tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-196447922024-03-24T00:30:40.303+06:00The Purple Phoenix Talks about Philippine PoliticsThe Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.comBlogger185125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-15909099035005667922008-02-11T14:58:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:07.047+06:00NBN-ZTE Senate Investigation Awards Part 1Note: Today's investigation is bigger and funnier...so watch out for the next installment of awards.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQEp5qiXI/AAAAAAAAAYs/DBWs9HqQ4Xs/s1600-h/lozada.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQEp5qiXI/AAAAAAAAAYs/DBWs9HqQ4Xs/s200/lozada.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165646444747196786" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Humor under Pressure Medal of Honor<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Rodolfo Lozada</span><br />Not since the girlfriend of Vidal Doble (What’s her name? Marietta something…), has the public seen a funny star witness in a senate investigation. This is FUNNY in the best possible manner. Not FUNNY as in Virgilio Garciliano-funny. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">I-might-attend-mass-regularly-because-of-them Award<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">La Salle brothers and the group of courageous nuns</span><br />They should have worn a badge that says, CHURCH NOT WIMP. Let’s wait for Raul Gonzales to slap sedition charges against them.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Liar Liar Pants on Fire Distinction<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1. Lito Atienza<br />2. Avelino Razon</span><br />These stooges should realize that lying is an art form. If you can’t lie well then don’t lie at all. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />You-again-in-a-kidnapping Certificate of Appreciation<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Mike Defensor</span><br />Welcome back! What’s with you and state-sanctioned abductions? I guess you did not learn from the previous Udong Mahusay Escapade. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dazed and Confused Award<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Senator Manuel Villar Jr.</span><br />Hmmm…his mind must be on the upcoming presidential elections. Honestly, his line of questioning was – at the least – incoherent or – at worst – lost. You should prepare next time.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br /><br />Precarious Position Distinction<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Senator Allan Peter Cayetano</span><br />He was in a precarious position in the last senate probe – not because he was the Chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee – but because he was in the middle of the Eager Beaver Mannys. Imagine sitting between two aspiring (and definitely excited) presidential candidates.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Nazi on the Loose Medal of Honor<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Sergio Apostol</span><br />Racist! Burn! Burn! What was he thinking?! In the age of political correctness, he still uses Intsik (gasp). Chinoy – I think Teresita Ang See prefers it instead of the derogatory Intsik. There is an etymological explanation for its insulting implication. I wonder if Apostol’s MADAM WETNESS really accidental? Hmmm… Sexist! Burn! Burn! <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQbp5qiZI/AAAAAAAAAY8/XPanVAHS6h0/s1600-h/drilon.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQbp5qiZI/AAAAAAAAAY8/XPanVAHS6h0/s200/drilon.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165646839884188050" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Very Special VIP Award<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Former Senator Franklin Drilon</span><br />Wow. Not everyone in the Senate gallery can sit in THAT place. This brings me to…<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Extreme Paranoia Grand Prize<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Lito Atienza</span><br />DENR Secretary Lito Atienza considers the possibility that the OTHER Liberal Party is behind Lozada’s revelation that he is part of the abduction since Drilon attended the investigation. Indeed. If that is the case, I was lucky that I was under the weather and WAS NOT ABLE to watch the probe live. Or else – Atienza will also suspect me. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">You-were-good-but-next-time-stop-putting-words-into-the-witness’-mouth Trophy<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Senator Panfilo Lacson</span><br />Next time, the good senator should ask questions. Lacson has the tendency of squeezing his needed answers that borders putting words to the witness’ mouth.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Bicol Express Medal of Honor<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Senator Francis Escudero</span><br />If you look at the ethnic profiles of the members of the Upper Chamber, you will notice that there is a Bicolano Bloc: Escudero, Gregorio Honasan, Joker Arroyo, Antonio Trillanes, Jamby Madrigal, and – according to him – Juan Miguel Zubiri. During the probe, Escudero greeted Lozada in their dialect. I guess nothing eases a person than knowing you have a kababayan near you. Bicolanos are quite regionalistic. Believe me. I am half-Bicolano. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Look-who’s-talking Award<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Senator Jamby Madrigal</span><br />It still boggles me. What was she thinking?! Asking questions that maliciously insinuate the sexual preference of Romulo Neri is a big mistake. I mean – come on – if you are attempting to reveal his homosexuality – then – LOOK WHO’S TALKING?!<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Fierce and Loyal Allies Plaque of Appreciation<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1. Miriam Defensor Santiago<br />2. Juan Ponce Enrile</span><br />While most of the administration solons are conspicuously absent, these veteran lawmakers were in the thick of things. Where was our favorite Dragon? Now we know that his slogan – PAG BAD KA LAGOT KA – is just a slogan. Zubiri missed his chance of making a fool of himself again in a senate investigation. As for Bong Revilla and Lito Lapid – well – I must be the only person who noticed their nonappearance.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQmZ5qiaI/AAAAAAAAAZE/SPOde_3CbrE/s1600-h/Abalos%2B01.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQmZ5qiaI/AAAAAAAAAZE/SPOde_3CbrE/s200/Abalos%2B01.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165647024567781794" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">You-can-resign-but-you-cannot-hide Medal of Honor<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Benjamin Abalos</span><br />Tsk. Tsk. What can I say? Balato naman Chairman!<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />PGMA Achievement Award for Controversial Accomplishments<br />Female Category<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Medy Poblador</span><br />She seems everywhere.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />PGMA Achievement Award for Controversial Accomplishments<br />Male Category<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Benjamin Abalos</span><br />Hands down winner. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQN55qiYI/AAAAAAAAAY0/fB5_3SMwuL0/s1600-h/Joey%2BDV%2Bswearing%2B01.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R7AQN55qiYI/AAAAAAAAAY0/fB5_3SMwuL0/s200/Joey%2BDV%2Bswearing%2B01.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165646603660986754" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Make-over of the Year<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: <span style="font-weight:bold;">Joey De Venecia</span><br />His new hairstyle flatters him. I think he’s trying to prove that looking good is the best revenge. Take that Luli!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-style:italic;">Stupid Retort of the Week</span><br />First Place</span>: “The scenario is weakening the national leadership through the President who happens to be head of the coalition, so that her pulling power is lessen.” – Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita<br /><br />(He is referring to the supposed “pulling power” of Arroyo in the next Presidential Elections. Yes – the “pulling power.” Did we feel that power in the midterm elections? Oh yes. Indeed. It was a NEGATIVE power. The exact opposite of King Midas – everything she touches turns into turd.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Runner-up</span>: “They do not believe in these destabilization moves since economic facts and figures are very, very positive.” – Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita<br /><br />(“They” refers to us – the general public. It’s true. We do not believe in “these destabilization moves” because we never consider it as one. It’s not destabilization attempts but truth.)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Government Directive of the Year<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span>: MODERATE THEIR GREED<br /><br />The investigation isn’t over. There’s a sequel. It’s more exciting since the next probe will include ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN.The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com264tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-81537786255734569472008-02-08T10:05:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:07.249+06:00Partido Lakas Tama<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6vVVOysNOI/AAAAAAAAAYk/u826l8Bs-sk/s1600-h/lakas+tama.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6vVVOysNOI/AAAAAAAAAYk/u826l8Bs-sk/s200/lakas+tama.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164455958435083490" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Juan Miguel Zubiri assured that LAKAS-CMD remains a strong party after the De Venecia Debacle. He noted that reforms must be made for a fresh start. There are talks of a possible merger with the bully KAMPI. Rumors are floating that Prospero Pichay will emerge as the new leader of the erstwhile ruling political party. <br /><br />Welcome to the world of the beleaguered Partido Lakas Tama.<br /><br />Zubiri must be naïve. Nothing can stop KAMPI now that it has bumped off one of the bigger fishes of its rival camp. The last midterm elections should have been a warning sign for them. The Distinguished Gentleman from Maguindanao should take off his pair of rose-colored glasses more often.<br /><br />KAMPI is probably the most brazen and power-hungry political party in recent memory since it is the brainchild of She-who-must-be-Removed. Hell… this party is a whacked-job. Moreover, it is also perhaps the funniest political cluster at present. <br /><br />1.KAMPI stands for Kabalikat ng Masang Pilipino – a major insult to the entire Filipino nation<br />2.Ronnie Puno serves as its thug leader.<br />3.Luis Villafuerte is the unofficial mouthpiece. <br />4.The Arroyo Brothers also known as Spawns of the Midget Empress are its poster boys for reform. <br />5.Included in their band of noble members are the likes of Amelita Villarosa who admitted that the infamous bribe-in-the-brown-envelope were from the funds of the party.<br /><br />Unification talks between LAKAS and KAMPI will prove tragic to the former. There will be no alliance but compliance. There will be no merger but murder. There will be no coalition but demolition. The Citadel of Fidel Ramos is facing an uprising. Their next move is critical. Let us wait and see if the tobacco remains lit before the year ends. <br /><br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-6124216934411208442008-02-07T10:09:00.001+06:002008-12-09T07:07:07.434+06:00Close Encounters with Prospero Nograles<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6qTo-ysNNI/AAAAAAAAAYc/ALfE47VrbeM/s1600-h/nograles.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6qTo-ysNNI/AAAAAAAAAYc/ALfE47VrbeM/s200/nograles.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5164102254993355986" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">First, should I call him Nogi Boy or Boy Nogi? I heard some radio commentators call the newly-installed House Speaker as Nogi. Sounds like a gap-toothed anime character. Then I thought of calling him as Boy Nogi. It's slicker and smoother but at the same time has a small-time gangster appeal. However, it sounds so much like Philip Salvador's character in his first-rate cop thriller of the same title. That's when I decided that I should stick with Nogi Boy. We should not besmirch the memories of great Filipino movies.<br /><br />Now, let's get right on with our main discussion - my close encounters with Prospero Nograles. I'd be a lot happier discussing my encounters with Senator Francis Escudero but then I feel that it's my duty to share these stories. I'm just being noble. Oh. I also hope Mayor Rodrigo Duterte gets to read this entry. <br /><br />FIRST ENCOUNTER<br />Place: Ateneo Law School<br />Event: Debate on PGMA Impeachment between Adprospero nograles, ministration and Opposition Lawmakers<br /><br />Honestly, I did not know that I was seated besides Nograles' son. The son was quite memorable in the worst possible way. I'd bet that if you check out the work MAYABANG in a Filipino dictionary, you'll see his picture. Why? Let me enumerate the ways: <br /> 1. He said that he told his father to finish the debate early so that they could <br /> have quality time over dinner.<br /> 2. One of his friend saw a lady wearing a set of cool sunglasses. She happens to<br /> be Nogi's son's ex-girlfriend. Did you know that Nogi's son boasted (enough <br /> for everyone to hear)the exorbitant price of the pretty eyewear? Major turn-<br /> off!<br />At the end of the debate, the administration lawmakers suffered stinging retorts from the combined forces of Francis Escudero and Roilo Golez. Prospero Nograles - an Atenean - was overheard saying in jest, "Ayoko na. Lagi na lang Chiz. Puro na lang Chiz ang mga kabataan." <br /><br />That was my first encounter with Prospero Nograles. He was quite arrogant all throughout the debate. He even remarked one classic trapo statement, "Impeachment is a numbers game. We have more numbers. Naturally, we will win."