The Purple Phoenix Talks about Philippine Politics

NBN-ZTE Senate Investigation Awards Part 1

2008-02-11T16:58:00.000+08:00

Note: Today's investigation is bigger and funnier...so watch out for the next installment of awards.

Humor under Pressure Medal of Honor: Rodolfo Lozada
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.

I-might-attend-mass-regularly-because-of-them Award: La Salle brothers and the group of courageous nuns
They should have worn a badge that says, CHURCH NOT WIMP. Let’s wait for Raul Gonzales to slap sedition charges against them.

Liar Liar Pants on Fire Distinction
1. Lito Atienza
2. Avelino Razon
These stooges should realize that lying is an art form. If you can’t lie well then don’t lie at all.

You-again-in-a-kidnapping Certificate of Appreciation: Mike Defensor
Welcome back! What’s with you and state-sanctioned abductions? I guess you did not learn from the previous Udong Mahusay Escapade.

Dazed and Confused Award: Senator Manuel Villar Jr.
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.

Precarious Position Distinction: Senator Allan Peter Cayetano
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.

Nazi on the Loose Medal of Honor: Sergio Apostol
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!

Very Special VIP Award: Former Senator Franklin Drilon
Wow. Not everyone in the Senate gallery can sit in THAT place. This brings me to…

Extreme Paranoia Grand Prize: Lito Atienza
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.

You-were-good-but-next-time-stop-putting-words-into-the-witness’-mouth Trophy: Senator Panfilo Lacson
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.

Bicol Express Medal of Honor: Senator Francis Escudero
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.

Look-who’s-talking Award: Senator Jamby Madrigal
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?!

Fierce and Loyal Allies Plaque of Appreciation
1. Miriam Defensor Santiago
2. Juan Ponce Enrile
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.

You-can-resign-but-you-cannot-hide Medal of Honor: Benjamin Abalos
Tsk. Tsk. What can I say? Balato naman Chairman!

PGMA Achievement Award for Controversial Accomplishments
Female Category: Medy Poblador
She seems everywhere.

PGMA Achievement Award for Controversial Accomplishments
Male Category: Benjamin Abalos
Hands down winner.

Make-over of the Year: Joey De Venecia
His new hairstyle flatters him. I think he’s trying to prove that looking good is the best revenge. Take that Luli!

Stupid Retort of the Week
First Place: “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

(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.)

Runner-up: “They do not believe in these destabilization moves since economic facts and figures are very, very positive.” – Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita

(“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.)

Government Directive of the Year: MODERATE THEIR GREED

The investigation isn’t over. There’s a sequel. It’s more exciting since the next probe will include ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN.

Partido Lakas Tama

2008-02-08T12:05:00.000+08:00

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.

Welcome to the world of the beleaguered Partido Lakas Tama.

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.

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.

1.KAMPI stands for Kabalikat ng Masang Pilipino – a major insult to the entire Filipino nation
2.Ronnie Puno serves as its thug leader.
3.Luis Villafuerte is the unofficial mouthpiece.
4.The Arroyo Brothers also known as Spawns of the Midget Empress are its poster boys for reform.
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.

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.

Close Encounters with Prospero Nograles

2008-02-07T12:09:00.001+08:00

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.

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.

FIRST ENCOUNTER
Place: Ateneo Law School
Event: Debate on PGMA Impeachment between Adprospero nograles, ministration and Opposition Lawmakers

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:
1. He said that he told his father to finish the debate early so that they could
have quality time over dinner.
2. One of his friend saw a lady wearing a set of cool sunglasses. She happens to
be Nogi's son's ex-girlfriend. Did you know that Nogi's son boasted (enough
for everyone to hear)the exorbitant price of the pretty eyewear? Major turn-
off!
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."

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."

SECOND ENCOUNTER
Place: Batasang Pambansa
Event: Social Work Field Work

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

But Nograles?

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.

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?

I saw our client's obvious disappointment.

I felt insulted.

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.

No Excuses

2008-02-06T11:55:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Joe is gone. I am back. Life is good.

Nograles is top dog. Life sucks.

Cream of the Crap

2007-08-01T09:38:00.000+08:00

That’s not a typographical error. Crap. Not crop but crap. Crap is a slang word that means:

noun
1. an offensive term for nonsense, or something worthless or annoying
2. an offensive term for an act of passing solid waste matter out of the body through the anus
3. an offensive term for excrement

adjective
an offensive term meaning worthless, useless, or lacking in ability

verb
(past and past participle crapped, present participle crap·ping, 3rd person present singular craps)

an offensive term meaning to pass solid waste matter out of the body through the anus

So what’s with the ‘crap’ talk?

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.

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.

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.

What did this Jose Pidol said that caused my irritation?

He said that I and the rest of the Team Chiz volunteers are CHEAP because we campaigned for him for free.
He said that our pictures with Chiz Escudero (which are proudly displayed as our forum signatures) should be subjected to Photoshop.

You can now make your evaluation whether this person is rational or not. But for the sake of rationality, let me answer his accusations.

Cheap is defined as:
adjective
costing little: low in price or cost, or lower in price than might reasonably be expected

charging little: charging low prices but offering good value

poor quality: inexpensive and of poor quality

worth little: worth little or accorded little value

undeserving of respect: not deserving to be respected

unfair: dishonorable, offensive, or unfair, especially in a way that seems obvious or calculated (a cheap trick)

stingy: stingy or unwilling to give freely

I am pretty sure that despite of his deficiency in reasoning, he is using the word ‘cheap’ as ‘undeserving of respect.’

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.

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.

Come on. Do I look like someone who needs the magic of Photoshop?

Now that I have defended my fellow Team Chiz members - let me defend myself.

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?

Here are my answers.
I do not have a blue dress.
I rarely wear a dress.
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.

By now, my sarcasm has equaled my cholesterol level. )

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.

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.

Lastly, this Jose Pidol threatened to cut off my wings. Wings? Yes. Phoenix? The Purple Phoenix? Phoenixes have wings.

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.

Unless he is talking about the wings of a sanitary napkin…

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.

The Jamby Enigma

2007-07-27T10:20:00.000+08:00

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!

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.

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.'

In my case, I would not even lend my dancing skills to that rich bianing. You know what's a bianing?

Anyway, as the title suggests - Madrigal has become an enigma.

What is her motive for launching he senate presidential bid of Aquilino Pimentel?

My good friends gave me their two cents worth of political analysis.

1. Jamby Madrigal will run for president in 2010 and she wants to take down obstacles such as Manuel Villar.

2. Jamby Madrigal is eyeing the vice presidency of Mar Roxas and she wants to level the playing field of all 2010 presidentiables.

3. Jamby Madrigal wants Mar Roxas to win and she is doing everything for her one true love.

The last one got the group's agreement.

Seriously.

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.

It is the Main Event of the Madrigal moolah.

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.'

The force of her enigma is palpable. But again - you have my assurance - I will not vote for her.

The Hello Erap Issue

2007-07-26T11:40:00.000+08:00

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.

Now its Hello Erap.

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.

Forgive me but I noticed a scripted drama (or comedy) in the making.

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.

The Questions
1. What would Estrada gain if his friend lost the elections?

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.

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...

It's a pity that we do not account the power of intuition.

INTUITION
The act or faculty of knowing or sensing without the use of rational processes; immediate cognition.

Knowledge gained by the use of this faculty; a perceptive insight.

A sense of something not evident or deducible; an impression.

Whose intuition? Susan Roces.

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.

How?

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.

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.

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.

But Chiz Escudero is part of her entourage.

Hello Erap: FAKE or NOT?
Duh.

Gloria Macapagal Arroyo: FAKE or NOT?
What do you think?

Note: photo was respectfully taken from Susan Roces Yahoogroups.

Opposition Through and Through

2007-07-25T09:09:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

I am not being biased with my report since this also the whispered reactions of the audience in the gallery.

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.

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.

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.

Question: Did he join the administration?
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.'

Question: How about the issue with Ping Lacson?
Answer: It's like 2004 all over agin when he refused to unite with FPJ which cost the opposition a controversial loss.

Question: How about the twins?
Answer: It is a boy and a girl.

(You know this one will be coming and you know that I was the one who asked this.)

Question: On a lighter side, how about your billboards sprouting all over the Metro?
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.

The other parts of the interview will not be printed.

Sorry. The moment is quite priceless.

But it sure fortified my faith that he will be a sensible opposition through and through.

State of the Nuisance Address

2007-07-20T13:08:00.000+08:00

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.

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?

Do you still remember when Jollibee was elevated as an economic indicator for progress in Mindanao during her Power Point presentation?

I cannot wait for Monday.

It is not just the Fake One who delivers perfect comic flair but so does the other officials.

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.

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.

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.

This Monday, I will be watching the State of the Nation Address. Why? There are no good fantasy films in the theaters.

The Break is Back

2007-07-17T09:44:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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.

There are a lot of what if scenarios that popped in my head while reading my copy.

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.

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.

3. What if Kiko Pangilinan ran under the Genuine Opposition banner? Then PLAN Co REVOLT would have been PLAN KiCo REVOLT.

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.

5. What if Gloria Macapagal Arroyo campaigned for Team Unity? Edgardo Angara and Joker Arroyo will fight for the 12th slot.

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.

7. What if Madam Auring campaigned for Victor Wood? Will there be a massive nationwide panic attacks and severe vomiting?

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.

9. What if the resume of Felix Cantal is true? Then parallel universe exists.

Points to Ponder

2007-07-10T20:39:00.000+08:00

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.

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.'

Can you understand it? If yes - then good - it shows that the Philippine educational system works.

Chiz will remain loyal with the opposition.

Here's a message from the administrator of Team Chiz regarding the issue.

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.

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 )

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.

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 ...

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 ?

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

Chiz is with the opposition and will remain with the opposition while GMA is seated in Malacanang.

If you tie this up to the article of Billy Esposo it fits perfectly well.

Points to Ponder
1. Why are Panfilo Lacson, Manuel Villar, and Mar Roxas ripping the opposition apart?
2. What is the reason of Jamby Madrigal for pushing a Pimentel presidency?
3. Why did Roxas decided to abandon his desire to run as senate president?
4. What is the agreement between Villar, Estrada, and Mayor Binay?

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.

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.

The 2010 Elections: Much-Improved MacGuffin

2007-07-05T12:15:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

Story: The 15th President of the Philippines
MacGuffin: 2010 Presidential Elections
Red Herring: The Senate Presidency and the so-called Opposition Split
Lead Characters
1. Manuel Villar
2. Manuel Roxas
3. Panfilo Lacson

Supporting Characters
1. Loren Legarda
2. Francis Escudero
3. Alan Peter Cayetano

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.

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.

Question: why doesn't any of the three senators run for the Upper House presidency?
Answer: I have no idea.

Everything seems to be going smooth until it hit two bumps, Escudero and Alan Peter Cayetano will vote for Villar.

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.

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.'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Reader, are you still following me? Are you still feeling well?

No?

Me too.

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.

Please Do Not Disappoint Us

2007-07-05T11:31:00.000+08:00

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.

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.'

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

But please sir, do not disappoint the more than 18 million Filipinos who voted for you.

Disappointment is a powerful reaction. It may cost your presidential aspirations.

Good Girl Gloria

2007-07-05T10:33:00.000+08:00

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!

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.

Yeah right.

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.

I am pretty sure that the reaction is a resounding yuck. What a bitter and hypocritical pill to swallow!

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.

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.

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.

It will always be Gloria the Fake One.
.
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.

The Hidden Benefits of a Manuel Villar-Led Senate

2007-06-28T12:37:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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…

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.

How the leadership of the senate get in the convoluted picture? Analyze the following situations.

First scenario: Senate President Manuel Villar
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.

Second scenario: Senate President Aquilino Pimentel
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.

Third scenario: Senate President Lito Lapid
Kidding.

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.

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.

Possible 2010 Team-ups: Strengths and Weaknesses

2007-06-28T12:12:00.000+08:00

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.

Or maybe I just find the whole cabinet revamp unworthy of a blog entry.

Constitutional changes aside, the possible 2010 team-ups and their strengths and weaknesses.

President: Loren Legarda
Vice President: Francis Escudero
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.

Strengths
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.
Weaknesses
Money. They may attract funders but they also need to dig their own pockets.

President: Manuel Roxas III
Vice President: Francis Escudero
Young, popular, and with deeper financial resources.

Strengths
Same as above.
Weaknesses
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.

President: Panfilo Lacson
Vice President: Francis Escudero
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.

Strengths
Youth and experience. Popularity and financial ability. You get the idea? Plus, Escudero has the NPC machine behind him.
Weaknesses
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.

President: Manuel Villar
Vice President: Francis Escudero
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.

Strengths
Quite similar with the Lacson-Escudero tandem.
Weaknesses
Hmmm…same as above. I will not vote for the president though.

President: Loren Legarda
Vice President: Francis Pangilinan
Not quite palatable.

Strengths
Both candidates are popular. The tremendous media and showbiz connection could be a factor.
Weaknesses
Money.

President: Manuel Roxas
Vice President: Francis Pangilinan
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.

Strengths
Young, popular, financially capable plus an ample amount of showbiz luster.
Weaknesses
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.

President: Panfilo Lacson
Vice President: Francis Pangilinan
Again…not palatable.

Strengths
Experience, money and showbiz.
Weaknesses
It lacks chemistry. I just feel that their personalities will clash.

President: Manuel Villar
Vice President: Francis Pangilinan
Wednesday group connection? Isn’t Villar a Nacionalista while the other one is a Liberal ? Hmmm…

Strengths
Quite strong. Experience, money, and showbiz…
Weaknesses
…but they both lost momentum in the last elections.

Thus, you may conclude that the top five senatorial winners together Mar Roxas may slug it out three years from now.

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?

Or Alan Peter Cayetano-Antonio Trillanes? That will be too much for Mike Arroyo and Hermogenes Esperon.

Or Jojo Binay-Lito Lapid? That would be crazy fun. Or Miriam Defensor Santiago-Raul Gonzales? That is simply crazy.

Or Manuel Roxas-Jamby Madrigal? Sorry. That was the answer to a persistent blind item.

Or Loren Legarda-Edgardo Angara? Let’s not go there.

Hillary Clinton Spoofs The Sopranos

2007-06-20T10:17:00.000+08:00

Actually...it's Hillary Clinton spoofs the Sopranos. Watch the video at her campaign site. 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.

My only beef is the singer...Celine Dion.

Why?

I think Bill is right. It should be the Smashmouth!

Spoofing an HBO series? Hillary seems to be letting her hair down.
What's next?

The race for 2008 is heating up...

Note: my blog says that I'll talk about Philippine politics but isn't our country and USA too tied up?

Generation X Senators

2007-06-19T14:19:00.000+08:00

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.

That is according to Wikipedia.

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.

'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.

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.

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.'

Translating it to Gen X language, that would be, 'Don't say were rude, man.'

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.

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.

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.

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.

Make us proud Gen X senators.
I want to say 'woah' every time you do something.

Explaining the Trillanes Vote

2007-06-19T13:27:00.000+08:00

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.'

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.'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What makes Trillanes tick?

He is a phenomenon. You do not explain a phenomenon. You simply marvel while it unfolds.

The Top Ten Crazy Things I did for Chiz Escudero

2007-06-19T12:54:00.000+08:00

1. Wear yellow shirts. Yellow is my most hated color next to pink. Thank goodness I did not join Team Mike.

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.

3. Buy Chiz shirts for rabid Escudero supporters.

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.

5. Campaign in Iloilo (with fellow volunteer Liz) for 13 days. Read: I don't speak Ilonggo. But the food is great!

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.'

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Endless Belief in the Goodness of Humanity

2007-06-15T09:45:00.000+08:00

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?

Indifference is the black hole of national anger.

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.

Damn.

Can you even describe Philippine politics as the allocation of power through unselfish desire and endless belief in the goodness of humanity?

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.

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.

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.

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.
It’s back to reality.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

I still maintain my endless belief in the goodness of humanity.

