots movements and institutions were sprouting everywhere, carrying the promise of a new model of the Church, free from the Vatican domination.

A new form of liberation theology was taking shape and was threatening to engulf the entire Third World.

Began in 1968 by leading Latin American theologians such as the Peruvian Gustavo Gutierrez, Brazilian Leonardo Boff, Oscar Romero and Archbishop Dom Helda Camara, Liberation Theology spread like the harmattan in the wilderness in South America and the Caribbean to the great worry of the Vatican authorities.

The Vatican had cause to worry. Liberation Theology is a controversial school in post-Vatican (II) Council. Apart from being widespread in Latin America, it also finds its sympathisers in the Jesuit Congregation - the intellectual powerhouse of the Catholic faith.

It explores the relationship between Catholic theology and political activism in areas of social justice and human rights.

Some of the proponents in Latin America are thought to have spiced Liberation Theology with Marxist concepts and teaching.

As such, from the early 1980's, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, the Vatican office, charged with maintaining orthodoxy and order, geared to fight the proponents of Liberation Theology.

Under the guardianship of Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the German ultra-conservative archbishop, and the most powerful cardinal in the world, besides the Pope, the papacy began a systematic attack on Liberation Theology.

Cardinal Ratzinger pursued his work with determined vigour and, as early as 1983, he had already hand-picked his "worthy opponents" in his crackdown on the Liberation Theology, which he had critiqued as a "deviant" theology because of supposedly infusing Marxist teaching with Catholicism.

Gustavo Gutierrez, also considered the father of Liberation Theology and Leonardo Boff, the Franciscan friar considered to be its chief proponent were Ratzinger's early targets.

In 1984, Ratzinger sent the vocal Boff a letter accusing him of "theological deviations" and summoned him to Rome to defend his "challenge" to the institutional authority of the hierarchical Church.

The same year saw Cardinal Ratzinger publishing a 35 page critique of Liberation Theology, widely interpreted as "particularly simplistic and reductionist in its condemnation of liberation theology as merely Marxist and anti-authority ideology."

Boff, who was to resign from priesthood in 1992 after serving the Church for a quarter of a century, was to write that "from the end of the 70's onwards, came the return to the grand ecclesiastical discipline".

"Groups in the Vatican bureaucracy which had been defeated, but were still present in the power-structure succeeded in reorganising. They (re-enacted) the justification for the Rome-centred centralising activity.

"They projected a mythical aura around the figure of the Pope. They made him travel around the world, giving the faithful the impression that he was really the only bishop for the whole Church and each individual".

In his famous resignation letter, which he wrote to "my companion in faith and hope", and which was titled, I Changed to Stay the Same: Why I left the Priesthood, Boff described the John Paul (II) pontificate thus: "It is cruel and without mercy. It forgets nothing, forgives nothing and exacts everything."

http://edstrong.blog-city.com/the_antiprogressive_pope.htm

Huling Lagapak ng Kandado

2008-09-03T17:39:00.000-07:00

NI AXEL PINPIN*
Inilathala ng Bulatlat
Vol. VIII, No. 30, August 31-September 6, 2008

Kumupas at kumupis ang kalendaryo
Kumalampag at ipininid ang kandado
Kumupad at bumilis ang oras
Nagasgas at numipis ang rehas
Dumatal at umalis ang lamig
Sumagad at umibis ang init
Nangutya at tiniis ang inip
Nanuya at nanikis ang inis

Walong daaan at limampu’t siyam na araw
Paulit-ulit, paikid-ikid lamang na galaw

Dalawang taon at apat na buwan
Pabalik-balik, paikit-ikit lamang na kawalan

Ninakaw, inagaw ang kalayaang inakalang
Maitatangkal sa kalaliman ng kadiliman
Ng libingan ng mga buhay at matatabunan
Ng tambak ng batas na butas
Na nauna pang maagnas at ipag-aguniyas
Ang kamatayan ng sirkerong testigo na di-bihasa
Sa kinabisang panulayan at panimbangan.
Ay! Nagkandudulas sa lubid ng kasinungalingang
Ibinuhol ng buhong na piskal, nagkandabulol
At nagkandahulog ang katwiran
Na nagiging mahika-blanka
Sa tuwing kabulaanan ang bumubulagang
Sorpresa sa kahon ng ebidensya at hindi
Kunehong puti na sana’y mabilis at malinis
Na lilinlang sa namanghang mga
Mamamayang bantay sa katarungan
Sa sala ng Hukom na nagmistulang karnabal.

Walong daaan at limampu’t siyam na araw
Paulit-ulit, paikid-ikid lamang na galaw

Dalawang taon at apat na buwan
Pabalik-balik, paikit-ikit lamang na kawalan

At sa isang iglap, walang nakakurap,
Tapos na ang palabas!

29 Agosto 2008/0358hr
Unang labanan ng rebolusyong 1896 sa San Juan
At unang araw sa labas ng bilangguan ng Tagaytay 5

Inilathala ng Bulatlat
*Si Axel Pinpin ay kabilang sa tinaguriang “Tagaytay 5” – kasama nina Riel Custodio, Aristedes Sarmiento, Enrico Ybañez, at Michael Masayes – na dinukot ng mga pulis at militar noong Abril 28, 2006 sa Tagaytay City, pinaratangang mga “rebeldeng komunista” at mahigit sa dalawang taong nakulong sa Camp Vicente Lim ng Philippine National Police (PNP) bago mapalaya nitong Agosto 27. Naging fellow siya para sa tula ng UP National Writers Workshop noong 1999.

VERBATIM: On good governance & the recall petition of Gov. Ed Panlilio

2008-09-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

The recall petition is not about good governance or transparency. It is about political opportunism and personal greed. At a time the Filipino nation is in desperate need of honest leaders, officials of the President’s province are doing everything to remove one. For shame.-- Philippine Dailiy Inquirer

From PDI Editorial:

That most of the local officials of Pampanga province, especially the mayors and board members, are suddenly beside themselves with their non-negotiable demand for credible and clean leadership is not at all surprising. But their brazenness is still breathtaking. Simply put, their “campaign” is both shameful and shameless. In Filipino, “nakakahiya, walang hiya!”. Read on.

Tagaytay 5 freed; rebellion case ‘nonexistent’

2008-08-31T22:43:00.000-07:00

By Niña Catherine Calleja, Philippine Daily Inquirer

CAMP VICENTE LIM, LAGUNA—Five men accused of being communist guerrillas were released Thursday afternoon after the Tagaytay Regional Trial Court (RTC) dismissed the rebellion case filed against them by the police.

Released were Axel Pinpin, Aristides Sarmiento, Rico Ybañez, Michael Masayes and Riel Custodio.

Pinpin, a poet, said he and his fellow detainees were ecstatic and yet doubtful when they heard the news.

“We almost couldn’t believe it,” Pinpin said while packing his more than 100 books that fellow writers had given him in a 20-square-meter custodial jail.

The cell, according to the Commission on Human Rights, did not pass the United Nations’ minimum standard for treatment of prisoners.

The five men were excited to leave the detention cell with walls plastered with photos, news items about them, and posters calling for their release.

“We can now walk with freedom,” said Sarmiento, who was still clad in an orange shirt with the slogan “Free Political Prisoners” printed on it.

Ybañez, who will turn 61 on Sept. 5, said his freedom was the best gift he had received.

The men, known as the “Tagaytay 5,” were abducted while riding in a car by Cavite police and Naval Intelligence and Security Forces operatives on April 28, 2006.

Pinpin, Sarmiento and Custodio claimed they were members of the farmers’ group Katipunan ng mga Magsasaka sa Kabite (Kamagsasaka-Ka, or Farmers’ Federation in Cavite) while Masayes and Ybañez were hired drivers.

They were held in the Calabarzon Regional Police Office (CRPO) headquarters for two years and four months.

Nonexistent crime

The CRPO Thursday received a copy of the ruling of Tagaytay RTC Branch No. 18, which was issued by Judge Edwin Larida on Aug. 20, according to Chief Supt. Ricardo Padilla, CRPO director.

The ruling mentioned the prosecution’s “erroneous manifestations.”

“Faced with an information charging a manifestly nonexistent crime, the duty of the trial court is to throw it out. Or at the very least, and where possible, make it conform to the law,” Larida said.

The judge ordered the men’s immediate release.

Triumph of justice

Carlo Ybañez, the lawyer of the accused, joined by lawyers Frank Chavez and Jose Manuel Diokno, described the court decision as a “triumph of justice.”

“The decision favoring the Tagaytay 5 is proof that justice still exists in this country,” Ybañez said.

Ybañez said the trial took a while, the process sped up after he filed a writ of amparo.

A writ of amparo is a remedy available to any person whose right to life, liberty and security is violated or threatened with violation by an unlawful act or omission of a public official or employee, or of a private individual or entity.

The arraignment of the Tagaytay 5 was postponed by the RTC six times. During the arraignment on June 16, the five pleaded “not guilty” to the rebellion charges.

Charges for illegal detention

Ybañez said Chavez told the court that there was no crime and the prosecution could not prove rebellion by citing subversion.

“The police who abducted and detained them are liable,” Ybañez said, emphasizing that the men’s lawyers were planning to file charges against the police in connection with the illegal arrest and detention, torture and planting of evidence.

The Tagaytay 5 said more than 30 armed plainclothesmen abducted them while traveling along Ligaya Drive in Barangay (village) Sungay in Tagaytay City on April 28, 2006.

After less than a week, the five were charged with rebellion and presented to the media as members of the communist New People’s Army.

In July, CHR Chair Leila de Lima recommended the filing of criminal and administrative charges in the Office of the Ombudsman against the Cavite police and the Naval Intelligence and Security Forces for human rights violations.

Unimaginable

Sarmiento said that while he was happy that he was now free, he also felt fear.

“Fear of what will happen to us outside and what police can still do,” he said.

What happened to them within two years was unimaginable, Pinpin said.

“I write poems but I couldn’t describe our experience in the span of two years,” he said.

Pinpin, research and information officer of Kamagsasaka-Ka, said he would be going back to the peasant movement.

“The government had taken away so many things from us,” he said.

Punish the police

After the arrest, Pinpin said, the group’s trading operations involving muscovado sugar and coffee were affected.

Sarmiento said the police who arrested and detained him and the others should be punished.

“It is so easy for them to arrest someone but it’s hard for them to free innocent people,” he said.

Sought for reaction, Padilla said: “We are filing a motion for reconsideration. Then we will let the court decide.”

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080829-157494/Tagaytay-5-freed-rebellion-case-nonexistent

Show show, the SONA fashion

2008-07-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

The SONA has become an annual and grand spectacle for politicians, vis-a-vis politico de familia, and their extended families all under one roof (Batasan Pambansa) they shared with no less, La Presidenta. It is but an anticipated event for local designers to showcase their locally grown mastery in the art of fashion. Unfortunately, it is saddening to at least note that those squander and intricately designed gowns and filipinianas are but superficial typification of power and advantage in society while the rest of the Filipinos die by the day.

There's Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and spouses, family members of her cohorts, namely:

Baby Arenas
Assunta de Rossi
Dawn Zulueta
Anna York Bondoc

The rest is but a show-show. Redundancies and repetitions alike. A parade of wealth and extravagance. This upholds the mystic line of beauty in the inside.

The Agony , that is Gloria

2008-07-27T20:32:00.001-07:00

Today, her exKILLINGcy Gloria Macapal Arroyo, for the 8th time, reports on the redundancies there is to wit in this nation state. The ever grandiose and exclusive celebration of personal eulogy and conceit expedite the unassuming pain and slap of insults of Filipinos, who consistently bear the brunt of lingering poverty and hopelessness in our land. Pulse Asia survey is proof to this rigged annual tour de force by which the fellows of high society and powerful classes and clans unite as one under the roof of the 200 million worth newly-renovated Batasang Pambansa.

For the past several years, this occasion is more than just a mandate by law but supposedly a celebration of good governance, of service, and trust and faith in a duly mandated leadership. But under the regime of GMA, this has transformed into a feast of lies, deceit, and pretensions. For the past several weeks, GMA's propaganda people are working heaven and earth to condition people's mind of the relief brought about by the short-term and one-time subsidies dubbed as katas ng E-VAT. But overnight, hunger and desperation persists among ordinary households. This is blatant deceit and insult to ordinary Filipinos and tax payers like me. The one time 500 peso electric and rice subsidies do not only induce short term relief , but more so, affirm the demands of people. Their valid redress of real and long terms aids is what keeps them busy in the streets.

The Value of the UP Experience

2008-07-15T01:59:00.000-07:00

by Maya Baltazar Herrera*

There are no children here

This week, I went to a meeting at the UP School of Economic and I came away with renewed belief in the value of the UP experience.

If you speak to anyone from UP – student, professor, alumnus - you will get no Latin slogans or apologies about how the school teaches values in spite of its outward materialism. This is not a student population that thinks about basketball games or memorizes school songs. This is not a school that chooses one statement to drill into the minds of its students.

This is not, of course, to say that UP does not care about values. It is that UP, in its own inimitable way, believes that values cannot be force-fed. The statue of the naked man that guards the entrance to the campus in Diliman best represents UP's approach to all education and the respect for students that is the center of its educational philosophy. All who come to this university, regardless of origin, bring themselves naked, carrying nothing but their thirst; like the proverbial empty teacup, making an offering of self, waiting to be filled.

Adults

For many students from private schools, the first lesson that is learned here is that this is a school for adult education. There are no children here, and that is why no parents are allowed either at freshman orientation or during enlistment.

The spirit of the oblation lies not in a mother or a father offering up his child to the world, it is that of the newly adult, freely offering of his self.

I remember quite vividly that moment that drove home how different the UP education continues to be. It was my daughter's first semester in university and she had invited a group of her high school friends to our house. One of them asked a classmate whether she had gotten her parents permission form approved for that weekend's outreach activity. From the UP population around the table came the mock horrified responses of: "Permission? " and "Outreach?"

I thought about it and realized that all of these students were, in fact, legally adults. I thought it interesting that only the UP students appeared to appreciate this fact.

Even more interesting was the "outreach" comment. I think back to my own university years and the last three years that my daughter has been in UP and am certain there is no lack of civic activity. There are medical missions, house building projects, tree planting, community work and barrio work and so on. I realize now that the reaction was not to the activity as much as it was to the use of the word.

One of the most important differences of the UP campus from all the other campuses my children considered going to is that this campus has no walls. Many parents fear this. They are afraid their precious children will not be protected from the ills of society in a campus that is so open to the rest of the world.

But UP is open to the world in more ways than just not having the physical walls. MORE.

*Published on June 6, 2008 in Integrations, a column for the Manila Standard Today. Herrera finished her BS Mathematics degree in UP Diliman. She is currently professor and faculty at the Asian Intitute of Management.

Torture: Just a story

2008-07-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

While reading this post, I can't help but be reminded of advocacy journalism back in college.The more serious issue here is the 'faith' and judgment emanating from the journalists and their editors in what story is worth reporting, or in the process, distinguishing and eliminating stories for printing. This a question of orientation and persuasion, especially among mainstream press. For individual journalists, I think this challenge calls for appropriate response.
_____________________________________________________________________________________

by Carlos Conde*

Five years ago, I wrote a story about a Muslim teenager who was imprisoned in General Santos City for allegedly being a terrorist. The boy showed signs – bruises, mainly – that he was tortured by whoever captured him.

Today, I can’t even recall the name of the teenager. I do remember this, however: I never bothered to check back to see what had happened to him.

He was, after all, just a story.

Across newsrooms in the Philippines, most journalists probably have the same mindset about their subjects. Just a story. Early on, we were taught by our superiors in the business that we should just report, that we do not advocate anything. Don’t get too close with the subject or it will compromise your objectivity.

Unfortunately, it would seem that, in the Philippines, reporting on human rights and torture can be easily equated with advocacy. Which is to say that, often, journalists who dare to write about human rights in ways different from what the mainstream press often does – that is, failure to provide context, among others – are easily pigeonholed as leftists or leftist sympathizers. We’ve heard of tales by our colleagues being ostracized in their beats and being ignored by their sources for their reportage on human rights. Sad, but true. More.

* Mr Conde is a journalist based in Manila. He is correspondent for The New York Times and International Herald Tribune. This is posted in Eye on Ethics page of the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR) http://www.eyeonethics.org/2008/06/27/torture-just-a-story/.

The Band of BRATTers

2008-07-09T18:50:00.000-07:00

Needless to say, our country is presently under a regime of brats, and their cohorts, inc.

Despite public clout and instigating circumstance of public riots and valid redresses, here's PGMA--as the chief brat dismissing calls for the abolition of E-VAT, even for oil and electricity at the very least citing a critical downfall in the supposed 'katas ng e-vat' which is estimated to reach around a hundred billion peso per annum. Ironically, the large mass of ordinary Filipinos are grilled in their own oil, as prices oil and prime commodities consistently increase by the days but wage increase stagnates. In short, ramdam at mas lumala pa ang kahirapan! As a matter of rationale, the gains from the 12% Expanded value added tax was supposed to boost social services spending.