<br /><br />SECOND ENCOUNTER<br />Place: Batasang Pambansa<br />Event: Social Work Field Work<br /><br />My field work entails that I work for a non-government organization. I was assigned to an NGO serving Filipina overseas workers. One of the cases I handled, involved a group of predominantly Visayan and Mindanaon women who were illegally recruited. To cut the long story, after the resolution of their case - they decided to return to their respective provinces. The problem is money. They don't have enough and the NGO has very little to provide. <br /><br />The NGO requested assistance from certain government agencies but still wasn't enough. Finally, someone suggested that we seek help from the client's respective congressmen. It was my responsibility to accompany and represent the clients. Caveat: I first thought of avoiding naming names - but what the heck. <br /><br />Our youngest client is from Davao. I forgot the name of her congressman but he was not available at that time. Our other client hails from General Santos, thus her congressman is Manny Pacquiao killer Darlene Custodio. I was able to talk to one of her staff beforehand. She told me that they cannot promise to give the full amount because pork barrel is not provided for oppositionists. I said no problem. We'll accept whatever amount. Custodio's staff was very accommodating and efficient. We easily receive the financial assistance. They also suggested that we contact the Nograles' office for our Davaoena client. We followed their advice and off we went to the enormous office of the Majority Leader.<br /><br />Wow. It was like a cathedral. Our client was very hopeful that she'll get sufficient assistance for her fare. After several minutes of paperwork, one of Nograles' staff talked to us and assured that DSWD will provide discount for her provincial fare. Through Nograles' help our client will be given an amazing... 23.5% discount.<br /><br />Iggy Arroyo's office was way better than Nograles. Even if I hate Iggy, I can proudly say that his staff was most helpful for providing full financial assistance for their needy constituent.<br /><br />But Nograles?<br /><br />I still get shock whenever I remember that incident. 23.5% discount. Wow. I get better discounts from my favorite pirated DVD vendors. The big question is...BAKIT MAY BUTAL PANG .5%? I don't know. <br /><br />Of course, I should be thankful for the financial assistance...but...come on. He's an administration stalwart and the House Majority Leader. His son publicly boasts of purchasing sunglasses of exorbitant prices. And all you can give your constituent is 23.5% off ticket fare?<br /><br />I saw our client's obvious disappointment. <br /><br />I felt insulted. <br /><br />That was my last encounter with Prospero Nograles. I hope that it would also be my last, because if I see him again - I'll gladly returned his 23.5% discount. </span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-78364826823911135272008-02-06T09:55:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:07.848+06:00No Excuses<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6kybOysNII/AAAAAAAAAXo/5cr_ERZ-e78/s1600-h/jdv.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6kybOysNII/AAAAAAAAAXo/5cr_ERZ-e78/s200/jdv.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163713891165549698" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">I’m back. Several pertinent reasons can explain the long absence. First, I had to prioritize school. The academic requirements were a bit hard. Second, I had to prioritize my self. I need to rest. Blogging is a serious activity. Important endeavors must not mix with personal relaxation. I still surf the Net but I deliberately stayed away from blogging. Third, I was waiting for an earth-shaking political event that reeks with absurdity – something worth my sarcasm. <br /><br />The event has arrived. Who would have thought that Jose De Venecia Jr., will not be anymore addressed as House Speaker? Damn. He’s like Pope John Paul II. (Before you hurl invectives, let me explain the comparison.) I was born in 1984 and all throughout my formative years in a Catholic school, I only knew one pope – John Paul II. Same goes with the head of the Lower House. All throughout my regular political discussions and debates with my father during my formative years, I only knew one House Speaker – Jose De Venecia Jr. (Yup. I had political discussions and debates with my father during my formative years. Some fathers read their kids fairy tales, I had Fidel Castro.) Of course, I knew Ramon Mitra but he was so tragic. Loosing a presidential race that was supposed to be in the bag because of some withdrawn endorsements – it was just sad. I hate sadness. Then here is a guy promoting Rainbow Coalition. I mean come on. For a young girl, the choice is clear between sadness and rainbows. <br /><br />During the crucial moments of his embattled leadership, I was in the middle of a class debate. So, I wasn’t able to see De Venecia at his most vulnerable. Damn. Good thing our group won.<br /><br />Wow. Really – I’m still reeling from the events. De Venecia is not the House Speaker? Unbelievable. The House Speakership is almost like a birthright for him. It’s like second skin. I would like to think that he now feels naked (in the figurative manner) now that he is just plain Representative Jose De Venecia Jr. <br /><br />Before the actual events, news reports abound with talks that his House allies prefer to give him a graceful exit. Graceful exit? What a load of bull. I wanted a different kind of exit. I wanted De Venecia to stark raving mad. I wanted him to spew the nasty beans of the Midget One. He did. But I still wanted more. Piece of advice: Joe, let it all out. I still do not like you. But this could actually increase your chances of winning in a senate race. Oh yeah. Remember that Manuel Villar Jr., was a rich but dull congressman – then he quickened the Estrada Impeachment. Now he’s a senator aspiring for the highest position. Joe, you do not have an ounce of charisma of – let’s say Barack Obama – but this is your chance. Grab it. </span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6kyxeysNJI/AAAAAAAAAXw/BuaKKAZ1m00/s1600-h/boy+nograles.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/R6kyxeysNJI/AAAAAAAAAXw/BuaKKAZ1m00/s200/boy+nograles.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163714273417639058" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Now we have a new Speaker of the House. Boy oh Boy Nograles. If De Venecia reminds me of Mr. Potato Head, Rodrigo Duterte’s least favorite person reminds my very young cousin of a cartoon monkey (whose name now escapes me). However, Nogi Boy is another story. I’ll write one. I have two interesting stories about our new House Speaker. I personally experienced it, so it’s true. <br /><br />Joe is gone. I am back. Life is good.<br /><br />Nograles is top dog. Life sucks.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-28619021380144445592007-08-01T07:38:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:08.521+06:00Cream of the Crap<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rq_nqtWO8qI/AAAAAAAAAXg/2o7qltz-PWE/s1600-h/crap.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rq_nqtWO8qI/AAAAAAAAAXg/2o7qltz-PWE/s200/crap.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5093544424492692130" /></a><br /><strong>That’s not a typographical error. Crap. Not crop but crap. Crap is a slang word that means:<br /><br />noun<br />1. an offensive term for nonsense, or something worthless or annoying <br />2. an offensive term for an act of passing solid waste matter out of the body through the anus <br />3. an offensive term for excrement <br /><br />adjective<br />an offensive term meaning worthless, useless, or lacking in ability <br /><br />verb <br />(past and past participle crapped, present participle crap·ping, 3rd person present singular craps) <br /><br />an offensive term meaning to pass solid waste matter out of the body through the anus <br /><br />So what’s with the ‘crap’ talk?<br /><br />Well, yesterday I decided to browse the Team Chiz forum since I have not done so in days due to three research papers. There was a new forum member who calls himself Jose Pidol. Again - that’s not a typographical error. Pidol not Pidal.<br /><br />To say the least, he is not a fan of Chiz Escudero which makes you wonder why he decided to join our forum. Well, he is actually not a fan of current politicians although he seems to have a soft spot for the Fake One. <br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rq_nP9WO8pI/AAAAAAAAAXY/tFdjwOHT2tE/s1600-h/chiz+logo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rq_nP9WO8pI/AAAAAAAAAXY/tFdjwOHT2tE/s200/chiz+logo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5093543964931191442" /></a><br />Despite of my laidback sarcasm, I do have enough vitriolic ammunitions against people who personally attack other Team Chiz forum members. Let’s just say that Jose Pidol received some of it last night. It’s a Capricorn thing. We’re not showy with emotions but are quite fiercely loyal friends. Although I have not seen most of the forum members personally, I consider them friends. Anyone who dares to hurt them will be placed at the firing end of my tirades. <br /><br />What did this Jose Pidol said that caused my irritation?<br /><br />He said that I and the rest of the Team Chiz volunteers are CHEAP because we campaigned for him for free.<br />He said that our pictures with Chiz Escudero (which are proudly displayed as our forum signatures) should be subjected to Photoshop. <br /><br />You can now make your evaluation whether this person is rational or not. But for the sake of rationality, let me answer his accusations. <br /><br />Cheap is defined as: <br />adjective<br />costing little: low in price or cost, or lower in price than might reasonably be expected <br /><br />charging little: charging low prices but offering good value <br /><br />poor quality: inexpensive and of poor quality <br /><br />worth little: worth little or accorded little value <br /><br />undeserving of respect: not deserving to be respected <br /><br />unfair: dishonorable, offensive, or unfair, especially in a way that seems obvious or calculated (a cheap trick)<br /><br />stingy: stingy or unwilling to give freely <br /><br />I am pretty sure that despite of his deficiency in reasoning, he is using the word ‘cheap’ as ‘undeserving of respect.’ <br /><br />Team Chiz members volunteered because we want to help Escudero. In the same manner, can Jose Pidol call the Gawad Kalinga volunteers cheap? Many criticizes the expenses incurred during elections. Isn’t volunteerism one way of lessening the expenditures? Team Chiz volunteers are not cheap. Call them altruistic. <br /><br />Regarding the Photoshop issue, one forum member said that subjecting one’s picture to computer enhancements is the same as electoral cheatings. Deep. What he means is that both results to fake products. <br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rq_ktdWO8oI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/VFI-l5HOnOs/s1600-h/The+Purple+Phoenix+3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rq_ktdWO8oI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/VFI-l5HOnOs/s200/The+Purple+Phoenix+3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5093541173202449026" /></a><br />Come on. Do I look like someone who needs the magic of Photoshop?<br /><br />Now that I have defended my fellow Team Chiz members - let me defend myself.<br /><br />Jose Pidol added that I may have had a Monica Lewinsky moment with Escudero as a payment for all my volunteer work. He also asked if it was ‘short.’ This guy got some class, noh?<br /><br />Here are my answers.<br />I do not have a blue dress.<br />I rarely wear a dress.<br />I only met Chiz Escudero twice a) the first one was with a friend and a couple of 2bU Philippine Daily Inquirer staff and b) second was last week with four other Team Chiz members in the Senate building. It would be difficult to do a Lewinsky in front of others. The best alternative would be an orgy. <br /><br />By now, my sarcasm has equaled my cholesterol level. )<br /><br />However, what really caught my attention is that Jose Pidol called my blog a crap. Short of calling it a shi*t hole if you ask me. It is fine with me. I do not mind if you call my blog a crap or a piece of dirt rag stuck in the as* of a hydrophobic filthy hag. I do not mind.<br /><br />Maybe if Manuel L Quezon III called my blog a crap then that would have affected me. But it was a certain forum member named Jose Pidol who does not have an ounce of analytical and grammatical skills as MLQ3 who called it a crap. <br /><br />Lastly, this Jose Pidol threatened to cut off my wings. Wings? Yes. Phoenix? The Purple Phoenix? Phoenixes have wings. <br /><br />I got some bad news for him. The phoenix does not die. Because of its ability of rebirth - it is almost an immortal creature. Like the mythical creature, the Purple Phoenix will not die. I am too good to be killed by your empty threats. Cut off my wings? Try me. <br /><br />Unless he is talking about the wings of a sanitary napkin…<br /><br />Here's a new development. As I was about to post this article, I opened my private messaging box in our forum and there were to messages of an apologetic Jose Pidol. Ang bilis naman. Ngayon pa lang ako ginaganahan.</strong>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-74252737978925461872007-07-27T08:20:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:08.747+06:00The Jamby Enigma<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RqlhVNWO8ZI/AAAAAAAAAVY/QQWYBO2Tt3U/s1600-h/Jamby+Madrigal.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RqlhVNWO8ZI/AAAAAAAAAVY/QQWYBO2Tt3U/s200/Jamby+Madrigal.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091707870707118482" /></a><br /><br /><strong>The first time I heard of the name Jamby Madrigal was way before the official campaign period in 2004. She starred in a badly-disguised public service commercial extolling her anti-politicking campaign. You remember this...J-J-J-Jamby Madrigal!<br /><br />That advertisement was a favorite college laugh trip. Next to Mar Roxas' Palengke propaganda and Pia Cayetano's infectious Pia-Pia-Pia-Cayetano - the Madrigal heiress has the third ranking LSS jingle. I also joked that when I run as mayor of our town (which will not happen sooner or later), I would pattern my campaign song after Madrigal. J-J-J-Jowana B Bueser! The mere thought is more than horrifying.<br /><br />But you have my assurance - I did not vote for Jamby Madrigal. If you still remember her campaign ad, there were back-up dancers that provided extra oomph to her campaign (if that is even remotely possible). Some of the dancers were from UP. I had a chance to meet one of them in the Peyups forum. He seems quite embarass with her Jamby association. So he freed himself from further embarassment through a courageous self-declaration. He said, 'Hindi ko iboboto si Jamby. Tinanggap ko lang ang trabaho para kumita ng pera.'<br /><br />In my case, I would not even lend my dancing skills to that rich bianing. You know what's a bianing?<br /><br />Anyway, as the title suggests - Madrigal has become an enigma.<br /><br />What is her motive for launching he senate presidential bid of Aquilino Pimentel? <br /><br />My good friends gave me their two cents worth of political analysis.