I hope that I am not alone.

The 2007 Election Awards

2007-06-14T11:48:00.000+08:00

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.

The I-am-so-consistent-I-love (or hate)-myself Award
Champion: Loren Legarda
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.
Runner-up: Mike Defensor
He was really consistent in the 15th spot. He must hate that kind of consistency.

The Phenomenal Failure of Election 2007
Champion: Tito Sotto
He started out in the top ten and ended up in the twilight zone. I guess it’s back to noontime shows.
Runner-up: Chavit Singson
Joseph Estrada will shed tears of joy for the monumental defeat of his erstwhile friend and drinking buddy.

I-am-a-slap-in-the-face-of-Hermogenes Esperon Trophy
Recipient: Antonio Trillanes IV
Imagine Esperon facing a senate investigation spearheaded by the Magdalo leader.

Gold Medal for a Slow but Sure Campaign
Chiz Escudero
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.

Silver Medal for a Slow but Sure Campaign
Noynoy Aquino
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.

Bronze Medal for a Slow but Sure Campaign
Miguel Zubiri
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.

Alone but not Lonely Award
Champion: Kiko Pangilinan
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.
Runner-up: Gringo Honasan
It’s final. Harvey Keh will leave the Philippines.

Invisibility Award
Recipient: Sultan Jamalul Kiram
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.

I’m-stuck-in-my-father’s-shadow Award
Recipient: Koko Pimentel
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.

I’m-stuck-in-my-husband’s-shadow Award
Recipient: Sonia Roco
She could have won. Next time: more commercials with less Raul appearances. Be your own, girl!

I’m-simply-stuck Award
Recipient: Nikki Coseteng
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.

UP Hates Me so Much Certificate
Recipient: John Osmena
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.

Nice-try-better-luck-next-time Award
Recipient: Ang Kapatiran (Zosimo Paredes, Martin Bautista, and Adrian Sison)
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.

Eddie Gil Plaque of Appreciation
Recipient: Jose Pepito Cayetano
Probably, the only nuisance candidate who almost destroyed the winning chances of a sure winner.

Silver Medal for Nuisance
Recipient: Felix Cantal
Watch his stint in Isang Tanong and you’ll witness the reason for his runner-up ranking.

Bronze Medal for Nuisance
Recipients: Victor Wood and Oliver Lozano
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.

Catchiest Campaign Advertisement
Recipient: Manny Villar
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.

Worst Campaign Advertisement
Recipient: Mike Defensor
I know that he already conceded. Sorry for piling it in but the ‘Tol series has eye-gouging tendencies.

Cutest Campaign Advertisement
Champion: Chiz Escudero
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.
Runner-up: Joker Arroyo
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.

The-campaign-advertisement-voice-over-sounds-so-like-her-rival Award
Recipient: Loren Legarda
Listen to the part where the voice over shouts ‘Loren Legarda. Number 1 sa Senado.’ Doesn’t it remind you of Noli De Castro?

Most Annoying Campaign Advertisement
Champion: Tessie Oreta
Without a doubt…her I am sorry moment ruined her chances.
Runner-up: Tessie Oreta
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.

Cut and Paste Political Advertisement Citation
Recipient: Ping Lacson
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.

Catchiest Campaign Battle Cry
Recipient: Prospero Pichay
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.’

Bench-worthy Campaign Poster
Recipient: Chiz Escudero
Bench as in the global retail brand. Brown shirt + jeans + trademark smile = screaming girls.

Give-me-charisma-or-give-me-defeat Award
Recipient: Edgardo Angara
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.

Gift Checks for Free Make-Over
Recipient: Vic Magsaysay
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
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.

Gift Checks for Free Make-Under
Recipient: Miguel Zubiri
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.’

The Campaign Poster Crystal Cup
Recipient: Prospero Pichay
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.

Campaign Fund Philanthropy Citation
Recipient: Jamby Madrigal
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.

The Grand Terpsichorean Trophy
Recipient: Manny Villar
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.

Use-me-I’m –popular-I-could-definitely-bring-in-the-crowd Award
Recipient: Cesar Montano
What was he thinking?

Most Important Contribution of EVAT Award
Recipient: Ralph Recto
More precisely...the defeat of Ralph Recto.

Newest Political Heartthrob
Recipient: Adel Tamano
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.

Ignacio Bunye Awardee for Skillful Spokesmanship
Recipient: Tonypet Albano
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.

Virgilio Garcillano Memorial Trophy
Recipient: Lintang Bedol
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.

Political Endorser of the Year
Champion: Susan Roces
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.
Runner-up: Mother Lily Monteverde
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.

The Eternal Love Grand Prize
Recipient: Sunshine Cruz
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.

Matrimonial Madness Medal of Honor
Champion: Tito Sotto and Helen Gamboa
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.
Runner-up: Edgardo and Gloria Angara
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?

No to Bread Price Hike!

2007-06-13T15:56:00.000+08:00

One of the press releases of Senator-elect Francis Escudero during the campaign period is about the possible consequence of food shortage due to the bio-fuel or alternative fuel craze. 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.

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.

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.)

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.

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.

Please spare bread! Please spare the noble bread! It is my 24/7 food intake every school semester.

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.

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.

I tell you…expensive pan de sal does not really taste good. Even if you put cheese…and eat it with Chiz.

A Really Intriguing Story

2007-06-13T15:17:00.000+08:00

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.

Here goes. By the way the title is UNTOLD PINOY STORY NO. 10

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.

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,
intelligence and impeccable manner endeared him to televiewers.

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,
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.

Yes, the plain-looking guy and the good-looking guy lived together.

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
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
masculinity.

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
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
announced that he was getting married. His family jumped with joy.

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.

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.

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
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
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.

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.

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.

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.

Yes, the good-looking guy is David Celdran. And the plain-looking guy is megastar Sharon Cuneta's husband, Senator Francis Kiko Pangilinan.

And most UP Diliman students of the 80s know the rest of their intriguing friendship.

The Search for the Next Congressional Superstar

2007-06-12T18:46:00.000+08:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

There’s a new arena for future senatoriables and only a few survive. Who will be The Next Congressional Superstar?

Dream. Believe. Impeach.

The Rationalization of Defeat

2007-06-12T18:35:00.000+08:00

For an avowed NON-Mike Defensor fan like me, I considered his early concession as the best thing that he has done in recent months. However, I was honestly surprised of his defeat. Despite of his consistent 15th place survey ranking, I thought that a dash of media exposure and a pinch of celebrity endorsements could push him to the winners’ circle. Add to the suspicion that Gloria Macapagal Arroyo will take care of his fair-haired boy.

Apparently, that is not the case.

A couple of days ago, I was cleaning a stack of old magazines, when I chanced upon an old Asiaweek issue. Its cover story: Leaders for the Millennium – Politics and Power. Along with Mar Roxas, Mike Defensor are the only Filipinos included in the list. It talked about his battle against dishonesty as well as his hope of changing the rotten political system in the Philippines. If he made these two thrusts as his main campaign points – then the ending would have been different. But considering his pro-GMA stance, it will still be in the realm of the impossible.

In her column, Rina Jimenez David, explained that aside from the preventing ‘acts inimical to democracy and fair play, Defensor may have been burned out. She could not also fathom his loss since the former Presidential Chief of Staff is young, earnest, well-meaning, and charming. She thinks that the only criticism that can be hurled to him like an apocalyptic meteor is his ‘extreme loyalty to the president.’

That is his fault – his close association with Arroyo. This could also explain the poor performance of Team Unity (TU)in general. The tremendous loyalty he has shown to the overstaying Malacanang resident is exemplified by his unforgettable clarification regarding the Hello Garci CD. Repeat after me: ‘it’s the president’s voice but it’s not her speaking.’

Yet this could and should not exclusively account for his misfortune. I promised a rationale.

If you are young, act like one.
Only a few senatorial winners are holders of senior citizen cards. It was evident that the electorate wanted young and vibrant blood to circulate in the Upper House. A few years back, Defensor was part of the Spice Boys – rival to the administration-leaning Bright Boys. It was Mike and not Chiz Escudero who charmed his way to the nation’s fickle political taste. Who would have thought that the Sorsogoanon will be enjoying a lofty position in the Magic 12? I must say that Defensor looked like an old and stodgy traditional politician all throughout the campaign period.

Plan campaign advertisements well.
How many were turned off by his ‘Tol commercials? Raise your hands. Assisted by a professional (Boy Abunda) and aided by a healthy campaign chest – I was expecting more. First, his ads are way too tacky. His posters are no better. Standing ‘Tol? Walking ‘Tol? Fighting ‘Tol? Second, the nickname is absolutely eyebrow-raising. ‘Tol’ only works for Robin Padilla. Third, his identity is too confusing. Based on his ads, he wants to project himself as an approachable man of the masses and a genuine savior of the homeless. Fellow TU stalwart Miguel Zubiri also suffers from campaign ad schizophrenia. Other candidates were able to establish a solid identity. Joker Arroyo is the People’s Dragon. Panfilo Lacson is the hope of the country. Mike Defensor is –uhmm – ‘Tol?! Plus we all know that he is not that tall.

Reputation haunts.
Forget about his insignificant turn as secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The question is how do you reconcile Mike Defensor the family man and Mike Defensor the Quezon Avenue prowler?

Believe in surveys.
If surveys say that you’ve been burning the 15th hole way too long – then chances are – you’re really freakin’ out of the winners’ circle. Do not malign the survey firms; instead do something about your performance. It is not blind faith if you utilize survey results – it’s called scientific campaign. Look at Sonny Trillanes. He never questioned his early peripheral rankings and kept on campaigning – his devoted followers anyway. It did wonders. Ignoring surveys is plain and simple denial. And we all know that ‘denial’ is not a river in Egypt.

His candidacy is not a waste of money – that is descriptive of Prospero Pichay’s. His latest debacle is more of mismanagement. His television ads have good concepts but its presentation screams mediocrity. Celebrity endorsements are acceptable but not Keana Reeves. Plus, I would really strangle myself (but not to death) if there is any grain of truth that his campaign color (pink) was decided by a Feng Shui expert.

Intense blame-storming will not do well. Let the guy rest and rethink his future. He is still young and he can always throw his hat in the political ring. I will still not vote for you but I will not discourage you if you wish to try again. The point of rationalizing one’s loss is personal education. The old wisdom ‘learn from mistakes’ is realized through careful reflection. If ever Mike Defensor runs in 2010, he should learn from his 2007 experience. If he really wants to win, then he should rethink his strategy. If he decides to campaign as early as tomorrow for the next elections…go ahead.

Just a Note

2007-06-04T08:21:00.000+08:00

Hello! I'll be posting my newest 'articles' soon. I'm still doing a bit research. Seriously.

Plus...I'll just finish all the necessary registration requirements in UP. UP is University of Pila - so it takes time and patience.

I did found interesting old Asiaweek articles regarding Mike Defensor. It predicted that he will be one of the bright politicians in the new millennium. He lost. He conceded. What went wrong?

Watch out for my next posts.

Back for Good

2007-05-30T08:49:00.000+08:00

Despite of my iron-clad promise of being an active and responsible (!) blogger, the recent electoral process a.k.a. magical and mystical circus has prevented me from honoring my personal mission. Since it is not yet over – I mean we are still waiting for the end of the counting – I‘d rather recount the crazy memories last election season.

On the local and personal front, I am saddened by the failed re-election bid of my father. It should have been his sixth and last term. Yes. You read that right – sixth. He mayoral stint begun in 1988 until 1998; rested for a term and successfully reclaim the position for two successive terms. Apparently, my beloved town has learned to love money. I recalled that during my father’s first years as mayor, he would spend a fairly reasonable amount since our people are never swayed by the lure of hard cold cash. Attitudes do change. Even good ones have to change for the worse. Consider the vote-buying rate last elections in our town: P 200 – 1,000 per individual and P 2,000 per family. Our family does not buy a person’s right just to win elections. It’s a rule.

I’m not sounding like a sore loser, am I? No. I am not. I just wish that the wisdom of our town people would enlightenment them once more. It’s not the end. Apparently, the supposed mayoral winner is a US immigrant (failure in residency requirement). Oooh.

Still Gaining Momentum

2007-04-12T15:13:00.000+08:00

Note: there are a number of administration blog and forum assassins out there but this entry is for all hard-working volunteers of Genuine Opposition senatorial bet Francis Escudero especially members of Team Chiz.

The trust rating surveys...the consistent magic five ranking...not to mention the twins...Sorsogon representative Francis Escudero is riding high on a tidal wave of momentum going to the last stretch of the campaign.

Holy Mock-arel
In a mock polls conducted by the Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting last April 9, Escudero got the most votes among priests in the Diocese of Bacolod. Just like the surveys, the result was dominated by Genuine Opposition bets. Equally stunning is the strong showing of the three Kapatiran bets.

Another Endorsement
Rumors are buzzing that the powerful Iglesia ni Kristo has already endorsed two senatorial candidates, Mike Defensor and Francis Escudero. Though I am not quite familiar with Pastor Apollo C. Quiboloy - Sun Star Davao has described him as one of the most popular religious leaders whom politicians court come election time. He decided to reveal his magic 12 on the 25th of April - his birthday. This should make the volunteers of Chiz smile, 'Moreover, Quiboloy told Sun.Star Davao that almost all of the senatorial candidates, administration, opposition, and independents, have sought his endorsement. But aside from Pangilinan, it was only senatorial aspirant Francis Escudero whom the pastor mentioned as a good choice.'

Tony Awards
Please correct me if I'm wrong, is Antonio Lopez of Biz News Asia and Tony Lopez of Manila Times - one and the same? Well I thought that he would be the last person - well - third person (after Alex Magno and Domini Torevillas) to notice surge in Escudero's campaign. But...surprise...surprise...look at his column. Among the congressmen running for senators, lawyer Chiz Escudero is making the best showing. He improved his rating from 23.2 percent (6.96 million votes) in January to 45.3 percent (13.59 million votes) in April, a gain of 22.1 percentage points, or 6.75 million votes. The affable Bicolano with a pedestrian sartorial taste climbed from a losing position, at No. 13, in January to No. 3, a dizzying 10-rung pole vault.

Much credit to his amazing campaign should go to Chiz Escudero. But I guess all volunteers (Team Chiz members included) should take deserving bow. Congratulations and keep up the good work. Sugod!

The Pulse is Getting Loud

2007-04-11T10:18:00.000+08:00

It would only be a matter of time before the tandem of Ben Evardone and Tonypet Albano calls Pulse Asia as False Asia.

The latest results will not sit well with the Team Unity campaign managers. Loren Legarda is pulling away. Much as I want my candidate to rank first, I must admit that it would be hard to dislodge Legarda from top spot. Unless she makes some major stupidity in the homestretech or the Man from Bukidnon weaves his magic again, Pashmina will once again flow in the Senate halls.

Manny Villar and Francis Escudero continue to fortify their positions in the Circle of Five. The good news is that a supposedly independent but highly-wife dependent candidate is slipping. Sometimes I can't help but believe the rumors that he commissioned another survey in which he ranked first.

Ping Lacson rounds up the top five. He is still true to his words that he will not use any celebrity in his campaign.

The next two spots are cornered by Team Unity candidates Ralph Recto and Edgardo Angara. These two candidates know how to harness the power of media and I am not talking of the Star for all Seasons kind. Angara and Recto have the most choiciest ad spots in television as well as radio.

They are followed by Benigno Aquino III and Alan Peter Cayetano. Kris Aquino can do wonders for his big brother despite her on-going real life melodrama. On the other hand, Pia's younger brother is being affected by so-called spoiled ballots due to the other Cayetano. Somebody really hates this guy.

The last three contenders in the Magic 12 are Joker Arroyo, Tito Sotto, and Gringo Honasan. Remember Harvey Keh? Well...if he really loves the Philippines, he should start praying that the last two in the list drops further down the loser's drain. Honasan...it's amazing. He's behind bars but he still ranks way above Prospero Pichay. Despite a barage of People's Dragon ads, Arroyo can only manage a tenth spot. In the case of Tito Sotto, it will be just a matter of time...before we say goodbye.