But see, after almost five years of its implementation, where are these services gone now. More ironically, and its depressing to realizing that at the height of the crisis, another brat in the person of House Speaker Prospero Nograles initiated a beatification project in the grounds of the Batasan Pambansa to the tune of alledgedly P200 M, which he denied by the way.Regardless of the exact amount, it is but a slap in every tax payers face for someone in govenrment to spent at least P80 M for ala-Imelda Marcos beautification project, which even House members decried as a show off to PGMA's up coming SONA later this month. Other observers meanwhile scored this action as an insult and an act of tyranny in the wisdom of public service and justice.

Now, in the wake of SSS president's Corazon dela Paz resignation, CHED Chair Romulo Neri was appointed by GMA for reasons, Neri the Brat claimed, of competence and confidence. But I'm with PDI's observation, describing it as payback for the latter's mumbling in the NBN-ZTE scandal, and coining the line, "Sec,me SSS ka dito!" (in connection with the controversial line he mentioned in the Senate hearings, "may 200 ka dito"!). regardless again of his competence, Neri above all lacks credibility to govern and manage the largest investment of private workers in forms of insurance and premiums. His appointment came also after de la Paz cited politics aside from health concerns as the reason for her leaving the reformed SSS, saying some forces are pushing for fund extraction from the government-run private funds.

Quiapo vendors and Ka Bel

2008-07-02T23:50:00.000-07:00

I had my share of a 'post-ka bel demise' account of how illustrious the man was coming from a jeepney driver. This is one humbling story. Padayon!

By Consuelo Maria G. Lucero*
Youngblood, Philippine Daily Inquirer

The day after “Ka Bel” died, my father sent me an email urging me to go to the wake for the party-list representative. He said Crispin Beltran was once his boss and one whom he deeply respected, and he felt it was his filial obligation to offer flowers and prayers at his wake. But since he was away in Maastricht, the Netherlands, on a scholarship, he asked me to go his place.

I’m no leftist; I’m not even politically inclined, as some of my schoolmates have probably noted. So when I put on my denim pants and rubber shoes to go to Manila’s Quiapo district to buy some flowers, I thought that I was merely doing what my father had asked me to do: to offer flowers and prayers for a dead man.

When I got to Quiapo, I searched the flower vendors at the side of the church, trying to imagine what colors my father would have wanted. I stopped at a nondescript stall with green, maroon and pink flowers, not just the usual yellow and white. The vendor told the white or yellow mums would cost P100, but if I picked assorted colors it would cost me P150.

I tried to bargain, and she brought down the price of the latter to P140.

I asked if the funeral wreath came with ribbons. “Extra P20 kung may ribbon,” she said.

I did not bother to haggle anymore. Then I handed her a piece of paper on which I had copied the epitaph my father wrote: “Pagpugay sa dakilang anak ng uring manggagawa, Ka Bel; Ang buhay at alaala mo’y titis ng pag-asa sa pakikibaka ng uri. — Kas. George.”

The vendor was shocked by the long message. I figured that she was used to writing only

“Condolence and sympathy” on the ribbon. But she talked so loud that the other vendors came over.
“Santissima! Kay Ka Bel mo ba ibibigay?” a vendor of Lego-like toys asked.
I nodded and smiled.

“Diyos ko, Mare, huwag mo na singilin!” she told the flower vendor. “Kay Ka Bel naman pala eh. Kapatid natin iyon sa pakikibaka.”

They called their friends, who were selling trinkets worth P10 or less. One of them offered to do the writing, declaring his handwriting was the best. Others shared their opinions about Ka Bel. Some told the flower vendor to add more flowers on the wreath.

“Nakakasama kasi namin sa rally si Ka Bel,” the friendly toy vendor explained.
“Oo, at wala siyang paki kahit mga mahihirap kami,” the man with the nice handwriting chimed in.
Some asked me if I was going alone, or if I was with a leftist group. I politely told them that I was going on behalf of my school organization.

When they asked me what school I attended, someone said, “Mabuting may mga matatalino pa ring sumusuporta sa mga mahihirap.” I did have the courage to tell them I was no leftist.

Finally they finished the wreath, beautifully done. The flower vendor told me that with all the additions, the wreath was now worth more than P200, but she was giving it to me for free as her own offering for Ka Bel. A vendor of plastic bags gave me a big red-and-white plastic free of charge. And while I was preparing to leave, a cigarette vendor came with a small bouquet of white mums and asked me to bring them to their champion. Then they all bade me a cheery goodbye, while asking me to extend their condolences to Ka Bel’s family. I rode the jeepney to Taft Avenue with a heart that was never more deeply touched.

Had my father been here, he would have gone every day to the wake. He would have go to Ka Bel’s funeral, marching with his buddies in the labor group Kilusang Mayo Uno, sharing pictures and stories of Ka Bel and the KMU. He probably would not have thought of asking me to go with him, knowing that I am not interested in rallies and leftist organizations.

But maybe it was a good thing that he was away and had to ask me to do this. I never would have come so close to the poor and neither would have known how deeply they felt about Ka Bel, their “brother in the struggle” against poverty.

Consuelo Maria G. Lucero, 17, is a third-year Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Literature student at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City.

Rizal, Ninoy and revolution (adapted)

2008-06-25T18:44:00.000-07:00

A post-Rizal birthday entry courtesy of National Artist for Literature F. Sionil-Jose. This selection relives and resolves the debate on whether Rizal was actually a radical-revolutionary in slightest terms or a reformist in his comfortable midst. This also reminds me of a lesson in PI (Philippine Institutions) 100 of the same issue. But arguments, backed by personal and historical accounts of the author really set a resolved to this long standing dispute among scholars and academics. But standing on the shoulder of Bonifacio, Sionil-Jose's findings confirming Rizal's inevitable support for the 1896 revolution is a relief in view of an on going struggle in the countryside and of the classes.

Complete story here.

Sionil-Jose:
"Rizal was opposed to Bonifacio’s revolution. To seek his support, Pio Valenzuela visited him in Dapitan where the Spaniards had exiled him. Rizal argued against that revolution, saying that Filipinos were not ready for it, that the cost — and the bloodshed — would be tremendous. Such a position is made clear in his writing, particularly in the second novel, El Filibusterismo, where Ibarra turned Simoun returns to the country a full-fledged revolutionary. But the very reasons Rizal presents against revolution are nullified by the conditions depicted in both novels; they argue forcefully instead against the authorial denial."

"And when the Spaniards executed him, his martyrdom, like Ninoy’s murder, galvanized the people to act compulsively against the colonial power. His death confirmed Bonifacio’s dream — that upheaval was not just inevitable, it was also supremely righteous."

Frank's Fury outshines Sulpicio Lines

2008-06-22T23:52:00.000-07:00

Lessons never learned*.

That best describes the latest rage brought about by typhoon Frank (Int'l Name: Fengshen) in Visayas and Southern Luzon. The highlight of which is another tragedy courtesy of the ill-fated M/V Princess of the Stars which sank off Sibuyan Island in Romblon province, in broad daylight last Saturday after sustaining a whole. With her is the almost 700 unassuming passengers bound for Cebu. As of noontime today, at least 400 are feared dead.

The story suggests an old, same rhetoric. The Coast Guard gave a go signal for the 23 tonnage ship with a capacity of almost 2 000 passengers in the face of a threat of typhoon Frank as raised by PAG-ASA early Friday. PAG-ASA issued a Public Storm Signal No. 3 in Bicol and Southwesteren Luzon, including Romblon Island. For some unknown reasons, that the Coast Guard allowed the ship to sail off. In fact, calculations revealed by PAG-ASA that Frank will pass by Mindoro Island Friday night and Saturday morning, and knowing that Romblon Strait is adjacent to Mindoro Island, thus, a direct hit.

A local official in Romblon sounded the alarm of a ship that sank upside down late Saturday at least 3 kilometers off their town's shores. And that was the initial facts. The anticipated realities are the bloated bodies, innocent souls of children and women, the trauma to survivors, and the weeping families and loved ones. On the other hand, officials are expected to point at each other on the blame, while policiticians would take on the screen for their free grandstanding via the tragedy.

Speaker Nograles was right and more so, redundant, that it can be prevented. As with previous Sulpicio Lines tragedies, human error is always in the play. He added, that a five sea mishap from one shipping line is no coincidence. Sulpicio Lines has made a name for itself, as Guiness World Record holder for the worst sea tragedy during peacetime courtesy of M/V Dona Paz in 1987 which sank in almost the same area where Star sank and claimed and estimated 4 000 lives. The following year, another tragedy claimed 200 lives. In 1998, M/V Princess of the Orient, then the biggest passenger vessel in the country sank off the coast of Cavite and Bataan killing almost 200.

Without prejudice that Sulpicio might and should be morally and financially liable of these accidents. In the other side of the fence, government authorities, especially PCG has its own share of negligence to have allowed the sailing of a doomed ship at the height of super typhoon. Its not enough to make their heads roll from thier airconditioned offices, their body should also roll in the grounds of city jails, if not Munti.

Indeed accidents happen at the most unexpected times, but this one is something that can be expected or anticipated. My mother then was right, you must be ahead of everything, even if that means sacrificing your time and comfort if it means, life. PCG is inutile. Sulpicio meanwhile has to suffer the gravest of punishment even if that would mean suspension of their license, if only to ensure safety of passengers in the future. I wont allow myself to suffer the same fate when in the future I have to take the ship ride from Dumaguete-Manila and vice versa courtesy of Sulpicio's sailing coffin.

*Whatever the outcome of the investigation, I would make it a point not to take the boat ride when I go home to Negros. Sulpicio Lines' MV Princess of the Carribean and Cotabato is plying the DGT-MNL-DGT route once a week, and I've been onboard for several times. I'd rather take the plane or the RO-RO trip even if that means extra money and time.

UP closed to brightest of poor ::JUNK TOFI!

2008-06-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Sa okasyon ng ika-100 taon ng UP, nakakalungkot at patuloy na nakakabahala ang mga realidad sa dati'y tinitingalang pamantasan, katulad nang isinalaysay sa ibaba. Hindi na kailangan ang malalimang pagtingin sa isyu ng tuition fee increase at rebracketing ng STFAP, malinaw sa pagbaba ng bilang enrolees ang kabulukan ng sistemang ito. Sa kaso ng batang binaggit sa artikulo sa ibaba, malinaw rina ng pagkait ng estado, partikular ng mismong UP, ng karapatang makapag-aral at makapag-kamit ng de-kalidad at dapat sanay murang edukasyon ang isang poor but deserving student.

Hindi maaring sabihing isolated case lamang ito, sapagkat ang bilang ng mga enrolees na mismo ang magsasabi sa kagipitang dulot ng TOFI. At sa gitna ng pagsasabatas ng bagong UP Charter, ano pa ang maasahan ng iba pang mahihirap ngunit may katalinuhang makapasok sa UP. Sinasabi ni Prop. Winnie Monsod na marapat lang na saluhin ng mga mayayaman ang tuition fee ng mga mahihirap,ngunit kung tutuusin, bakit ba marami na ang mayayaman sa UP kumpara sa mga mahihirap na estudyante? Malinaw na repleksyon ito na hindi na afford o kayang tustusan ng isang ordinaryong pamilya ang pagpapa-aral sa UP. Lalo na yung mula sa mga probinsya. Kung sa ngalan ng pantay na akses sa edukasyon ay mas maraming mahihirap ang di makatamasa ng edukasyong UP, anupa't na ging state university, at ngayon national university ito.

Ang kaso ng batang tinukoy sa ibaba, ay isang kwento ng pag-asang huwad. Tumpak ang pagsasalarawan na parang nanalo siya sa lotto ng pumasa sa UPCAT, ngunit di nakamit ang premyo dahil sa walang downpayment. Sa muli't-muli, ang realidad na ito patunay sa ipinagmamayabang ng gobyerno, sa kasong ito, ramdam mo ang KAHIRAPAN!

Ibasura ang TOFI! Igiit ang Pagtaas ng State Subsidy!

------------------------------------------------

ni Prof. Noli Reyes

On the third day of classes in the hundredth year of the University of the Philippines (UP), a freshman from Cotabato province, a Chemistry major at UP in Diliman, Quezon City, had to drop out. Together with his father, the brokenhearted young man went to see each of his instructors to have his subjects invalidated.

While his Math 17 instructor was deleting his name from the class list, I could see the poverty, desperation, anger and sense of resignation in their faces. It was not the disappointment of winning the lottery and being denied the prize later. The young man is a member of a minority group in Mindanao. Without any connections and in the absence of any socialized admission policy, he qualified as a freshman in the College of Science of UP Diliman, a distinction he earned through intelligence, pure hard work and perseverance amid poverty. But in a few days, father and son are going back to Mindanao for good.

The father explained they could not afford the “socialized” tuition at P600 per unit for students in Bracket C, families whose annual incomes range from P135,001 to P500,000 per annum. The father and son expected to be in Bracket D, families with annual incomes ranging from P80,001 to P135,000. Students in bracket D pay P300 per unit.

UP president Emerlinda Roman seems to be disconnected from reality, or she must be fooling herself by insisting that the new Socialized Tuition and Financial Assistance Program (STFAP) is fair and proper for an “iskolar ng bayan” [scholar of the nation]. Her family should try living on P6,666.75 a month (which when multiplied by 12—the number of months in a year—equals P80,001, the lower bound of Bracket D incomes).

UP, no longer conscious of its role in society, chooses to ignore the long-term impact of offering greater genuine educational opportunities to the brightest among the poor, who are getting poorer amid the reported economic gains of the country. Socialized admission and tuition fee schemes do not lower academic standards. I’ve had countless students from public schools and far-flung provinces. They come to UP not as well prepared as their counterparts from the best schools in Metro Manila. But many later outshine the sometimes overconfident Manila-raised kids.

After the new STFAP took effect last year, UP is no longer an option for the brightest among the poor. I agree with the cab driver whose daughter qualified for UP Diliman, as narrated in Youngblood (Inquirer, 3/24/08) by Mariel Kierulf Asiddao, a UP Mass Communication student. The cab driver insisted it was ESTIFAK and not STFAP.

NOLI N. REYES, professor, Institute of Mathematics, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City

Ref: http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/letterstotheeditor/view/20080620-143711/UP-closed-to-brightest-of-poor

On Agrarian wREckFORM

2008-06-12T17:19:00.000-07:00

On June 10, Filipino peasants marked the 20th year of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) since its inception via Republic Act 6675 or the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) under the Aquino administration. Twenty years after, the picture in the countryside seemed to be the same two decades ago, or even worst , amidst blatant land conversion and manipulation under CARP.

Regardless of the issues that hound the program since its conception through its extension in 1998, present scenario may well distinguish the boon and bane of this measure.

As of 2008, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) accounted a remaining 1.8 million hectares of disposable lands, hence, the move to extend for another five years. With a P12 billion unexpended budget from the P162 billion total CARP allocation, a five year extension would just be enough, at least for land acquisition and distribution (LAD).

DAR claimed that the extension would only cover LAD. However, DAR Sec. Nasser Pangandaman's calculations seems to fall short of reality. Pangandaman boasted of an increase in annual target of distribution of land, from 100 thousand hectares prior to 2005 to 130 thousand hectares or more upon his assumption in DAR. But setting the 1.8 million hectares as jump off point, it would show that the 5 years extension is not enough without downplaying the extra effort that maybe exerted along the way. Or if we are to deduct the 600 thousand hectares assigned to DENR for disposal, and setting a generous 200 thousand hectares per annum distribution in 5 years means a balance of 200 thousand ha. of undisposed lands.

Closing its deadline, campaigns from various persuasions heightened and the people's attention is focused to Congress where a battle is highly anticipated. But early on, the Senate downplayed any moves for extension saying that CARP was ineffective and inutile from the beginning, and extending would be futile. Sen. Nene Pimentel challenged DAR to prove the effectivity of the program and submit to the Senate raw data.

While in the Lower House, several versions of pro and anti extension Bills were filed. Standing out were three versions, the Lagman, Beltran and Garcia versions. Ultimately, the Garcia version is flocked in by iconic landlords such as Iggy Arroyo, Garcia, Durano, Remulla, etc. and it called against extension. While the Lagman version calls for the 5-year extension, and almost similar to the proposals of Malacanang and DAR, supposedly with reforms. And the Beltran version, which is the Genuine Agrarian Reform Bill which seeks to put a halt to CARP and enact an overhauled program that would ensure immediate land distribution.

While each camps claim merits to their proposed measure, it would appear that choosing the best choice entails a closer look at the accomplishments, or rather disappointments of CARP. This post wont dwell on the details but on achieving its promises, of a COMPREHENSIVE land distribution. Then, let me just cite several cases of blatant manipulation into what progressive peasant groups called, the inutile, fake and pest program.

An almost 8,000 ha of prime of farmlands in Hacienda Looc in Nasugbu, Batangas were converted into an exclusive eco-tourism called Harbor Town developed by SM Properties as per Presidential order, thus displacing thousand of farmers, fisherfolks and residents within the hacienda.
Several thousands of hectares of land in Silang,Cavite, previously farmed for fruits and vegetables is now undergoing development into a word-class golf course owned by Ayalas, displacing hundreds of farmers. Part I(more details to follow)

Independence Day Notes

2008-06-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

::In the face of a grave moral turpitude, apathy is a sin and inaction is suicide. liberate yourself, free our nation.