<br /><br />1. Jamby Madrigal will run for president in 2010 and she wants to take down obstacles such as Manuel Villar.<br /><br />2. Jamby Madrigal is eyeing the vice presidency of Mar Roxas and she wants to level the playing field of all 2010 presidentiables.<br /><br />3. Jamby Madrigal wants Mar Roxas to win and she is doing everything for her one true love.<br /><br />The last one got the group's agreement. <br /><br />Seriously. <br /><br />But this is no laughing matter. This is a manifestation of the rich and powerful maneouvering the political dynamics of our country. Her enormous campaign spending was just a tip of the iceberge. Her assistance to incarcerated solon Antonio Trillanes was a public exercise. The 2010 electoral competition is the main event.<br /><br />It is the Main Event of the Madrigal moolah.<br /><br />I can almost hear her say, 'I made it possible for a mutineer win and I can also do the same for an imbecile lawmaker to become a president.'<br /><br />The force of her enigma is palpable. But again - you have my assurance - I will not vote for her.</strong>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-82075418201445619472007-07-26T09:40:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:08.853+06:00The Hello Erap Issue<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RqgmZNWO8YI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/kMbq_-9EjhQ/s1600-h/susan+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RqgmZNWO8YI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/kMbq_-9EjhQ/s200/susan+2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5091361593263845762" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The last time Former President Joseph Estrada figured in a controversial conversation was during the silly height of the Other CD. The premier CD is the Hello Garci masterpiece. The Other CD is the supposed conversation of Estrada giving go-signal to Panfilo Lacson to assasinate Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and Fidel Ramos. Who exposed the Assasination Plot of the Century? Who else but Chavit Singson.<br /><br />Now its Hello Erap. <br /><br />Supposedly, the ousted leader talked to a government official (the proverbial Mike Defensor) to decrease the winning chances of his best buddy Fernando Poe Jr in the last elections.<br /><br />Forgive me but I noticed a scripted drama (or comedy) in the making.<br /><br />I could always say why only expose it now. But that was the same argument given to us by logic expert Eduardo Ermita when the Hello Garci CD came out.<br /><br />The Questions<br />1. What would Estrada gain if his friend lost the elections?<br /><br />2. Why must it be Mike Defensor again? Tol always figure in controversies. Don't you think that it's a bit convenient to include his name since he lost the senatorial elections. Sa madaling salita patapon na ang reputasyon niya at pwedeng-pwedeng sirain.<br /><br />3. Why are Gringo Honasan and Tito Sotto enlightened by the incident while staunch FPJ loyalists Jojo Binay and Chiz Escudero disgusted? Dear me! I know one die-hard FPJ supporters who cannot stomached the presence of Sotto duing the campaign. In her own words, 'masyadong mabait si FPJ ayaw pa rin maniwala na ginagago siya ni Sotto.' Gringo? Well... he's now a free man. Bakit kaya? Hmmm...<br /><br />It's a pity that we do not account the power of intuition. <br /><br /><blockquote>INTUITION<br />The act or faculty of knowing or sensing without the use of rational processes; immediate cognition.<br /><br />Knowledge gained by the use of this faculty; a perceptive insight.<br /><br />A sense of something not evident or deducible; an impression.</blockquote><br /><br />Whose intuition? Susan Roces.<br /><br />The widow has the uncanny ability of subtle public digs and criticism (not once but twice speech not included)against people who have betrayed his late husband. <br /><br />How?<br /><br />1. She did not support Tito Sotto, Gringo Honasan, Tessie Oreta, and Edgardo Angara in the last elections. The four personalities are the core campaign team of the Poe. Check your old Newsbreak issues for further evidence.<br /><br />2. She remains in contact with the former president and even visited his Tanay farm. Check your past Yes magazine issues for further evidence. If you read Yes. I do.<br /><br />This Saturday, the Eternal Movie Queen (as Ricky Lo described her) will be celebrating her birthday. I don't know if she will find the issue funny. But one thing is for sure Gringo Honasan and company will not be part of her birthday special in her TV show.<br /><br />But Chiz Escudero is part of her entourage. <br /><br />Hello Erap: FAKE or NOT?<br />Duh.<br /><br />Gloria Macapagal Arroyo: FAKE or NOT?<br />What do you think?<br /><br />Note: photo was respectfully taken from <a href="http://movies.groups.yahoo.com/group/Susan_Roces/">Susan Roces Yahoogroups</a>.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com268tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-19517883779861946672007-07-25T07:09:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:09.001+06:00Opposition Through and Through<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rqap8dWO8XI/AAAAAAAAAVI/KUPYxfk56wo/s1600-h/Team+Chiz+4.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rqap8dWO8XI/AAAAAAAAAVI/KUPYxfk56wo/s200/Team+Chiz+4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5090943284924051826" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Along with four devoted members of Team Chiz, I went yesterday to the Senate just to watch their session. Except for a few solons, almost every senator was present. The main discussion was about the stand of the body regarding Senator Antonio Trillanes.<br /><br />It was a resolution passed by Senator Aquilino Pimentel. Administration lawmakers such as Juan Ponce Enrile, Richard Gordon, and Edgardo Angara questioned some of the 'whereas' parts. On the other had, Loren Legarda spent her time clarifying points that have been clarified by the others before her while Mar Roxas - I forgot what he said. Of course, I was waiting for only one man. He did not disappoint. Chiz Escudero expressed support on the resolution and proceeded to suggest further proposal for the situation of Trillanes. That made him a SENSIBLE opposition. How about the Gentleman from Maguindanao? He spent his time paraphrasing Escudero.<br /><br />I am not being biased with my report since this also the whispered reactions of the audience in the gallery. <br /><br />When the session adjourned, me and my friends excitedly exited the gallery just to see Escudero up close and personal. (Forgive the young and giddy girls.)He saw us and then invited five starstruck girls to his office.<br /><br />Of course it does not take the proverbial rocket scientist to know how we felt while we are crammed in the elevator with Senator Escudero.<br /><br />Of course it does not take another proverbial rocket scientiest to know how we felt when we were treated to a one-on-one discussion with him. Here are some excerpts of our conversation.<br /><br />Question: Did he join the administration?<br />Answer: No. Definitely not. Voting for Manuel Villar does not make him an administration. The opposition him as a guest candidate and that made Villar part of the opposition. Joseph Estrada wanted the opposition to support the incumbent senate president and he simply followed their leader. In his own words, 'Parang ganito iyon. Hiniram mo ang MVP ng kalaban (referring to Villar) at pagkatapos na manalo kayo bigla niyo siyang iba-bangko.'<br /><br />Question: How about the issue with Ping Lacson?<br />Answer: It's like 2004 all over agin when he refused to unite with FPJ which cost the opposition a controversial loss. <br /><br />Question: How about the twins?<br />Answer: It is a boy and a girl.<br /><br />(You know this one will be coming and you know that I was the one who asked this.)<br /><br />Question: On a lighter side, how about your billboards sprouting all over the Metro?<br />Answer: (Laughs.) May bago nga. Alam niyo kung ano? Rexona. Meron daw silang heroes and icons at makakasama ko raw si Robin Padilla. Paputian kami ng kili-kili ni Robin.<br /><br />The other parts of the interview will not be printed. <br /><br />Sorry. The moment is quite priceless.<br /><br />But it sure fortified my faith that he will be a sensible opposition through and through.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-34458381704448843242007-07-20T11:08:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:09.185+06:00State of the Nuisance Address<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RqBM2jDZoYI/AAAAAAAAAVA/gZTPQL5pKrw/s1600-h/gloria+arroyo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RqBM2jDZoYI/AAAAAAAAAVA/gZTPQL5pKrw/s200/gloria+arroyo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5089152078934811010" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">For the nth time the country's favorite nuisance official will deliver the state of our nation. I hope that this one will be another rich source of sarcastic materials for the Philippine blogsphere. The administration has been consistent with this matter. <br /><br />Do you still remember the three Payatas boys who made the strongest paper boats ever that contained their wishes and was sent to the president through the forces of nature and incredulity? <br /><br />Do you still remember when Jollibee was elevated as an economic indicator for progress in Mindanao during her Power Point presentation?<br /><br />I cannot wait for Monday.<br /><br />It is not just the Fake One who delivers perfect comic flair but so does the other officials. <br /><br />Can we ever forget the yin and yang performance of Jose De Venecia and Franklin Drilon? Such a priceless performance. I dare Dick Cheney and Nancy Pelosi to imitate such political prowess. They cannot. They simply cannot.<br /><br />In a highly-scripted address, the audience is equally important. Their applauses and standing ovations are indeed vital to prove the magnificence of the speech. It does not matter if their well-rehearse actions do not have an ounce of credibility. In the end, the media will still report the number of applauses and ovations given to her.<br /><br />For two days, I was reading the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan of the present administration as a requirement in my Social Welfare Policy class. It was nice. I felt like I was finishing three volumes of fiction tomes.<br /><br />This Monday, I will be watching the State of the Nation Address. Why? There are no good fantasy films in the theaters.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-68056143159116119352007-07-17T07:44:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:09.479+06:00The Break is Back<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RpwoBzDZoAI/AAAAAAAAASA/TAd-1DxNYUg/s1600-h/newsbreak.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RpwoBzDZoAI/AAAAAAAAASA/TAd-1DxNYUg/s200/newsbreak.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5087985690371268610" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">If you have some time and some money to spare then buy the special issue of Newsbreak regarding the last mid-term elections. It looks a lot like Time because of the red background. Plus you'll mistake it for Newsweek until you notice the picture of Ralph Recto.<br /><br />I miss Newsbreak. It's one of those things I look forward to every week and then every two weeks. Honestly, I miss the weekly, then bi-weekly last pages of the magazine. If you have no idea what's included in the last few pages of the magazine, then you are most probably a non-Newsbreak reader. <br /><br />This magazine should be a required reading for students. It makes more sense than requiring students to watch the bio-flick of Manny Pacquiao. That's true. Some schools required their hapless to students to endure hours figuring out the facial similarities between Manny Pacquiao and Jericho Rosales.<br /><br />There are a lot of what if scenarios that popped in my head while reading my copy. <br /><br />1. What if Jose De Venecia did not push for the Constituent Assembly? It will give Prospero Pichay an early start to campaign and could have (gasp) won. Now it can be told...there's something good about Con-Ass. It keeps rotten vegetables busy.<br /><br />2. What if the Third Force of the Wednesday Group pushed through? Will they win or will they lose? I do not know but Recto will still lose.<br /><br />3. What if Kiko Pangilinan ran under the Genuine Opposition banner? Then PLAN Co REVOLT would have been PLAN KiCo REVOLT.<br /><br />4. What if Jericho Petilla maintained his slot in the Team Unity slate? The results would still be the same except that he will garner less votes than Cesar Montano.<br /><br />5. What if Gloria Macapagal Arroyo campaigned for Team Unity? Edgardo Angara and Joker Arroyo will fight for the 12th slot.<br /><br />6. What if Cayetano votes went to Joselito? I think it was Johnny Carson who said that if life is fair, Elvis Presley would be alive and all the impersonators dead.<br /><br />7. What if Madam Auring campaigned for Victor Wood? Will there be a massive nationwide panic attacks and severe vomiting?<br /><br />8. What if the 10 million strong Marcos loyalists voted for Oliver Lozano? Imelda Marcos would have gone ballistic because the same 10 million strong Marcos loyalists did not vote for her in the 1992 presidential elections. <br /><br />9. What if the resume of Felix Cantal is true? Then parallel universe exists.<br /><br /><br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-61345685356119895752007-07-10T18:39:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:09.619+06:00Points to Ponder<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RpcmlzDZn_I/AAAAAAAAAR4/XLlfpSxElko/s1600-h/question+mark.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RpcmlzDZn_I/AAAAAAAAAR4/XLlfpSxElko/s200/question+mark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5086576734939750386" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">It's just the second month of school year and I already exhausted and exasperated because of school work. Add to the fact that I am getting paranoid from all the criticisms Senator Francis Escudero is getting from the blogsphere as well as in the Team Chiz forum.<br /><br />I understand the reactions of the blogsphere. They make sense. But in our forum? Goodness...some of them are simply unreasonable. That exasperates me. They cannot understand a simple sentence such as, 'I run as an opposition and will remain an opposition.' <br /><br />Can you understand it? If yes - then good - it shows that the Philippine educational system works.<br /><br />Chiz will remain loyal with the opposition.<br /><br />Here's a message from the administrator of Team Chiz regarding the issue.