Here's something interesting. The survey was conducted during the height of the Ducat hostage drama. So where is Chavit Singson? Down there with Mel Chaves and Joselito Pepito Cayetano.

The pulse is getting loud...majority of the Filipinos hate the current administration.

Buts, Rebuts, and Scuttlebutts

2007-04-09T11:03:00.000+08:00

The Buts
Slanted Surveys
The last line in the editorial of the Philippine Daily Inquirer yesterday summed up my feelings regarding the concerted effort of the administration to downplay the election surveys conducted by different firms. ‘Claudio is desperate.’

One of the courses that I took as a Sociology student in UPLB is Statistics 166 or Statistics for Social Sciences. In this course, students are taught different scientific methodologies in conducting research – one of which is surveys. There are a number of criticisms thrown against this method including its simplistic and mechanic approach to human behavior and opinion. Despite of the various academic vilifications, it remains one of the most popular traditional methodologies due to its numerical and scientific character. Personally, I prefer the alternative approaches to research such as narrative analysis but it is more convincing to explain a social phenomenon using statistics. I mean it is really hard to argue with numbers.

The desperation of Arroyo and her media hired guns to kill the credibility of the two leading survey firms borders Jun Ducat territory. It is too desperate and too stupid. The best counter-argument to Ben Evardone and Tonypet Albano is that this is the same administration that swore to the same survey firms in order to justify the election victory of the present Palace occupant. In the process, the administration itself is undermining the very same rationale that they rammed down to our doubtful throats during the wild days of the Garci controversy.

But I guess the administration is too desperate to think rationally.

The Impossible Dream
Clean sweep. 12-0. The more popular Genuine Opposition is not even considering an election sweep yet its survey bottom-dweller counterparts are quite confident of doing the improbable. Team Unity could only achieve this lofty goal through unprecedented electoral manipulation.

But it is a been-there-done-that situation for the administration. If this happens then the impossible could become possible – People Power.

In the Name of Her Father
The daughter of Mike Defensor campaigned yesterday for her father in a TU sortie in Bataan. The young Defensor noted that her father is working harder to finally barge in the winning circle. Despite getting stuck in 15th place in two previous surveys, she said that Tol could still win since surveys are usually unreliable. Using Mar Roxas as an example, she recalled that the election topnotch climbed from 33rd to first place.

But he is Mar Roxas and your father is a Mike Defensor. In all honesty, I am not a big fan of possible presidential candidate, but it is rather unfair to compare the campaign strategies of the two politicians. First Mr Palengke has a catchy and decent television advertisement. The same could not be said to Defensor. Second – the Korina Sanchez factor. I still believe that that she was the real factor.

The Tale of the Talent
Finally…television ads of Cesar Montano. The verdict? What the F! His campaign line is using your talent wisely for the benefit of our country. If there is one battle cry that could hurt the chances of candidate – then this must be it. Cesar…Cesar you are one of the most talented actors in the business today. But your talent is acting not legislating. If you really want to promote the wise use of talents, then stick to acting.

Hand in the Cookie Jar
Prospero Pichay broke the COMELEC directive of campaign ceasefire during the Lenten period. The Surigao representative argued that he was merely asking the people to plant Pichay in the senate.

But…oh goodness…is this the kind of lawmaker that our country deserves?

Rebut
The Mike Defensor Defender
One regular Votester visitor (honeypie)has recently accused me of being Chiz Escudero's Demolition Woman. I do love the sound of it...Demolition Woman. It kind of makes me a female Terminator.

Here are some of her rants which was posted on May 19:
Yan si hello_garci at purple pheonix ay isang tao lang!! mga demolition job ni chiz!! paano ko nalaman?? aba e magaling yata ang TEAM MIKE!! we have the machinery and means, by may Mike will get the number one spot and chiz will drop to number 13! because he is nothing but foolishness. look at his photo and judge his looks!

First, I am the Purple Phoenix. I do not have a second Votester account under the name Hello_Garci nor do I have any other Votester account. I even requested other Team Chiz members to refrain from voting more than once (using different accounts) since it is akin to cheating. Real winners don't cheat they just win.

Second, Mike Defensor has been stuck in the 15th spot in the last two SWS surveys while Chiz Escudero continues to barge in the top five. If Mike gets first place...oooh...I have to tell you it will be an eyebrow-raising moment. Remember that Mike's boss (The Fake One) kept on swearing by the survey firms to justify her win in the last elections. Let me see her swear on it again.

Lastly, Team Mike? Never heard. Machinery and means to manipulate the elections - yes - I believe your team does have one.

The Scuttlebutt
In one Internet forum, a thread topic discussed the rumor that each Team Unity candidate will be assured of 9 million votes. Woah!

Senator Jamalul Kiram, anyone?

Loving Pichay

2007-04-01T09:07:00.000+08:00

Some things will remain a mystery. Some things will remain as a surprise. I just wonder what others would think of him.

A couple of weeks ago, I got a comment from a reader named Martin. I checked out his profile. All I learned from it is that he joined Blogger on March 2007. No blogs. I wished he had one so that I and the rest of the world would know more about his ideas.

In one of my entries, I mentioned several names of candidates that should not be voted - including Prospero Pichay. Martin wanted me to elaborate the reason for calling the representative of Surigao arrogant. I gave my reasons.

Here's a piece of our conversations:
The Purple Phoenix
Did you know that there is a bias regarding the punishment of ADULTERY (for women) and CONCUBINAGE (for men)?

If you're a woman who committed adultery you can be found guilty if your husband can show a video or picture of you going out in a motel with a man. The woman could be punished for 6 years. On the other hand, for a man who's charge with concubinage - his wife must present records that show that the man is FINANCIALLY supporting his mistress. If found guilty, he can be punished for 2-3 years.

A lawmaker from Batangas saw the discrepancy and wanted to change it. You know what's the reply of Pichay? Two words: NO WAY! Is that ARROGANCE OR NOT?

Regarding the belly? I'm also fat. I've nothing against fat people. But I have a lot of issues regarding people who got fat from money made from publishing smut tabloids like Remate. Yeah. You read it right. Pichay was a smut publisher before.

You want further reasons?

Martin
Hmmm, not convinced - you mentioned an issue regarding the disparity on how the law treats men and women for a similar offense and on that particular issue Pichay said "No Way" - making him forever arrogant. I don't know why he said what he said but that's just one incident and we do not know what was behind his saying "No Way". I still believe that most of the people running for Senate are arrogant.

There is a big difference between calling a person arrogant and calling him forever arrogant.

Here's more.
Martin
I've seen Pichay in a number of interviews, I like the way he speaks, straight to the point but with sense and his arguments are well thought out. I do not have to agree with everything he says, neither should anyone, but I would vote for someone who speaks with clarity and sense, even if I disagree with what he says than someone who merely speaks of what is popular at the time.

Arrogant? Hmmm, I never saw him in any of his interviews as being arrogant. But being frank may be viewed in this country as arrogant, especially if they disagree with what someone says. I would characterize the guy as being more gutsy than anything else. That is part of his role as a legislator, not to take NO for an answer. Imagine how effective a legislator will be if he just takes NO for an answer?

After reading this comment, I have concluded that he loves Pichay. It hit me - we are simply two sides of the same coin. Like Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty. Like Like Lupin III and Detective Koichi Zenigata.

Why? It's quite obvious that I am a big Chiz Escudero fan. Try replacing the name of Pichay with Escudero in Martin's comments.

The feeling is just the same.

We are both fans of different candidates.

So readers. Do not pity Martin for loving Pichay. If you truly believe that Chavit Singson is the future of this country - show your love! If you think that Tito Sotto is essential to the Senate - tattoo his name across your chest!

Give your candidates some major whoop-whoops!

Today is Palm Sunday. I just had an epiphany.

PLANT A LOVER

2007-03-31T08:36:00.000+08:00

Sooner or later they will come up with an acronym. I have been thinking one for the Genuine Opposition because there is no way in hell will I think for the other coalition. I was able to produce quite a number of combination including...

PLANT A LOVER. Officially that is the preferred mnemonic device for the Genuine Opposition.

P Pimental
L Legarda
A Aquino
N Nikki
T Trillanes

A Allan

L Lacson
O Osmena
V Villar
E Escudero
R Roco

Adel Tamano warned of 'malicious minds' reversing letters so that it would read as PLAN A REVOLT.

If it is a revolt against the persisting evil perpetuated by this administration then I am all for a REVOLT.

More Political Twaddle

2007-03-27T13:13:00.000+08:00

Gone Too Soon
Finally. The Commissioned Elections er Commission on Elections has decided to disqualify Jose Pepito Cayetano infamously known as the 'other Peter.' But Oliver Lozano's favorite candidate can still appeal his case. The highly-independent Abalos-led COMELEC found out that Pepito cannot run a national campaign. Wow. It took them this long.

Providential Annoyance
The progeny of Lito Atienza has filed his certificate of candidacy yesterday. For some reason the father-son tandem that vowed to bring Manila back to its former glory wore matching Hawaiian polo shirts. The incumbent mayor expressed surprise over the incident since it was just a pure coincidence. Or as he exactly put it 'providential coincidence.' Keeping a serious mien while mouthing off incredibly stupid statements to explain political gimmickry is a skill every politicians must have.

China Crisis
Look out Tarlac. As if the fraternal battle of Lakas and Kampi is not enough, the kid bully (Kampi) will field Patricia Jose Cojuangco more popularly known as China against the wife of Representative Gilbert Teodoro. She's the sister of sports heroine Mikee Cojuangco. If you were able to follow China's career then you know that this latest development is an epic disaster in the making. She infamously co-hosted the Binibining Pilipinas pageant several years ago. It was such a terrible stint that prompted a critic to make stinging comments. He said that if he was only young, beautiful and rich he would have done a better job than China because he has more personality. Unfortunately, I was able to watch her works as an actress...let's just say that it was bad. Now she wants to be a lawmaker? In the article of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, it was quoted that China will 'continue the selfless service of the Cojuangcos to their home province.' Marvelous. Except that she has to reactivate her voter's registration because she did not vote twice in the last elections. Can you honestly talk about service when you do not even vote?

Behind the Blinding Orthodontics

2007-03-27T08:28:00.001+08:00

The latest Social Weather Stations survey (which puts Loren Legarda back on top)had Mike Defensor in the possible last slot due to the margin of error despite being outside the winning column.

I was wondering (not really)there must be something wrong with him or his campaign (there really is).

I was surfing blogs and forums...what I saw was a barrage of anti-Mike Defensor articles and comments. He is not connecting with the people. He is antagonizing the people.

Maybe most Netizens are anti-administration but let me tell you this story. Several weeks ago, he went to our town. The people were excited because they finally saw Tol in person. Our laundry woman even hugged him for some major photo opportunities but after a few days...the connection was gone. Adding insult to injury, she begged me to give her Chiz Escudero campaign materials. Ouch.

A certain local magazine listed the 100 most influential Filipinos. It ranked Defensor way above his anti-thesis Escudero as well as Panfilo Lacson and Corazon Aquino. The magazine described him as a charismatic person. Oooh. He is not.

The Professional Heckler provided another serving of his delicious lists. This is his top five reasons why the Tol ads sucks.

5: Boy’s Voice Over. No matter how serious the ‘Tol spiel is, Boy’s voice still reminds us of The Buzz. Su-su-nod!

4: Pooh, the Pacquiao impersonator. He talks like Pacquiao, acts like Pacquiao, looks like Pacquiao, and more importantly, cheaper than Pacquiao. But this comedy bar performer is no Pacquiao and the public knows how to spot impostors.

3: Keanna Reeves. Except perhaps for her brains, everything in her is fake (too). And she wants us to believe her words? Come on.

2: The use of 'Tol. Pleeeeease! You’ve been known as "Mike Defensor" for almost 38 years now, and all of a sudden, you’re telling us to simply call you ‘Tol? Bakit? Kelan pa tayo naging close?!?

And the top reason why Mike Defensor’s political advertisement sucks:

1: Mike Defensor. The smile and the braces are disturbing.

Seriously, the second item sums up Defensor's problem. He is still in the process of creating his own image. Why the hell should we call him Tol when we knew him as Mike for most our lives?

I knew him as an administration stalwart and a fierce defender of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. I recall that he is the same guy who said that it was the president's voice but she is not the one talking. I remember him as the secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources who churned out permits like a Pez dispenser.

Speaking of his DENR stint, I wonder why my godmother who worked in this department for most of her life will NOT vote for him? The Putol Oppressor poster was created by Alyansa Tigil Mina a coalition of NGOs against mining.

It takes more than Boy Abunda and his stable of talents to prop a candidate in the winning column. It takes more than cheesy poster to give you an election victory.

For some reason, the usually forgetful Filipinos remember the past actions of Mike Defensor. Behind the blinding orthodontics and practiced smile is a questionable character.

The Attack of Campaign Ads

2007-03-22T20:42:00.000+08:00

Several weeks from now the unsinkable Filipinos will be casting their votes. But if most of the national candidates still have cash to spend...then we all have to suffer from the a barrage of campaign ads.

Since I have no time to watch television due to Hell Week, I had to contend myself with You Tube.

Here are the slew of commercials that were uploaded.

Enjoy. Or suffer.

Team Unity
Martin? Are you reading this post? Don't worry I won't say that Prospero Pichay is arrogant. Maybe in another blog post. But you have to hand it to his pork barrel er personal wealth. The guy has a music video

Taking a cue from his wife, Ralph Recto's ad is filled with rejected dancers from the show Vilma in Person.

If there's a rough and gruff award given out to candidates, Vic Magsaysay would win hands down. Here's why. I said rough and gruff. I did not say smuggler. Who said that?

Kapag bad ka! Lagot ka! Make way for the oldest dragon - I mean - people's dragon. I can't find a link to his ad though.

You know that you have a really big image problem if an icon gets the lion share of your political ad.

It must be gut feeling but the first time I saw this ad I felt that it was some cheesy campaign propaganda. I was right on the money. But I never thought that it was that lame. Sotto. Tito ko sa Senado. What the hell is that?

Nobody uploaded the ad of Tessie Oreta. Sad.

No ad yet for Cesar Montano. There must be a grain of truth to fund favoritism within Team Unity.

There's a new Zubiri commercial but it was the expensive Boom Tarat that had people abuzz. Was it really that expensive? But it is not helping him. If a media-barred Trillanes is more popular than you then you better think twice. Plus...idol ng Kabataan? I have to warn you of the thousands of Team Chiz memebers.

The only video that responded to the query 'Jamalul Kiram' is the infamous Sultan-of-Brunei-blooper of Igorota - I mean Gloria.

He was one of the early predators of television with his Ang Gara ng Buhay ad. Now he asked the endorsement of singing superstar Sarah Geronimo to push his spiraling survey rankings to the top.

Genuine Opposition
Honestly, the ads of Chiz Escudero would appeal to the youth but not generally to the masses. I found the first (of a series) quite ironic. He goes by the tag Boses ng Senado yet he did not speak a single word. The second one is more appropriate - he talked about the importance of having dreams and aspiration. Tuparin kaya ni Pichay ang mga pangarap ni Chiz?

The Pateros-Taguig representative is quite lucky to have a director for a brother. The only candidate endorsed by the First Gentleman. Live-action interspersed with animation - quite new. But my beef with this one is the song - Francis Magalona? Come on. Plus what's with the boxing gloves?

She started her political journey with Loren Loren Sinta. The leader of the survey pack is making a comeback with this ad. Her white blouse though reminds me of her Ariel detergent powder commercials.

Lacson maintains that he would not use celebrities to endorse his candidacy. He has been consistent ever since despite having an actress for a daughter-in-law. I can't find a video of him though. Trivia: the campaign jingle was inspired by the campaign song of Bill Clinton - Don't Stop Thinking about Tomorrow. No uploaded video though.

There are some things Manny can't buy. Like terpsichorean ability. Villar could use some dancing lessons.