::Letting CARP, die a natural death is conceiving a new life to the great mass of peasants who continuously fought for genuine agrarian reform.

::Arroyo's subsidy program is but a band-aid solution to the crisis, albeit, relieving the pain, the infection is persistently lethal.

::The confirmation of some cabinet members in the Commission on Appointments, amidst valid questions in legality of the process, entails a tyranny of the majority and of self interests, with respect to 2010.

::DAR's Nasser Pangandaman was short of his calculations in finishing off land acquisition and distribution (LAD) in the 5 years extension of CARP. Given a 150,000ha/annum LAD target, the target of 1.8 million hectares is far from reality. That is, the tragedy of simple arithmetic.

::Arroyo points to global market conditions as rationale to the rice crisis. She insisted, that there is no shortage of rice, only prices are high. A classmate of mine lamented, "All along, I was right. Supply and Demand theory is false."

::The AFP remarked as if pointing the blame to Ces Drilon and company for not coordinating with them in their way to Maimbung town, hence, their abduction. ABS-CBN might ask, where are the Military and Police Mobile Groups that time? You are pursuing the mountains but not securing the roads. How intelligent was your intelligence?

::Ironically, Noli de Castro hits 'oligarchs' in his Independence Day message saying, they are root to poverty. An urban poor cried, "traidor, isa ka naman sa kanila eh!. Mahirap na nga kami, nawala pa trabaho at bahay namin dahil sa demolisyon, upang bigyan daan ang subdivision ng mga Ayala, Sy."

Breaking Ironies

2008-06-06T00:16:00.000-07:00

Who could forget the fertilizer fund scam and Jocjoc Bolante?

While there has seemed to be a prevailing culture of amnesia and numbness around, Filipinos can't afford to forget the sins of Jocjoc Bolante. Its humble beginnings can be traced four years ago prior to the 2004 Presidential Elections, when GMA ordered the release of some P728 million of public funds to finance the distribution of fertilizers to aid farmers.

Timely as the need of farmers, that it also coincides with the campaign season. And GMA having the supposed authority over the program, channeled the funds through the Dept of Agriculture, under then, USEC Jocelyn Bolante. Complaints and probes later found out that there are indications that the fertilizer money have been diverted to the campaign funds of GMA herself, a factor which was seen to have boosted her campaign.

Malacanang then, obviously denied of any hand into the case, and put on the brunt to the then beleaguered Bolante. Afraid of prosecution pending Congressional probes and heightened public clout for transparency and accountability into the case, that Jocjoc (who was also then a top officer of Rotary Club in the counrty) left the country for the United States. Following the Senate investigation report finding Bolante as mastermind to the case, the US Embassy cancelled his visa, in which he lodged a legal challenge in the US.

After all options and alternatives were exhausted, Atty. Harry Roque, the persistent UP Law professor who sought after Bolante's prosecution, reported another blow in Bolante's application for asylum just last week, when the US Board of Immigration denied his appeal. Now, he has only one option of evading justice in the Philippines, that is a favorable decision from the US Federal Court, or ultimately, a failed extradition request by Philippine Authorities.

But DOJ Sec. Raul Gonzales, then silent on the issue, now expressed desperation in Bolante's case saying that he will be deported eventually. While for the Senate, the recent development signals another wave of struggle for accountability.

Much to the dismay of some lawmakers, Agriculture Committee Chair Sen. Angara is fed up to any further probes saying their investigations were completed already. On the other hand, the Blue-Ribbon Committee of Sen. Allan Cayetano expressed interest into another round of investigations, and ensuring the presence of Bolante in the Senate.

Meanwhile, the Ombudsman was reported to have found probable cause of pursuing corruption charges against Bolante, based on their investigation revealed just this week, which critics described as a 'show off' considering the 4 years elapsed time.

Ultimately,in the event Bolante would find himself back home sooner, and with some divine intervention he would speak out, many heads would surely roll up to the Palace. That if Bolante would still live by the Rotary's principle of "Is it the Truth?" and "Is it good for all?". But as a matter of anticipation, opposition lawmakers are looking closely at GMA's reaction, given her direct involvement as beneficiary of the funds.

Ironically though, at the height of this development comes GMA showcasing of another multi-million fertilizer subsidy program. Not to mention the P2 billion electricity subsidy and another 1 billion for education subsidy. To note, we are only a little less than two years before the 2010 elections.

More to this reservation of GMA's programs, which in the past is hounded and proven to have been the subject of corruption activities directly and indirectly involving her, is the anticipation and prevention of another wave of 'blatant theft of people's money', indicative of concernand lessons learned by a few lawmakers and advocates against corruption. In some terms, this is a slap in the face of ordinary farmers who are continuously lured into believing that GMA's reactionary government is of help to them by fronting more funds in there sector.

This development is but another opportunity to be conscious of our society and the evils that surrounds it, induced primarily by government itself. We must therefore remain mindful and closely watch the directions of this case. We can't afford any more to lose so much of peoples money for the gains of crocs, personified by Jocjoc Bolante. Otherwise, we might just woke up one day in 2010, having a Jocjoc Jr. in our midst. It's high time to break the ironies in this government.

FLAGdown Rate

2008-05-29T02:02:00.000-07:00

May 28, the country (with special mention to the province of Cavite) celebrated the National Flag Day. Purposely, statutes, like the National Flag Law, were enacted to serve the proper disposal of such a supposedly valued symbol, and once and for all, enshrine identity to the Philippine flag.

However, more than a century later, the evolutionary symbol of the country's independence is in the midst of serving a rather literal symbol than the value it originally repesents.

As a matter of refreshing our memories, each part of the Philippine flag has a specific meaning as follows: The blue field stands for common unity and the noble desires of the Filipino people. The white triangle with equal sides of the flag is symbolic of equality among men. The white field stands for purity. The sun stands for the gigantic strides that have been made by the Sons of the land on the road to progress and civilization. The eight rays of the sun in the triangle represent the first eight united provinces that revolted for independence - Batangas, Bulacan, Cavite, Laguna, Manila, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Tarlac. The three stars in the triangle stand for the three major geographical divisions of the country which are Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The red field symbolizes the eagerness of the Filipino people to shed blood in defense for their country.

Ironically, it seems that the ordinary Filipino rates this symbol as nothing but a piece of cloth, and only makes sense during this season. While the glorious symbol of the flag are usually gratified when Manny Pacquiao makes this sort of towel after making it through its bouts, or the Mt. Everest expedition, and as OFW puts it, a reminder of who they are.

At my age and as taught in school, i BELIEVE that the last of the honest-to-goodness displays of flag was more than a century ago in Cavite and probably during the subsequent and culminating resistance. Definitely, not during the bogus independence supposedly given by the United States in 1946, when the Philippine has to rise above the pole, while the US flag retreats, BUT, their grip over the country became a perpetual affair.

This culture of negligence against the flag entails something of a subculture-- of helplessness and neglect from government itself. Some basic rationale proposes that no amount of patriotism and nationalism could assimilate hunger and poverty. So goes with a kingdom or corrupted government, which cannot inspire a hundred soldiers and servants. When worst crimes are committed by the day, the flag is no less remains hopeful of utmost respect. In fact, I can't even remember of any single case of violation of the Flag Law.

But culture, like wisdom comes with age. I remain hopeful that someday in the near future, Filipinos would eventually take pride of treating the flag with so much aesthetics on it. This time, with a new flag, of a duly constituted government of, for, and by the people.

Anak ng Pawis

2008-05-27T19:31:00.000-07:00

Tao kang isinilang uring anakpawis

Talim mo’y samyo ng bawat hilab ng tiyan

Papanhik sa udtong tutok, sisilong sa kawalan

Sa lupa’y sasayad at sa gabi ay hahalik

Ngunit hahayo’t mangabubuhay di sa limot

Sa umagang kalayaan at katarungan ang dulot.

*Pagpupugay at huling pamamaalam kay Ka Bel.
Ika-27 ng Mayo 2008.

An Inconvenient Encounter

2008-05-25T01:40:00.000-07:00

"To the youth…that you may continue the struggle".-- Ka Bel

Many are deeply shocked and sincerely affected by the great loss of a foundation, a hero of the working class, and voice of the toiling masses, that was Crispin ‘Ka Bel’ Beltran, following an ironic incident in his house few days ago. His untimely demise gathered about reactions from different persuasions, and more so, from among his comrades in the labor sector and sympathizers in the working class.

We were on our way to Batasan Pambansa that day when I learned of the breaking news from a friend who works in a media monitoring NGO, shortly before his eventual death. Reading through my cell phone entailed an anxious and uncomfortable feeling. Of prayers, of wishes, and luck. Another message minutes later came, to read: ‘as of 11:48 am, Ka Bel died’. I remained silent, closed my eyes and started a recollection that passed through my mind for about two years now.

I had a first glimpse of Ka Bel on TV as early as elementary but remained clueless of The Man until I entered the university. His unwavering and relentless commitment to the struggle of the working class in the face of political persecution has inspired my personal standpoints of society.

My being active in political roundups and activities in the campus and outside brought me closer to meeting Ka Bel. If my memory serves me right, it was during the SONA 2005 mobilization at the stretch of Commonwealth Avenue that I had personally met him and have interviewed him for a then alternative campus publication. The brief conversation left me in awe seeing the courage and conviction in him.

Then the encounters came as often as I attended subsequent mass actions. At times, the lawmaker would visit the university for some speaking engagement, or en route to visiting mass sectors in the region.

But the remainder of that passive encounter concluded when at these times, two years ago, during our internship, we had the chance, to talk to him in person, in his hospital bed at the Philippine Heart Center where he was under hospital detention pending a rebellion charge and later dismissed by the Supreme Court. Really, it was a very inconvenient, but self satisfying encounter with Ka Bel, having passed through police security, and still managed to bring in our cameras for the said interview.

I say, it was a feat for me having slipped through state elements who at that time, keeping in an innocent man in that solitary room, although they’ve been cooperative that time.

And in the next thirty minutes or so, we engaged in a variety of topics, ranging from family, the labor struggle, his experiences, worries, and hopes and wishes, especially to the youth. That moment, I have seen before my eyes the different sides of Ka Bel. The flexibility in his voice and the humble smiles adds up to the wisdom that Ka Bel nurtured in his lifetime. His aging face, watery eyes, calloused hands and feet and weakening health condition are but reminders of his glorious and continuing past seeing the fruits of the struggle which he once led.

For some who may have encountered him in many ocassions would have experienced the same feeling and impact as we have, if it wasn’t for the unconventional circumstance that brought us together in that setting and setup.

Reaching Congress by lunchtime, I can sense some distress from within the surroundings as the news on his death spread. Just like any other deaths that I’ve encountered, good things are always remembered of the person. In Ka Bel’s case, a continuing act of goodness for the greater good never seizes in the memories and hearts of ordinary Filipinos. A conversation I’ve overheard later on that day, where a jeepney driver lamenting on ‘the outcome of Ka Bel’s proposal to lower electricity by removing E-VAT from it, now that he’s dead’, left me some sort of humble salutations.

The struggle continues.

*Memories with and tribute to Rep. Crispin ‘Ka Bel’ Beltran (1933-2008).

Grief Into Revolutionary Courage

2008-05-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

At exactly 11:48am today, Anakpawis (Toiling Masses) Partylist Representative Crispin Beltran better known as Ka Bel among his comrades succumed to an untimely death following an accidental fall in his house early this morning. He was 75.

CRISPIN BERTIZ BELTRAN
Worker. Statesman. Martyr.
1933-2008

Emancipation

2008-05-19T02:51:00.000-07:00

At 2:35 pm today, I've made a self serving feat of expression. Although it never went fully as planned, it goes without saying that I'm at bliss as of this writing. It surmounts the idea of equal satisfaction as it pounded a big sigh of relief from days of uncertainties. I'm not used with gestures of affection and the likes. I'd rather say things unblatantly than making it appear as if accomplishing something out of dictate. If I am to do it, I'd make it sure, it is kindled by that fiery feeling of say admiration. In this case, it was more than that.

Its been sometime since the last feeling was gone, at least a year after I entered the university. I couldn't imagine the futility inside me than waiting under a tree waiting for the fruit to fall. And here comes another unassuming subject of affection, but not really the previous feeling at all, hence, it went absurdly lost like a raging bull. But in all honesty, I've been very unfair to still hold to her without sense of affirmations whatsoever. But I decided to settle on a plain of intimate friendship. And it ends there.

I counted months thereafter before you arrived in this fountain of misery. I should describe it that way and at no cost. After all, the providence of aches and pains mean nothing to anyone other than myself. Unknowingly, it came to me as a surprise. I was limited of the view that it would came to pass. But pristine as it came, the feeling was nurtured in naturality to where it is now. And for two years now, the feeling remains. Nothing has changed. The only pitfall being, I don't know if she has changed. That continuously lingers on my imagination.

I learned she has been to much of personal struggles lately. But she remains the smarter fighter. By her looks, you can't find any traces of irregularities. But her eyes reflects it all. That I see to it to look straight into it and drain all the joys and pains altogether in my mind. It's nearly a month since I last saw that windows of her soul. As much, I've always wanted to have her around, but the two years of futility persistently fades that possibility. It came to my psyche that I should relinquish this mania for probabilities and certainties. On the other hand, I am already adapted to it. Whichever comes first, I'd be okay with that.

If she is the future, I could settle for that. If she really is not bound, then I'd gratefully accept that. My only consolation is having explored the possibility of sparing a part of me for quiet some time. I have lived through these times, and I said earlier, it'll remain. That I have onced loved, and that would lingers on me forever. At least at this point in time, I paved a way for emancipation.The path being, if time allows, a commencement of an end.

Couldn't wish you more than bliss.

One step higher, closer ...

2008-05-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

After several months of painstaking advocacy work, the PCARRD-DOST led efforts in pushing for the enactment of House Bill 3270 or the technology Transfer Act of 2008 initially paid off following the finalization of its revised and refined version before the House Committee on Science and Technology yesterday. Present were Reps. Abaya (1st Dist., Cavite) and Piamonte (A-Teacher Partylist) who are Chair and Vice-Chair respectively, Atty. Eugene Perez of IPO Phil, Atty. Celia Villanueva, DOST Consultant, USEC de la Pena and ASEC Yorobe (DOST), DOST and PCARRD personnel, Atty Gumpal of DA-BAR, Dr. Garcia of BIOTECH-UPLB, and Dr. Ramos of Intitute of Physics-UP Diliman. It is expected to be presented to the S&T Committe on May 20 for its 2nd Reading and approval of the Committee. Proponents are in high hopes that the House version will push smoothly, and are working hard to do the same in the Senate.

AFP’s bad boy emeritus

2008-05-11T23:04:00.000-07:00

from Miriam Coronel Ferrer's EYES SEE in abs-cbnnews.com
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With the ravage brought about by the once tagged as Berdugo aka Brigadier Gen. Jovito Palparan in recent years in Mindoro, Samar and Bulacan and created a chilling effect across the country, here is the dishonorable man again, making noise from his own insenuations of arrogance and display of ruthlessnes. Really, an evil is despised by another evil. Jovi now finds himself fighting against his own mistahs and former subordinates in the military following the row in a Zambales port. Read on Gen. Jovito Palparan .

Advocating Technology Transfer

2008-05-11T22:32:00.000-07:00

This is one my first writeups in PCARRD. With nothing to really highlight these times, I suppose I'm kind enough to share the inputs I made in promoting this proposed legislation.
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PCARRD advocates technology transfer

Cognizant of the need for a strengthened and institutionalized technology transfer policy framework, PCARRD is currently at the forefront in the inter-agency and multi-sectoral advocacy for the enactment of the Technology Transfer Bill pending before the Committee on Science and Technology at the House of Representatives and the Committee on Trade and Commerce at the Senate, respectively.

House Bill (HB) 3270, otherwise known as “An Act Providing the Framework and Support System for the Ownership, Management, Use, and Commercialization of Intellectual Property Rights Derived from R&D Funded by Government” or the Technology Transfer Act of 2008 was conceived to bring in more technologies accessible to end-users through a clear and sound policy legislation on technology transfer and adoption, especially those derived from government-funded research and development initiatives. Proponents of the proposed bill are Rep. Joseph Emilio Abaya and Sen. Edgardo Angara, Chairmen of the S&T Committees in both Houses.

This policy advocacy initiative of DOST cropped up in 2006 upon request of Sec. Estrella F. Alabastro for the drafting of a technology transfer policy framework that would serve as basis of policy makers in formulating a technology transfer policy and would resemble that of the Bayh Dole Act in the US. This further recognizes that efficiency in the area of technology transfer has now become a benchmark in scaling the technological readiness and competitiveness of countries, in line of the tremendous global innovation efforts.

In the Philippines, however, an apparent scenario in our innovation system has shown weakness in the process of transferring and commercializing these innovations across clients and intended audiences. Moreover, the country also has yet to reach a status of technological readiness and innovative capacity relative to its neighbors.