</span><br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-weight:bold;">Manny Villar ran for GO, in the last Senatorial Election, in Short opposition sya . bakit si Jinggoy Ejercito will be voting for Villar bakit hindi sya sinasabihan kumakampi kay GMA.<br /><br />One of the main reasons bakit iboboto ni Chiz si Villar as Senate President is President Estrada ask him to . Hindi si Chiz gaya ng ibang GO candidates na maka sarili sususunood sya sa mga kasunduan na ginawa ng mga Pinuno ng GO ( Estrada at Binay )<br /><br />Pimentel never ask Chiz to vote for him. He nevered approached Chiz, in fact si Chiz pa ang lumapit at nagtanong sa kanya ... ang sagot sa kanya di ko alam yan si Jamby ang nagiinitiate ... dyan lang pano mo bobotohin yung tao as Senate President kung di sya makasagot sa sarili nya.<br /><br />Si Mar ang sabi kay Chiz iboto kahit sino hwag lang si villar... To which Chiz answered ... Di ikaw ang tumakbo sa Senate President ... i will vote for you ...<br /><br />Chiz was ready to answer all the bad publicity pero pinigilan sya ni President Estrada ... Now is not the time . meron ba sa inyo nagduda na di kayang sagutin ni chiz ang mga kinakalat na bad publicity sa kanya ?<br /><br />In time Chiz will answer this ... and there are a lot more reasons but i can not elaborate them without destroying the credibility of other GO candidates<br /><br />Chiz is with the opposition and will remain with the opposition while GMA is seated in Malacanang.</span></blockquote><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">If you tie this up to the article of <a href="http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=83874">Billy Esposo</a> it fits perfectly well.<br /><br />Points to Ponder<br />1. Why are Panfilo Lacson, Manuel Villar, and Mar Roxas ripping the opposition apart?<br />2. What is the reason of Jamby Madrigal for pushing a Pimentel presidency?<br />3. Why did Roxas decided to abandon his desire to run as senate president?<br />4. What is the agreement between Villar, Estrada, and Mayor Binay?<br /><br />I have four more papers that is due next week. I just have to remind everyone that this is not the only issue worth blogging.<br /><br />Bossi is still missing. The MILF is in a rampage. The Human Security Act will start its own rampage. And Paris Hilton is free again to inspire havoc. </span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-33236982033245423362007-07-05T10:15:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:09.716+06:00The 2010 Elections: Much-Improved MacGuffin<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rox_74I9rCI/AAAAAAAAARo/xboQlMeqqZo/s1600-h/macguffin.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rox_74I9rCI/AAAAAAAAARo/xboQlMeqqZo/s200/macguffin.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083578746053438498" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">A MacGuffin is a plot device that advances the storyline or motivates the characters but has little relevance to the story. The Oscar-ignored but still legendary Alfred Hitchcock popularized and made it as an art form. The ugly bird statue in The Maltese Falcon is the best example of a MacGuffin. <br /><br />Today, there is a huge MacGuffin hovering in the Philippine political landscape. It is the 2010 presidential elections. But this is a much-improved MacGuffin. Unlike Hitchcock's, the 2010 MacGuffin has huge relevance to the story. Plus the motivation it provides for the lead personalities would shame the acting exploits of Sydney Greenstreet and Peter Lorre. <br /><br />Story: The 15th President of the Philippines<br />MacGuffin: 2010 Presidential Elections<br />Red Herring: The Senate Presidency and the so-called Opposition Split<br />Lead Characters<br />1. Manuel Villar<br />2. Manuel Roxas<br />3. Panfilo Lacson<br /><br />Supporting Characters<br />1. Loren Legarda<br />2. Francis Escudero<br />3. Alan Peter Cayetano<br /><br />The two Manuels is sure to run in the next big fight. Lacson will take another stab. Legarda is the a senate topnotcher twice and is touted to be a strong presidentiable. Escudero is the dark horse. He finished a close and strong second and has the strong political backing. The main criticism is his youth and lack of national experience. As they say, he has so much time in the world.<br /><br />The battle for the senate leadership is a red herring but with huge consequences. I believe that this is a staged act. Roxas, Lacson, and Legarda are pushing for Nene Pimentel's candidacy. But it is so obvious that they are doing so to remove a huge 2010 obstacle which is Manuel Villar. It seems that he will have a huge advantage over his future rivals if he retains his current position. As Roxas articulated, 'this is to level the playing field in 2010.' Such hypocrisy! After winning in 2004, this guy faded into obscurity then tried to resurrect his dismal performance with a so-called public service ad in the last elections. Oh. He raised a howl on his pet bill.<br /><br />Question: why doesn't any of the three senators run for the Upper House presidency? <br />Answer: I have no idea.<br /><br />Everything seems to be going smooth until it hit two bumps, Escudero and Alan Peter Cayetano will vote for Villar. <br /><br />How can these two rabid oppositionist vote for Villar? Cayetano has not said anything and Escudero assured that he will remain an opposition regarding pertinent issues. <br /><br />So...the three lead characters will not be able to stop Villar. Thus throwing another red herring - the opposition split. Serge Osmena has said that the 2010 elections is causing the fracture in the Genuine Opposition. He is most definitely correct. Lacson intimated that Villar had an alliance with the Gloria Macapagal Arroyo after the midterm elections. But of course, the loyalty issue lost credibility with Roxas' 'level the playing field strategy.' <br /><br />Villar, much as I dislike this guy, run under the opposition slate. He has not done anything (at least in public) that shows he has abandon the cause of the opposition unless you count the Lacson-Defensor Santiago floated rumors. He has lost a lot of ground in the last elections placing a dismal fourth. He thus needs to achieve some sort of political rebound. Roxas is in dire need of a political revival. In a one-on-one match with strict observance of financial use, Escudero will trample Roxas. <br /><br />The odd one is Legarda. She is backing Pimentel but is not as vocal as Lacson and Roxas. I'm sure she is simply a wise predator. Watching silently as her testosterone-fueled rivals are fighting. But I am sure, given the right time, she'll sharpen those Pashmina-covered claws. Remember the rumors that she has dropped her fellow GO candidates in her sample ballots? She retorted that she will never do that and pointed out that her newspaper ads included all the candidates of the opposition. This is a half-truth. Sure the newspaper ad part is correct but the sample ballots? No. I still keep her sample ballots that was given to us by her father. It only included her name, Nikki Coseteng, and Martin Bautista. She is beautiful but she is also vicious. <br /><br />Escudero is like a young owl perching wisely in a huge tree - watching his much older peers squabbling for position. He holds a great political momentum including a strong political party, an enormous youth volunteer group and that x-factor called charisma. That's why Lacson and company is trumpeting an opposition split and short of accusing Escudero and Cayetano of abandoning their cause. <br /><br />Now, there is one character in this story that is not given much attention. Joseph Estrada. It did not came as a shocker that his son Jinggoy Estrada is rumored to be supporting Manuel Villar. Why? He did it before along with his mother. Eventually a new gossip floated: Manny Villar-Jinggoy Estrada for 2010. Expectedly, San Juan Mayor JV Ejercito expressed disappointment and sadness over the decisions of Escudero and Cayetano. But I am pretty sure that his emotion is really directed to his half-brother. It's a common knowledge that there is no love lost between the two.<br /><br />One thing that puzzles me is this, why make a big fuss about the senate leadership? Whoever wins does not change the fact that the majority of the Filipinos hates the current administration. The opposition got whacked in the Lower House but still most of us would want a successful impeachment. Get this: the senate is not the 'genuine' opposition - the majority of the Filipinos are. Last elections, we just provided you a mandate so that our sentiments would be heard. <br /><br />Do I honestly care about the senate leadership? Hell no. But I do want this senate to challenge the brutality and tyranny of the current administration. The two senate neophytes accused of treacherous acts suffered most of this administration's oppressive moves. Cayetano had to struggle with an unknown namesake while Escudero almost suffered the fate. Everything was thrown to this two except for the proverbial kitchen sink. You think they are stupid enough to strike an alliance with the enemy? They are young but they are not Gringo Honasan. <br /><br />Reader, are you still following me? Are you still feeling well?<br /><br />No?<br /><br />Me too. <br /><br />This is one MacGuffin in dire need of a conclusion. The bad news is that we have to wait for three more years to see its end.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-66392080985949439432007-07-05T09:31:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:09.904+06:00Please Do Not Disappoint Us<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Roxrp4I9rBI/AAAAAAAAARg/-MaN3YAIBfM/s1600-h/chiz.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Roxrp4I9rBI/AAAAAAAAARg/-MaN3YAIBfM/s200/chiz.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083556446583237650" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">I have said my piece on a Manuel Villar Senate Presidency. Since the main personalities pushing for the leadership of Nene Pimentel are loaded with vested interests highlighted by Mar Roxas' 'level the playing field for 2010' strategy, I do not mind Francis Escudero voting for Mister Sipag at Tiyaga.<br /><br />However, most people - including fiercely loyal Team Chiz volunteers - see this as an act of treachery. Traydor ng Bayan, as one activist netizen articulated in another forum. I've been a vocal supporter and staunch defender of Chiz Escudero. But I always put my principles first. When I was a third-grader my teacher in Sibika and Kultura asked me if I would still support my father who was a mayor if he gets embroiled in political scandals or corruption. Without second thoughts, I answered NO. I would still respect him as a father but never as a leader. My teacher was shocked. Maybe she was expecting an answer that would go in the lines of the adage 'blood is thicker than water.'<br /><br />Trust me, if Chiz Escudero jumpships to the administration, I will stop supporting him...and even campaign against him. His cute picture firmly posted in the right side of this blog will see the end of its cyber exposure.<br /><br />I am a supporter and a fan. If he changes his heart, damn all the Chiz scrapbooks that I made. It will immediately meet the element of fire. To hell with global warming! <br /><br />But this is not the first time the rumor mill churned out gossips that Escudero will move to administration camp. The first time (correct me if I am wrong) is before the elections when Jose De Venecia floated the idea that the Sorsogoanon will be part of Team Unity. Escudero run under the Genuine Opposition banner. I even sent him an email message in his on-line office asking for reassurance of his opposition loyalty. He answered back saying that he will always be an oppositionist. I still keep a printed copy of that email reply.<br /><br />Escudero explained that he will vote for Villar (or to be more precise, he is still hoping that the opposition will have a united stand in the issue) but will remain an OPPOSITION in pertinent national issues. <br /><br />I believe him. I felt the same reassurance he gave me before. The thing with Escudero is that he may is a good talker but he talks with sincerity. I have seen and talked to a number of politicians because of my father's position...but only a few provides you a sense of sincerity. He is one of them.<br /><br />Chiz Escudero has made public his desire to run for president in 2010. Moving to the administration camp is a political death wish. He knows it. He is not stupid. <br /><br />But please sir, do not disappoint the more than 18 million Filipinos who voted for you. <br /><br />Disappointment is a powerful reaction. It may cost your presidential aspirations.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-45713040529879441562007-07-05T08:33:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:10.112+06:00Good Girl Gloria<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoxZEII9rAI/AAAAAAAAARY/YvU8mkh6WLQ/s1600-h/gloria+arroyo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoxZEII9rAI/AAAAAAAAARY/YvU8mkh6WLQ/s200/gloria+arroyo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083536006833875970" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">There is a dearth of irritating news that is commendable of irreverent criticism. Senator-elect take their oaths. Ho-hum. Ronaldo Puno will replace Eduardo Ermita. Double ho-hum. The Commission on Appointments mafia would have been exciting but Herminio Teves is still keeping mum on the identities of the big shot cretins. Name names. That would be exciting. Just imagine, we will witness the grand media comeback of Prospero Pichay after a long and maddening campaign circus. Wohoo! <br /><br />However, the Philippine Daily Inquirer has been headlining the supposed legacy plan of Little Gloria. Awww. How sweet. Our Little Gloria has found her heart. She wants to focus on the economy and will grant amnesties. Awww. How sweet.<br /><br />Yeah right.<br /><br />I wonder if the mother of Jonas Burgos will find it sweet. I wonder if the relatives of the dead activists will find comfort. Or if all the colleagues of dead journalists find happiness. Or if every Filipinos voters who got hoodwinked in the last presidential elections will celebrate her monumental plan.<br /><br />I am pretty sure that the reaction is a resounding yuck. What a bitter and hypocritical pill to swallow!<br /><br />Welcome to The Legacy Cram School of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, where everything starts with illusions and ends with delusions. But I am really scared and worried of her promise. Every time she makes a promise, she breaks it and eventually shatters our nation to pieces. On the death anniversary of our national hero, she vowed not to run in the next elections because she is a divisive factor. Not only did she run; she also cheated to win. She promised to focus on economic reforms. She did and now we have an additional 12% expanded value-added taxes. It was suppose to help the economy. The Filipinos knew better and snuffed out the political career of Ralph Recto. She pledged to fight terrorism; soon enough, the journalists and militants die like ordinary house flies.