Nene Pimentel got Kris Aquino's endorsement during the last few days of the campaign. He surged ahead from the brink of defeat and from the claws of dagdag-bawas. This time the real life telenovela celebrity will do anything (with or without Hope) to make his brother win.

Tatak Osmena or Latak ng Osmena? You decide.

Sonia Roco explained that her ad was inspired the music video of Natalie Cole where she eerily sang with his dead father Nat. It's a decent ad but I remember that her husband had well-crafted commercials the last time he ran? Contact them again Mrs Roco. I'm not a big fan but I'd rather have you in the senate than Ralph Recto.

The other heartthrob of the Opposition (there are three including Adel Tamano) is sadly in jail. But his strong showing in surveys as well as the fact that he's jockeying positions against big spenders like Pichay and Zubiri shows that Trillanes has a chance. Yup. The guy has an ad and it stings like wild bee. Here's another one. Rebel with a cause that looks much better than James Dean!

I did not find any video of Koko Pimentel. But I saw it one time. Decent but you should start stepping out of your father's shadow.

Does Nikki Coseteng have a campaign ad? Honestly, I've not seen anything. Her posters are good quality though. Come to think of it she used less make-up than Miguel Zubiri in her posters.

How about the only independent but wife-dependent candidate Francis Pangilinan? In the spirit of fairness, here's his Mountain Dew inspired campaign ad.

Attention: Reader Martin

2007-03-16T17:55:00.000+08:00

You were asking me to expound on the reason why I consider Pichay arrogant in my Warning: Danger in the Midst post. I already answered it in my comment page in the same article. Please read if you're still interested. The answer is quite interesting.

The Cheating has Started

2007-03-15T18:55:00.000+08:00

Try surfing Votester. It is a beta site that allows Yehey members to vote their preferred senatoriables and party-lists representatives.

Francis Escudero has been leading the tally for quite some time. He is followed by fellow oppositionists Antonio Trillanes IV and Panfilo Lacson. Yesterday (March 14), the 2bU section of the Philippine Daily Inquirer published an article regarding the website. It mentioned that although the votes of Chiz is not an indicator whether he would be the next Mr Palengke, it still show that the youth are indeed watching the election season.

I browsed Votester and to my surprise Mike Defensor placed second. It would not have come as a surprise except that he never figured in the Top 6. What is more shocking is that he suddenly reached the 100 vote mark. As one fellow Team Chiz member observed, Chiz received a normal 20-30 votes in one day while Mike gathered around 50-60 votes.

Since I am a big CSI fan, I decided to investigate. Based on the testimonials of Defensor in the site, most of his 'supporters' visited Votester from March 14 to 15. On the other hand his critics commented on March 3 or 4. See the discrepancy? In addition, noticed that the 2bU article was published on March 14.

I would not be surprised if Tol's 'supporters' voted in droves as a reaction to the article.

But this was not the first time. Remember ANC's Face-Off? For some unexplainable reason, despite the competence of Escudero the former presidential chief of staff kept on piling the text votes.

The cheating has definitely started.

But I guess most Filipinos know the truth. They know it very well that they are rewarding the Sorsogon lawmaker a high ranking in the surveys.

The Pulse

2007-03-14T13:38:00.000+08:00

The newest Pulse Asia Survey shows that the Genuine Opposition candidates are still leading their administration counterparts. Conducted from February 28 - March 5, the results are as follows:

1st Loren Legarda
2nd Panfilo Lacson
3rd Francis Pangilinan
4th Francis Escudero
5th Ralph Recto
6th Manuel Villar
7th Joker Arroyo
8th Benigno Aquino III
9th Edgardo Angara
10th Allan Peter Cayetano
11th Gregorio Honasan
12th Vicente Sotto III

The survey shows that the following candidates still have statistical probability of entering the Magic 12:

1 Aquilino Pimentel III
2 Vicente Magsaysay
3 Sonia Roco
4 John Osmena
5 Michael Defensor

The other findings of the survey shows that:
1 Noynoy Aquino is the biggest gainer rising from 14th to 7th place in the last Pulse Asia Survey.

2 Tito Sotto is the biggest loser dropping 7 notches.

3 Due to the entry of Joselito Cayetano, Allan Peter placed 10th instead of 4th.

The other findings of the Purple Phoenix shows that:
1 The sample gathered by Pulse Asia are not fans of Sharon Cuneta.

2 Joselito Cayetano is either getting popular or some voters are too lazy to write the full name of the Taguig representative.

3 Hmmm...it seems that Noynoy benefited from the James-Hope controversy.

4 Not even a rebellion case or imprisonment could diminish the charisma of Honasan.

5 The sample gathered by Pulse Asia hates vegetables. Where the hell is Pichay?

6 The magic of Boy Abunda has not rubbed off his favorite candidate. Tol is still short of victory.

7 Miguel Zubiri should beg Wowowee to revert back to their original song Boom Tarat Tarat.

8 Rez Cortez should be having a gin pomelo party. The ASO jingle seems to be affecting the candidacy of a certain comedian.

9 Sarah Geronimo seems to be an effective endorser. I think more people would vote for Angara because of the young singing superstar than believe his tag line - Ang Gara ng Buhay.

10 Magsaysay ranked 14th. Wow.

11 This is a bias observation but Escudero is on a roll. Going up to the top! Team Chiz we still have a lot work to do. Complacency is not the answer.

Master of the Mock Elections

2007-03-14T10:31:00.000+08:00

After topping the senate staff and SSS mock elections, Francis Escudero placed number 1 in the Ateneo de Davao mock polls.

Here is the complete article.

DAVAO CITY (MindaNews/12 March) – The Opposition’s Rep. Francis “Chiz” Escudero topped the March 9 automated mock polls held at the Ateneo de Davao University, with 170 out of 194 votes cast.

The lone Mindanawon bet who joined the Magic 12 at number 12 is Juan Miguel Zubiri with 85, or half the number of votes Escudero got.

For party-list groups, Kabataan topped the polls with 52 votes followed by Gabriela (45), Bayan Muna (34), Anak Mindanaw (7) and Abanse! Pinay (5).

Posted in the university website, the Ateneo de Davao choice of the Senate 12 is a mix between administration and opposition – five each from Team Unity and Genuine Opposition and two “Independents” (Francis Pangilinan and Manny Villar who is also included in the GO slate).

Escudero topped the senatorial race way ahead of Social Weather Stations (SWS) toprunner, Pangilinan, who received 158 votes with Villar following closely behind with 157. Villar ranked third, too, in the SWS survey.

The rest of the candidates and their votes: Joker Arroyo (146, TU); Ralph Recto (138, TU); Benigno Aquino II (132, GO); Loren Legarda (131, GO); Alan Peter Cayetano (115, GO), Edgardo Angara (108, TU), Panfilo Lacson (107, GO); Mike Defensor (98, TU); and Zubiri (TU) with 85.

Former Senator John Osmena (70, GO), Aquilino “Coco” Pimentel (55, GO) and Prospero Pichay (50, TU).

The Botong Pinoy Mock Elections was spearheaded by the Social Involvement Coordinating Office (SICO) through its director, Ma. Teresa Isidor in coordination with the SAMAHAN Central Board's (Student Council) President, Patricia Silva and its Secretary General, Denise Subido.

The mock elections made use of "touch screen" equipped computer stations located at the ground floor of Thibault Hall. The computers had pictures of senatorial and party list candidates on which the "voters" could click or select using a finger and the system printed the ballot with the list of chosen candidates.

Alfred Padlan of Mega Group of Computer Companies said the automated mock polls showed that elections using computers can work.

The Botong Pinoy Mock Elections was open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and was done simultaneously in Dumaguete, La Union, Los Banos and Manila, Padlan said. The results were immediately sent to the server in Manila but the results of the mock polls in the other areas were not posted in the Ateneo de Davao website.

I only hope that he would also win in the real elections. Am I right Team Chiz?

The Cheating Checklist

2007-03-14T10:11:00.000+08:00

Things to Do to Ensure a Midterm Elections Victory
Appoint Ronaldo Puno as secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government.

Appoint Hermogenes Ebdane as secretary of the Department of National Defense.

Place military elements in the urban areas.

Publish photos of Joma Sison dancing with Ara Mina in the papers.

Raid houses of nominees of left-leaning party lists.

Burn the COMELEC?

Appoint Virgilio Garciliano...anywhere...anytime.

Philhealth cards. School feeding program...etcetera.

Tweak survey results as election nears.

In the end...it shall be noted.

Things to Do to Ensure Charter Change
Ensure the victory of Dato Arroyo.

Ensure the victory of Manny Pacquiao.

Ensure the victory of Ronaldo Puno! Mr Speaker...

Ensure the victory of Jose De Venecia? Hmmm...

Catastrophe

2007-03-09T20:31:00.000+08:00

I was about to log out when this little item caught my attention. Angelica Jones is running for board member in Laguna.

This is a cause of concern for me because:
1. I am from Laguna.

2. It was Luis Villafuerte who coaxed the self-proclaimed Flawless to run in the coming elections.

3. She is Angelica Jones. For crying out loud.

4. I know her. She was a school mate and a batch mate.

The former Jojo Veloso beauty revealed that it was the party of Kampi that asked her to run for provincial board member. That's it. I've been checking my patience with Ronaldo Puno's cult but this is too much.

Athough I am not a big fan of our current provincial officials...but is Angelica Jones the best alternative the good people of our province can have? What did we do to deserve her?

This is the high level politics that the Fake One promised the citizenry of the Philippines.

Jones was quoted, 'With the trust given to me by Kampi, perhaps the Lord has a way, that He will use me as His instrument to help other residents in Laguna.'

Oh Lord.

The Purple Phoenix Celebrates Women's Day

2007-03-08T19:52:00.000+08:00

08 March 2007

Women's Day

1. I woke up early for so that I would not be late for the morning rally.

2. The meeting place is in Kanlungan Center Foundation, Inc. It's the agency where I was assigned for my field work.

3. Wearing a sombrero with a purple ribbon, we rode a jeepney to Sto Domingo where the march would start.

4. We stopped near FEU for a program. It's a good thing that the sun was not emitting much heat.

5. We did not know that violence has already started. The usual...police beats rallyist. Sometimes it pays to be late.

6. The group went to Quezon City Hall for the culminating program.

7. Along with Juvy, we participated in an art workshop.

8. The speech-filled programs started to roll. Kanlungan's Madam Rosa told me that there was a warning that electricity will be switched off if any Resign Gloria statements echo in the celebration.

9. Of course, what do you expect? At 5 o'clock, they cut the electricity. It seems that the City Hall is a big fan of the Fake One.

I decided to ditch the torch parade. I went back to the dormitory and took bath. I stared at my collection of Chiz Escudero pictures before blogging.

I read in a news site that the Fake One got heckled in Pasay during the celebration of the International Women's Day.

Serves her right.

Happy Women's Day.

Survey Says

2007-03-07T19:43:00.000+08:00

The survey was conducted from February 24 to February 27 comparing it to the November 2006 results, here's how the candidates gained or lost ground.

1st Francis Pangilinan (GAIN: from 3rd to 1st)
2nd Loren Legarda (LOST: from 1st to 2nd)
3rd Manny Villar (GAIN: from 7th to 3rd)
4th Allan Peter Cayetano (GAIN: from tied for 5th to tied for 4th)
5th Panfilo Lacson (LOST: from 2nd to tied for 4th)
6th Francis Escudero (GAIN: from 10th to tied for 6th)
7th Ralph Recto (LOST: from tied for 5th to tied for 6th)
8th Vicente Sotto III (LOST: from 4th to 8th)
9th John Osmena (GAIN: from tied for 12th to tied for 9th)
10th Benigno Aquino III (GAIN: from tied for 12th to tied for 9th)
11th Gregorio Honasan (LOST: from tied for 8th to 11th)
12th Joker Arroyo (GAIN: from tied for 12th to solo 12th)

The following candidates also lost ground:
Aquilino Pimentel III (LOST: from tied for 8th to 11th)
Edgardo Angara (LOST: from 11th to 13th)
Prospero Pichat (LOST: from 18th to 22nd)

Mike Defensor is still stuck in the 15th place.

According to Dr Mahar Mahangas:
There is a possibility for a 10-2 outcome due to a slight gain by the opposition or an 8-4 outcome if the administration catches up.

According to The Purple Phoenix:
Despite the unraveling of the Genuine Opposition, most of their candidates figured in the top 12 of the latest SWS survey. If this does not show how most Filipinos hate the current administration then I don't know what.

Despite being dropped by the Genuine Opposition, Sharon Cuneta is still a popular figure.

Despite of his movie star statuses, Richard Gomez and Cesar Montano's ranking is still in the twilight zone.

Despite of the numerous Walking 'Tol and Itanim sa Senado posters around the metro, Defensor and Pichay still ranks below the winner circle.

Despite the sacrifices of Boy Abunda, Mike Defensor is still out of the top 12.

Despite being an independent, Gringo is still part of the Magic 12.

Despite of the money spent on his ads, Boom Tarat Tarat is not helping Juan Miguel Zubiri.

By the way, if you are looking for Chavit Singson...he's ranked above Cayetano...Jose Pepito Cayetano. This is not a joke. It's true.

Chiz Escudero Gains Momentum

2007-03-07T19:15:00.000+08:00

Moving Up
In the last SWS survey, Escudero hovered around the dangerous 10th to 11th spot. The latest survey however shows that he has advanced to the sixth to seventh spot.

Two out of Two
Last month, Francis Escudero topped the mock elections of senate employees garnering 535 out of the possible 738 votes. Today, he again ranked first in a mock polls among SSS employees. That's two out of two. I'd like to tell all the members of Team Chiz that this is a cause for celebration but our real celebration should be held after the last vote is counted.

Fiery Friendster
Some candidates are taking the battle over the popular site Friendster. I read in one of the papers that Miguel Zubiri was surprised that he already had 175 (as of the last counting 177) friends. Chiz has more than 300 friends in his SECOND ACCOUNT. His first account reached the quota of 1000 friends so he has to create another one. By the way, Vic Magsaysay has a Friendster account.

Second Wave
Maintaining aesthetic taste, Escudero will be seen in his second television ad. You could view it here

The Last Thing You Could Do

2007-03-05T17:01:00.000+08:00

The last thing that readers could do is scare me. I welcome comments. I welcome criticisms. But if some of them thinks that I would stop writing opinions then you're headed for some major disappointment.

I have a father who taught me how to think critically. He encouraged me to read newspapers and watch news programs. We consider the last US midterm elections as our own personal Superbowl. But most importantly, he encourages me to have my own opinions. He does not mind if it clashes with his as long as I could defend my ideas. He is currently aligned with the administration but he does not resent the fact that I would vote for candidates in the Genuine Opposition. He would even vote for a couple of them. For some reason, democracy works for us.

I am currently enrolled in the Social Work graduate school program in UP Diliman. I have two subjects and one field work. It practically eats up all of my time for five days. Yet I still have time to blog. I still have time to volunteer for a certain senatorial candidate.

And yes, I still have time to read all the comments and criticisms.

And reply to them.

Trying to scare me? Trying to discourage me?

Save your energy.

The Letter of Harvey Keh

2007-03-04T14:40:00.000+08:00

I finally received the email. But must I receive several of it? Nah. Seriously. Thank you to all the people who forwarded the message.

The message:
Dear Fellow Filipino,

Good day to all of you! Before I begin my letter... just a disclaimer, for people who know me they know that I love the Philippines very much and I am not really one who rants and complaints to high heavens about what is happening to our country and does nothing about it, in fact, I feel that at my relatively young age of 27, I have done much service to the Philippines by setting up Pathways to Higher Education which has sent more than 500 poor but deserving students to college and AHON Foundation which has already built two public elementary school libraries that have benefitted more than 3,500 students. Yet, after seeing how events in our nation have transpired the past few weeks and talking with some friends, I feel the urge to share with you my own thoughts and feelings.