This is evident in the recent Global Competitiveness Report (2006-2007) showing the country places 71^st among 125 countries in terms of technological readiness and ability to adopt technologies from different sources. Thus, it hinders utilization of research and development (R&D) results to its full potential, notwithstanding the fact that key activities of this kind emanate from government institutions. A favorable atmosphere along policy lines would then be instrumental to averting this gap.

HB 3270 primarily provides for a national backbone and framework that would push technology generation and application to its maximum potential through efficient and coordinated transfer capability around the country and provide for opportunities and regulation thereof. The proposed bill likewise aims to promote commercialization of intellectual property rights resulting from R&D across sectors. It underscores the relative advantage of technology transfer as a driving force for innovation competitiveness in the region.

The enactment of this proposed bill into law would ultimately pave the way for increased revenue generation and benefits on R&D institutions; maximize researches, which otherwise remain unexploited, to generate jobs; avail of more research collaborations between private and public sectors; and secure added quality and reputation to the institution.

Early on, nationwide multi-sectoral consultations on the proposed bill have been conducted to consider inputs from local counterparts. Concerned government agencies were also conferred to scrutinize the bill. Alongside, a massive information, education, and education campaign and media publicity was carried out to ensure broad awareness and support.

Since its formal filing in Congress late last year, the proposed bill has already gone a long way. A series of public hearings and inquiries into the bill have been done at the House Committee level where Rep. Abaya also seats as Chairman. In the last three months, marathon workshops of the Technical Working Group (TWG) organized by the House Committee on S&T were held to discuss the refinements of HB 3270 until its finalization last May 15, 2008.

Although the Senate version (Senate Bill 1721) introduced by Sen. Angara has not moved significantly, PCARRD and its advocacy partners are looking forward for its eventual ratification in the Upper Chamber. In fact, a Legislative Forum on Technology Transfer is being scheduled at the Senate this coming June.

The proposed legislation is also jointly endorsed by the Departments of Science and Technology, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, Health, Trade and Industry, and the Interior and Local Government, Commission on Higher Education, National Commission on Indigenous People, the University of the Philippines, and the Intellectual Property Office Philippines.

Bahid ng Hinayang

2008-05-02T00:32:00.000-07:00

--Pilit ko mang ilibing sa puntod ng aking isipan ang sigwang dulot ng pusong humihikab ng diwang pag-ibig, sa muli't muli'y patuloy itong sumisikad sa pag-asang mapapawalan ng isipang pilit sumasamyo sa diwang gising--

Sa kalamigan ng paligid ng Cordillera aking napagtanto ang pasyang pilit kong iniiwasan. Sa tinatagal-tagal ng panahon na bumilang ng halos tatlong taong pagtitimpi sa damdaming gising. At ngayon ay mananahan na sa kasaysayan ng isipang patuloy na kumukompas sa tunguhin ng pag-ibig. Huli na ito, ayoko ko nang maramdam muli ang ganitong damdamin. Hindi kanino man kundi para sa isang kaluluwang nagbigay sa akin ng pasakit, mga pag-aalala at sang butil ng luha, ngunit nagdudlot naman ng ibayong kaligayang walang pagsidlan.
Ang luhang ibinuhis sa ngalan ng tapat na damdaming pilit itinitimpi ay katumbas ng sanlaksang pangakong dapat sana'y aking nabitawan sa mga sandaling tayo'y hawak kamay sa dako roon. Ang kabang maya't maya'y bumabalot sa saplot ng aking kutis sa tuwing ika'y nasisilayan ay nagbabadya ng tensyong manindigan sa alay na pag-ibig, at lampasan ang mga hamon sa gitna ng kawalan. At higit sa lahat ang hapdi ng kirot ng karamdamang hindi mo nadadama san mang dako ng iyong pisikal na katawan ngunit tagos hanggang buto ang hirap at sakit. Maaring ito'y kalabisan ng sitwasyon sa konteksto ng realidad, ngunit ito ay pagtanto sa tamang daan na dapat sana ay tatahakin ng isang taong nabubuhay sa kaligayahan. Ano mang klase ng hirap at hinayang ang abutin ko, patuloy akong sasamyo at luluhod sa payo ng puso ko, sang ayon sa kalagayang taos ang hangarin ko sayo. Ngunit kahit ang busilak na kalagayang ito ay hindi nangangahulugang lulundo sa kaligayahan, ngunit mas pa ang sakit na dulot ng pag-ayaw at pagtalikod ng kaluluwang pinagukulan.
At sino ba ang dapat masisi? Ang pusong umaasa sa hinaharap o ang isipang mapagbigay at kumukuha ng sandaling tugma sa pagbulalas nga mga wikang pag-ibig. Kung sana lang ay nahinuha niya ito, kung sana'y nagbigay siya ng daan sa pagpapatawad at paumanhin at kung sana'y di na siya nagpakita ng kagandahan at kabaitan, di sana'y naibuhos ko na ang damdaming ito sa ibang katauhan; di sana'y umusad na ang pusong bigo at puno ng hinayang; di sana'y napawi ko na sa ulirat ko ang ideyang ikaw ang nasa unahan ng aking isipan. Kung sana di tayo magkaibigan, di na dapat ako lalayo.

*Pilit kung ipinaparamdam ang damdaming gising, ngunit patuloy niyang pinapawi ito. Ramdam ko sa mga sandaling iyon ang di kasiguruhan sa puso niya, at may pilit humihimpil dito. SA huli ko malalamang, katulad ng luhang aking ibinuhos, sanlaksang luha din ang kanyang sinayang sa kaluluwang ligaw na patuloy gumagambala sa puso niya. Ang malinaw, hindi ako yon. Panghihinayang ang namamayani sa akin ngayon. At ito'y lalatak sa aking landas magpakailan man.

Mid-Summer Dream

2008-05-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

I should have reaped the fruits of courage and persistence if only its that easy to expose your realities. But unless you take on the challenge, the feat is but a journey a way from your doorstep. To my mind, I can't bear seeing the daily contradictions happening around this tiny midst of reality. The sky is blue, and wide up to the stream of inception where the feeling of lowliness emanates from the most delirious insignificance that one could feel in his lifetime. To pursue a dream is a feat itself. Along its way however are streams of infallible persuasions that confine the very core of self expression. Tight as it could, it held my heart until it crushes before my seemingly insurmountable ireverence to live up to the expectations dictated upon by externalities. And tonight, I dreamed of you. Puzzled, I came to your rescue. You faded from a far, and yet there I was in a hurdle of letting your warm body reflect before the sight of men. Able and nicest with time, you whispered in some uncomprehensible language-- a deliverance from your honest heart. While I in my solitude, wept before your divine eyes. And foreover, I'll be in denial.

CORRUPTION KILLS

2008-04-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

After browsing through with this column, I can't help but repost it here (without permission, but with due enthusiasm and understood permission from its writer) to put emphasis on the same line of views that I share. I'm very keen on adopting articles, ensuring that they are in lined with my persuations and set of beliefs, at the time being and this is one perfect and simple example. Given the undeniably painful genocide inflicted on the Filipino people via the rice shortage, we simply cannot ignore the glaring reality of having corruption in both ends of that seemingly futile crisis in the country's staple food. As I put it in my status messages (YM) recently, a simple equation for a natural method of genocide is, Corruption + Globalization = RICEssion. And given the scenario stated herein, I can't help but to rethink again of a fishy rollercoaster ride on the crisis itself, to redirect the attention of the people from the corruption scandals that consistently hound GMA's administration. I won't be elaborating more on this, I still have to buy rice for lunch.

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Theres The Rub
By Conrado de Quiros

"A pickpocket or snatcher is cornered in Quiapo or Cubao and he is beaten black and blue by an irate crowd. Why then do we not react the same way to thieves in government?"

The rice crisis may yet do something for us. That is to give a face to corruption. That is to make us grasp the crushing weight of corruption. That is to make us see that corruption kills.

For several years now, I’ve written about a problem we’ve always had. That is problem of why we are angry at petty thieves but indifferent to big-time ones.

We do not lack for violent feelings against thieves. Whether it’s the Tagalog word “magnanakaw,” or the more explosive Visayan word “kawatan,” it carries with it the weight of contempt. The “violent feelings” is often literal. A pickpocket or snatcher is cornered in Quiapo or Cubao and he is beaten black and blue by an irate crowd. Half the time he cheats death only by the skin of his teeth. We do loath magnanakaw and kawatan, and we punish them with the harshness their crime deserves.

Why then do we not react the same way to thieves in government? Political and Economic Risk Consultancy has classified us as the most corrupt country in Asia for the last two years, and yet we do not seem sufficiently roused by it. The national broadband network (NBN) scandal has just unfolded before our eyes, the size of the “bukol” [bulge] or what is being stolen from us running into billions of pesos, and yet we do not seem sufficiently incensed by it. Of course, we’ve expressed our indignation and held rallies over it, but at the end of the day we’ve done nothing about it comparable to beating up a pickpocket or snatcher within an inch of his life.

The explanation I’ve come up with for this behavior consists of two things. One, the bigger the theft, the more abstract it becomes. Snatching a woman’s purse is immediate and hits us in the guts. Stealing a billion pesos is remote and hits us in no particular place. Snatching a purse is theft. Stashing a billion pesos is—a bank transaction.

Two is that the bigger the theft, the more we imagine we are not the victim. Someone snatches a woman’s purse and we join others in chasing the snatcher, feeling victimized ourselves. A public official steals a billion pesos and we shrug our shoulders, feeling the crime is against the residents of Timbuktu. We do not see that corruption is just a fancy way of saying, “They’re goddamn stealing our money from us!”

The rice crisis offers an opportunity to educate the public in this respect. It offers an opportunity to show a hungry populace that corruption is just a fancy way of saying, “They’re goddamn stealing our food from us!”

This opportunity comes not least from government’s own efforts to make thieves a special object of hate by the public. That is what the warnings against hoarders and the periodic raids of grain warehouses are meant to do. It is meant to show that hoarders are magnanakaw and kawatan who are completely monstrously plucking the food from the mouths of the hungry. Of course, it is also meant to show that government is heroically trying to save the public from them.

It is a huge gamble. Government is obviously banking on the principle above that the small is easily seen and the big is not, that petty thievery directly harms us while epic thievery does not, that things like hoarding rice make people hungry while things like the NBN do not. It’s a dangerous ploy, and one that’s bound to explode in government’s face.

That is so because the rice, or food, crisis is no ordinary one. It is quite literally a gut issue, “malapit sa bituka” [close to the gut], as we say. It is a matter of life and death. Of course, lack of classrooms is a matter of life and death too, but that is too subtle to be appreciated by the poor whose lives revolve around more urgent needs. Lack of medicines, or costly medicines, is a matter of life and death too, but not everyone is sick at the same time and in desperate need of them. It’s the lack of food, or worse having food but not being able to afford it, that is a matter of life and death and affects everyone at the same time. That is especially so since this crisis is not a temporary or cyclical one. Thanks to government’s insane policy of importing rice instead of producing it presumably because it’s cheaper, that crisis threatens to be one of untold length and severity.

You are waiting your turn in a long line under a smoldering sun to buy a kilo of rice, you are going to feel personally victimized by all thieves, whether those are the thieves that hoard rice in their secret granaries or the thieves that hoard cash from the “kaban ng bayan” [public coffers] in their secret pockets. If the hypocrisy of threatening small rice traders with imprisonment and promising big crooks with aggrandizement doesn’t immediately strike you, you can count on the NGOs, the farmers’ groups, and everyone who stand aghast at this cheekiness to help you see it.

Frankly, I don’t know why those of us who fulminated against the NBN and Malacañang distributing half a million pesos to bishops and congressmen on Palace grounds have not yet mounted a campaign to show how those sums alone translate into the number of farmlands that could have had irrigation, the quantity of seeds that could have been made available to farmers, the amount of subsidy that could have allowed government to buy dear from local farmers and sell cheap to consumers. I don’t know why we have not yet mounted a campaign to show that if the impact of hoarding by unscrupulous traders has been to raise rice prices by so much, then the impact of all the crooks returning the people’s money to the people would be to lower rice prices by so much. I don’t know why we have not yet mounted a campaign to show how corruption is the worst form of hoarding there is: it does not just hit Juan de la Cruz in his head and heart, it hits him in his stomach, it does not harm “other people” it harms us.

I don’t know why we haven’t yet mounted a campaign to show corruption kills.
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Reference: PDI

http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20080423-132092/Corruption-kills

2008-04-21T20:30:00.001-07:00

2008-04-21T20:24:00.000-07:00

STOP JPEPA!
STOP GMO!
STOP CLIMATE CHANGE

Adlaw sa Kapupud-an.

Araw ng Inang Kalikasan.
Earth Day.
Mea Culpa, Mother Earth.

GMA's alter ego is new Civil Service chief

2008-04-21T20:03:00.000-07:00

Ano ang mapapala ng sangka-burokrasyahan at ng mga taong gubyerno sa pag-upo ni Sec. Ricardo Saludo sa Komisyon ng Serbisyo Sibil. Matatandaang mainit na tagasuporta, tagapagsalita at tagapagtanggol si Saludo ni GMA nang bumulaga ang mga anomalya sa Hello Garci!, Fertilizer Scam, at ZTE Deal. Kahit pa sabihing quasi-judicial body ang CSC, hindi maiaalis ang bias sa mga polisiya ng kanyang kasalukuyang amo at nag-appoint pa sa kanya. Nagbabadya rin ito ng dagok maging sa mga vocal at naninindigan na mga empleyado ng gubyerno tulad ng COURAGE, Health Alliance for Democracy at maging ng Alliance of Concerned Teachers sa pamamagitang ng panggigipit at persekusyon. Ang sistematikong pagkontrol ng mga kaalyado ni GMA sa mga sangay ng pamahalaan ay patunay ng kanyang pagkagahaman sa kapangyarihan at walang kawalan ng delicadeza sa mga mga mas karapat-dapat na mga career officials sa CSC. Eh kung tutuusin, hindi nga siya career official at pawang political appointments pa ang posisyon niya sa gubyerno, papano pa niya maiangat ang morale ng mga rank and file employees at third-level position personnel kung heto't ang mismong namamahala sa civil service ay hindi lubusang kwalipikado pero naging administrador. Slogan ng CSC, "Mamamayan muna, Hindi mamaya na!"....asa pa.

LINK: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=115689

Reference: abs-cbnnews.com

Stand Out

2008-04-20T22:39:00.000-07:00

StarBucks Coffee stand tall over its competitors in the local market.Highly favored. Infamous. High Priced. Personifies,

Imperialism.

Jeers.

A Literal FEETish

2008-04-20T21:52:00.000-07:00

Feetishness, literally. .
Hindi ko alam kung papanong nagkaroon ako ng pagkahumaling sa parte ng paa. Nagsimula siya ng maglitrato ako ng aking paa in sepia, at kung merong kung anong pagkagusto ko sa paa simula noon. Kaya't regular ng subject ng mga kuha ko ang mga paa, lalo na ang paa ko. Maaring may dahilan ang pagkahumaling na io, marahil ito ay nauugat sa teoryang siko-analisis ni Freud, na tumutukoy sa mga kasanayang may direktang kinalaman sa mga gawi mo noong musmos ka pa lang. Ano kaya ang ibig-sabihin nito sa buhay ko? Verum est, totoo ba ito?

"I’d rather eat rice than drink oil": Rethinking the Bio-Fuels Act

2008-04-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

Over the news, Sen. Rodolfo Biazon has called on the suspension of the Bio-Fuels Act (BFA) of 2007 as a preemptive measure to put a halt to massive land conversion to the detriment of rice farming. Enacted in January last year, this brainchild legislation of then Rep. Miguel Zubiri (Bukidnon) now senator was applauded and it's even at the forefront of his campaign en route to the upper chamber. Although doubts and counter-arguments against the Act have mushroomed following its eventual ratification, it was only recently that serious calls for its abolition, or at least suspension were ejaculated from various persuasions due to the rice shortage phenomenon.

If we may recall, early last year, Zubiri and Sen. Miriam Santiago has come in bad terms following uncalled remarks from the latter regarding the inviability and unpromising venture into bio-fuels. Later on, several experts in agriculture published a critic on the Act citing inefficiency and implications to food security and the environment. However, Zubiri dismissed these as mere persuaded opinions, and there were even accusations pointing to oil companies as behind the campaign. I am fortunate enough to have known one of those courageous subject matter experts who come into open to reveal his side of truth , based on research and scientific projections.

Dr. Teodoro Mendoza, scientist and professor at the College of Agriculture, UP Los Banos decried earlier claims by BFA proponents on the promises of the program. He also cited recommendations in addressing the loopholes in the law and or in the program. And from what I remembered, at the height of its deliberations and debates in Congress, Sir Ted had been discussing to us (under AGRI 121, Ecological Agriculture) his position and due alternatives to the supposed fuel efficiency agenda behind the Act. But then, given the promises of Bio-Fuels, lawmakers submitted to it. The same lawmakers, even GMA (applauded the legislation and I think certified it as urgent), who now calls on stopping land conversion activities all over the country.