<br /><br />Now she is back to making promises which she calls legacy. You know what, she should stop this charade. Her legacy has been cemented the moment she called a certain COMELEC commissioner in order to ensure the safety of her fabricated votes. <br /><br />I am sure that more Filipinos would remember the controversial conversation than her ten-point agenda. I am sure that more Filipinos would remember her as the woman who tried her very best to act as contrite as possible while delivering her vague apology rather than the woman who promised significant economic reforms. In short, illegitimacy will continue to hound her.<br /><br />It will always be Gloria the Fake One. <br />.<br />One thing is for sure, it is not our fault. It was her fault. Our only mistake is that we should have driven this Little Girl out of the Palace when we had our chance. If we cannot avoid national amnesia then we should persistently commit to memory our People Power heritage.<br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-35042273093290978642007-06-28T10:37:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:10.449+06:00The Hidden Benefits of a Manuel Villar-Led Senate<span style="font-weight:bold;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM7w4I9q-I/AAAAAAAAARI/KrtjM9dhJQ8/s1600-h/manny+villar.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM7w4I9q-I/AAAAAAAAARI/KrtjM9dhJQ8/s200/manny+villar.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080970515493792738" /></a><br /><br />I believe that a Manuel Villar-led senate is more beneficial for the opposition than an Aquilino Pimentel presidency. Not that I believe in Villar nor do I hate Pimentel. I did not even vote for him in the recent elections. On the other hand, I would really want to see an oppositionist bang the gavel in the Upper House.<br /><br />In order to analyze the mind of the current senate president, you need to think like him – a shrewd businessman. However, if you desire to keep in step or go ahead of him, then you need to counter think his moves.<br /><br />It is still 2007 but any astute politician is planning ahead. Ahead refers to 2010, the presidential elections. Unless Conrado De Quiros’ theory comes true in which he posited that the lasting legacy of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is literally herself. Constitutional changes aside, the path to power in the next big electoral contest is paved for the opposition. There are so many presidentiables in the opposing side than those in the administration group. Presidentiables that are deemed solid oppositionists are Loren Legarda, Panfilo Lacson, Francis Escudero, and even Jejomar Binay. Those that are considered soft oppositionists are Manuel Roxas III and Manuel Villar. The best bet of the administration is Noli De Castro, although I have heard rumors that he will not run for higher office even if he is a heartbeat away from the plum post. Unless Prospero Pichay runs…<br /><br />This scenario poses a problem. The present administration controls the majority of local positions through the Lakas and Kampi parties. Simply put, who will control the so-called political machinery? Even if the so-called ‘command vote’ sputtered for Team Unity in the last elections, it will still serve a huge edge for any presidential candidate. <br /><br />How the leadership of the senate get in the convoluted picture? Analyze the following situations.<br /><br />First scenario: Senate President Manuel Villar<br />He needs votes from the ranks of the opposition in order to retain his position. This will not take anything away from the opposition since Villar is identified with. He is technically an oppositionist. We should remember that it was the vote of the Estradas that formalized his senate leadership. In other words, Villar kept his promise and sided with the opposition. Unless it is but superficial, the man keeps his promises. If he remains as senate president, he does not have any reason to jump over the administration fence. It will be a bad move for his part. If you want to become president, you should not be doing bad moves in the next three years.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM8AoI9q_I/AAAAAAAAARQ/f1tr6-kMuss/s1600-h/nene+pimentel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM8AoI9q_I/AAAAAAAAARQ/f1tr6-kMuss/s200/nene+pimentel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080970786076732402" /></a><br />Second scenario: Senate President Aquilino Pimentel<br />This means that Villar loses in which case, he may join the administration. It will still leave a bad taste but not as much compared to the first scenario. However, this will be a serious blow to the opposition. Although, it is rather certain that most of the presidentiables will come from their forces, they need to present a united front in the coming days. The opposition needs to be united. Sure, a Pimentel victory demonstrates unity but the aftermath may be dangerous. At this point, it is rather unthinkable for Pimentel to join the administration, so sacrifice is an option. If Villar decides to give way, then it is better for the opposition and for his presidential chances. <br /><br />Third scenario: Senate President Lito Lapid<br />Kidding.<br /><br />The opposition could still come up with a secret balloting and other means to consolidate their power but they need to think and rethink their decision. The senate presidency issue is not as simple as many would like to believe. <br /><br />It is rather obvious that the choice is not a moral. Machiavellian is the more appropriate description. But I did warn you. You have to think like a shrewd businessman.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-64107453217489397542007-06-28T10:12:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:10.939+06:00Possible 2010 Team-ups: Strengths and Weaknesses<span style="font-weight:bold;">It is not too early to think of the coming elections. The 2010 scenario is one of the hottest topics in the Team Chiz forum, be it the senatoriable or the presidentiable thread. So it is really not too early to talk about the future.<br /><br />Or maybe I just find the whole cabinet revamp unworthy of a blog entry.<br /><br />Constitutional changes aside, the possible 2010 team-ups and their strengths and weaknesses.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4YYI9q6I/AAAAAAAAAQo/6HxoDcp1xDY/s1600-h/loren+legarda.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4YYI9q6I/AAAAAAAAAQo/6HxoDcp1xDY/s200/loren+legarda.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080966796052114338" /></a><br />President: Loren Legarda<br />Vice President: Francis Escudero<br />1-2 punch. Literally. The first-placer and the runner-up in the recent elections – not bad – but will Filipinos want another woman president? If you ask my mother, the answer is no.<br /><br />Strengths<br />Both are riding the crest of the opposition wave. Both are running high in terms of momentum. Both are young and popular candidates. Both are affiliated with the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) which will provide the necessary organization.<br />Weaknesses<br />Money. They may attract funders but they also need to dig their own pockets.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4u4I9q8I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/V5MMXLon51A/s1600-h/mar+roxas.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4u4I9q8I/AAAAAAAAAQ4/V5MMXLon51A/s200/mar+roxas.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080967182599171010" /></a><br /><br />President: Manuel Roxas III<br />Vice President: Francis Escudero<br />Young, popular, and with deeper financial resources. <br /><br />Strengths<br />Same as above.<br />Weaknesses<br />The deafening silence of Mar Roxas. He spoke angrily against the inaction on his Cheaper Medicines bill and…what else did he said throughout his Upper House stint? Chiz vows to be the Boses ng Senado. Mar seems to be the Sore Throat ng Senado.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4_II9q9I/AAAAAAAAARA/ymaquLxhIl0/s1600-h/ping+lacson.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4_II9q9I/AAAAAAAAARA/ymaquLxhIl0/s200/ping+lacson.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080967461772045266" /></a><br /><br /><br />President: Panfilo Lacson<br />Vice President: Francis Escudero<br />It’s getting obvious that I am positioning Escudero as a vice presidential contender. Yes. Some kibitzers think that he would immediately head for the top post but I guess it’s a bit early for him. It is sure nice to the ‘youngest elected Filipino president’ but history is not just about being first. Why not settle for the ‘best Filipino president ever?’ Going back, the Lacson-Escudero tandem is gaining support among Team Chiz members. Why? Read on.<br /><br />Strengths<br />Youth and experience. Popularity and financial ability. You get the idea? Plus, Escudero has the NPC machine behind him.<br />Weaknesses<br />Not much. Lacson seems impervious to all the Kuratong Baleleng accusations. This is not an objective assessment. I admit. I am one of those Team Chiz members anticipating this combination.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4iII9q7I/AAAAAAAAAQw/Mp6mMSWQ9fM/s1600-h/manny+villar.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RoM4iII9q7I/AAAAAAAAAQw/Mp6mMSWQ9fM/s200/manny+villar.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5080966963555838898" /></a><br /><br />President: Manuel Villar<br />Vice President: Francis Escudero<br />What’s the connection between Villar and Escudero? The current senate president is one of the principal wedding sponsors of the Sorsogoanon senator, if I am not mistaken.<br /><br />Strengths<br />Quite similar with the Lacson-Escudero tandem.<br />Weaknesses<br />Hmmm…same as above. I will not vote for the president though.<br /><br />President: Loren Legarda<br />Vice President: Francis Pangilinan<br />Not quite palatable.<br /><br />Strengths<br />Both candidates are popular. The tremendous media and showbiz connection could be a factor.<br />Weaknesses<br />Money. <br /><br />President: Manuel Roxas<br />Vice President: Francis Pangilinan<br />Just a question, is Pangilinan affiliated with the Liberal Party? His supposed independent stance muddled my stock knowledge. If he is, then this combination will get the full backing of the Liberal Party.<br /><br />Strengths<br />Young, popular, financially capable plus an ample amount of showbiz luster.<br />Weaknesses<br />If the recent election is any indication then Pangilinan is losing steam. If Roxas marries his supposed media diva fiancé then this might receive a much needed oomph.<br /><br /><br />President: Panfilo Lacson<br />Vice President: Francis Pangilinan<br />Again…not palatable.<br /><br />Strengths<br />Experience, money and showbiz.<br />Weaknesses<br />It lacks chemistry. I just feel that their personalities will clash.<br /><br />President: Manuel Villar<br />Vice President: Francis Pangilinan<br />Wednesday group connection? Isn’t Villar a Nacionalista while the other one is a Liberal ? Hmmm…<br /><br />Strengths<br />Quite strong. Experience, money, and showbiz…<br />Weaknesses<br />…but they both lost momentum in the last elections.<br /><br />Thus, you may conclude that the top five senatorial winners together Mar Roxas may slug it out three years from now.<br /><br />How about in the administration side? Edgardo Angara-Joker Arroyo? Unless Zubiri dislodges the younger Pimentel in the senate race. Prospero Pichay-Mike Defensor? Do I hear a resounding ‘yes’ from the opposition to ensure their easy victory?<br /><br />Or Alan Peter Cayetano-Antonio Trillanes? That will be too much for Mike Arroyo and Hermogenes Esperon. <br /><br />Or Jojo Binay-Lito Lapid? That would be crazy fun. Or Miriam Defensor Santiago-Raul Gonzales? That is simply crazy.<br /><br />Or Manuel Roxas-Jamby Madrigal? Sorry. That was the answer to a persistent blind item. <br /><br />Or Loren Legarda-Edgardo Angara? Let’s not go there.<br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-65026053461499046832007-06-20T08:17:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:11.191+06:00Hillary Clinton Spoofs The Sopranos<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RniRzMIrBQI/AAAAAAAAAQg/qFj4mYSB6io/s1600-h/senator-clinton2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RniRzMIrBQI/AAAAAAAAAQg/qFj4mYSB6io/s200/senator-clinton2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5077968888477189378" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Actually...it's Hillary Clinton spoofs the Sopranos. Watch the video at her <a href="http://www.hillaryclinton.com/">campaign site</a>. It's an introductory video to her campaign song. Maybe our own 2010 presidentiables could learn a thing or two from Clinton and the rest of the 2008 contenders in running an Cyberspace campaign. <br /><br />My only beef is the singer...Celine Dion. <br /><br />Why?<br /><br />I think Bill is right. It should be the Smashmouth!<br /><br />Spoofing an HBO series? Hillary seems to be letting her hair down. <br />What's next?<br /><br />The race for 2008 is heating up...<br /><br />Note: my blog says that I'll talk about Philippine politics but isn't our country and USA too tied up?</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-66492621126675566972007-06-19T12:19:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:11.431+06:00Generation X Senators<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RneBc8IrBPI/AAAAAAAAAQY/BP9L3rGFl6c/s1600-h/gen+x.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RneBc8IrBPI/AAAAAAAAAQY/BP9L3rGFl6c/s200/gen+x.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5077669439062344946" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Generation X: a term used to describe generations in many countries around the world. The exact demographic boundaries of Generation X are not well defined, depending on who is using the term, where and when. According to generation researchers Neil Howe and William Strauss, Generation X includes anyone born from 1960 to 1985 in North America. <br /><br />That is according to Wikipedia. <br /><br />The Philippine Daily Inquirer has an interesting article today. Entitled as 'Generational Clash Looms in the Senate,' it featured an interview of Gen X senatorial poster boy Francis Escudero regarding their impending invasion of fellow Gen Xers Alan Cayetano and Antonio Trillanes. <br /><br />'The senate should be ready for out-of-the-box thinking because if we continue to do the same thing we will have the same results,' the Sorsogoanon warned. He admitted that their group 'will go through a period of adjustment' although he said that their elders should also adjust.