Over the weekend, we saw the completion of two major political alliances for this coming Senate Elections that has just began here in the Philippines . Now we have two political forces with familiar faces nonetheless on opposite sides of the fences. On one end, you have Tito Sotto and Tessie Aquino-Oreta who were two major stalwarts of the opposition and the FPJ Campaign in 2004 hobnobbing with the woman (Pres. GMA) whom they claimed to have cheated FPJ in the last Presidential Elections.On the other side of the fence, you see Manny Villar, the former house speaker who was actually responsible for impeaching Erap now part of the United Opposition who is led by no less than... Erap himself. Now if you don't see anything wrong with this picture then you must be one of the many Filipinos who have accepted this very sad reality that there is indeed no permanent ideals that our government leaders stand up for but rather they just go where there self-interests can best be served. It is this kind of politics why I no longer wonder why good people like Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Mayor Jesse Robredo of Naga City or outstanding Bulacan Governor Josie Dela Cruz will find it hard or worse, never be elected to national positions.

It is with these in mind that I'd like to share with you what are events this coming May elections that will make me consider leaving the Philippines :

1.) If former COMELEC Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano of Hello Garci fame wins in his bid to become Congressman of Bukidnon...seeking to replace a good man no less in incumbent Cong. Neric Acosta... We would really be the laughing stock of the whole world if we allow a man with the reputation of Garci to be one of our so called "Honorable Gentlemen".

2.) If Dancing Queen Tessie Aquino Oreta reclaims her seat at the Senate... I hope that all of us would still remember that dance that she did during the 2001 impeachment hearings after they voted to overrule the decision of then Chief Justice Davide... let us make sure that people like her never make it to the Senate again.

3.) If Richard Gomez becomes a senator... what does he know about making laws? We already have the likes of Bong Revilla and Lito Lapid in the Senate and their performance or lack of it would be reason enough not to elect another actor who has no prior experience in government to the distinguished halls of the Senate.

4.) If Gringo Honasan wins again.... have we not learned our lesson? I cannot believe that just because someone is charismatic then we will just elect him to become one of our senators despite the fact that he has time and again caused so much instability in our country... if we want a military junta similar to that of Thailand ... then lets all vote for this guy....

5.) If Manny Pacquiao becomes Congressman of General Santos City... everybody loves Manny the Boxing Champ but Manny the Lawmaker? Lets be realistic here, Manny is our Hero alright but I think it takes more than just great boxing skills and a desire to serve to be able to make appropriate laws that would help uplift the lives of the many Filipinos who live in Poverty.

6.) If Lito Lapid wins for Mayor of Makati City... I don't like Jojo Binay as well but Lito Lapid as city mayor of the country's finance and business center?!?! And do you really think he is from Makati and has good plans for the city? The Arroyos asking someone like him to run just goes to show you how much love and concern this government has for our country.

7.) If Chavit Singson becomes a Senator, Illegal Gambling = Chavit... enough said.

Now if all of these 7 things happen during this coming elections then don't be surprised if I decide to leave this country that I love dearly. Like I said during the first part of my letter, I feel that I have done much for this country but I think its time that Filipinos become more vigilant and critical in selecting our leaders for the sake of our future and the generations that will go beyond us. So I appeal to every Filipino who asks what can I actually do for my country... Choose and vote for the right people this coming elections, huwag na tayong magpaloko sa mga kandidatong maganda lang ang jingle o gwapo lang sa mga poster. Let us choose leaders who have a good track record for service and who are genuinely committed towards serving our country.

Manindigan naman tayong lahat para sa ating Kinabukasan at para sa Kapakanan ng ating Bayan!

Thank you very much for your time in reading this letter.

Sincerely,

Harvey S. Keh

Animosity of an Anonymous Reader

2007-03-04T14:25:00.000+08:00

This is not the first time I received an unfavorable comment. I'm sure of it because I still remember the name of the reader. He was gentleman enough to identify his name. He even has a picture.

I don't edit any comments in my blog. But wouldn't it be great if I know who makes these reactions so that I could make a better reply. There were two messages from an 'anonymous' reader that accused me of being an Erap supporter. He even made commments against Francis Escudero in another. I know that he or she is just one and the same because it's reflected in the the time of posting.

Here's one of his post:
bayaran ka kamo ng mga kampon ni erap!!! kabit ka siguro ng papa erap mo!!! puro ka kabalbalan!!

Here's my reply:
Anonymous,

I would like to thank you for visiting my blog and reading my entries. However, I would like to tell you that I was part of EDSA Dos. If you still remember your history, it was the pseudo-revolution that kicked Erap out of position.

Second, my father is aligned with the administration. Yet he gives me freedom in choosing the candidates who I think should be elected. The last time I check, the Philippines is a democratic country.

Third, just a point of clarification, I am not a mistress of Estrada. I do not even have a boyfriend until now. Why? I don't need one.

Lastly, if you are really brave as your comments could you please identify yourself. I'm proud of what I'm saying that's why even put my picture in my blog. Are you proud of what you're saying? If yes, tell me your identity.

Sincerely,
Jowana Balana Bueser

PS
See. I could even right my full name with all dignity.

My name is Jowana Balana Bueser, a Filipina and a registered voter - in the coming elections I shall use my right to elect deserving candidates. The undeserving ones shall reap eternal condemnation. For now, I'll give them hell.

Warning: Danger in the Midst

2007-03-02T18:16:00.000+08:00

I have finally completed my personal blacklist of candidates that should not win in the upcoming midterm elections.

Mike Defensor
Days from now, I will be posting pictures of tree killers - candidates whose paraphernalia desecrate the beauty and dignity of trees in the metro. There are only a few healthy trees left in Metro Manila and these candidates have the arrogance of placing their non-biodegradable campaign materials in tree trunks? Ironically, the former Department of Environment and Natural Resources secretary tops the list. Sure he could always say that he does not know about it and that it was the work of his uninformed supporters. But he's tree-killing paraphernalia are spread out in Quezon City, his family's supposed bailiwick.

Francis Pangilinan
Mr Sharon Cuneta is the second worst tree-killer in Quezon City. Maybe this is his way of exacting revenge to the city that DID NOT VOTE for him. Candidates who utilizes the star power of their wives should not be elected. If that is the case then they should let their wives run instead.

Ralph Recto
One word: taxes.

Miguel Zubiri
His photoshopped campaign pictures makes you want to run blind-folded in the QC Circle. But this avowed environmentalist is another tree killer. Apart from that,he should better explain how his family would benefit from bio-fuel diesel. This type of energy harnesses corn and SUGAR - right? Sugar.

Edgardo Angara
This candidate is dangerous to your presidency. Right Erap? Right FPJ?

Joker Arroyo
What the hell happened to you?

Manny Villar
He is espousing industriousness and patience in order to succeed in life. He should add a third one: marry somebody from a rich and influential family.

Tito Sotto
Even if he did not defect to the dark side, I still would not vote for him. Why? He is Tito Sotto.

Tessie Oreta
She promises free pre-schooling. Even if that is the only that she would do in the senate - then my goodness - she's an utter waste of pork barrel. Pre-school only? Why not complete formal education?

Prospero Pichay
The word 'arrogance' was invented for him. His bulge is enough evidence how voracious his appetite is and would be if elected to the upper chamber.

Luis Singson
Duh!

Cesar Montano
Whatever got into the head of this guy? You have a beautiful wife. Two beautiful childeren. A flourishing path to acting greatness and you opted to plunged head-first to a concrete wall of embarrassment by running in the senatorial elections? For a decisive actor, you're one lousy decision-maker.

John Osmena
I'm from the University of the Philippines. I don't forget my history. I don't forget our history.

Nikki Coseteng
She must have forgotten something that is why she is running again. What could that be?

You might be looking for names like Vic Magsaysay and Jamalul Kiram. Congratulations! Your memory is in good condition. You did remember their names.Wow.

The Blind Opener

2007-03-01T20:04:00.000+08:00

I decided to change my 'Blind Leading the Blind' posts into the 'Blind Opener.' Why? Blame hormones.

Anyway, these blind items are from my favorite tabloid Abante. Only those politicians who are running this elections will be part of the Blind Opener.

1. The Modelizer
The Story: this married re-electionist who is married to a politician is currently crazy over a model. Though they continue to fool the public with their sweet acts so as not to affect their political careers.

The Clue: you don't need a clue with this one.

The Answer: Ralph Recto

Explanation: do I have to explain why?

2. The Vain Candidate
The Story: in order to spice up his candidacy, this administration bet is having frequent facials due to his 'uncharismatic' skin. He is also advised to loose some pounds. Apart from that, he has became choosy with clothes.

The Clue: vegetable but obviously not a vegetarian.

The Answer: Prospero Pichay

The Explanation: he definitely needs a make-over more importantly a moral make-over.

3. The Weird Tripper
The Story: this GO candidate only hires beauty-challenged staff so that they would not upstage her. Wow.

The Clue: she's a former senator which got involved in sports when she was younger

The Answer: Nikki Coseteng

The Explanation: do you still remember Gallery Dominique?

Sinners and Saints

2007-03-01T19:22:00.000+08:00

I have not receive the email of Harvey Keh - the 27-year old guy who vowed to leave the country if certain politicians win in the upcoming elections. One of those that could prompt this young leader is a win by Gloria Arroyo's favorite witness Chavit Singson.

The Ilocano warlord cried that it was unfair for Keh to equate him with gambling. I personally do not know Singson but I guess it would be ignorant of the public to equate him with pink floral pillows. Further, the administration candidate said that the other politicians are not saints, thus it's unfair to single out a select few.

That made me laugh. There are no saints in the current list of senatoriables but - damn - we know which should be elected. Apparently, Keh and I are on the same page. There's no need for us to know you more Mr Singson (that's his advice to Keh), your public notoriety is enough for us.

My father always tells me that even the pope can get corrupted by the political system in our country. Apparently, my father forgot his church history since there was a time when popes were the embodiment of human corruptibility. But I believe my father. There are a lot of good men and women who were swallowed by the rusty and lethal iron cage of Philippine politics. But there are still a number of them who resist its deadly charms.

Thus it is the responsibility of every one to vote and campaign for people who resists the iron cage. Singson is not one of them. I guess the reason why Keh included him in his list is that he knows Singson is one of those who strengthens the hold of the fatal cage.

The Top Ten Reasons for the Debate Dare of Joey Salceda

2007-02-28T20:26:00.000+08:00

Hurt by the full page newspaper advertisements of the Genuine Opposition that questioned the healthiness of the Philippine, newly-appointed Presidential Chief-of-Staff Joey Salceda dared the GO to an opposition. Manay...ang taray!

1. He's trying to make a good first impression. The favorite student should rise and shine.

2. He's creating his own identity. The former chief of staff Mike Defensor is a chismoso. Joey Salceda is talakera.

3. What were you expecting? Do you think he'll dare the opposition into a bare-knuckled fistfight? Sabunutan na lang.

4. Naimbyerna ang lola mo.

5. Nachukchak ang economic beauty ng lola mo.

6. Royal rumble itech. Debate with Joey Salceda versus John Osmena.

7. He wants to see Antonio Trillanes IV.

8. He wants to see Francis Escudero.

9. He wants to see Adel Tamano.

10. 'Kasi naman sina Pichay at Kiram lang ang nakikita ko palagi.'

Seriously. You know that life is not fair when Ladlad does not get party-list accreditation and Joey Salceda is appointed presidential chief-of-staff.

Be Kind to Animals

2007-02-28T19:26:00.000+08:00

By now, you have probably heard the campaign jingle against the Three Progenies of Mephistopheles: Edgardo Angara, Tito Sotto, and Tessie Oreta. Entitled ASO (based on their surname initials)and inspired by the old pop song 'How Much is that Dog in the Window, the pro-Erap and pro-FPJ has officially launched their war against modern-day traitors.

I am all for any campaign that would derail the chances of these turncoats...but why give dogs a bad name. I suggest that they put periods after each letter: A.S.O.

Dogs are the latest animals who have been victimized by politics.

Crocodiles
These reptiles are the classic metaphors for congressmen. Our prehistoric friend does not have a voracious appetite. They spend more time sleeping than eating. On the other hand, lazy congressmen spend their time sleeping AND eating. There's a huge difference.

Pig
I'll give you a thunderous right hook if you dare call Mike Arroyo a pig. Pigs are cute and useful. Mike...I'm not prepared for a libel case.

Snake
Snakes are smart animals. More importantly, they need to be smart. If you don't have legs, what else could you do but be smart? The thing is snakes need to outsmart larger predators since it's the rule of the survival of the fittest. Politicians try to outsmart others because they're power hungry. Snakes do not bite all the time; bad politicians do.

Tokay Gecko
If you regularly watch Kim Atienza's TV Patrol segment, then you know that this is the English name of 'tuko.' How many position-hungry politicians have been described as a 'tuko.' This gecko specie was made that way - having suction in its feet so that it could climb. Corrupt politicians were not; they just love to suck.

Insects
Did you know that insects are the most populous in the animal kingdom? If you keep on slandering the legacy of their thoraxes, I would not be surprised if they one take over the world. I just hope they start eating the bad eggs in politics.

P.S.
I just saw a grasshopper. It's quite big. I'm teaching it how to go to Malacanang... just in case it gigantically mutates one day.

2007-02-23T18:36:00.000+08:00

Finally. The decision that I have been waiting for these past few days has come. The Grand Opposition has decided to replace Mr Sharon Cuneta either with Zosimo Paredes (Pick him.)or Gringo Honasan (Let me think about it.) or Richard Gomez (No way.). After given an ultimatum, the loyalty-challenged Mr Noted decided not to join the opposition's proclamation rally this coming Saturday.

He added that he was never part of the Grand Opposition since he is running as an independent candidate. Mr Sharon Cuneta declared that it is not dignified that he be forced to join (the proclamation rally) or be punished for not attending it. What the... Can you actually believe that he has the guts to talk about 'dignity.'

Mr Sharon Cuneta is afraid that the FPJ supporters would not acknowledge his candidacy in the upcoming proclamation rally. I'm not a fan of Rez Cortez but I loved his 'No to Mr Noted' battlecry.

There are a lot of reasons why we should not vote for Mr Sharon Cuneta. Here are some of the most obvious:
1. His loyalty is ambiguous.
2. He has no principles. You do not call for the resignation of a person after you partook in her Grand Deception - knowingly or unknowingly.
3. Do I have to say it again? Mr Sharon Cuneta. It's quite obvious that he won because of the Megastar. If not, why does he have to be part of her concerts as well as her instant noodle endorsements?

I'm not the only person who can see how Mr Sharon Cuneta is maximizing the star power of his wife. Thus it is our duty to enlighten those who are still blinded by the mega light.

Open up your eyes. It is blinding enough to make you forget that his name is Ki... Mr Sharon Cuneta.

Laugh Potion Number 9

2007-02-22T18:31:00.000+08:00

Recto versus Recto. Who will win? Armand Sanchez.I'm not a fan of the current governor of Batangas but...if you are really from Batangas and you know its politics...you would not vote for a Recto. Vilma is different. She is Vilma - first and foremost - not a Recto. Now, why did I say Sanchez? Because the two Rectos would stupidly divide the vote between them. Is there any chance of unity? None. The public should know that there had been frictions between the Recto brothers even before Vilma decided to run for governor. So...what is so funny about this issue? Imagine the good people of Batangas can only choose between a Sanchez and a Recto. THAT is funny...and tragic.

I'm sure Eduardo Ermita is snickering with the on-going fracas among the Rectos.

Cesar Montano will take a crash course on politics. Ha! Ha! Ha! As if that will help you. As if that will help us.

Manny Pacquiao passed an examination that allows him to enter college. He said that he might enroll in Ateneo De Manila or De La Salle. This means two things: 1) he's worried that UP is too difficult for him and 2) or he cannot afford the tuition fee of the State University. Take that Erlinda Roman!

Pacman is contemplating whether he would take administration or political science. Ha! Ha! Ha! Is he now realizing that it is not easy dislodging Darlene?

Prospero Pichay wants to debate the candidates of the Genuine Opposition. Of all the people in Team Unity...