As second thought, indeed, sometimes, we get to see only the promising side of things, like the projected benefits of bio-fuels. We, or at least some Filipinos are attuned to reactionary terms of affirming policy perspectives like energy security and efficency, and bypassing its eventual implications to other industries or even to nature. We consider immediacy over domino effect-laden venture like propagation of bio-fuels producing cash crops such as Oil Palm and Jatropha. For one, we have partly 'mis'-inspired the success of bio-fuels in Brazil and in other Latin American countries cum largest producers of ethanol and other bio-fuels since these countries are literally large in terms of land area. Brazil for instance (the 5th largest? country in land area), has to clear thousands of acres within or adjacent to the Amazon forests to give way to bio-fuels production. Besides,they aren't largely dependent on single crop like rice, as staple food.

Still, given the triumph of Brazil on bio-fuels, this only fueled another apparent environmental crisis in the country pertaining to the massive clearing of lands, that even recent official reports from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned of uncertainties in bio-fuels production in that region. This is apart from projections on the effect on climate change, since propagation of bio-fuel crops takes in high quantity inputs (fertilizers, pesticides,etc.).

Now, as the Philippines is confronted by a policy-driven perennial rice crisis, it is imperative and just high time to again assert that above all, Filipinos need food security, second is energy security if that's the wish of others. Sen. Biazon is right to coin, "I’d rather eat rice than drink oil". And from a retired general at that, this is a slap on the face of agriculture-proponents in congress. To recall, they are the one's who co-sponsored and co-authored the Bill, and aggressively campaigned for its passage. And in the midst of a food security disorientation, these same officials enjoin the call to halt land conversion, to increase rice production, and run after hoarders and cartel players.

At the end of the day, rice is inexcusably far from mixing with oil, just like water. The principle behind being, the rice floats in oil,and when you fire on the oil, it wouldn't cook the rice,as we it it, rather, it burns it. While we explore on sustainability and security of energy, we should never lose sight of our priorities. Not at the cost of misleading the hopes of the Filipinos for a far-from-reach benefits, while laying dead waiting.

Related Story: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=115216

Taludturang 4D

2008-04-13T18:21:00.000-07:00

Di ko matantya ang panahon
Dati’y isang dahop lang ay angkin ko na
Dalit ng pangamba’y naiwala pa
Dulot ay ibayong hinayang, inis, lungkot at luha.

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bunga ng tigang at malikot na isip na hangad pa rin ay
katahimikan sa piling ng kaluluwang pinagnasaan>>>

Bayo nga Gisi (Tattered Shirt)

2008-04-09T18:27:00.000-07:00

Bayo ko nga gisi sanglit isa lamang (My tattered shirt,my only one)
Akon nga ubahon kay nanay palabhan (I'll take it off for mother to wash)
Akon nga isuksok daw indi makusuan (I'll wear it but it seemed unwashed)
Asta makalambot sa amon bolothoan. (Until I reach school)

Oras nga mag-recess kami mapahuway (During break time, we get to rest)
Iban nga kabataan nagabakal tinapay (Other children buy food)
Nagatulok lang ako sing masinulub-on (Sadly, I look at them with envy)
Si nanay si tatay wala ipabalon. (My mother and father have no money to spear)

Imol man ang iban nalaksan guid kami (If others are poor, we were really out of fate )
Walang sing pagkaon, wala sing pameste (We hardly get food and clothes)
Igo makatilaw kan-on tyimpo tig-alani (Only during harvest season where we get to ech much)
Kon tig-tugom gani, kayos kag kamote. (During lean season,we just eat root crops)

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A very relative rural folks song, reflective of the nuances in the society (in Panay); mainly of poverty and hunger. While this song found its abode in the minds of the once poor people in Panay (to include my mother's family), it continuously points at pressing crisis at the moment. A reminder to me of a once unfateful community and generation coming to pass, still with no way to go until today. History haunts.

*my mother taught us this song since I was a kid.

Pagpit-os Sang Alimpatakan

2008-04-08T04:25:00.000-07:00

Sang akon paglantaw, ara siya; (At first glance, she ws there)
Sunod ko nga pag-lili, wala na. (On my next view, she was gone)
Ginpangita ko, baw, ato gali sa pihak; (I looked for her, and found nearby)
May upod na nga iban. (With someone else)
Gakaptanay pa sing kamot; (Holding hands)
Masulub-on ako. (I'm melancholic)

Church and cause-oriented groups in Southern Tagalog hold caravan against corruption, joins Inter-Faith Prayer Rally in Makati despite harassments

2008-03-23T04:53:00.000-07:00

United under the regional broad alliance STOP NA!, various sectors across Southern Tagalog composed of lawyers, students, urban poor, church and other cause-oriented groups, including railway-dwellers and victims of demolition brought about by the $932 million Southrail Project held a Caravan for Truth, Justice and Accountability en route to the Inter-faith rally in Makati City last February 29.

STOP NA (Southern Tagalog Organization and People’s Network Against Corruption, Poverty and Attack on People’s Rights) is a regional broad alliance conceived last February 25 by organizations and individuals against corruption.

Some 20-30 vehicles from different provinces in the region hit the road in the symbolic event, which commenced in Crossing, Calamba City at around 8AM and pushed through to Makati City later in the afternoon inspite harassments by PNP personnel.

Early on, the group staged a prayer vigil for truth and justice, attended by around 200 protestors from various parts of Southern Tagalog in Crossing, Calamba City last February 28, alongside the simultaneous protest actions in Lucena City, UP Los Banos and Pacita Complex. It also served as the converging point of the group before pushing to Makati.

According to Pastor Joel Tendero, spokesperson of STOP NA!, that the caravan is a way of showing solidarity with other sectors who advocates fighting corruption and in support of star witness Jun Lozada.

“We need to show to the Arroyo government that people from the province are even more against corrupt officials than in Manila, especially that many poor families reside in the provinces due to rampant corruption and the rotten system of government”, he said.

Arman Albarillo, secretary-general of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan-Southern Tagalog (BAYAN-ST) meanwhile insisted that Arroyo should vacate her post considering her abuses against the people.

”The Arroyo government deserves no more chance. If people afforded to set aside the 2004 Election scandal and other unsolved corruption cases like the Fertilizer Fund scam, then the ZTE-NBN Deal will not spear her as people find more basis to demand her ouster”, he added.

Bani Cambronero, convenor of STOP NA! cited a blatant case of corruption under the Southrail Project where around 20, 000 families along the railways will soon be displaced.

“This anomalous project is one of the many projects where the First Family had made their share of wealth. In fact, the government has targeted a complete demolition within the year to facilitate their kickbacks”, he added.

On their way to Makati however, operatives from the Calamba City Philippine National Police, Traffic Management Group (TMG), including Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams blocked their entry along National Highway in Brgy. San Cristobal, Calamba City at around 9AM. At least four police cars occupied the road allowing a total blockade of the national road preventing ordinary commuters to pass the area. Police cited conflicting reasons for blocking the group, claiming traffic violation, standard procedure for a red alert status, and security concerns.

The stand-off lasted for almost 5 hours before the group receded and find a route off to Makati. The harassment continued along the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) where another TMG personnel attempted to stop and chase the group but the protesters managed to evade them.

The group later arrived in Makati at around 5PM and joined the 80, 000 crowd calling for Arroyo’s ouster.

Meanwhile, the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) in a statement condemned the coordinated harassments and sought legal action against the PNP. Rally organizers also plans file similar charges before the Commission on Human Rights (CHR).

GMA's Bane in Her Kind of Democracy

2008-03-10T22:27:00.001-07:00

And now the end is near…

It would happen anytime soon if we are to make it possible. The end of tyranny; of corruption; of prolonged suffering; of political subjugation; of civil unrest, at least under the reigns of no less than the fascist government of GMA. It’s been eight years since EDSA II and yet its fruits were yielded to rotting. The promise of EDSA II was put in vain, and even worst, the inspiration left by EDSA I, the pioneer people uprising elsewhere. But let’s look at some scenarios surrounding this controversy.

Economic leap in 30 years

Few weeks ago, the unassuming economic men of GMA declared history in terms of the country’s economic growth in the past three decades, surpassing the Tiger economy boasted by then President Ramos. More to this, they said that our economy is as of the moment, the most stable and viable economy in the continent, even at the onset of a looming US recession. Really, GMA works in mysterious ways. But then the bottom line of the economy boils down to how the people see and feel such breakthrough. We can’t live by the numbers alone, but by every pound of food; the earning in every available work and the services due to us.

Economy by the numbers is no less than digging into a treasure pit and letting your neighbors get them out. Impressive as it may sound but the ordinary Filipino has to eat and survive by the day. The economic growth must be felt. It must convert to food, to work, to social services and the likes. These are the simple things poor Filipinos aspire everyday from the established government. They deserve of these simple treasures. But present scenario is far from reality.

Alongside the news of an economic turn around, here comes a complete cycle of chronic and acute corruption in GMA’s government. Direct links to GMA have also been established or at least her immediate family. And just recently, no less, she admitted a flaw of the China-based deal prior to signing it, but true to being advocate of maximum tolerance (popular in law enforcement agencies), yet she allowed this to proceed, and if not for the strong souls of writer Jarius Bondoc, Vice-Gov. Rolex Suplico, Joey and recently Jun Lozada, GMA and her cohorts (Abalos, Neri, her husband, and company) may have been reflecting up to now on how to spend such a fortune. Sometimes, divine intervention really works, and again, pre-empting the self-perpetrated (meaning government) corruption or what I call corruption-politics. For all they’re vested self-interest, they get what they deserve from the beginning.

The people are exhausted of ‘people power’

Indeed some may assume that Filipinos are physically tired of another people power, but they are never ever blinded by the prevailing acute corruption and political conquest of the Arroyo regime. While the Palace maintains stability, all the more that voices from across sectors and persuasions reverberate in different democratic grounds (Mendiola, Welcome Rotonda, EDSA Shrine,etc. and now Ayala Avenue) and the media, including house of worships and faith. USEC Golez is confident of proclaiming that the silent majority in the countryside is by the president, but which majority is he talking about if only their cohorts in the local governments (Leagues of Towns, Cities, Provinces, and ULAP) are speaking for themselves and making out of their caprices, and not on behalf of their constituents. Golez even downplayed the recent Interfaith Rally, the biggest so far after the ZTE scandal, that there are 80 million plus Filipinos and the 80 thousand souls present, including those who faced harassments along their way, is not reflective of people’s sentiments. Shame to this better turned bitter alter ego of GMA for he inflict so much remorse to his master, such that instead of plain and simple defense, Golez seemed to downplay the clout at the cost of desecrating the essence of the 500 thousand people-driven EDSA 2, which by the way is not all reflective of the 80 million Filipinos. But in God’s mercy, GMA was enthroned in the Palace because of that popular movement. He should then go to hell with GMA instead.

As long as corruption in government, remarkably under GMA administration (Fertilizer scam, PIATCO deal, IMPSA deal, FG account, Macapagal Boulevard, etc.), the rest of the Filipinos won’t lose sight of the beauty of fighting evil. Underestimating the aspirations of ordinary Filipino is an irreversible mistake for the administration. It only takes a critical turn somewhere, and history will repeat itself.

Do the loco ‘Cha-Cha’ or Snap Elections

True to its musical anatomy, the literal cha-cha dance steps come in at intervals. Just like the Cha-Cha or Charter Change of the Palace. Whenever controversies hound GMA, Cha-Cha always comes to play and stops when tension subsides, and many politicians go with its tune. In spite of a Supreme Court ruling halting the constitutional amendment through people initiative, here comes newly installed House Speaker Boy Nograles recalling calls for Cha-Cha via Constituent Assembly. Whichever their agenda, it’s as clear as moonlight that this is diversionary tactics to sway the focus of people away from the ZTE-Lozada scandal, or if it were successful, GMA may enjoy a term extension to pave way for a parliamentary con federal form of government. Moreover, Cory came to the rescue and with aid from CBCP, she asserted a blockade to the new Cha-Cha moves.

Rep. Edno Joson (Nueva Ecija) for his part calls for a snap elections. For the sake of getting rid with GMA and Noli de Casto, and given that they both resign to give way for the snap polls, who will then contend for the vacant post. How sure are we that they wouldn’t come from the lineage of GMA? That maybe a quick way of getting rid with GMA but questions on its legality and viability lies within the discretion of the court. Besides, calling for one is giving due advantage to the administration given its resources. It may even legitimize GMA later on if the winner comes from her allies.

THE ARGUMENTS FOR INACTION

2008-02-22T00:16:00.001-08:00

This is a column from former UP College of Law Dean Raul Pangalangan (PDI, 22/02/08) citing his (I share mine) arguments of inaction re: the current clout for GMA's removal. Indeed Dean Pangalangan did a bull's eye of the common inference people have on the present situation of hopelessness and tiredness from previous mass revolutions. Yet at the hindsight, this entry captured a transcendental logic (moral, legal,practical, philosophical grounds) to arrest apprehentions and reservations of people pertaining to the issue of a new people power uprising and ousting a morally and legally corrupted government. This warrants understanding and heed for conscience, if we believe in one. Kudos!

______________________________________________________________________

By Raul Pangalangan
Philippine Daily Inquirer

You’ve heard the sensible argument: “‘Hanggang 2010 na lang naman.’ [It’s only until 2010.] Why the rush?” My answer: If Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo stays in power until 2010, she will remain in power after 2010. She and her cabal have transgressed the law so often now while they are in the saddle. There is simply too much at stake at too high a risk for them to dismount and freely relinquish power to a new president. Imagine her thinking: Why will I allow myself to be in Joseph Estrada’s shoes? Surely she dreads the full wallop of karmic revenge.

Even if we go through the ritual of a presidential election in 2010, at the very least, she will ensure that a brand-new ombudsman will be in place to immunize her and her family from culpability for the next seven years. In other words, she will continue the prostitution of our republican institutions.

Just look at our law enforcement agencies. Rodolfo Noel Lozada Jr. testified under oath about a $130 million commission and Neri about a P200 million bribe (who reported it to the President, who in turn did nothing), about his kidnapping by the very police sworn to protect us, and now about the half-million pesos given to him by a Malacañang lawyer -- and what do they do? They talk about charging Lozada’s wife with perjury! Susmaryosep. By the time Ms Arroyo goes, she will have debased the Republic, and made a total wreck of our constitutional order.

The second argument is: “Away ng mga fixer lamang ’yan.” [“It’s just a brawl among fixers.”] Why indeed should we involve ourselves in a brawl over illicit commissions? My answer: Precisely because it takes a thief to catch a thief, and we must embrace this long-awaited fissure within the ruling elites. In fact, I’d like to see Rep. Jose de Venecia explain why the conspirators in the national broadband network (NBN) deal with China’s ZTE Corp. kept on insisting on “the NorthRail template,” the exact same swindle that ZTE wished to emulate, except that NorthRail was De Venecia’s baby and ZTE wasn’t. So the fixers are raring for a fight? That’s good news for all us victims. We must celebrate, we must fuel, we must spark the outrage.

The third argument is a sequel to the second: “Let us settle for the lesser evil.” I’ve actually found this argument most enticing, especially since Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is by far the most highly educated of our presidents, and she wonderfully looks the part. The only problem is, going by what Romulo Neri allegedly said, she is “evil.” The law says Cabinet members are the alter ego of the president, and when the alternate ego brands the original ego as “evil,” he should know whereof he speaks. At the rate she’s going, just about every other option is the more “moderate” evil.

The fourth argument is: “Respect the rule of law lest you open a Pandora’s Box of power gone berserk.” My response: You mean, any more berserk than Arroyo’s Mafia sense of power? Whose Strong Republic is forceful in hounding its enemies, but weak in punishing its friends?

We must not lose sight of fundamentals. We value the legal document called the Constitution because we need neutral standards and mechanisms by which to settle the naked clash of power and interests. There are many ways to decide these contests. People can choose by voting. People can bargain and negotiate in the open market. Or people can ask a neutral judge to decide according to the Constitution. But our Constitution has been cheapened over and over again by Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, its letter turned and twisted to betray its spirit, perverted to suit her agenda. She has depleted the Constitution’s power to legitimize. Justice Jose Vitug, in the EDSA People Power II decision, asked: “Should [we] choose a literal and narrow view of the Constitution [and] invoke the rule of strict law …?” Or, he continued, should we stretch it a bit to respond to the call of the times? His conclusion: “Paradoxically, the first option would almost certainly imperil the Constitution, the second could save it.”

To those who say, “Let us preserve the rule of law,” I ask: Why, what’s left of it to preserve? I have written about the heartless evictions of vendors; I conceded the need for order in the streets but lamented that, by confiscating their goods -- the plastic trinkets, the “garapon” [jar] of sago, their makeshift tents -- we rob them of the tools of their honest toil and kill their entrepreneurial, almost divine, optimism. Why, what evil have these vendors committed that we can be so ruthless against them, yet be so excusing of those who steal us blind, in the range of $132 million and counting?