<br /><br />During the proclamation, Escudero and company were criticized for their almost casual attire. The out-going Minority Leader countered that there was no dress code for the ceremonies. The rest of the Team Chiz volunteers could only swoon with satisfaction.<br /><br />Escudero added that when they do not things traditionally, 'it's not necessarily rebellion, it's an admission that times have changed. That things cannot remain the same. We should learn from the past. If we keep doing the same things in the same manner, we will have the same results.'<br /><br />Translating it to Gen X language, that would be, 'Don't say were rude, man.'<br /><br />Since the three Generation X lawmakers are media-savvy with a very bright future ahead of them, they would be quite a force to reckon with in the Upper Chamber. I suggest that they make their own club like the Wednesday Group or the Cavalier's Club to consolidate and formalize their influence. I just hope that they do not call at as Gen X: Slackers of the Senate.<br /><br />On the other hand, senior citizen re-electionist senator Edgardo Angara believes that it is actually the Gen X senators that will change as time passes. Maybe he is speaking from experience.<br /><br />I am yearning for a new political rivalry of a different kind. Something like a Spice Boys versus Bright Boys competition. If a generational clash is the best that they could right now, then I am willing to take it. My Japanese classmate commented that Philippine politics may be crazy but it is definitely not boring as the Japanese Diet.<br /><br />Finally. Senators who could discuss the nitty-gritty of our constitution and the importance of 'Reality Bites' and 'Dazed and Confused' to the history of world cinema in equal lengths.<br /><br />Make us proud Gen X senators. <br />I want to say 'woah' every time you do something.<br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-54507294269393035022007-06-19T11:27:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:11.531+06:00Explaining the Trillanes Vote<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rndz98IrBOI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/dM8ovlNeT1E/s1600-h/trillanes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rndz98IrBOI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/dM8ovlNeT1E/s200/trillanes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5077654612835239138" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Yesterday, Jesus Sison of Malaya posed a question. 'It would be interesting not only to the AFP but to the people in general to find out why Antonio Trillanes IV got 11 million votes to make him win a senate seat.' Expressing surprised at the Triumph of Trillanes, he ended his curiosity with, 'the military and the public want to find out what makes Trillanes tick.'<br /><br />In Philippine Daily Inquirer, Ramon Farolan enumerated several reasons for the thrilling victory of the Rebel with a Cause. He has four reasons. 'First, his victory represents the most serious indictment of the Arroyo administration...second, his victory represents his pointed criticism of our justice system...third, our people are clamoring for new faces, not the tired, old ones that we see almost every election period...fourth,there is some hope for the electoral process.'<br /><br />The first reason refers to the so-called protest vote. The second pertains to the long and dragging resolution to the Oakwood mutiny case. The third one is a reference to young lawmakers who won convincingly in the midterm elections. The last reason is a reminder that the answer to dubious command vote and menacing political machinery is eternal vigilance.<br /><br />I am one of the more than 11 million Filipinos who voted for the incarcerated rebel. I have three reasons for choosing him over other candidates. First, he is critical of the government. Second, he never changed his position. Unlike some Magdalo soldiers who would rather cooperate with the government in order to lessen their punishment - Trillanes sticked to his beliefs. My roommate would always say that a candidate who changes parties and beliefs is a notch lower than a traditional politician. That makes Tito Sotto a notch lower than Jose De Venecia. Lastly, I voted for him because I also want a new face in the senate. But he is more than a 'face,' Trillanes is a well-educated and articulate individual.<br /><br />However, there are other reasons for his amazing accomplishment. You have to remember that Trillanes is a Bicolano. Bicolanos are known to vote for fellow Bicolanos. Our household is made up of around 70% Bicolanos and they sure gave him a solid vote.<br /><br />The youth sector also gravitates toward Trillanes. Before the malicious voting in Votester occured, Trillanes was ranked third behind Francis Escudero and Alan Cayetano. His Friendster account is also quite popular. His website also receives regular visits and comments. The usually Chiz-centric Team Chiz volunteers bestowed the Magdalo leader their highest respect by cheering for him during the Miting de Avance of the Genuine Opposition.<br /><br />Despite of his mutinous past, it is quite obvious that Trillanes has supporters from the left and the right of political spectrum. Senator Jamby Madrigal admitted that she funded his advertisements which is really helpful in upping his awareness level. Former UP President Nemenzo is one of his known backers. That could now fully-explained the huge streamer of Trillanes in our university's February fair.<br /><br />His inclusion in the Genuine Opposition line-up is anything but a token. He always has representatives during motorcades, public forums, and meetings. I am pretty sure that if he was given a chance to bail and campaign personally, he would easily squeeze in the top five.<br /><br />What makes Trillanes tick?<br /><br />He is a phenomenon. You do not explain a phenomenon. You simply marvel while it unfolds. </span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-16466584066749742762007-06-19T10:54:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:11.651+06:00The Top Ten Crazy Things I did for Chiz Escudero<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rndn6cIrBNI/AAAAAAAAAQI/8t3jzNqUGTU/s1600-h/chiz.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rndn6cIrBNI/AAAAAAAAAQI/8t3jzNqUGTU/s200/chiz.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5077641358566163666" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1. Wear yellow shirts. Yellow is my most hated color next to pink. Thank goodness I did not join Team Mike.<br /><br />2. Wear my black Chiz shirt every Friday. Friday is Chiz shirt day as agreed by Team Chiz members. Since I hate yellow...I have to suffer the sweltering heat of the sun.<br /><br />3. Buy Chiz shirts for rabid Escudero supporters.<br /><br />4. Print around 500 solo pictures of Chiz Escudero as a replacement for flyers. Due to the great demand for Escudero campaign materials, there is usually shortage of paraphernalia. Thus, I decided to print 4R pictures as a substitute. It's quite a hit in our town. People literally mob me because of the precious photos.<br /><br />5. Campaign in Iloilo (with fellow volunteer Liz) for 13 days. Read: I don't speak Ilonggo. But the food is great!<br /><br />6. Campaign in Iloilo in front of the house of Raul Gonzales, Jr. Yes. He is the son of He who must be Shamed. After plastering a community in Mandurriao with striking Chiz stickers, a resident told us that the son of the DOJ secretary got angry. It is another demonstration of the old adage, 'the apple does not fall far from the tree.'<br /><br />7. Create a series of Chiz Escudero scrapbooks. Team Chiz members have a habit of text brigading the latest magazine featuring Escudero. So if the June 11-18 issue of Biz News Asia sells more than the usual...Tony Lopez, you have to thank us.<br /><br />8. Convince my non Chiz fan parents to vote for him. I am so good in persuading them that they even campaign for the senator-elect from Sorsogon. During the early part of the campaign season, my mother twisted her ankle, but that did not stop from trekking wet markets in order to campaign for the young lawmaker. My secret in persuasion? Good old voodoo. Kidding.<br /><br />9. Write - as in manually write his name in sample ballots. Since I was not able to obtain stickers, I had to convince a few others to write his name in several hundreds of sample ballots. Our work paid off. Escudero obtain 78% of the votes in our town. Number one.<br /><br />10. Engage taxi drivers in small talks (sometimes long discussions) about - who else - Chiz Escudero. I once rode a taxi manned by a Bicolano driver. When he learned that I was a volunteer and a half-Bicolana, I got a discount. Not bad.<br /><br />Note: if Escudero decides to run for higher office (which he most certainly will), this list may include eating live chicken, swallowing swords, and convincing Raul Gonzales, Jr. to campaign and vote for the soon-to-be father of twins.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-33894323823830077972007-06-15T07:45:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:12.093+06:00Endless Belief in the Goodness of Humanity<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RnHwj8IrBMI/AAAAAAAAAQA/0O-RHu8FhXg/s1600-h/maguindanao.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RnHwj8IrBMI/AAAAAAAAAQA/0O-RHu8FhXg/s200/maguindanao.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5076102755251848386" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Anger is the easiest emotion to express regarding the case of Musa Dimasidsing. He should have not been dead. Instead, he should have been put under a witness protection program in order for him to continue his fight against electoral fraud. But anger has its limits, indifference is one of them. Honestly, do people even care if he died? More so, do they even know that a certain Musa Dimasidsing, who according to one candidate refused to sign a document affirming that no electoral hoax occurred in Maguindanao, senselessly died? <br /><br />Indifference is the black hole of national anger.<br /><br />Days after a grueling campaign, I promised myself that I would take a deserving rest before the start of an even more grueling academic year. I watched all the DVDs that Edu Manzano and the rest of the Optical Media Board do not like. The highlight of which is a Hayao Miyazaki movie marathon. Miyazaki is considered a god by hardcore anime fans like me. Once described as Steven Spielberg and Orson Welles combined, the Japanese genius has been churning out spectacular but most importantly, intellectual anime masterpieces. Philippine elections are dirty and real. Miyazaki films are comforting and pure imagination. Most of his oeuvres are coming-of-age stories of young independent girls faced with a problem that they must overcome through unselfish desire and endless belief in the goodness of humanity. <br /><br />Damn. <br /><br />Can you even describe Philippine politics as the allocation of power through unselfish desire and endless belief in the goodness of humanity?<br /><br />It is hard to desire without thinking of your personal gains. Thus, it is highly understandable that ‘unselfish desire’ is a concept that resides in the realm of the fiction. However, ‘endless belief in the goodness of humanity’ must never loose its appeal in the real world. It has another and much simpler name. It is called hope. <br /><br />Before the campaign period began, our nation hoped for clean and peaceful elections that no part of the scandalous 2004 elections would be replicated. With more than a hundred election-related violence reported, the head of the Philippine National Police described it as ‘generally peaceful.’ With the occurrence of ancient electoral problems such as vote-buying, ballot box snatching, and the all-too familiar cheating taking place in all levels – the present administration was elated with a so-called ‘successful election.’ The rest of the Filipinos could only raise an eyebrow.<br /><br />Yet Musa Dimasidsing raised more than an eyebrow. He raised his voice. Now he is dead. This is the price he paid for being a fine Filipino citizen. This is the price he paid for acting like a civilized person. This is the price he paid for re-establishing the goodness of humanity.<br /><br />I personally hate this news. I never intended to write a blog entry on the Musa Dimasidsing case if not for the good intentions of The Voice of the Filipino. For two days, I felt good watching well-crafted anime and then the pointless killing of Musa Dimasidsing pierced my consciousness. It was quick and numbing. The reassurance that I experienced watching several Japanese animated films suddenly disappeared faster than the missing certificates of canvass in Maguindanao. The news shattered the rose-colored glasses that I was wearing for a couple of days like a vicious wrecking ball. <br />It’s back to reality.<br /><br />The police was quick to warn the public not to relate the case with the Maguindanao electoral fraud in the senatorial race. They said that there is big chance that the death of Musa Dimasidsing is due to a heated local race. <br /><br />It does not matter whether it was a consequence of a local struggle or a massive national deceit. For crying out loud, the life of a person was forcibly taken through bullets! <br /><br />One day the perpetrators would be apprehended (or maybe not), but that is not enough. The number of dying and disappearing Filipinos is increasing in such an alarming rate. Had the authorities stamped their – what else – authority and prevented the crimes, then the killers of Musa Dimasidsing would have thought twice before executing him. The same thing with election fraud had the Hello Garci issue ended with a legal and logical closure then there would have been a lesser amount of mistrust in the atmosphere. Legal and logical closure means, the cheaters get punish. <br /><br />But expecting punishment from a government filled with power-hungry individuals is the same as expecting the Team Unity senatorial slate to perform extremely well in the last elections.<br /><br />I am pretty sure Musa Dimasidsing will end up as another nameless, faceless Filipino in our non-existent national consciousness. But neither in my case nor with the other bloggers who exerted effort and provided precious space in articulating their sentiments for him.<br /><br />I still maintain my endless belief in the goodness of humanity. <br /> <br />I hope that I am not alone.<br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-81429036002831331462007-06-14T09:48:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:12.285+06:00The 2007 Election Awards<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RnDA9MIrBLI/AAAAAAAAAP4/vxSCRP7kw1A/s1600-h/GO+avance.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/RnDA9MIrBLI/AAAAAAAAAP4/vxSCRP7kw1A/s200/GO+avance.