Name calling seems to be the favorite game of Reli German. Due to the changes in the official name of the opposition, he said that from Grand Alliance or G.A. it reverted to Grand Opposition or G.O. Combining the two, you come up with G.A.G.O. JV Ejercito reacted that Team Unity or T.U. should also add Team Arroyo or T.A. You have T.U.T.A. It's only been a week before they promised us high-level politics.

Prospero Pichay looks and sounds creepy in his campaign ads. He reminds me a lot of Romeo Jalosjos. What's funny about this? Pichay is a clown.

Bayan Muna topped a party-list survey. It's funny because it like a big slap to Esperon and his gang of extra-judicial killers.

State of Denial

2007-02-22T17:57:00.000+08:00

Who would have thought the the current AFP Chief of Staff is a psychoanalyst in the tradition of Sigmund Freud? That is his reaction to the report of UN special rapporteur Philip Alston. The man of UN is in denial

What is denial? No. It is not the river in Egypt. 'Denial is simply refusing to acknowledge that an event has occurred. The person affected simply acts as if nothing has happened, behaving in ways that others may see as bizarre.

In its full form, it is totally subconscious, and sufferers may be as mystified by the behavior of people around them as those people are by the behavior of the sufferers. It may also have a significant conscious element, where the sufferer is simply 'turning a blind eye' to an uncomfortable situation.'

If that is the case then Esperon and his 'president' is also in a state of denial. They have been turning a blind to the numerous and continuous killings of activists and journalists.

Let's just - for the sake of argument - assume that the military does not have a hand on the extra-judicial killings in our country. The question is: what has the organization been doing to STOP it? None. Task Force Usig in not the answer it is a forgettable footnote.

The government blames the relatives of the victims for not being cooperative with the authority. This does not say a lot on the attitude of the victim's relatives but it does says a lot on the reputation of the authority.

It took a foreigner from a powerful organization to convince the government to publicly release the controversial Melo Report. It just goes to show that this administration is more than willing to please the international community but is less than enthusiastic in educating its own constituents.

The Philippines is not a strong state. It is a state full of denials governed by individuals in denial.

The administration has denied that there was an on-going extra-judicial killings.
The administration has denied that there is a continuous repression of its critics.
The administration has denied that there was cheating in the last elections.

Let this administration continue denying the essential issues in our country. But let's make sure that we deny them power this coming elections. Do not vote people who perpetuate vicious lies and sordid tales of half-truths.

Video Chronology of the Senate Candidacy of Chiz

2007-02-21T19:54:00.000+08:00

The Filing of the Candidacy
The day before he filed his candidacy, the Jose De Venecia was quoted in a newspaper interview that the lawmaker from Sorsogon might join Team Unity. On the 30th of January, Escudero filed his candidacy to quell the nasty rumors.

Named as One of the UNO Candidates
Congressman Escudero made it to the first installment of senate slate announcement of the United Opposition.

Presentation of Opposition's Complete Line-up
He's not in the video but his father was.

Start of the Campaign
Chiz launches campaign via Internet chat.

On the Campaign Trail
It's really a no-brainer why this guy gets mobbed by people. Can you spell G-O-R-G-E-O-U-S?

Meeting with Estrada
With the opposition's most important endorser - apart from the Filipinos.

The Iconic Ness on the Icon in the Making

2007-02-21T18:55:00.001+08:00

Alma Moreno is pop culture icon. Seriously. The dance numbers that defined the decade that was the '80s. The camp movies that made Philippine Cinema more...uhmmm...interesting. Plus the memorable mangled English that gave Melanie Marquez stiff competition. Loveliness...

Who would have thought that the former sex symbol knows how to choose a senatorial candidate? In an interview she praised opposition candidate Francis Escudero of his intellect and cool manner. But of course, she still let out a classic Alma Moreno moment. She said that 'gusto kong magpakuha ng picture sa kanya.' So...the next time the two crosses path, do not be surprised if Escudero is taking a picture of Moreno. Gusto niyang magpakuha ng picture sa kanya HINDI niya gustong magpakuha KASAMA siya.

Last question: Ate Ness, ang picture ba na yan ay for here or for Vandolph?

If you understand the question above, it could only mean two things:
1. You're old enough to have seen Alma Moreno in her heydays.
2. You're quite adept with Filipino showbiz trivia. In short, chismosa ka.

Here's the URL address of the video.
You Tube Video of Alma Moreno Praising Chiz Escudero

Lazy Election Thoughts of a Numb Filipina

2007-02-20T13:38:00.000+08:00

Living in a dormitory means you have less TV access. I don't know about other universities but this is the case here in UP Diliman. Not that there is no television in Ipil Dormitory, we still have a budget for such welcome distractions unless you want to soak your brains on free TV. Not that free TV is bad, it's just tacky. I do watch the evening news...if I want to loose my appetite. Seriously, the evening news is the only thing that I watch whenever I'm in the dorm.

However, this past weekend (while waiting for Kris Aquino's statement on her marriage)I notice that for every commercial break, there is one campaign ad. It was horrible. Imagine seeing Manny Villar and Ralph Recto continuously for a full day. It was horrible. It's a numbing experience. Thus I vowed only to watch the three CSI shows this weekend.

But this did not stop me from analyzing and of course criticizing the ads of the sentorial candidates.

Ping Lacson
His ad is the anti-gloss. No dancing vendors or 'talents' of Boy Abunda. But it was the background jingle that caught my attention. 'Si Ping ang kinabukasan.' Where have I heard that melody? As I was taking a bath, it hit me - Bill Clinton's campaign jingle. 'Don't stop thinking about tomorrow.'

Prospero Pichay
Earlier, I heard his radio ad. The gist is that he claims that he will grant the wishes and desires of Filipinos. Wow. If he wants to do it, I suggest he apply as the co-host of Vicky Morales in 'Wish Ko Lang.'

Ralph Recto
My mother's secretary finds it funny that Mr Vilma Santos presented his 'platform' via an interpretative dance. It would have been memorable if his wife is part of the dance routine complete with her famous dance 'lifts.' Of course, choreographed by Maribeth Bichara.

Joker Arroyo
His Pipol's Dragon ad reminds me Dragon Katol. 'Sa usok, lamok ay tepok.'

Allan Peter Cayetano
Cayetano. 'Ito ang gusto ko.'For the information of the younger people out there (I'm still young.), this tag was sang by Francis Magalona (when he was still very popular) and was used by Royal Tru Orange. It's not really a catchy ad but at least he did not chose the 'Cumbachero' song. If you still remember it, sing with me: 'Pia Pia Pia Cayetano.'

Mike Defensor
Ugly. His ads are plain ugly. I'm not saying this because I hate the guy but because it is really ugly.

Miguel Zubiri
Joel Lamangan directed his 'Boom Tarat' ad. This is an added proof that Lamangan is an overrated film director. Plus, we all have every reason to demand a recount of the results of the past Metro Manila Film Festivals.

Jose Pepito Cayetano
Did you see his newsprint ad? Damn. He has a picture in the main page of Inquirer while Richard Gomez doesn't have one.

You might ask, what can I say about Chiz Escudero's ad. Here's my answers:
1. I have downloaded it in his site.
2. It is in saved in my laptop.
3. It is an welcome distraction.

Quite bias?

Keep It Real

2007-02-19T16:46:00.000+08:00

I have heard the radio ads. I have seen the TV commercials. I have been wanting to rip the campaign posters.

I want to keep it real. Not the ideal...I want the real.

Prospero Pichay
For some reason, the guy is making fun and pun of his family name. This goes to show that he is not serious in his senatorial candidacy. Consider his platform: charter change and abolition of the senate. You read it right. He is running for senator in order to abolish the senate. Enough.

Actual Campaign Line: PICHAY ITANIM SA SENADO
The Purple Phoenix Suggests: PICHAY IBAON SA LUPA

Mike Defensor
He has more posters (mostly in illegal places) in Batangas than Ralph Recto. I'm not kidding.

Actual Campaign Line: WALKING TOL
The Purple Phoenix Suggests: WALKING SHORT

Francis Pangilinan
The loyalty-challenged lawmaker looks eerie in his yellow and green posters with his wide smile.

Actual Campaign Line: K SA SENADO
The Purple Phoenix Suggests: KC AT SHARON ANG NAGDALA SA SENADO

Vic Magsaysay
He should thank me for providing free publicity in my blog.

Actual Campaign Line: MY GUY: VIC MAGSAYSAY
The Purple Phoenix Suggests: MAGSAYSAY WHO?

Joker Arroyo
I now consider him a joke. Where did the iron-clad principle that I once admired?

Actual Campaign Line: PAG BAD KA. LAGOT KA.
The Purple Phoenix Suggests: PAG BAD KA LAGOT KA. MALIBAN NA LANG SI JOSE PIDAL.

Miguel Zubiri
Could you please explain if your family will benefit from the production of bio-fuel diesel?

Actual Campaign Line: AMIGO NG BAYAN
The Purple Phoenix Suggests: QUE BARBARIDAD

Machete's Monstrous Move

2007-02-17T08:51:00.000+08:00

Cesar Montano's substitution for the candidacy of Jericho Petilla is not a big news. It is an enormous parody. If he wins, it's a gargantuan tragedy. Surprise was the least emotion I felt when I heard of Team Unity's latest 'high-level' political moves.

In an interview, Montano said 'Matagal ko ng ginagawa yung tumulong sa kapwa Filipino. I have been a public servant in my own little way. So eto, I’ll do it in a bigger scope lang.' It reeks pretentiousness. First, you don't have publicly declare that you are helping other people. Second, if you have been a public servant in your own way then why not stay that way? Politics as a subject is enriching but politics as a life is insane. I should know. My father has been a politician since 1988.

On the other hand, Team Unity reasons that there are two factors for the substitution.
1. Petilla's substitute should be a Lakas member.
2. Petilla's substitute should have capability and credibility since these are the qualifications of a Team Unity candidate.

The first criterion is reasonable but the second is incredible.

You mean Team Unity or Team Bansot (as MLQ3 wrote) requires capability and credibility?

Let's analyze: Team Unity Candidates: Capability and Credibility
1. Luis Singson
2. Prospero Pichay
3. Ralph Recto
4. Tito Sotto
5. Tessie Oreta

Should I continue? Or should I stop so that all of us could vommit?

What capability? What credibility?

Hello! Garci...

Laugh Potion Number 9

2007-02-15T19:23:00.000+08:00

1. Prospero Pichay declared that the opposition senatorial slate is made up of coup plotters and government destabilizers. But the administration slate is composed of a gambling lord, a pathetic cabinet member, a couple of lapdog congressmen, a couple of has-been turncoats and some filler candidates from nowhere.

2. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo introduced the Kiram guy as the 'Sultan of Brunei.' Oh my goodness! That only shows how UNKNOWN the candidate is.

3. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo sang Boom Tarat Tarat as an introduction for Zubiri. Ha! Ha! Ha! Not funny.

4. Have you seen the campaign posters of Mike Defensor? Walking 'Tol. Woah. That is a blatant lie. He is walking SHORT.

5. Jose Pepito Cayetano a.k.a. Peter Cayetano. Yup. This is the 'high level politics' that Reli German is blabbering about.

6. Jericho Petilla. Ha! Ha! Ha! Jericho who? Political accommodations are not funny.

7. Joker Arroyo is part of Team Unity. He vowed in his first foray as senator that he would get rid off corrupt politicians. Oooh. I want to see him campaigning side by side with Chavit Singson. That would be one helluva scenario.

8. Mike Defensor and Miguel Zubiri donated blood as part of their campaign gimmick on Valentines Day. If they DONATED THEIR BODIES to medical students for their laboratory requirements, I might probably vote for them. But they would be dead come election time.

9. The administration promised clean elections. Ha! Ha! Ha! Not funny.

High Level Politics and Low Level Tactics

2007-02-14T14:16:00.000+08:00

In order to diminish the clout of the opposition the administration has been fielding popular personalities against stalwart oppositionist. After Lito Lapid, the latest and hottest administration bet is none other than Manny Pacquiao.He is going up against Darlene Antonino Custodio. Honestly, I'm a huge Pacman fan. I still cannot forget his first international fight when he knocked out a legendary Thai pugilist straight in the jaw. But I just admire the man as a boxer. Not as an actor. Not as a singer. And most certainly, not as a lawmaker.

Since I am not from General Santos, I will be critical of his plan to join politics as a fan. Fans have rights too.

In an interview, Pacquiao said that he will be assisted by several lawyers when it comes to decision-making. What the F? He even had problems regarding contract signings even with legal assistance.

He added that there are a lot of congressmen who will make laws and he will just vote in behalf of his constituents. That's a bigger F.

His mother has all the right to cry in national television in order to dissuade his popular son. His foray to politics will end his career and popularity.

Yesterday, the Gloria Macapagal Arroyo promised high level politics this elections. But Pacquiao for congressman? This is the kind of politics this administration is encouraging - low level politics. Or in the language of boxers - below the belt.

But I know the people of General Santos are intelligent voters. They better be.

Let's Get Ready to Rumble

2007-02-13T09:17:00.000+08:00

Campaign officially starts today. Whew. It's a good thing that my father is running in the local arena which means I still have time to manage my increasing stress. My father is aligned with the administration BUT until now...he is just SURE of two senatoriables. And they are not part of the so-called Team Unity. By just looking at blog, IT'S PRETTY OBVIOUS that the lawmaker from Sorsogon is one of the lucky two.

Though, he's thinking of voting for one member of Team Unity. Here's a clue: his campaign tag before was UBUSIN ANG MGA CORRUPT. He spearheaded the impeachment of a certain Jose Velarde but he seems oblivious of Jose Pidal since he decided to run under Team Unity. Hmmm...

I have a 31-page case to analyze and submit this afternoon but I just have to see the newly improved and spanking site of Chiz Escudero. Must I say...it is really nice! Plus you can hear his campaign jingle that was inspired by one of my favorite bands Sandwich. The song is the ultra-catchy 'Sugod.' The jingle goes something like this: Sugod kasama si Chiz/Boses natin sa Senado/...

Thank goodness he did not chose a Lito Camo composition.

For the uninitiated, Sandwich is one of those bands that have been successful in evading the baduy music territory. Led by the amazing Raimund Marasigan (formerly of Eheads), they have won awards left and right thanks to their musicality and astig music videos. Marie Jamora is a goddess!

It will take months before we know how the midterm elections will end. But I'm pretty sure that it WILL NOT be clean. Why? Should I enumerate the reasons? Isn't it obvious?
1. COMELEC Chairman Benjamin Abalos
2. DILG Secretary Ronnie Puno
3. DND Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane
4. AFP Chief Hermogenes Esperon
5. President Gl...
... I forgot she did not won the elections...
5. Mrs. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo

If this administration will suffer the same fate as Dubya then it's all good.

We will not forget the Ghost of Garci. I will make sure my friends and family will not forget the Ghost of Garci. Sorry is not enough.

As the great Dixie Chicks sang, 'I'm not ready to make nice/I'm not ready to back down/I'm still mad as hell/And I don't have time/To go round and round and round/It's too late to make it right/I probably wouldn't if I could/Cause I'm mad as hell/Can't bring myself to do what it is/You think I should.

I'm not ready to make nice but I am ready to vote.

Laugh Potion Number 9

2007-02-10T11:22:00.000+08:00

'
Since elections is fast approaching, I will be posting nine funny election-related news. Don't worry. Our politics is one big circus and there will be no dearth in funny materials.

1. Prospero Pichay threatens to abandon senate ambitions if opposition turncoats, Sotto, Oreta, and Gomez join the so-called unity ticket. As if he's THAT winnable. Isn't he one of those who called for the abolition of the senate? Yes. And now he is running for senator to ABOLISH the senate. a-BOLISH** talaga!

2. Rumor has it that Zubiri was wearing an expensive and imported polo shirt in his bio-fuel ad. This is funny since he was supposed to be a farmer. Somebody should tell him that there is a difference between a FARMER and a HACIENDERO...a farmer toils while a haciendero is an incumbent congressman who embarassingly uses his energy pet bill to court voters.