I agree that ousting Ms Arroyo won’t solve all our problems. Our ills are systemic. We must rebuild broken institutions. We must confront our shared flaws as a people, our lack of civic spirit, of communal discipline. (God sakes, in the La Salle Mass last Sunday, a matron overtook everyone during Communion! We had formed two queues before the priest, and Doña Buding simply decided to form her own “counter-flow”! Now I understand why the guillotine was invented. Such unholy thoughts.)

But the need for systemic change should not postpone the call for immediate measures. Now we face the 21st century equivalent of millenarianism -- like those revolutionaries of old, who said that we can postpone land reform, we can delay gender equality, because anyway after the crimson triumph, life will be beautiful.

For this, let me take refuge in the ringing oratory of John F. Kennedy: “All this will not be finished in the first 100 days. Nor will it be finished in the first 1,000 days, nor in the life of this administration, nor even perhaps in our lifetime on this planet. But let us begin.”

Resign. It’s not just an option; it is an imperative. That is the minimum, because to demand anything less is a cop-out and because in the end, it’s for us to decide, not hers.

A Sunny Reminder

2008-02-22T00:16:00.000-08:00

Romancing the Sun
(From Top: Sun set in PCARRD, another angle (PCARRD), sunset in Anilao)

Bente-Dos at Humahangos

2008-02-22T00:14:00.000-08:00

Bente-dos na ako nung nakaraan. Parang kelan lang,ako’y twenty-one. Officially,nasa linya na daw ako ng mga eligible bachelors-- professional; promising na mga nilalang ng lipunan. Oo nga’t heto ako’t sumasagwan sa agos ng buhay. Naglayag ako noong nakaraang anim na buwan sa unang trabaho. Pero,simbilis ng pag-tiktak ng orasan, panahon na’t humakbang sa panibagong hamon ng palalayag sa ibang dako. Sa ngayon, maaring babagsak ako sa parehong trabaho, pero mas pa dun ang kagustuhan at pagtutulak na sumagwan sa tangos paroon. Di ko matantya ang kalooban ko pero nasusukat ko na ang kayang mapanindigan.

Tulad ng mga kakilala ko, marami sila at tulad ko, promising at propesyonal, mas ninais nilang lumihis sa linyada ng normalidad. Pinili nila ang lubak-lubak ngunit makabuluhang landas ng kasaysayan at kasalukuyan sa paniniwalang ang pagtatalik na ito ng panahon ay nagbabadya ng magandang bukas. Ideal na isipin ito,pero nasusukat ang lahat sa mismong pagtupad sa mga ideyang ito. Kung mararapatin ng panahon, maaring hindi na malayo yun. Samakatuwid, mangyari na ang mangyari. Subalit habang ang mga pag-aalinlangan ay namamayani sa sistema ng aking kaisipan at kalooban, mas pa sa kabutihan ang di pagsadya, sa halip ay pagsabay sa tawag ng panahon.

Patuloy ang pananariwa sa likod ng aking isip nang mga litanya ng mga kaluluwang minsan at patuloy na lumulundo sa biyahe sa kung saan. Kasalatan at kasimplehan ng buhay ang katumbas ng paghihirap at pagsusunog ng kilay sa minsa’y dayuhang silid-aralan. Anupa’t nauso ang utang na loob at responsibilidad kung di lang din susundin. Siya nga, ngunit tulad ng kulturang kinamulatan, sa biglang irap at kurap, nabago na ang kalakhan.

Ako’y nangangapa. Ngunit di nabubulagan sa kung saan ako tutungo. Kasabay noon ang pangako ng aking mga pangarap. Abo’t kamay kung tutuusin. Sa bilis ng inog ng mundo, bukas, bente-tres na ako. Ganoon din, maaring sa panahong yun, nakatakda na akong sumuong sa minsa’y isang matamis na bangungot.

Sa puntong ito ng kasalukuyan, lumalarga ako sa ngalan ng pag-ibig. Tunay ngang makapangyarihan ito. Ramdam ko sa bawat tibok ng aking puso ang hinagpis ng bawat kaluluwang nakakasalubong. Gayundin ang lugod at tuwa ng iilang lumalangoy sa kasaganaan. Nawa’y manatili ang inspirasyon, ang tulak ng pag-ibig sa bawat araw at gabi ng pakikipagsapalaran sa sariling kaisipan at hangos ng sangkalooban.

*talim ng araw: unang serye, ika-31 ng Enero

Liars,Inc. and the Pitfalls of GMA's Men

2008-02-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

Hearing live over the radio in the recent ZTE Scandal Senate hearing, I can't help but swear and unleash bits of pieces of indignations againsts GMA's lapdogs from start 'til the end. For those who had the opportunity to watch the proceedings, it was worth the time spent and the rising of our personal emotions. For simply, even the dull could create a story out of their half baked to raw narratives. Well there's no much new of them as expected since PNP personnel led by no less Mamang Pulis' Razon and Mascarinas are just following a brazen chain of command which we know has no sense of responsiblity whatsoever under the Arroyo regime. It stops there.

I am all the more sorry for their children, who maybe in their innocence could suffer and bear the brunt of their elders' mischiefs. Razon in his arrogance admitted to have ordered Lozada's abduction (regardless of the correct description under RPC) in NAIA and maintain that it was not kidnapping.

The Fall of "JDV, The Omnipotent"

2008-02-06T18:43:00.000-08:00

Malacanang and its cohorts in the KAMPI (GMA's party) recently affirmed in a precedented breakthrough in the Lower House what I called and even public opinion suggested, 'controlled eventualities' under the current regime. In the limelight is no less than the Lakas kingpin and self-confessed statesman, ex-Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. JDV who used to be an alter ego and a definite close ally of Mrs Arroyo, finally has secured a seat in the political purgatory, a place for the abandoned and rejected politicians. Worst, JDV suffered the brunt of politics in the hands of his former comrades and good to be friends, now bitter enemies. But the circus and downplayings all boil down to the issue of the ZTE scandal late last year.

Following the Senate inquiry into the multi-million dollar NBN Contract where JDV's son served as the whistle blower and then key witness, rumors of JDV's fate being at risk heightened, at least his speakership post. It was only late January where strong indications suggestive of an eventual deposition in the House leadership was apparent after GMA's ''spoiled brats"* (Reps. Mikey and Dato Arroyo) took a leave of absence from Lakas and later resgined for obvious reasons. Less than a week later, the definitive moment of a 'collateral damage' has, materialized in the floors/halls of Congress. JDV was unseated by and before his partymates and coalition allies.

An internal purge in the ruling administration coalition was initiated by the KAMPI led by DILG's Puno* and 'Burlesque King'* Rep. Nograles to grab the 4th highest post in the land with Nograles as the ideal and potent man. With so much of brouhaha before the Monday session, Nograles was eventually sworn in as the new speaker of the House. Malacanang who previously is dumb on the issue now sided the change of leadership, and consistent to Nograles statements, it vowed to remain independent. Really, the deathly shyness of Palace personalities is in play.

A bitter lesson: JDV deserves this fate. He would never have believed that it would really happen, until it happened. Wisdomful as he is, yet he's old enought to remember the story of the sacrificial lamb and the tower of Babel (would later fall) in the Bible. The House was filled with bitterness such that in his privelege cum valedictory and redundant speech, all regrets, misgivings and tirades on the GMA reverberated the August chamber. But the rest they say is history.

Truly it was a historic moment, not for anyone else but for JDV. That may suggest his graceful but bitter exit from the hands of a greater evil and master in the Palace. But his actuations at present is also indicative of a continued chapter of politics, the JDV way. But this time maybe, his on the other side of the fence under the allegory of 'moral revolution'. Good to hear from a repentant sin, but until it is reflected in his actions, no amount of trust and confidence could he get from the people. But with hopes that until the ZTE, Garci Issue and all the scandals that hound this government are resolved, JDV is there to stay. After all, he may not be God, he is all knowing.

Good luck, Philippines!

*Puno is groomed to take the post as Executive Secretary this year
*Burlesque King was coined by a Davao mediaman (now jailed (5 years) for libel) refering to Nograles, for his series of expose regarding the latter's involvement in a sex scandal in Manila Hotel
*Spoiled Brats, as described by Gina de Venecia (their Ninang) after JDV's fall

Yet Another Bulokracy

2008-01-28T18:41:00.000-08:00

Reorganization and restructuring of local government offices were apparent and perhaps continuing as of this writing, following elections last year. As a matter of bureaucratic tradition, it has been observed that padrino system still thrive in many local governments, and it gets worse year after the other. In this line that the Civil Service Commission and other agencies concerned must look into local chief executives and or LGU bodies, with regards to appointments of local government agency officials.

While LCEs enjoyed the privilege to seek and appoint persons worthy of their trust and as per existing rules, I am all the more concerned by the injustices they do in the selection process that goes with the eventual appointment. It has come to my attention, and affected me, the cases of rank and file employees who in their capacities, strived to rose as career officials, and supposedly office managers. But through the system of political appointments, where the selection processes are prone to manipulations and maneuverings, they are by passed or simply cheated. Appointing a career official by virtue of political attachment or reference is uncalled for and a grave insult and injustice to the many deserving ones. This maybe a complicated issue to wit, but in the spirit of fairness and service, I am positive that you are able to address this in your bounds and conduct policy checks. This black area in the bureaucracy simply rots the idea and ideals of good governance and continuously taints the country’s civil service legacy.

DISKURSO NG PAGLALAYAG AT PAMAMAALAM

2008-01-28T18:30:00.000-08:00

ni Arjay Garcia
27 Marso 2007 Paanan ng Makiling, UPLB

Isang mapagplayang pakikinig at pamumuhay!

Nalalapit na ang pagtatapos ng pamamalagi ninyo sa UP kasabay ng pagsibol ng muli ng luntiang damo sa Freedom Park upang sumalubong sa inyong pagmartsa. Marahil, ang tunay na dahilan ay upang mas piliin mong manatili sa luntiang damo ng UPLB upang humawan ng talahib o kaya’y diligin ng karunungan ang mga ito, kaysa sa ‘greener pasture’ ng US o Europe.

Ngayon nga’y patapos na ang semestre, kasabay niyong maghahanda ang mga maiiwan pang finalists (required man o hindi) sa paghabol ng tala at hiwaga. Tala para sa mga mag-eexam dahil maaaring nagrebyu sila o hindi, maaaring humiling. Hiwaga ng magkahalong lungkot at saya ng mga tulad ninyong magtatapos.

Sa pagkamit niyo ng inyong diploma, magkakaroon na ng katuparan ang inyong mga pinangarap (sana hindi maging hadlang ang prinsipyo) upang humabi ng panibagong pangarap. Ang mabigyan ng magandang kinabukasan ang inyong pamilya, sarili at nawa’y ang mas nakakarami.

Ang paglalayag na ito ay hindi isahan, katambal niyo ang libo-libong kaluluwang humahabi at tumutupad ng pangarap para sa sarili, pamilya o bayan. Kulang ang pamamalagi niyo sa UPLB kung hindi naitatak sa inyo ang paglubog at pakikisalamuha sa tao—ib’t-iba, maralita o kahit sino pa man. Kung hindi pa kayo handa sa paglalayag sa sinasabing ‘harsh reality’— na nagpapahuwad sa konsepto ng ‘greener pasture’.

Pag-abot sa inyo ng diploma, sana maisaisip ang tunay na kahulugan nito. Hindi ito para ipagyabang o idespley sa eskaparate o isilid sa palad. Ito’y katibayan na maglilingkod sa mas nakakarami, na magsisilbi itong simbolo na pumili tayo ng paninindigan na isusulong at pananatilihin.

Hindi kayo aalis hanggat buhay na buhay ang bawat naraanan niyong damo sa Freedom Park, hanggat nasasagap pa ang hangin ng Makiling, naggat kumakaway at kinakampay ng talulot ng kalachuchi sa c-park, an gpagpapatintero at pagpadyak. Hanggat nasa pahina, dingding at hiwaga ng UPLB ang inyong pagkatao, hanggat sumusulat, humahalaklak, sumusuka, kumakandirit at humahagok kayo, hanggat nariyan pa ang bayag at bagwis ni Pegaraw, saya at sutla ni Mariang Banga at ang metapora at mithiin ni Oble.

Bilang pamamaalam at pagsaludo, isa lamang panambitan;
“Sa loob ng comfort zone ng akademya ay may totoong digmaan. At ang totoong manunulat ay pinapatay. Sa panahon ng ligalig, walang panahon para tumagibang. Walang panahon para manahimik. Walang panahon para magpaumanhin. Dahil lagi’t-lagi ang oras ay panahon ng pagpapasya”.

Maligayang pagtatapos.

*hango sa sipi ng liham pamamaalam ng isang kasama at brod noong graduation

Pagsibol ng Dalandan

2008-01-28T18:19:00.000-08:00

Sa bawat pagsilang ng dilawang araw
Naroon nananahan ang damdamin
Marupok, mahina ngunit nangangapa
Sa tuwi-tuwina’y umuusbong, tumitingkad

Isang kaluluwang humahayo sa kawalan
Patuloy ang alimpuyo ng pusong walang pagsidlan
Anupa’t sa makinis na gitling ng animo’y dalanghita
Sumisiksik ang katas; umaalimbuyog; sumisikad

Sa paglaon ng mga saglit
Tanging guhit ng pag-asa ang sa puso’y naukit
Patuloy na humihikbi’t nagbabakasakali
Na sa dako roon di lulubog ang dalandaning sinag

*kinatha noong kalagitnaan ng taong 2007, sa isa sa mga silid sa La Ville habang lango ang isip sa ideya ng dalandaning araw...

Triumph of Arrogance and the UP Charter

2007-12-19T18:12:00.000-08:00

Refer to my previous post for the story detail:

I remembered that few years back, following the deferment of the UP Charter Bill in the Senate under former President Nemenzo, an open letter entitled 'Triumph of Malice' was circulated to castigate former Sen John Osmena for blocking the said legislation alledgedly for "political" reasons. Now for the nth time, the recycled measure (authord/sponsored by Sen Pangilinan) was again up for deliberation in the Upper Chamber. Just few days ago,uncalled emotions heightened in the Senate Hall courtesy of the proponents of the Bill, with no less than from UP President Emerlinda Roman herself in the spotlight (read story below). For which reason she would act like that (as narrated), is a shame to the UP administration. The pesistence and passion in pushing for the bill have incurred her personal credibility and of UP.There maybe a thousand reasons for such intent, to the point of personal tirrades. What's with that Bill in the first place? It is only because of the outdated Charter? Or because of some interests, other than that of UP?Without mallice that I assume that any of these, has to do something with such act. Why not allow prolonged debate and openly defend the BIll if that what it takes to satisfy the dissenting parties, or enter a compromise. Arrogance has no place in an institution like UP, above all, logic and the welfare of UP consitutents should prevail.

Open Statement on the Arrogance of UP President Roman

2007-12-19T16:53:00.000-08:00

Last night, December 18, 2007, someone,obviously with connections to the UPAdministration, sent this text message around: “PERR and VP Leonen had heated argument wd Jamby Madrigal who brought group of union members and students 2 pres roman and insisted that she debate wd them on charter. Then got on mic and insulted perr and all univ officials as arrogant n vs. transparency. D sessionwas adjourned after kiko pangilinan put on record that he disagreed. Pls. pas.”

I was in the Senate Session Hall yesterday and was with Sen Madrigal when the incident referred to by the text message happened. What I have seen wereactions hardly fit for a UniversityPresident, much more when that president comes from my beloved UP.For the whole day of 18 December 2007,my colleagues and I from the Office ofSenator Jamby Madrigal were busy drafting amendments to the UP Charter Bill based on the submissions of the UP Wide Democratization Movement (UP WIDEM)to promote democratic governance and accountability, and to strengthen statesupport to the University of thePhilippines through its charter amendments. At the same time, we werediscussing these matters with the staff of Sen. Pangilinan to hopefully reach acompromise.

My principal discussed these proposals,too, with Sen. Pangilinan and SenatePresident Villar , who advised us todiscuss the same with UP Pres. Roman andher group. Sen. Madrigal took the initiative to approach them at theirseats in the gallery, with myself by herside.We expected a congenial discussion, butwhat we got were verbal abuses andinsults to my self.I was yet to say my greetings to UPPres. Roman when she started pointingher finger at me, saying loudly that Iwas doing a “disservice to theUniversity” repeatedly just because I have a different position with her as regards the UP Charter. Her manner of speaking was bereft of respect for a former colleague in the UPadministration. She knows this: I was a member of the Board of Regents which elected her as UP President. I voted forher on the basis of a principled stand at that time. I differ with her and her administration now on the specific provisions of the UP Charter that they are supporting. Again, it is a principled stand.

Does Pres. Roman see me as just a“former student regent”? Not even anordinary student is entitled to suchdisrespect, much more right in the hallsof the Senate. Her arrogance isunacceptable by any standards. I willnot cower. I demand an apology from herfor the insults she hurled to me inpublic in the Senate Plenary Hall yesterday.I have served the University of thePhilippines well and will continue to do so.