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075768937508701362" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">It is unfair that election losers will not bring home consolation prices. Thus, I thrust upon myself to honor the 2007 candidates with several awards that will not necessitate the permission of the Commission on Elections. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The I-am-so-consistent-I-love (or hate)-myself Award</span><br />Champion: Loren Legarda<br />The consistent pre and post election survey first-placer (except for one Kiko moment) will end up in the official counting as the first placer.<br />Runner-up: Mike Defensor <br />He was really consistent in the 15th spot. He must hate that kind of consistency.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Phenomenal Failure of Election 2007</span><br />Champion: Tito Sotto <br />He started out in the top ten and ended up in the twilight zone. I guess it’s back to noontime shows.<br />Runner-up: Chavit Singson<br />Joseph Estrada will shed tears of joy for the monumental defeat of his erstwhile friend and drinking buddy.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I-am-a-slap-in-the-face-of-Hermogenes Esperon Trophy</span><br />Recipient: Antonio Trillanes IV<br />Imagine Esperon facing a senate investigation spearheaded by the Magdalo leader.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Gold Medal for a Slow but Sure Campaign</span><br />Chiz Escudero<br />From14th place to 8th and 6th places then finally a surprising runner-up finish – and to think that he had minimal campaign materials – never ever underestimate the power of charisma. <br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Silver Medal for a Slow but Sure Campaign</span><br />Noynoy Aquino <br />The sixth spot is supposed to be occupied by Joker Arroyo but the only son of Cory Aquino bumped off the feisty dragon. Despite of the James-Hope controversy, Aquino managed to solidify his high ranking. I did my share. I was shouting ‘I love you Noynoy’ during the Genuine Opposition’s miting de avance. For the record, I was the only one who dared to commit such unthinkable act.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Bronze Medal for a Slow but Sure Campaign</span><br />Miguel Zubiri<br />He’s really within striking distance. If he wins, it’s a classic photo finish. If he looses, then it’s a case of I-did-my-best-but-I-guess-my-best-wasn’t-good-enough. His ‘Boom Tarat’ commercial fell flat but his last ads rectified the embarrassment. One thing though. His over made-up face in his campaign posters is really disturbing. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Alone but not Lonely Award</span><br />Champion: Kiko Pangilinan<br />As the Professional Heckler said, ‘who needs a party if you have Sharon Cuneta for a wife?’ But his decision to leave the opposition contributed to his fall from 1st to 5th place.<br />Runner-up: Gringo Honasan<br />It’s final. Harvey Keh will leave the Philippines.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Invisibility Award</span><br />Recipient: Sultan Jamalul Kiram<br />Lakas-CMD should be penalized for including unknown Muslims (who have no chance of winning) in their line-ups. You still remember Senatoriable Parouk Hussin? Just to accommodate the Muslim sector in ‘Christian Muslim Democrats,’ this party will pluck out unsuspecting personalities and haplessly throw them in the vicious arena of elections. They did try to lure Adel Tamano…but he had so much sense and turned the offer down. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I’m-stuck-in-my-father’s-shadow Award</span><br />Recipient: Koko Pimentel<br />I have a strong feeling that his high pre-election ranking is a case of mistaken identity. People thought that it was the elder Pimentel who is running. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I’m-stuck-in-my-husband’s-shadow Award</span><br />Recipient: Sonia Roco<br />She could have won. Next time: more commercials with less Raul appearances. Be your own, girl!<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I’m-simply-stuck Award</span><br />Recipient: Nikki Coseteng<br />Stuck in the realm of defeat. It’s a good thing that she placed higher than Tessie Oreta or the outcome would have been mortifying. She should have given way to other candidates and helped the opposition camp in other ways.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">UP Hates Me so Much Certificate</span><br />Recipient: John Osmena<br />E-mail brigade is lovelier the second time around. The next time you run, the Oblation will carry a Don’t Vote Osmena tarpaulin banner.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Nice-try-better-luck-next-time Award</span><br />Recipient: Ang Kapatiran (Zosimo Paredes, Martin Bautista, and Adrian Sison)<br />Their intentions are most appreciated but next time make sure that you’re individuality stands to avoid confusing your party-name as some party-list groups. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Eddie Gil Plaque of Appreciation</span><br />Recipient: Jose Pepito Cayetano<br />Probably, the only nuisance candidate who almost destroyed the winning chances of a sure winner. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Silver Medal for Nuisance</span><br />Recipient: Felix Cantal<br />Watch his stint in Isang Tanong and you’ll witness the reason for his runner-up ranking.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Bronze Medal for Nuisance</span><br />Recipients: Victor Wood and Oliver Lozano<br />The Jukebox King wants a grand comeback. He’ now experiences the grandeur of being a national laughingstock. Lozano knows how to make a scene. He dismissed the SWS and Pulse Asia surveys then came up with a print ad showing his third-place ranking in a ‘nationwide text survey.’ I guess the Marcos loyalists are better texters than voters.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Catchiest Campaign Advertisement</span><br />Recipient: Manny Villar<br />It did not reach Mar Roxas level but it sure hell was catchy. Once more, ‘Si Manny Villar na/Mister Sipag at Tiyaga.’ Major LSS.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Worst Campaign Advertisement</span><br />Recipient: Mike Defensor<br />I know that he already conceded. Sorry for piling it in but the ‘Tol series has eye-gouging tendencies.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Cutest Campaign Advertisement</span><br />Champion: Chiz Escudero<br />The ‘Kids’ a.k.a. ako rin commercial is probably the cutest commercial that really complements his Say Chiz tagline. Now it can be told: cute kids can upstage a cute a candidate.<br /> Runner-up: Joker Arroyo<br />The ad featuring his cartoon alter-ego which is the cutest politician-inspired cartoon in the history of our republic gave him a runner-up position. Escudero also has a cartoon alter-ego but the elder Bicolano had a better-looking one.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The-campaign-advertisement-voice-over-sounds-so-like-her-rival Award</span><br />Recipient: Loren Legarda<br />Listen to the part where the voice over shouts ‘Loren Legarda. Number 1 sa Senado.’ Doesn’t it remind you of Noli De Castro?<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Most Annoying Campaign Advertisement</span><br />Champion: Tessie Oreta<br />Without a doubt…her I am sorry moment ruined her chances.<br />Runner-up: Tessie Oreta<br />Wow! A 1 – 2 finish for the other Aquino. Which commercial? The battered wife episode also known as ‘Kung hindi kay Senator Tessie hindi ko malalaman na hindi pala dapat sinasaktan ang mga babae.’ Damn. To think that her elder sister is a well-respected movie director.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Cut and Paste Political Advertisement Citation</span><br />Recipient: Ping Lacson<br />His HOPE commercials do not include song and dance routines or dramatic sketches. It was just a compendium of video clips with an orchestral rendition of his Bill Clinton-inspired campaign song.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Catchiest Campaign Battle Cry</span><br />Recipient: Prospero Pichay<br />Hands down winner. How can you argue with ‘Pichay: Itanim sa Senado’ for a tagline? As Alyanna Martinez articulated, ‘This is not a serious answer because there really isn’t one particular politician that I like but I must say that Prospero Pichay’s ‘Itanim sa Senado’ tagline really did catch my attention. It’s just too funny but it works.’<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Bench-worthy Campaign Poster </span><br />Recipient: Chiz Escudero<br />Bench as in the global retail brand. Brown shirt + jeans + trademark smile = screaming girls. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Give-me-charisma-or-give-me-defeat Award</span><br />Recipient: Edgardo Angara<br />It speaks a lot about your ability to connect with people that despite of your numerous legislative accomplishments – you still need a young singing superstar like Sarah Geronimo to up your winning ante.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Gift Checks for Free Make-Over</span><br />Recipient: Vic Magsaysay<br />The Ramon Magsaysay-inspired wardrobe is not effective because he doesn’t have the vibe of the Guy. If he wants to look and sound like the legendary president then do something about his<br />face. Forsake the mobster look…it’s scaring the voters. It’s even cheaper if he does not include his pictures in his campaign posters.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Gift Checks for Free Make-Under </span><br />Recipient: Miguel Zubiri<br />You read it right, a make-under. His face in his campaign posters was over made-up. The amount of foundation used by the outgoing Bukidnon representative is at most, disturbing. How can he expect people to stop questioning his…that he is…uhmm…something that rhymes with ‘say.’<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Campaign Poster Crystal Cup </span><br />Recipient: Prospero Pichay<br />For practically blanketing the entire Philippines with his campaign materials, the outgoing Surigao Del Sur representative shall receive the prestigious cup donated by the Philippine Printing Press Association. The country has never seen a marketing ploy as excessive as that of Pichay which could only be described as gargantuan. He still lost.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Campaign Fund Philanthropy Citation</span><br />Recipient: Jamby Madrigal<br />Her initiative to fund the television ads of incarcerated candidate Antonio Trillanes boosted his level of awareness. In addition, the senator-heiress has successfully acquired the eternal ire of Hermogenes Esperon and Raul Gonzales.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">The Grand Terpsichorean Trophy</span> <br />Recipient: Manny Villar<br />Dancing should have been exploited by Tessie Oreta instead the electorate witnessed the current senate president showing off his skills. Imagine what he would do when he run for president in 2010. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Use-me-I’m –popular-I-could-definitely-bring-in-the-crowd Award</span><br />Recipient: Cesar Montano<br />What was he thinking?<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Most Important Contribution of EVAT Award</span><br />Recipient: Ralph Recto<br />More precisely...the defeat of Ralph Recto.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Newest Political Heartthrob</span><br />Recipient: Adel Tamano<br />Some Team Chiz members will be branching out to form Team Adel 2010. The spokesperson position in the opposition camp is turning out to be a charm for aspiring senatoriables. In 2004, it was Chiz Escudero. Position: opposition spokesperson. Wanted: young, articulate, handsome, and well-educated lawyer with senatorial aspirations.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ignacio Bunye Awardee for Skillful Spokesmanship</span><br />Recipient: Tonypet Albano<br />William Esposo concluded that he is the best endorser of GO’s secret weapon Adel Tamano. This guy is a multi-tasker. He can make you laugh and irritate you at the same time. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Virgilio Garcillano Memorial Trophy</span><br />Recipient: Lintang Bedol <br />Commissioners Benjamin Abalos and Rene Sarmiento could have won the prize but how can you resist giving it to Bedol. The stolen certificates of canvass, the sudden disappearance, and the stench of massive electoral fraud…ah…Garciliano would have been proud.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Political Endorser of the Year</span><br />Champion: Susan Roces<br />For having commonsense of NOT endorsing the complete Genuine Opposition (only one as a matter of fact) and for not saying ‘Vote Chiz Escudero: not once but twice’ as her campaign line – she gets my nod as political endorser of the year. Alright, I just made up the second reason but I have wanted to say that line for a long time. Vote Chiz Escudero: not once but twice.<br />Runner-up: Mother Lily Monteverde<br />She had a pretty good endorsement average. I think only Ralph Recto lost while Miguel Zubiri is still within striking distance. Loren Legarda. Chiz Escudero. Manny Villar. Kiko Pangilinan. Noynoy Aquino. Antonio Trillanes. Hey. That was impressive. It’s just that Ms Roces is now considered a political figure.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />The Eternal Love Grand Prize</span><br />Recipient: Sunshine Cruz<br />Remember when she emotionally vowed to pawn her wedding ring just to help the campaign activities of his husband? All that was missing is a stirring musical score with a sunset background and we have a modern Scarlett O’Hara promising with God as her witness. Cesar Montano lost and the ring is safely tucked in her finger.<br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Matrimonial Madness Medal of Honor</span><br />Champion: Tito Sotto and Helen Gamboa<br />If a gossip merited a Ricky Lo article and front page article in the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI), then it should be given any award. ‘Helen Gamboa left his husband because she discovered his extra-marital affairs!’ ‘Tito Sotto is having an affair with Zsa Zsa Padilla!’ ‘Tito Sotto is having an affair with Tessie Oreta!’ And the headlines get gross day after day.<br />Runner-up: Edgardo and Gloria Angara<br />Since this only merited a front page space of the PDI, it’ll only place as runner-up. But in terms of the juice (as in juicy stuff), this is first place contender. Did the Seer of Sea and Sierra have an affair with Loren Legarda? <br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-90211261004967892572007-06-13T13:56:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:12.383+06:00No to Bread Price Hike!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rm-jj8IrBKI/AAAAAAAAAPw/G5eku9yyB3I/s1600-h/bread.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rm-jj8IrBKI/AAAAAAAAAPw/G5eku9yyB3I/s200/bread.