3. Still on Zubiri, what's with the 'amigo' tag? Who freakin' uses the word? I know...Looney Toon resident Speedy Gonzales!

4. Still on Migs...in a few days he will be singing Boom Tarat. Sometimes I wish I am a deadly assassin out to kill Lito Camo. Zubiri Zubiri sa Senado? Boom WARAT WARAT tayo!

5. This one's funny. A radio texter said that Mike Defensor should stop calling himself TOL...and start using SHORT.

6. Question: What's the bailiwick of Mike Defensor?
Answer: QC nightspots

7. Is John O Tatak Osmena or Latak ng Osmena? UP peeps will have to text brigade again. Ubos na naman ang load nina Isko at Iska. Kasama pala ako doon.

8. COMELEC has released a memo to all its employees NOT to show extreme affection for popular candidates. Candidate mobbing and kissing is now being reprimanded. Let's see: Chiz Escudero was the first 'victim' of COMELEC mob, then Antonio Trillianes, then Loren Legarda, and last was Noynoy Aquino (with Kris and James). This is another administration tactic to oppress the ranks of the opposition! Sabagay...sino ba naman ang gustong humalik kay Pichay.

9. Do you think Noynoy would also be mobbed if he filed his candidacy ALONE?

My Problem with the Wednesday Group Is...

2007-02-07T19:34:00.000+08:00

Don't you just hate that some politicians have to over-emphasize the celebrity status of their family? Oo na. Alam na alam na namin na si Sharon Cuneta ang asawa mo. Kaya nga HINDI NA AKO BUMIBILI ng Lucky Me! (The picture was taken from the official website of Mr Noted.)

...that their loyalty is ambiguous.

Edgardo Angara who (finally) formalized - which the whole country knew from the start - his affiliation with the administration IS probably the most talented party gymnast (ang galing sa pag-tumbling)in the senate today. Ang gara ng buhay!

Ralph Recto. Who wants to deal with this guy? People vote for him because of his wife. As one activist said, I'd rather vote for Ate Vi than Ralph. Batangas is one of town's neighbors, kaya alam namin ang tunay na natura ni Ralph Recto. Family man ba siya o Families man?

Kiko Pangilinan. Mabuti na lang at hindi Chiz ang nickname niya :) He is the political twin of Recto. After solidifying his reputation as Mr Noted...bigla siyang bumaliktad ng posisyon? My goodness. Nakakahiya naman, taga-UP pa man din.

I'm still thinking whether I would vote for Joker Arroyo. As my driver said before, it's fun to vote for Joker because...well...his name is Joker and you can't find any other lawmaker in the world whose name is Joker. By the way, my driver has this commitment of voting candidates who has no chance of winning. In his own philosophical words, 'para naman magkaroon sila na kahit isang boto.' Which practically explains why Farouk Hussin got a vote in our town. Remember him? Very patriotic.

Should I even elaborate on the political loyalty of Manny Villar. Baka mas loyal pa sa kanya si Manny Pacquiao.

Although, they always contend that their 'loyalty to their parties end where their loyalty to the country begins...' KAILAN BA SILA NAGING LOYAL SA PILIPINAS?

Don't Move My Chiz

2007-02-04T16:12:00.000+08:00

Steps on Quelling Administration-fuelled Rumors
1. Immediately file your candidacy.
2. Bring the lady who said that the Fake One stole the presidency 'not once but twice' with you.
3. Bring your beautiful wife with you. Why? Why not?
4. Hear mass then walk to COMELEC. Be ready for screaming female fans.
5. Articulately answer the media regarding the rumors.

That is just what House Minority Leader Francis Escudero did last Tuesday. If not for a midterm examination, I would have gone to COMELEC and scream with the mob - enlightened mob.

It's the start of the yellow fever. It's official, we should all say Chiz this elections.

By the way, who was the cretin who made remarks that Chiz might move to the Dark Side? Jose De Venecia. So why is the Speaker not saying anything right now? It's hard to make comments when you're not even sure if you can keep you congressional seat. They say the future of JDV is bleak and dark - as in madiLIM. Plus, how can you keep your confidence when rumors are swirling that Luis Villafuerte will be the next House Speaker. God forbid!

Anyway, the first line in my ballot will read Francis Joseph Escudero.

A certain Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin said before that 'a dinner which ends without cheese is like a beautiful woman with only one eye.'

Well...a senate which ends without Chiz is like a beautiful woman with only one eye.

Election Ad Campaign Watch: TOL - The Outrageous Leech

2007-02-04T15:53:00.000+08:00

Dear 'Tol,

'Tol, have you seen the TV spot of Mike Defensor? The irritating 'tol ad? You see, it's the Pinoy street slang for 'bro.' The thing is, you call somebody 'tol if you like the person and if you trust the person. You just can't force me to call you 'tol if I don't like you.

'Tol, this is precisely the reason why a former presidential chief of staff will not get my vote. Yes, not even the powers of Boy Abunda could convince me to waste precious ballpoint ink for him.

'Tol, we should all remember that this guy who presents himself as the Philippines' ultimate brother and confidante is the same vermin who said, 'it's the president's voice but it's not her speaking.' We're talking about a lunatic. If you want to have a lunatic in the senate vote Mike Defensor. God knows how many Defensors this country could endure!

'Tol, this is the same guy who vouches for a unity ticket but is the perenial source of gossips and disunity in the Fake One's cabinet. If you want a gossipmonger whose greed for power is insatiable, go ahead and vote Mike Defensor. God knows how many Mikes this country could endure!

'Tol, look at his picture. Do you see a bright future? Or do you see the human mutation of a blood-sucking leech?

I see a leech.

It's time to bring dignity back to us - 'tol. This elections, let's make sure no leech would destroy the sacredness of our brotherhood. Let's not vote for this impostor utol.

Yours truly,
The Purple Phoenix

Election Ad Campaign Watch - Now I'm Pissed Off

2007-01-29T08:12:00.001+08:00

Last night, I was enjoying my last TV marathon for the week since Hell Week officially starts today. Hell Week is midterm examinations. I was wrong Hell Week or Hell Months started yesterday. Or even a few weeks back.

It just pisses me off to see Manny Villar and Miguel Zubiri smiling back at you while they innocently hide behind the facade of their pet bills. You must sympathize with me since a 5-day stay in the dormitory means no television. There is TV but the academic work does not permit me to exercise my rights as a couch potato.

Manny Villar
The moment I saw Jennylyn Mercado talking about violence against women and children, I knew that it is an early campaign. And I knew he was campaigning for the senate president. Why? Ms Mercado recently started her own clothing line in one of Villar's mall. Of course, you cannot accuse him of early campaign since there is nothing in the ad that says 'vote.' This is B.S. When politicians suddenly take pride of their pet bills, it means elections is just a few months away.

Eduardo Angara
His tagline 'Ang gara ng buhay,' has the natural ability of reverting my human instincts into its atavistic nature. Loosely translated, it means 'a fabulous life.' I would just like to remind you that Angara is the same guy whose diary is a significant basis for the Supreme Court's decision on the legality of Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's so-called presidency. Plus, he immediately jumped to the other side of the political fence even before FPJ died. Yeah. It is a fabulous life.

Ralph Recto
I have already articulated my annoyance to his 'Christmas message' but I definitely love to reiterate it again. Just remember that he advocated the enhancement of value added tax. Tip: if your blood rises to dangerous levels whenever you see grocery receipts, instead of screaming well-known profanities just shout 'Ralph Recto.' The value and meaning is just the same.

Miguel Zubiri
When politicians start carrying babies, you know that campaign period has started. The last time Miguel Zubiri made me laugh was when he and Jose De Venecia were surrendering Con-Ass. The representative of Bukidnon was on the verge of some major tear duct explosion. That was funny. But his bio-diesel ad is not. Analyze his ad. Do you actually believe that most Filipinos would opt to stay in our country because of the economic promise of his bio-diesel act or work overseas? Who would really benefit from his act? Small sugar farmers or the hacienderos and hacienderas?

These four clowns are just a few reasons why I decided to place the responsibility of condemning early campaigns on my cholesterol-filled shoulders. Even couch potatoes should exercise their vigilant rights for the sake of fair elections.

Did you notice that the early campaign predators are administration allies? Yes. Angara, Recto, and Villar have been loyally ambivalent for...since time immemorial. Just goes to show what pork barrell could do.

2007 Elections - Raul Lambino, Confirmed

2007-01-25T18:26:00.000+08:00

Well, I must say that my source is quite credible. A few months ago, I posted that Singaw ng Bayad chieftain Raul Lambino will run for senator. Yes, the guy is running under a new party - Unlad Pilipinas. He added that he is being supported by the ULAP.

What can I say? He is confident.

Unlad Pilipinas or Umbag Pilipinas?

Tsk. Tsk. Tsk.

2007 Elections - Six Candidate Strategy

2007-01-18T19:45:00.000+08:00

Is this true? The administration will only carry six candidates in their senate slate?

Is it true that they are reserving their vaunted financial chest for the congressional fight? Also known as the Project No Impeachment, the administration has to actually keep their hold in the Congress or else... it's their assess.

If this is true, then who could be the Final Six?

I would like to suggest the following:

1. Mike Arroyo

2. Mikey Arroyo

3. Dato Arroyo

4. Luli Arroyo

5. Iggy Arroyo

6. Nani Perez

One Vote at a Time

2007-01-18T19:22:00.000+08:00

The latest Newsbreak has Chiz Escudero and two other aspiring senators in cover. I immediately bought a copy the moment I saw it in my favorite newsstand. As I was admiring my favorite lawmaker, a woman commented that he speaks eloquently.

I'm pretty sure he's not referring to the other 'Francis' also known as Mr Sharon Cuneta. So I instinctively replied, 'Eto po bang naka-shades na semi-cal?' She nodded. Then I added that he is running for senator this coming elections. She smiled and said that he will vote for him.

One vote at a time... then we can all finally address the current House Minority Floor Leader as Mr Senator. Or simply...Chiz.

The Real Campaign Manager

2007-01-18T19:09:00.000+08:00

Prospero Pichay predicts an 8-4 result in the upcoming senatorial elections. He does not believe that the opposition will sweep the slate.

He provided three reasons.

1. Administration machinery

2. Local government support

3. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's popularity in the provinces

It was the first time I heard the words 'popularity' and 'Arroyo' in one sentence without 'deteriorating' and 'decreasing' in between.

I'm not sure if Arroyo is popular in the Visayas and Mindanao but I'm pretty sure he is not popular in Southern Luzon - which Pichay specifically mentioned in his deranged analysis.

In the last elections, Arroyo was practically massacred in Southern Luzon. Let me give you a concrete example, nobody was campaigning for FPJ in our town yet he won in almost all the barangays.

And isn't the Southern Luzon votes the reason why Garci and his Gang had to quickly and carelessly change the results to keep the Fake One in power?

Let me tell you this, Arroyo will still figure in the campaign trail (kiss of death be damned), but she won't be the ultimate campaign manager. 2007 is the year of the pig.

Believe me when I say that the REAL campaign manager of the administration goes by the name Pork Barrell.

The Early Bird Catches the Early Squirm

2006-12-30T16:15:00.000+08:00

If you've been watching television, you may have already seen the Christmas message advertisement of Ralph Recto and his family. It's your standard cringe-worthy political ad that comes out before elections. Last year, there was no Ralph Recto Christmas ad. Maybe the senator thinks that this year's holidays is more important than last year.

It's election time. You can smell hypocrisy in the air.

I Promise that I...

2006-12-23T13:56:00.000+08:00

...will always buy Philippine Daily Inquirer and Malaya. As if I have not been doing that for years.

...will never read or even touch Manila Standard Today,

...will never dare to open the opinion page of Philippine Star. This newspaper exists for two reasons: Ricky Lo.

...will always doubt the present administration.

...will never vote for the administration's senatorial line-up.

...will never sign any peoFALSE initiative.

...will always watch ANC (if time permits) in order to see Francis Escudero regularly.

...will never watch NBN news programs.

...will never ever think of the military as the protector of the country - unless they produce the two missing UP students.

...will always be a vigilant blogger.

Filipino of the Year

2006-12-19T16:29:00.000+08:00

Supreme Court Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban
Raise your hands if you doubted the independence of this man? Now...raise your hands if you have a new-found admiration for the for the former Chief Justice?

The Magnificent Seven Justices
You can't make history alone. Meet the complete cast. By the way, these are the justices who voted to junk the PeoFALSE initiative. Not the other seven.

Billiards Players: Efren Reyes, Francisco Bustamante, and Ronato Alcano
Thank goodness our athletes were amazing this year. They had the thankless job of diverting our attention from the horrid state of our politics. Billiards is not a tambay game anymore. It's a road to glory.

The Philippine Senate
Ignored by the executive branch. Favored by the judiciary.

Manny Pacquiao
I hope his extravagant ways would stop. I hope he doesn't enter politics. I hope we don't see Chavit Singson and Mike Arroyo in his future fights. But I still hope he remains the proud and fiery fighter that he is.

Survey Firms
Economy is growing. Not. From the perspective of Social Weather Station and Pulse Asia, Filipinos are hungrier and poorer.

Asian Gold Medalists: Antonio Gabica, Violito Payla, Joan Tipon, and Rene Catalan
Honest boxer Joan Tipon said that they had little government support. Payla had to borrow shorts during his fight. Despite the obstacles, they still decided to fight and win.

Karapatan, Amnesty International and other human rights group
They made quite a noise. The government derided them. The International Community listened.

The Lower House Minority
How the hell do you deal with Luis Villafuerte and Edcel Lagman? Outnumberered by the administration, the minority's voice was still heard by the public. They are now rewarded by favorable rankings in the senatorial surveys.

Judge Benjamin Pozon
Raul Gonzales...meet your match.

Religious Groups
They should have went all-out against this murderous administration...yet, we still have to admit that they gave Gloria quite a scare.

Gina Pareno
Former teen star. Former drug addict. Ladies and gentlemen - Gina Pareno - international award-winning actress.

Scene Stealers of 2006

2006-12-19T15:53:00.000+08:00

Scene stealing is an art form. This year, super typhoons, power-hungry politicians, and an expensive building stole the limelight from the usual media darlings and media whores.

Scene stealing is not a crime. It is an art form.

Super Typhooons. Mother Nature literally whipped up a storm this year - one super typhoon after another. Everyone gazed in awe and teror. Everyone except Luis Villafuerte and Edcel Lagman.

Sam Macariola. The bomb expert bombed out.

Isagani Cruz. Can you actually believe that there are still people like him in a time where political correctness and gender sensitivity is in vogue?

Atong Ang. He's back. He's in jail. He's talkig? Not yet.

Cebu International Convention Center. This year's grandest failure.

The Comic Duo: Mike Defensor and Eduardo Ermita. They made us laugh without intending to. That my friend is talent. Real talent.

Douglas Cagas. He single-handedly demonstrated why we shouldn't leave charter change to the Lower House. We're not guests, Mr Neanderthal. We are citizens of this country.

Jojo Binay. I taught the administration has found a solution to the fiesty Makati Mayor (Read: Lito Lapid) but they stupidly ordered a suspenision. They made him an underdog and a hero. Plus free publicity.

Allan Peter Cayetano. Lesson learned: if you want to surge ahead of the senatorial surveys, accuse Big Mike. Unless you're a journalist who wants to be part of the Exclusive Libel Group.

Bicolano Bad Boys: Luis Villafuerte and Edcel Lagman. You really have to think outside a big box to understand these two. Man.

Miriam Defensor Santiago. She's the only one who can say that she's foaming in the mouth and hitting the roof with a straight face.

Gringo Honasan. Finally. Captured. But he's still in the top ten in the senatorial surveys.

Two Hours with Chiz Escudero

2006-12-17T08:56:00.000+08:00

The good people of 2bu Inquirer granted my request to have a photo with signature of Francis Escudero. They did more than that...they gave me a chance to talk with Chiz. Pictures will be uploaded later. Sosolohin ko muna.