MARCO M. DELOS REYES
Office of Senator Madrigal
UP Student Regent (2004)
UP Diliman USC Chairperson (AY 2005-2006)

2 anti-Arroyo films get X-rating

2007-12-17T19:10:00.000-08:00

REF: www.abs-cbnnews.com

The Movie, Television Review andClassification Board (MTRCB) on Mondaybanned the showing in moviehouses oftwo films which were both deemedcritical to the Arroyo administration,ABS-CBN News reported.

During a news conference after theKontra-Agos Resistance Film Fest,activist women's group Gabriela saidthe MTRCB gave the X-rating or not forpublic viewing to the politicalsatire "A Day in the Life of Gloria."In the film, the nose of the characternamed "Ate Glo" grows longer similarto Pinocchio's whenever she says "I amsorry." In the movie, riot policemenwere portrayed like storm troopersin "Star Wars" when they engagedprotesters.

Another film, "Mendiola", shows theactual footage during encountersbetween the riot police and militantgroups on the street and bridgeleading to Malacañang.

Gabriela Representatives Luz Ilaganand Liza Maza said the MTRCB's actionis similar to ushering the return ofMarcos dictatorship. They said thepalaceis using the MTRCB as a tool tooppress freedom of speech andexpression.The two party-list congresswomen havealready filed a resolution in Congressto review the power of the MTRCB.

Film director Carlitos Siguion-Reyna,meanwhile, said the two films merelycarry and reflect what protesters havebeen shouting on the streets. He said they should not be banned.

Of [Manila] Pen and Suffering

2007-12-06T21:32:00.000-08:00

a reaction to the Manila Pen Standoff, 29 Nov '07

Roughly more than four years after the Oakwood 'Mutiny', an equally familiar scenario transpired in Makati, right inside the posh Manila Pen. While public opinion as rolled in the media speaks against Sen. Trillanes', et. al. actuations, I'm with him in his consistent and principled stance in condemning the Arroyo regime. Whatever means or outcome it may have reached,I'll be equally affirmative of his actions. At that point, the end justifed the means. For in a government and supposed 'democracy' where the leader's credibility and moral ascendancy cannot be accounted for, it is a penultimate act to assert our rights at any cost. This is not to say necessarili bloodshed, but this is counter-fighting evil, the tyranny of the state against its own people. Teeth for teeth if that it counts for eventual change.

A traitor (Arroyo government) has no place in this world. And Trillanes being the ideal soldier, who in his capacity served the military righteously, has the right to perform his duty of protecting the people, in which he is there for. This is after all an inevitable case of STATE (people) versus State (established govt). And by human convention, true vox populi sustains.

It is saddening to note that people has become attuned with the government's reactionary position such that any externalities that would come in their backyard, should be contained. That's how the government do it, at the cost of blatant violation of human rights and extra-constitutional policies. The deliberate arrests of media persons and the imposition of curfew is undue and uncalled for, an exageration of a citizen's legitimate claim and demands. Ultimately, the government, through its armed forces has sabotage the economy, the right to information, the right to redress grievances, and right to freedom of expression.

"Dissent without action is consent"

Sen Trillanes, KUDOS!

A Mid-December Personal Affair

2007-12-06T21:22:00.000-08:00

There comes a time when you have to be dragged by the flow. Not for any other reasons, but emotion--or an elongation, for love. However may one describe it, I can ascertain that IT is the feeling. It affirms that love cannot really be define, as it can only be felt by someone who's willingness transcends rationality. Yet sometimes, uncertainties eat our courage piece by piece, leaving us helpless and doubtful of the feeling. But only if we gave chances to whatever the dictates of the mind,only then we can experience the bliss love can offer.

KONTRA-AGOS RESISTANCE FILM FESTIVAL kicks off today at Indie Sine

2007-12-04T17:19:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, 05 December 2007
Manila

The KONTRA-AGOS Resistance Film Festival 2007, a production of the Southern Tagalog Exposure (STEx) and Digital Cheese, in cooperation with the UP Sining at Lipunan (UP SILIP), Sine Tres Marias and the Independent Filmmakers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (IFC) will commence today, December 5 and will run until December 11 at the Indie Sine, Robinson’s Galleria, Ortigas.

Kontra-Agos: A Resistance Films Festival, celebrates films that go against the current, whether it be of popular cinema, politics or conventional ideas of love, sex and gender. Kontra Agos will present over the course of a week a range of films, past and present, that are politically, historically, and formally subversive.
This pioneering endeavor will showcase a total of 30 local and foreign films/videos ranging from quality and equally competitive full length films, features and short films to animated videos and experimental videos, narratives, documentaries and public service plugs featuring life and realities from the hinterlands of Mindanao up to the wilderness of the Himalayas.
The week-long event will formally start with an opening program at Indie Cine, 7PM with seasoned performances of Tao Aves, the Anino Shadow Play Collective and Bobby Balingit. In addition to the RIGHTS! Public Service Announcement on human rights, 3 new PSAs will also premier during the program. Jaja Arumpac’s WALAI (Documentary, 60min) will open the festival proper at 9PM. Admission is FREE.
Kontra-Agos also features a free interactive Panel Discussion on Human Rights and Artistic Freedom in Philippine Cinema slated December 8, Saturday 5-7 PM at Indie Sine, with acclaimed director Carlitos Siguion-Reyna, as one of the resource person.
Tickets will be available at Indie Cine at P50. For particulars, please contact us through Kiri Dalena or Sunshine Matutina, or mail to kontra_agos@yahoo.com. Also visit www.kontra-agos.blogspot.com or www.stexposure.org for more details.

By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept: Review

2007-11-22T22:13:00.000-08:00

-For years, I had fought against my heart, because I was afraid of sadness, suffering, and abandonment. But now I knew that true love was above all that and that it would be better to die than to fail to love.- Pilar, Na margem do rio Piedra eu sentei e chorei

Paulo Coelho’s By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept (originally, Na margem do rio Piedra eu sentei e chorei: 1994) risens up spirits. He was able to elaborate love in such a unique fashion, capitalizing on its dichotomy; a dog versus cat duel of divine and mundane passion for love. Pilar, in her relative innocence conquered the truest essence of the feeling by portraying an array of emotions. Indeed, this humanistic view towards love, which attempted to cross over the spiritual dimension, allows us to put our own encounters, and justify if not fit the brunt we bear in our hearts. The concept of love here transcends the dragging move of love’s well and end’s well genre, as it culminated in a do or die set up, where the subject must seek one, if not himself.

*all time best.

BULOKratic Patronage

2007-11-22T01:03:00.000-08:00

In a yet another showcase of unprecendented "pakapalan" blues and blatant display of nepotism, i can now conclude, firsthandly, that bureacratic patronage has really incurred our local governments (LGUs).One such case is seemingly a hard one, at least on my part. I've always been proud of our city, to include our officials in the local government and their programs. However, at one point, I convey my disapointment over the injustice they have done to someone close to me, in conivance with whoever in position and in what ends. Personal interests and prejudices triumph over logic and fairness for so many but one dignified case and post recently vacated by the same person Im pointing the accountability on this. Its a trash and trash in scenario as he assumed a post in the City Council. Judge me for my preconceived bias but I simply cant comprehend the persistence of some individuals in the City Council to favor another applicant, an alien I would say for the post when there are many others who rose in their ranks and served the city for quiet sometime. Circumstances further affirmed my doubts on an ongoing operation for whichever hidden agenda they'd like to achieve.And now Im certain of that. With only a slim difference from a previous evaluation, the duly assigned body recommended the 'alien' for the position. But good enough, there are men who stood by this basic principle of fairness and local resource development and question the status quo as regards the selection process. Alongside, the presence of media personality during Council sessions has intimidated the 'patrons' to finish off their preconceived end. Deadlock is now in effect. I am yet to receive developments on this. In reflection however, I am now intuned into the reality of an existing BULOKracy and other shenanigans in government, even in a city that promotes, primarily Character. I dont know what would transpire next, my only consolation so far is knowing that my father is still holding on to his work. Hello, Mayor!
"The only way for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing"

Clueless at 21

2007-11-22T00:52:00.000-08:00

It has been several days or weeks ago, I turnedtwenty-one. In our culture, this age entails so much--of responsibility and the mischief of machismo. Fromoutside my circle, twenty-one year old men came tomany as a fully independent person, along with thequalities of being fresh from the academe, potent,viable and bound to conquer the future. While stillfrom other realities, being of this age is nothing butadded burden to being the bread-winner, besides astagnant social life and bounded by family pressures.

Whichever is destined for me, this is how I seethis dichotomy of time. And while others see it as anopportunity, I am threatened by the uncertainty of notfulfilling the expectations of people around me ifever I take either of the options.

This far, I may resemble the former, simplybecause graduation is in my reach, and that I amvibrant and excited to discover the ‘real’ world,whatever it is. Sometimes, I am envious of thosebachelors in the society pages of dailies for theamenities and opportunities of life. On the otherhand, the responsibility that goes with it isrelatively overwhelming and that also pressures me.Unconsciously for some, being of the age doesn’treally make a deal, or worst, it’s a non-sense. Andregardless of values, this I believe depicts somereality.

Before, I’ve been very excited on what it feelslike in this time of our life. But the reality of itremains in the feelings and one’s disposition. It isin the value that you put on things that makes itprecious. Otherwise, it is nothing.

Personal pressures push me to pursue on myendeavors which will told of my future. Along side, isgearing my loved-ones and departing to economicstability. Of course, I don’t want to be called of asuseless and wasted. In the same way and early on, Idon’t want to be accused of being selfish. In fact,engaging in relationship isn’t really on my prioritylist, much more with settling down at an early age. Shallow as it may seem, the perception that Ihave do not reflect that of the many in my age mainlydue to variations in priorities and values. I can onlyclaim and assert that this is how to be twenty-one, asI want to see it. But still, culture tells of thereality of a responsible, mature and wise person thatshould walk along with you.

Then again, my vantage point is where I amstepping now, who I am with and with what I have.While I considered both the successful and responsibletwenty-one men, I can sense that there’s stillsomething up for me out there.

At 21, I am not yet convinced that I’ve reachedthis far. I can’t even claim that I am mature enough.So while successes and responsibilities ahead are upfor the grab, they’re still too ideal. And while thischapter in my life entails more soul-searching, Istill remain clueless.

Helping Helpers

2007-11-22T00:13:00.000-08:00

adapted

Maid. Aching. Inday. Boy. Etcetera. Who wouldn’t know them; they’re just our dakilang chimay (we call them timbang (helper) in Ilonggo). We call them in funny names and treat them in many detrimental ways. This is, having in mind the perception that they are lower societal beings; that they are there to serve at our pleasure and our control.
For all we know, treating them with mischief poses an irreconcilable irony about their help to us, notwithstanding the fact that we tagged them as dakila (great). I may not be in bearing to speak on their behalf: first because we also have a helper when we were still infants and secondly, I fear that my intention may be so petty to others. But having witnessed all these years their plight as dignified workers, they deserve our attention and appreciation.
It was about three years ago when I first encountered them. Yes a few of them working in a local restaurant which happened to be where I live as a student. I should know something about them for everyday, I passed by there quarters going into my room; see them in action at the kitchen and most of all, chatting with them from time to time. This leads me to know their ignominious ordeal at work.
Initially, they never had a place in my concern. Not until realizing they too have rights and privileges they deserve. Guilt has bothered me, even up to now, for these mischief are happening in my ‘own’ house, when outside, I consistently take part in campaigns that uphold the interests of various sectors.
Everyday on, I can’t help but simply include them in my prayers. I’m so meek. Nothing actually. But then again, I can’t simply ignore them for they really appeal to my emotions. Who wouldn’t anyway, if they would wake you up with the jingles of kitchen utensils in the early morning; would wait and open the gate for me everytime I left my key; and would give me extra cup of rice and side dishes, like no other customers have availed. Sounds odd right, but underlying these ordeals, degrading circumstances confronts the.
With their kind of work that last from six in the morning through ten in the evening, they suppose to receive a fair salary and an overtime pay. Yet, they get underpaid, even below the minimum daily wage, and worst, they don’t avail of any insurance of any kind (SSS, medicare, etc.) given that they are prone to getting sickness. Besides, I also stand witness to emotional abuses they get that ranges from insults and curses against their person.
Although a few of them has sustained the test of their stint, and stayed as great helpers, many don’t stay long working their. The trend is that they wait until the month ends, get their salary, separation pay actually, and ran from away from that earthly hell. And viewing from their vantage point, I could well imagine what are happening to their comrades in many households and establishments. Some, maybe on a tolerable situation, but some maybe worst. I don’t know exactly, but they are happening, that is I am sure of.
Helpless at that, I’m reminded by public-service programs to run to for help. That maybe a fair choice, but I prefer a more realistic way in addressing this problem, that is, awareness and education. Unless their (helpers) ranks are empowered about their disposition as decent workers and the government would intensify its campaign to implement existing labor laws, all our hopes could not be materialized.
Meanwhile, as the sector of helpers is only a mere minority in our society, it is my hope that everyone would do their part in upholding their plight. It’s about time that we go beyond our comfort zones and pay them back, a pay worthy of their service to us. It’s about time we help our helpers.

DREAMING OF HER

2007-11-22T00:07:00.000-08:00

It was a fairly humid night when I settled, after a day’s busy ordeal. I have almost lost my ions, to which, my consciousness has been deferred immediately. Not long before that, my phone rang. ‘Twas an SMS. [Reading]. Sender:Yeisha.I should have shaken my head and convinced my self, it was her. No I’m not dreaming.
Not long ago, when we’ve meet. She’s from another school. A not so ordinary woman (actually lady), sensing her conversationalist tempo- intelligent but not mediocre I believe. Truly amiable, she rode on with my compliments and corny jokes during occasional chats.
A stereotype person at that, pretending to be some kind of a smart and demure gentleman (no, not easy to get either) my initial feelings boiled down to confusion. Can this be love? Or just simply a stimulation? It’s the latter. Who would not anyway?. Yeisha oozes with charm and sweetness my psyche could only describe it alone in no known measure. Standing by just an inch over my height with a define biometrics (almost perfect, except for that herd-milk logic), she’s a model figure.
It’s been in several instances when she exhausted her divine potentials. This time, she’s into competitions. Ironically, it’s called beauty tilt when in fact intelligence and articulation weighs more than talent or personality. In any ways, she managed to drew them all and bag the most coveted crowns.
Along with the joy of enjoinment, I’m pretty sad. She’s moving away. We don’t get to talk frequently as ever. She has to attend public functions and social eklavu. But no, I should keep this. I should stand by what my spirit dictates. Besides, this has been a win-lost (win then lost) situation for me.
Prior to these changes, I have all the time to initiate. Maybe a try. But then courage is not on my side. Although I made futile efforts. How exciting was that which I could only articulate. What is texting her with romantic quotes, sending cards and getting a glance of her “angelic face”which most of the time she would debunk me as “natutulala ka na naman”…Shit, “manhid ka”, I would console my self. On one hand, I’ve been asking my self, “bakit ka ba tameme, pwede namang….” Funny.
I’m not egocentric, but it was a barely a lapse of judgment that I never do it, when I could sense (remotely) that she has already intercepted my intention. Wild sensing would tell me that she has ‘something’ for me. Actually, a friend told me. She knows me, and with that, she kept her modesty. That is X-factor, and I’m bursting. Unfortunately though, I was by passed when I heard not later then that she has someone else. Well fine, what is to worry anyway, there are still many alike around. Enough of this crazy damn stuff. No hows, no whys, just forget, it’s more than to forgive.
I hoped it would come out as expected, but no, ‘twas a complete turn-around. Even though we parted ways literally given the schooling factor, for God sake I couldn’t still set-off my feelings of her. Now, can this be love or lust? Maybe the latter.
Before I left for school, she’s completely a different acquaintance now. She exudes with boldness and her physique is kept in detail and refinement- a must be for treasure hunter.
Acads…acads…acads…………………………acads
For some time, I made to forget in touch with her for obvious reasons. But I kept the faith of having her as a friend (bitter). For now, I try to enjoy the misery inside. How? I got to think of reliving my wants. Why spend off time for such a futile interest? Back to normal. I’ve got to drink and puff for life, and try to be the animalistic that I am.
It’s not for long, when I went back home. This time, a still smart but ragged leftist. Keeping the feelings inside, I can now look at her, eye for an eye, hold her hands like clinging on my sister’s. Once, she would be surprised to see me in an all-guy session and fervently, she would ask, “kelan pa”, and I would respond, “tagal na, dati..pero dahil sayo..”) [adlib].
Surprisingly, she had my number and would text me that we go out, maybe swimming. I wouldn’t reply.
Just recently, another friend updated me of her. She’s into two relationship this year, with a current one. I should know this for I see them in the web blog. How sweet are they, I could only imagine. It’s been sometime since our last conversation. And tonight, for reasons that He could only explain, I’m reading her text. It reads,.. if I would live life in another lifetime, I would like to spend it with you realizing that life wouldn’t be complete without the one you truly love (no quotes).
Cursed be this gadget if this is not meant. Cursed be these technologies that imitate bogus emotions. Cursed be this day-the saddest of days. And cursed be the person who sent this if she plays with deception.
Please, my divine creator let this be true. Let me see love for real, if it is. But as much as I want to leave this fantasy, only could tell. [Saving…]. Keypad locked. Yes, I’m not dreaming.
for:yeisha,6500 Earth.
Disclaimer: Any similarities, either of person's names, setting or circumstances are purely coincidence. This selection is derived from the writer's shallow imagination, and is therefore fictional.