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075455142903088290" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">One of the press releases of Senator-elect Francis Escudero during the campaign period is about the <a href="http://www.genuineopposition.com/jpowered/newscms/index.php?action=fullstory&articleid=39">possible consequence of food shortage due to the bio-fuel or alternative fuel craze</a>. For lack of better word, I’ll call it a craze. Anyway, it’s not yet a lifestyle. He said that there could be a shortage because farmers might be more enticed to plant alternative fuel-related crops than – let’s say – rice. I thought that he has a point but I would not believe the shortage scenario just yet.<br /><br />The name Thomas Malthus is synonymous with famine. He said that overpopulation could lead to food shortage and eventually, world famine. It’s possible. However, Malthus didn’t take into account a couple of things – science and technology. These twin factors prevented a worldwide nightmare. And these also stopped me from totally accepting the food shortage explanation of Escudero. <br /><br />His comment is not in any way a dig to fellow candidate Juan Miguel Zubiri. I guess the outgoing Sorsogon representative knows a thing or two on food production as well as shortage since his father was a former head of the Department of Agriculture in which the National Food Authority is part of. (You should have seen the overwhelming support given to Chiz by NFA-Iloilo. Raul Gonzales’ financial reward has no effect whatsoever.) <br /><br />The point I’m making is that: the price of bread might increase! As if expanded value-added taxes are not enough. The price of good quality flour has increased (from P510/ 25 kilos to P520/ 25 kilos). Simple economics would tell you that if the price of raw material increases, the price of the manufactured product also increases. What’s really scary is the explanation for the said price alterations.<br /><br />The problem is felt worldwide. Less wheat is harvested because more farmers are attracted to plant corn since it is use as an alternative fuel. See. There is a grain (pun intended) of truth to Escudero’s claim. <br /><br />Please spare bread! Please spare the noble bread! It is my 24/7 food intake every school semester.<br /><br />Choosing between clean air (bio-fuels) and a full stomach (affordable bread) is like choosing between Tim Duncan and Tony Parker. You cannot choose. It is best-consumed as a combination. <br /><br />It is commendable that we are doing something to slow down the effects of global warming but this should not displace other things of importance such as food production. Even the G.H.W Bush-anointed Ozone Man, Al Gore would agree. <br /><br />I tell you…expensive pan de sal does not really taste good. Even if you put cheese…and eat it with Chiz.<br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-31473646666525154802007-06-13T13:17:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:12.522+06:00A Really Intriguing Story<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rm-hmMIrBJI/AAAAAAAAAPo/JAJFcrMdYG8/s1600-h/question+mark.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rm-hmMIrBJI/AAAAAAAAAPo/JAJFcrMdYG8/s200/question+mark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075452982534538386" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Note: I did not wrote the article. I just received it via e-mail from my former college professor. Since, I was not aware of this rumor. As it was noted (pun not intended) in the end of the story, the intriguing relationship was popular in the 1980s. I was born in 1984.<br /><br />Here goes. By the way the title is UNTOLD PINOY STORY NO. 10<br /><br />They were the best of friends. They were always seen together around the University of the Philippines (UP)campus in Diliman: one was undoubtedly a very good-looking guy and the other was unquestionably a plain-looking guy. Opposites really attract. Hey, but they're both brilliant students. Well, birds of the same feather also flock together. Indeed, they were very close to each other. Unusually close.<br /><br />They were the perfect tandem. Like suman and ripe mango. Or nuts and bolts. Peg and a ught law courses. The good-looking guy delivered the evening news on TV, hosted a TV quiz show and wrote analytical articles on pop culture. His good looks,<br />intelligence and impeccable manner endeared him to televiewers.<br /><br />Despite their divergent career choices, the good-looking guy and the plain-looking guy really seemed to follow each other's path. But this time,<br />their path led to a nice little apartment near the Ateneo de Manila campus. And they shared that nice little apartment. Just the two of them.<br /><br />Yes, the plain-looking guy and the good-looking guy lived together.<br /><br />Those gifted with wild imagination got titillated at the mere thought of these two young men sharing a lovely apartment. The moralists out there shook their<br />heads at the mere thought of the goings-on beyond that innocent-looking apartment door amid rows of middle-class houses in Loyola Heights in Quezon City . But the pair would not budge from their nest. Nor would they yield to any pressure. Not even from the plain-looking guy's bible-reading siblings who berated him for living with another guy. The plain-looking guy's own family started to cast doubt about his<br />masculinity.<br /><br />All telltale signs which have accumulated all those years could no longer be ignored. People started talking openly about the two guys. Speculations about the true nature of the pair's friendship became a daily fodder for gossip mongers. The academic freedom which alma mater UP's oblation symbolizes seemed to<br />have gone beyond the duo's lust for knowledge. In order to prove to his family that he was not what they thought he was, the plain-looking guy suddenly<br />announced that he was getting married. His family jumped with joy.<br /><br />But the plain-looking guy's marriage did not dispel wild speculations about his sexuality; instead, it only succeeded in erasing any remaining doubt about his alleged agenda of using his wife to finally succeed in his failed initial crack at pursuing his lifelong dream. And it was well worth his efforts. Because this former loser's desperate act finally triumphed. Thanks to his wife.<br /><br />However, the plain-looking guy's deep friendship with his good-looking friend took a backseat as a result of the former's new civil status. The plain-looking guy did not want to hurt his new wife's flourishing career nor spoil his newfound success. That's why he played his role as a good family man to the hilt. However, he had not forgotten his good-looking best friend at all. As a token of their undying friendship, the good-looking guy stood as one of the godfathers of the plain-looking guy's first baby, together with Edu Manzano, Cesar Montano, Cherie Gil, Ciara Sotto, Angeli Valenciano, Fanny Serrano and a host of other household names. Of course, the plain-looking guy's wife was clueless about her husband's past.<br /><br />But the plain-looking guy's wife had her share of dark past. She is a single mother who parted ways with her good-looking "first husband" after she discovered that<br />her good-looking "first husband" was already married to another woman when she hastily married him after she got pregnant at a young age. This meant that her<br />marriage to her good-looking "first husband" was not legally binding after all. Now, the plain-looking guy was her knight-in-shining- armor who rescued her from the stigma of being an unmarried mother.<br /><br />Ironically, while his non-binding marriage with her good-looking "first husband" was solemnized by several high-ranking priests at the cavernous Manila Cathedral amid countless clicking cameras and thousands of shrieking admirers several years ago, her supposedly legitimate marriage with the plain-looking guy was officiated not by a Catholic priest but by a pastor in a cramped living room, with only a few relatives and friends as witnesses.<br /><br />Later, the good-looking guy reportedly got marriedalso without fanfare. They said that his bride was a creative consultant for ABS-CBN Interactive. However, some women still believe and hope that he is still unmarried to this day.<br /><br />The good-looking guy soon rose to become ABS-CBN News Channel's (ANC) Director for Current Affairs. He has been circling the globe as host of ANC's weekly travel show, Executive Class.<br /><br />Yes, the good-looking guy is David Celdran. And the plain-looking guy is megastar Sharon Cuneta's husband, Senator Francis Kiko Pangilinan.<br /><br />And most UP Diliman students of the 80s know the rest of their intriguing friendship.</span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-19644792.post-65512072517084932172007-06-12T16:46:00.000+06:002008-12-09T07:07:12.712+06:00The Search for the Next Congressional Superstar<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rm556sIrBHI/AAAAAAAAAPY/-bNtnJXbYUc/s1600-h/darlene+custodio.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_BxGd7SX1HsQ/Rm556sIrBHI/AAAAAAAAAPY/-bNtnJXbYUc/s200/darlene+custodio.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075127879280034930" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">How many neophyte incoming senators are outgoing representatives? As of the moment, three: Francis Escudero, Benigno Simeon Aquino III, and Alan Peter Cayetano. If Juan Miguel Zubiri squeaks past Koko Pimentel then that count would be four. Loren Legarda is a given. She is a winner. Re-electionist solons are expected to ride the carriage of victory (with the exception of Ralph Recto) whenever they seek another term. I never doubted the chances of Gringo Honasan. He’s a case of been-there-done-that. The real surprise is Antonio Trillanes IV. <br /><br />However, not everyone could afford to stage a mutiny and win elections. It is quite obvious that the new breeding ground for future senators is the Lower House. Before, the fertile land for winnable national candidates is the showbiz industry. Fortunately, it lost its luster. I think the Filipinos felt that they could only handle has-been action stars-turned senators as much. It all ends with Lito Lapid.<br /><br />Another lush area for possible senatoriables is the media sector. However, none of the current popular broadcasters are interested in following the footsteps of Legarda and Noli De Castro.<br /><br />Not every congressman could win in the national level. Just ask Prospero Pichay. The three senator-elect mentioned above are known critics of the administration albeit with different intensities. Aquino is the least vocal. He started hitting the Malacanang resident when his mother withdrew her support during the height of the Hello Garci controversy. Cayetano’s object of ire is Mike Arroyo. He must admit that he did gain a lot of media mileage from those congressional investigations. His surname is quite familiar but his high pre-election survey ranking should be credited to his verbal jousting with the First Gentleman. With his trademark cool attitude, Escudero is without a doubt the opposition poster boy in every Gloria Arroyo-related impeachment debates and congressional hearings. <br /><br />The live coverage of these debates and hearings contributed greatly to the awareness level of the three neophyte senators. Finally…new stars: young, vibrant, media-savvy (not to mention good-looking) politicians that can give reality TV stars a run for their money. Come on. Do you honestly think that most of the female supporters of Escudero were attracted to his logical inquiries on the articles of impeachment? <br /><br />With 2010 Presidential Elections just a mere three years from now, it is not surprising that some people are already creating their fantasy senatorial line-ups. One of the topic threads in the Team Chiz forum concerns our personal preferences of possible 2010 Genuine Opposition (GO) senatoriables. In the lead right now are GO Spokesperson Adel Tamano, Pacquiao knock-out artist Darlene Custodio, and (Surprise!) Teodoro Locsin, Jr. The other frequently-mentioned personalities are also representatives including AKBAYAN stalwart Rissa Hontiveros.<br /><br />Setting aside my opposition-leaning tendencies, I must say that there is a lack of popular administration-allied congressmen. Remember the Spice Boys versus Bright Boys era? Both the majority and the minority had resident superstars. You cannot say the same now. <br /><br />Since the current administration is an eternal fountain of controversies, there is no end in debates, hearings – and of course – impeachments in the House of Representatives. Thus new congressmen will eventually become household names…not to mention future senatoriables.<br /><br />Among the present crop on incoming lawmakers, Darlene Custodio is the best bet as the next congressional superstar. She had a stunning victory (against a national demigod, no less) that had sufficient media coverage. Plus, she has the looks to attract aesthetically-inclined voters. I know a couple of people who voted based on good looks. I am not kidding. <br /><br />One thing I like about Teddy Locsin is that he never runs out of witty sound bites. It is a sure thing that his remarks will figure prominently in any verbal tussle…unless Filipino is the required language. <br /><br />I thought the 14th Congress would be the year of Gilbert Remulla. But he lost his re-election bid. Thus the golden opportunity falls on the laps of Erin Tanada and Teofisto Guingona III – two young lawmakers with name recall. I already created a nickname for the younger Guingona if he ever runs for senator, TG3. Sounds very Arnold Schwarzenegger-Terminator like, isn’t it? They should start making their marks to avoid comparison with their fathers. It’s not easy stepping out of your old man’s shadow. Just ask Koko Pimentel.<br /><br />Timmy Chipeco could easily reach superstar level but he seems to have climbed the other side of the political fence…unless I’m reading his body language incorrectly.<br /><br />The dark horse in The Search for the New Congressional Superstar (I should have this title patented.) is Abigail Binay. I’m pretty sure that the daughter of Mayor Jejomar Binay will not be part of the Silent Majority. In addition, if ever a new suspension order is delivered to the Binay household – then Ms Binay will have her biggest break for media coverage served in a silver platter.<br /><br />The message is clear: the administration should end their stupidities to prevent new congressional hearings and investigations if they do not want a repeat of an 8-2-2 opposition victory. <br /><br />There’s a new arena for future senatoriables and only a few survive. Who will be The Next Congressional Superstar?<br /><br />Dream. Believe. Impeach.<br /></span>The Purple Phoenixhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16955176051469942775noreply@blogger.com4