[Could be true either].

My Advocacy

2007-11-22T00:04:00.000-08:00

adapted from Edge

It was in our environmental science class last year did I learned of amazing facts and figures of the richness and vastness of Philippine biodiversity, described as a ”mega diversity”. I was really egoistic at first to realize those wonders, but to my dismay, I also came to know the gruesome state of our environment at present.
This dilemma gained me serious amount of concern and interest, though initially it was only a petty reaction, but nonetheless, I’ve already inculcated it in my cerebrum. Besides, there was that inclination and discernment that provoked me to act or impart something as regards to Mother Nature.
The succeeding months in the university were as conducive of information for me as I started attending seminars and fora especially on the environment. Even the net has no escape for I always find time browsing the pages of nature-friendly sites and NGO’s to be updated. At one occasion, an authority in the academe was speaking on “Re-thinking Sustainable Development” as topic. Towards the end, a question was raised on why there was a need to re-think. To my mind, it also posed a big question mark as it implied much on one’s intellectual preference and position. The speaker responded that inspite of the efforts from concerned entities; the government really has the take on the matter particularly in policy making and enforcement, and that we would always undergo rethinking if the government won’t opt to address such concern.
Given this scenario, one might ask on what the government is standing for, or are they simply shortsighted at that? While for most of us, are we that helpless that we can’t do some initiatives for her while taking part in the nation’s development. Though culturally, it’s a fact that many still submit to the premise of leadership by example, that without the leader acting, the members follow too. And if this is so, then I think we better find extra- territory somewhere else.
Meanwhile, it is saddening to note that for centuries now, many countries succumbed to the vagueness of development which is exclusively focused at economic progress. I’m neither a neo-traditionalist nor anti- development per se, as long as we drive sideways in two-way traffic. We all know that every economy capitalizes on natural resources, and so it is morally upright for development initiatives to meet halfway with environmental protection. Sustainable development that is! Others may contend that humans have the dominion over the physical environment and other life forms, allowing them to introduce modification and subsequently exploiting it. Still, it is no good precedent if we borrow something and not returning it back. Remember the legend of Maria Makiling!
As one song goes,” ’di na masama ang pag-unlad dahil malayo-layo na rin ang ating narating”. Yes, we might have moved a step higher, but how far Mother Earth can go? How long could she survive?
This is now the point of conflict, and the bottom line of these all lies in balancing of interest off our policy makers. This is not a chicken and egg dilemma on which comes first, rather a question of priorities on what not and what should be in government initiatives, and they must always secure a room for Mother Nature: that in development efforts, she will be treated considerately and fairly as one sustains the other . We might have a collection of laws devoted to the environment but delinquencies in the concerned agencies and weak enforcement allows minimal bite to trespassers.
And so I believe that there is really a need for redirection of the government’s environmental agenda through comprehensive implementation and monitoring, and doing so needs some amount of political will and commitment. While for us, the primary beneficiaries, responsible consumption and cleaner production isn’t really a hard task to do even in our own small ways.
This is my advocacy and I’m optimistic that in one way or another I could take part in securing the future of the next generation, now. I’m looking forward to minor in environmental science next semester and hopefully land on a job in the same sector three years from now.
*Turn Write.

Da Vinci Code: assault,deterrent, blasphemy, etc...

2007-11-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

At the height of the controversy hounding the 'The Da Vinci Code' world premier yesterday, mixed reactions were heard. In the Philippines, the MTRCB gave the fiction-film a Restricted rating, the only country to gave such among the 36 countries which underwent a review. I could only speculate to what end the move may serve (nagpapalakas cguro sa CBCP, regarding Cha-Cha! or somethin else).

As with its early stand, the CBCP maintained a fair disposition as it did not prohibited Filipino Catholics to see the film, but did not also encouraged them to watch. Pretty safe for the Church, since our Bishops were also careful of what the intellectuals, the democrats, and the liberals may say, withstanding the fact that this does not cater to the poor Catholic majority, isn't it. Hence, views on the film, as to whether it will be ban or not, boils down to personal point of views.

As a practicing (not for a year now) Catholic, I do agree that the film is a work of art and it's fiction as Dan Brown claims, and disclaims in the book, but accounts on the book are based on real people,events, dates, etc. How could one claims that it is pure fiction (imaginary, or coincidence, or meant!)?..better, half-truth, but I say it's ,misleading, notwithstanding the intellect of Christian faithfuls. Brown even dragged the name of Opus Dei, and it seemed to me, upon hearing some members of the prelate, has been maligned or negatively portrayed.
Second, I find it blasphemous, basing on the second commandment which is "thou shall not take the name of the Lord, thy God in vain"...Do I need to elaborate?..unless you haven't read the book or watch the film!

Thirdly, I'm afraid that this would serve as a deterrent for other film-makers, who has personal interest in whatsoever in the future, whether to attack something or someone, and who would makes use of films to reach such ends, hiding behind the genre of fiction, art, and self-expression (try to have a review of Brown's profile).

Finally, under the Revised Penal Code, it provides that it is 'a crime to offend a religion', the basis of Manila's banning resolution. Moreover, try to consider this, what if I make a film, a play, a book whatsover depicting GMA (to have an affair), or Rizal (a gay), or Martin Luther (a thief), or a relative of yours (a prostitute), and I would disclaim that it's only a product of my imagination, would that concern you? If not, then I bet, that this will really be a deterrent for future films, and I could foretell the birth of the 'masquerade genre' in film making, as it does in politics.

This is pure attack on our faith as Christians, even for Moslems, and every believer of Christ. We do not deserve this challenge, as Christ do not deserve the blasphemy Brown commited. Just as we pray to defy evil, we should also fight the mundane evils with equal earthly actions and moves.

Da Vinci Code: assault,deterrent, blasphemy, etc...
At the height of the controversy hounding the 'The Da Vinci Code' world premier yesterday, mixed reactions were heard. In the Philippines, the MTRCB gave the fiction-film a Restricted rating, the only country to gave such among the 36 countries which underwent a review. I could only speculate to what end the move may serve (nagpapalakas cguro sa CBCP, regarding Cha-Cha! or somethin else).

As with its early stand, the CBCP maintained a fair disposition as it did not prohibited Filipino Catholics to see the film, but did not also encouraged them to watch. Pretty safe for the Church, since our Bishops were also careful of what the intellectuals, the democrats, and the liberals may say, withstanding the fact that this does not cater to the poor Catholic majority, isn't it. Hence, views on the film, as to whether it will be ban or not, boils down to personal point of views.

As a practicing (not for a year now) Catholic, I do agree that the film is a work of art and it's fiction as Dan Brown claims, and disclaims in the book, but accounts on the book are based on real people,events, dates, etc. How could one claims that it is pure fiction (imaginary, or coincidence, or meant!)?..better, half-truth, but I say it's ,misleading, notwithstanding the intellect of Christian faithfuls. Brown even dragged the name of Opus Dei, and it seemed to me, upon hearing some members of the prelate, has been maligned or negatively portrayed.
Second, I find it blasphemous, basing on the second commandment which is "thou shall not take the name of the Lord, thy God in vain"...Do I need to elaborate?..unless you haven't read the book or watch the film!

Thirdly, I'm afraid that this would serve as a deterrent for other film-makers, who has personal interest in whatsoever in the future, whether to attack something or someone, and who would makes use of films to reach such ends, hiding behind the genre of fiction, art, and self-expression (try to have a review of Brown's profile).

Finally, under the Revised Penal Code, it provides that it is 'a crime to offend a religion', the basis of Manila's banning resolution. Moreover, try to consider this, what if I make a film, a play, a book whatsover depicting GMA (to have an affair), or Rizal (a gay), or Martin Luther (a thief), or a relative of yours (a prostitute), and I would disclaim that it's only a product of my imagination, would that concern you? If not, then I bet, that this will really be a deterrent for future films, and I could foretell the birth of the 'masquerade genre' in film making, as it does in politics.

This is pure attack on our faith as Christians, even for Moslems, and every believer of Christ. We do not deserve this challenge, as Christ do not deserve the blasphemy Brown commited. Just as we pray to defy evil, we should also fight the mundane evils with equal earthly actions and moves.

*views expressed may have change through time; this posting is for recording purposes only
*reposted

Hopelessness.Denial. and Curses in Love

2007-11-21T23:58:00.000-08:00

No thanks.Don't bother.Im alright.That is me when I get down.In many circumstances and times.I learned to accept my fate.Even before.I should because Ive been to losing, being maligned, and stuffs.But I cannot bear this one. Im not simply used of being rejected.Im not sensitive. But am emotional.If feeling is at stake,man be careful.Thats actually what happened.Maybe.This is petty.Or im pityful.You might think im just too involved or reactive.But im serious...okay.This is an old story of rejection or preemptive action.Again, this involves the heart.It was this 'name who appeared to be a song' that brought this frustrations and hurtings.This is the first time I am involved with serious affection.Time will judge if it is love or a short time obssession.Maybe. Because we've been together all these times.At least for this year.And that, unkowingly, she invested enough time and charm to caught me in desperation of loving or liking her.One thing's sure.Im fallin for her.I heard many voices as I went sleeping.They were as if good night nightmares.A beautiful one.Which later proved to be real nightMARE.I have no choice but to give up reasons and logic left in my psyche.That time,im ready.Not for the worse however.Yes, im just finding for the right time, if there any.Try no harm.Try no harm.Im about doing it.But for God sake.Who the hell this evil is who infiltrated my fate.You dream catcher. You thief.You have taken me my heart.Why in the world.You keep me dumb without even saying a word.Gods!You allowed a faithful son of yours to bear such pain of presumption.Of hindering reasons.Of repressing expression...Im pretty sad.Im hopeless.But as much the pain, I learn to let go of the feeling.In fact.I cursed them in my dreams.You fool gods!!!You who brought me to disillusionment.You will pay the price.I pray. And Amen!

*to you who bears a name.tou who sing my song.
*reposted from in_my_solitude

A LIBERAL FILIPINO

2007-11-21T23:54:00.000-08:00

adapted from Edge Genciagan

The distinction between activism and mediocrity among Filipinos seemed to be barely apparent. Students and pressure groups among others consistently pursue in their progressive stance over various issues that concerns them, while the mediocres tend to act similarly but in the long run, they simply vanish outrightly and comes back when petty issues calls for them.
This description best serves my view in distinguishing a Filipino. Radical it maybe, but this angle reflects a reality in the four corners of Philippine society. Unlike our national experience during martial law, peoples approach in nationhood has evolved dramatically in aid of democracy, hence, in this era of globalization and popular culture, public opinion is a critical factor in determining stability in the country.
To this regard, the intent and freewill of every Filipino is a valuable aspect to reconsider and or be imparted to everyone knowing that our decisions at present will tell of our future as a nation. Our bureaucratic agenda on the other hand gives us only the direction and the hint when to start, because more than that, its the Filipinos that are in control (unless if you're infected by apathy), and so from a cultural perspective, I propose these qualitative assumptions expected of a Filipino to qualify him as a true liberal individual.
A liberal Filipino is virtuous. He accounts for many values essential for his existence. He believes that true change emanates from one's self, and that constructive self criticism is an effective way of evaluating his personality. He is inclined in improving his life and is committed to collaborate in community development efforts, while maintaining humility. He subscribes in the sense of responsibility, where his actions speaks of himself and would reflect that of the society.
A liberal Filipino is conservative. Many ascribed this quality in a literal manner, but more than that, conservatism transcends convention; it is subjective. A liberal Filipino respect the popular culture but he observes maximum tolerance to the advantage of our own. It is undeniable that our modern society has largely been invaded by foreign culture , lest, if we continue to be deviant, we might lost our identity as well.
A liberal Filipino is nationalist. He may be thinking globally, but he acts locally. He views himself as an organ in a system, that every single action he makes may be futile, but it is crucial to do them. In simple ways, he expresses his love of nation. He actively participate in political activities, he's in support of the legitimate status quo and abides by the law of the land.
A liberal Filipino is pragmatic. First hand, he sets a clear and feasible goals. He find ways to attain them, applying the basics of resourcefulness and creativity. When problem arises, he confronts them vis-a-vis, not minding the hardships that it takes. He is result-oriented and thinks of the greater good for the greater number of people.
Finally, a liberal Filipino is a leader. He does not limit himself to his own capability. He tries to reach out and share what he have, may it be materially or in ideal form. In arguments, he takes courage to say no when everyone else says yes. More so, he is in control of himself and subscribes to democratic processes.
The above mentioned qualities may be too utopic or simply another suntok sa buwan(futile), but it is important that in one way or another we invest on them and apply it to our own. On the other hand, I can proudly claim that the Filipinos has already proven a lot out of these values. In the meantime, now is the high time to conquer our fears and doubts. We must learn to fight for what is right and stand by it broadly until we expire. After all, it is our basic legal and ecclesiastical right to be free, so why not make the most out of it.

*reposted from in_my_solitude blog

Mixed Nuts

2007-11-21T23:49:00.000-08:00

In times of despair, we always seemed to seek for someone to turn to, to talk to, and to spend time with. It may be God, an intimate friend, a brother, sister, parents, counselor…the likes..these are cliches of life, in problem. We call for a helping hand, to shower us with comfort, and strength and bring back to our original state. To a world of stability and balance, of our actions and plans in every day, and the days ahead. In doing so, we expect a breakthrough, a miracle for that matter to light upon us, and see for ourselves, for real that there’s always hope, in a ruthless, unfair, andn rotten world of ours. When I was a child, I used to cry for food from that cresent-shaped thing in the sky. Later, they taught that was the moon. As it resembles the shape of a local bread. Crazy, fooly kid I was then. Believing in such a fantasy of absolute impossibility. But what if, the moon could actually give us food, for any reason. Bruhaha, hard-headed bratt. I really never learned from those times. As much as I’ve want to be faithful with my childhood, I can afford no more. For this world is full of impositions. Overpouring with mundane motives. And trickery is prevalent. No doubt, there is really no absolute truth and constancy in this worl for the few.To the very least, I wanted to believe so (that the moon could [provide food for us), in the second life maybe. But again, that is false hope. Everytime we act in such a way that we appeal for pitty, our dignity seemed to depreciate- upon society’s dictate. But the irony is clear, the society itself allows us to act that way. This leads us to desperation. Nothing to run to, or even hide to and get rot. In either direction, we can’t really advance. But as a dictated hero of fun once pronounced, that “even the hole of a needle, he shall pass through it” . Although I seemed I am inconsistent, but let me apologize. Inconsistency, like truth is not absolute, albeit relative. There are times when you get to a situation where you have to hid the truth, incosistently telling a lie. Besides, I find it equally justified to be incosistent in a world of inconsistencies. Resorting to deviant acts entails enough strenght and courage. In law, we call them extra-constitutional moves. But one is clear, we do not either lean on the imperfections of the law of the land, much more to the law of nature. We only play with them. To be continued…

*reposted from in_my_solitude friendster blog

inefficiencies,et al sabotahe: a narrative

2007-11-21T23:20:00.000-08:00

attention:
there is something wrong in the way the Civil Service Commission [specifically for Region IV-A] works on the release of eligibility certificates. i just cant accept the fact that I would be referred to sta cruz, laguna (about 3 hours away from manila) to get that precious piece of paper when i can get it only a jeepney ride away. the scenario was/is: i filed my application last june at CSC-RegIV-A, Panay Ave, QC; took the exam last july 22 in Calamba City; knew the result from CSC website (in September)..yeheyy pasado ako; supposedly get the certificate last october 30 at QC, only to find out that it was forwarded to Sta Cruz.Huhh!..As per advice by a personnel, I submit to their arrangement (for me to call back to their office and request for their field personnel to bring back my file by the end of the month), after almost 3 weeks, I made a called the Panay office today. Another personnel attended to my request but he insisted-- for me to file for a new copy of the certificate, for certain amount. with agitation,i asserted that in the first place,it wasnt my fault to get the certificate at a later date. after all,there was no rule saying that there's a deadline. secondly, there was no advice where to get the certificate-- i was holding on the assumption that since i filed with the panay office and confirmed my result there, then most likely i would get the certificate there. unfortunately though, this another personnel countered that i am also liable for it since i change residence. well excuse him for that assumption,but actually,im always in laguna on weekends,but im working on weekdays here in QC. besides, as per advisory, certificates will be claimed from CSCRO concerned,which is the panay office. i just followed their advise, and here i am,bearing the brunt of their inefficiencies...ergo,sabotaging my job applications. now, CSC explain.
PS: i didnt take the option of filing for another copy [regardless of any standing SOP] because it spoils the very idea of efficiency in service. i call it (Spoiled Operating Procedure)