Having met a number of politicians before, one thing that differentiates Chiz from the rest is that I did not feel AND he did not make me feel that he was a politician.

(Ang bango ni Chiz!)

He was very accomodating in answering questions that are mostly not related with politics.

(Ang gwapo ni Chiz!)

When I saw his car (Alam ko ang plate number, fan ako eh.), all of the questions that I wanted to ask him popped in my head. However, when he shook my hand, nakalimutan ko na lahat.

(Ang gandang ngumiti ni Chiz!)

Along with 2bu's Tammy and Leslie and my friend Roxy (rhyming pa), we talked about almost everything - from Angelina Jolie to Mar Roxas...of course, may mga CHIZmis - which will not be posted in the blog.

(Ang galing magsalita ni Chiz!)

Thank you po talaga Sir. You made my Christmas and upcoming birthday memorable.

But of course, thank you to the staff of 2bu who knows how to make a person happy.
It's nice to know that there are still people who are willing to grant simple wishes. I remember a movie director once said that life is made up of moments. You will never completely remember everything that happend to you but what will stand out are those moments that made you laugh or cry, smile or frown. You will not recognize the gold bar just the glitters that shone brightly in time.

Nakita lang si Chiz naging poetic na.

Sige thank you na rin sa makulit kong friend na si Roxy.

All I can say is that siguradong may boto ka na sa 2007 elections.

I wanted to skip the cheesy part but...this is really a Merry CHIZmas!

Elections - Raul Lambino for Senator

2006-12-14T20:38:00.000+08:00

I almost fell off my chair when I heard this in the patola vine (local version of grapevine). Whaaaaat? He is running for senator? If I'm going to believe the source, then Mr Lambino is one confident candidate.

Here's why.

Someone recommended Lambino a seasoned political campaigner/strategist. Guess what? Lambino acted as if HE DOES NOT NEED ONE. Of course, the seasoned campaigner/strategist was insulted.

How confident this guy is. Maybe he thinks the 6.3 million signatures of the failed and false People's Initiative would magically transform into votes.

Cha Cha: Dancing with the Rats 2

2006-12-14T19:50:00.000+08:00

It died too soon. Noooo! Kidding. But I was just starting my Charter Change series. How could they! How could the Rainbow House Majority (that's a real name)do this to me! Where's the spirit of Christmas? Kill joys.

Nah. Constitutional Assembly is DEAD.

In memory of the short-lived but well-planned genocide - rape and massacre is too simple a description - here are a last few words.

Juan Miguel Zubiri was almost on the verge of crying during the postpone-Constitutional Assembly press conference. Migs...Migs...that was one of the worst acting job in years. Plus...where you this emotional when you married Audrey Tan?

Did you read the print ad statement of the Rainbow House Majority today? If yes, I'm sure you vomitted when you read the part where they INSISTED that they were SENSITIVE to the public outcry. You know what, there is a BIG DIFFERENCE between sensitivity and cowardice.

CBCP. El Shaddai. Iglesia ni Cristo. Jesus is Lord. All against Constitutional Assembly. I thought that God is Gloria's ally?

You want to see security overkill? Join Sunday's rally.

PAGCOR's medical mission coincided with the prayer rally. The rally has to be moved because PAGCOR also known as 2007 Elections Financer was able to obtain a permit before the bishops. If the guys from PAGCOR are serious with their medical mission, then by all means conduct it...in BICOL.

Oscar Calderon strongly stated that movie stars and politicians will be arrested if they take part of the mammoth rally on stage. This administration will do everything to stay in power...even if it means releasing stupid threats.

Rallyists were warned that the New People's Army and the Rajah Sulayman Group may sabotage the prayer rally. Here's a better threat to Esperon: public warns AFP of People Power if they continue their alarmist strategy to disuade people from joining protests.

Raul Gonzales reminded government that they are prohibited to join any mass actions such as rallies and protests. Why am I wasting precious blog space for Raul? By the way, here's a suggestion: since Gonzales is so concern about Daniel Smith's custody, why don't Raul join the rapist inside his cell - forever. That would suffice the acquittal of the three other soldiers. Justice delayed is justice denied BUT Justice Secretary in jail is justice for eternity.

An assassination plot to kill Prospero Nograles. The police has identified four suspects. Only four? Goodness. I bet more than half of the populace would LOVE TO KILL Nograles!

Assassination plot to kill Prospero Nograles. Is this the best diversionary tactic the Palace could come up? Who would want to kill a supposed to be senatoriable whose rating and winnability is within twilight zone?

Headline: Assassination Plot to Kill Nograles.
Reaction of Filipinos: Nograles who?

Jose De Venecia said that the reason behind the ending is to end disiveness. Yeah right. Try harder Mr Potato Head.

Good Headline: House Kills Con-Ass
Better Headline: House Majority Commits Suicide

Next Attraction: Constitutional Convention...

...will you allow Con-Con Elections with Abalos and company at helm?

Damn.

Another prayer rally is in order.

Cha Cha: Dancing with the Rats 1

2006-12-08T17:01:00.000+08:00

Quite obvious, the title is a pun of the popular but cheesy show 'Dancing with the Stars.' But since, there is nothing bright in our future if the constitution will be altered by a gang of thieves, I would rather call them 'rats.' This I do with utmost respect to the legacy of rodents.

Dancing with the Rats is my regular (until the murderous train is derailed) Con-Ass Watch entry.

By the way, Dan Brown fans should easily spot that 'star' is an anagram of 'rat.'

After infamously declaring that the audience galley are 'just guests' and not congressmen, Douglas Cagas should now be called as Douglas TAGAS. Why? Kasi may tagas na ang utak niya.

The unidentified lady who snapped back at Tagas should be congratulated for being quick-witted amidst the Congressional ruckus. The courageous woman said that 'we are citizens and we pay your salaries.' You go girl!

Bayan Muna representative Teddy Casino drew applause from the gallery when he counter
the sharp-tongued Neanderthal from Davao del Sur, 'we are representatives of the people and the people have the right to tell us..' That is the kind of lawmaker you'll get if you graduate in the Sociology program of UPLB. I also graduated in that program and in that school. Sorry, I just can't help but B.I.R.G. - Bask In Reflected Glory.

Speaker Jose De Venecia, Jr said that he gets hurt whenever people would describe the recent moves of the Lower House as 'garapal.' He still feels pain? I suggest that we call it as 'baboy' or 'bastos' to lessen his pain.

Don't be surprised if the chances of the administration senatorial bets would further sink into twilight zone while the Con-Ass is on-going. Why? They are giving Francis Escudero and there rest of the opposition a chance to get free publicity. Plus, the administration lawmakers are explicitly demonstrating reasons why the electorate should NOT vote for Prospero Pichay and company.

Ernesto Maceda declares in his column that Teofisto Guingona III is the newest star of the minority. His bellowing voice is apparently a heriditary trait. Remember the bulging-eyed older Guingona deliver his 'I accuse' speech in the early days of impeachment?

Most Dramatic Promise: Joseph Estrada
'With every breath I have, I will fight the unconscionable rape of our Constitution and the murder of our democracy and freedoms.'

Nastiest Radio Text: Listeners of Dos Por Dos
Several radio listeners reminded De Venecia that he should rethink his actions since it's December again. Christmas lights and karma could be just around the corner.

Best One-Line Summary of the Whole Proceedings: Philippine Daily Inquirer
'House Resolution No. 197 was approved after 12 hours of contentious debate and impassioned boos from the gallery (PDI: 12/08/06).'

Best Anti Con-Ass Editorial Ending: Philippine Daily Inquirer
'Like a cock crowing on a dunghill, loudly have the House members proclaimed the stench of victory. The public smells the odor and of hubris - and finds it revolting (PDI: 12/08/06).'

Funniest Puns
1. House of RepresentaTHIEVES
2. Pinababang Kapulungan

Meek Response

2006-12-08T16:35:00.000+08:00

Click title for full article.

I don't know if this news item would get into the front pages tomorrow. The House has finally approved the prohibition of public servants from casinos. The ban also includes officials of government-owned and controlled corporations as well as their spouses.

Questions:

1. Are mistresses of government officials and servants also included?

2. Are political jueteng lords and protectors included in this ban?

3. How about political children (from the legal and extra-marrital sides)?

4. With all their energy spent on Con-Ass, how were they able to sneak the passage of this bill?

The author of the bill, Zamboanga del Norte 1st District Representative Roseller Bariniga said that the reason for this bill is to ' help bring back morality and ethical standards in government.'

That's a tough mission.

It is very commendable that some of them still thinks of morality and ethical standards. However,if you really want the government in general and the House, in particular, to regain their morality, it would be better if:

Bariniga initiates the prohibition of self-serving moves to change the Constitution.

Quiz be with You

2006-12-07T12:28:00.000+08:00

Answer the following questions.

1. After being rejected by the Judicial Bar Council, Miriam Defensor Santiago described herself as the following EXCEPT...

a. being irate

b. being suicidal

c. foaming in the mouth

d. having beautiful legs

2. Mike Arroyo enumerated several foods he is not allowed to eat anymore after the angioplasty. Which one is not included?

a. lechon

b. ice cream

c. kaldereta

d. banana toh-ron

3. During the Con-Ass proceedings, a certain congressman demanded the representatives of Sorsogon, Taguig, Cavite, and all those who oppose Charter Change to ____ __.

a. shut up

b. get out

c. join administration

d. share charisma

Neanderthals in the House

2006-12-06T11:35:00.000+08:00

The Neanderthals

With all due respect to our extinct cousins, reading the blow-by-blow account of MLQ3 on the Con-Ass proceedings conjures up images of our Evolutionary past.

Can you imagine words like 'hooting' and 'catcalls' are used in the same sentence with 'majority floor leader' and 'representative?'

I can imagine it. This is the Philippine Congress. Goodness. It is so uncivilized. With this murderous exercise, the administration lawmakers were able to regress the legacy of the great civilizations. The ancients Greeks are rolling in their graves. Demos. Kratos. Democracy. These words are not important anymore among our legislators.

It's such a ghastly sight seeing the prominent pro-Arroyo Bicolano lawmakers railroading our constitution while the death toll of Reming in their region is increasing by the day.

The Neanderthals were stronger and more intelligent than the Homo sapiens but they died out because they couldn't form social relationships.

I'm not saying that the administration congressmen are more intelligenct. I just hope they die out.

The Year of the Political Hot Mommas

2006-12-06T10:51:00.000+08:00

2006 is turning out to be the year of the women. Excluding cheaters, the famle specie seems to be dominating the world of politics. The next few years wouldn't be different especially for the United States of America. Two years from now, we should prepare ourselves for three words: Presidentiable Hillary Clinton.

However, I believe that there are three women politicians who were able to stole the limelight from the rest. For lack of better description, let me call them as the Political Hot Mommas. Power and pulchritude is such a fatal combination.

Segolene Royal (France)

In my opinion she is the definition of a political hot momma: beautiful, charismatic, and phenomenal. Some people dub her as a Political Pin-Up. But her recent victory in the Socialist Primary as its official presidential candidate next year sealed her place as one of the most powerful figures in politics today. If she wins next year (and its very probable that she will), then France will have their first female president. As Paris Hilton would say, 'that's hot.' Plus her name... Can a name be more be more beautiful and regal than Segolene Royale?

Nancy Pelosi (United States of America)

The Republicans tried to paint her as this out and out liberal who will try destroy the long-held values of the American people. From the bluest of blue district, San Francisco, Nancy Patricia D' Alessandro Pelosi shot to the nation's prominence. Call her Madame Speaker Pelosi. Let's just say that the Grand Old Party's worst nightmare came true.

Loren Legarda (Philippines)

The book. The break-up. The recount. She is leading in all senatoriable surveys. She recently topped the trust ratings among Filipinos. It's quite puzzling that like Loren who isn't even holding any elected office. Ducky Paredes in his column said that Legarda has come to her own. If CLEAN ELECTIONS would push through, then prepare yourself for another six years of pashmina in the august chamber.

Binay Places 4th in World Mayor of the Year

2006-12-06T10:42:00.000+08:00

Click the title for full article.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay placed 4th behind eventual winner John So of Melbourne, Job Cohen of Amsterdam and Stephen Reed of Harrisburg USA. He is the only Asian mayor in the Top Ten World Mayor.

Binay was described as a divisive but popular political figure in the Philippines.

Over 100,000 people participated in the search for World Mayor of the Year.

But the bigger question is WILL MAYOR ATIENZA INITIATE A PARADE ALA MANNY PACQUIAO FOR MAYOR BINAY?

PLUS, WILL HE RECIEVE THE LAKANDULA AWARD?

On Time

2006-12-06T10:25:00.000+08:00

Part of my 100 Things to Do this year is to have my letter selected and printed in Time magazine's Letter to the Editor.

I was selected. It was printed.

Check out the December 11 issue out in news stands now.

It's just an ego thing. Hey, I rarely indulge my ego so allow me to do it once in a while. Plus I was able to squeeze a little anti-Arroyo dig in it.

Guilty!

2006-12-04T14:18:00.000+08:00

Daniel Smith was found guilty in raping Nicole. The three other accused were acquitted, Dominic Duplantis, Chad Carpentier, and Keith Silkwood.

As one dormmate reacted awhile ago, 'ang taray!' I was expecting that kind of decision: one is convicted, the rest acquited. Is this a win-win situation, Joe De Venecia?

The next big question is: WHAT WILL BE THE REACTION OF GEORGE W BUSH?

Charter Change. Goodbye and Thank You. You are the Weakest Link.

2006-11-29T14:57:00.000+08:00
Click the title for complete article.

More Filipinos Reject Charter Change
Duh.

This is news? Or is this history?

Nope. It's the truth.

Something that is foreign to Jose De Venecia, Prospero Nograles, Prospero Pichay, Edcel Lagman, Constantino Jaraula, and Luis Villafuerte.

Tomorrow please expect Ignacio Bunye to accuse Pulse Asia of using bias questions.

Let me tell you something about surveys. I guess being a sociology graduate gives me a right to say something about it. Of all the social scientists around, Max Weber provided the most practical reality regarding data gathering.

He said that ONE CAN NEVER BE ABSOLUTELY OBJECTIVE when it comes to data gathering. Why?

1. When you choose a research topic that is already stained with personal bias. Why that topic? See.

2. When you write the significance of your study your personal bias will also affect your research.

3. When you decide what are the objectives of your study...again...personal bias will affect your study.

4. If for example, you chose survey as your method of study, your choice of questions will again be subjected to your own personal bias. How the hell will you be objective?

5. However, Weber contends that objectivity should be observed during data gathering. It is the only stage of your research study that shouldn't be affected by your personal bias.

(How many times did I use the phrase personal bias in this entry?)

6. The last part of your research which is analysis and recommendations will definitely be unobjective because it needs your own conclusions and opinions.

See.

Now tell me, how the hell did the Palace came up with their 'loaded question spin?'

The founding fathers of Sociology has long realize that its research method will never be objective.

Why?

Sociology (and surveys) deals with human beings. The most complicated subject in the whole world.

Just like survey evaluation.

As long as the surveys are not in favor of the Fake One, the Palace spinners will always attribute it to loaded questions.

Remember when everyone was questioning the legality of Arroyo at the height of the Hello Garci issue?

What did Bunye and company use as a defense?
SURVEYS.

They said that Arroyo was leading in all the surveys against FPJ so there's no question that she won the elections.

Stupid.

The Grinch Came Too Early

2006-11-28T17:09:00.000+08:00

Top of the hour news: Administration Solons to Propose Scrapping of 2007 Polls.

First, should we really have to call congressmen - especially the administration leeches as solons? This is doing a great disservice to the old Greek guy Solon.

May I present the SIX MAN PANEL TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP that proposed the cancellation of next year's poll.

Naks, technical working group...angas naman!

1. Prospero Nograles
2. Edcel Lagman
3. Constantino Jaraula
4. Prospero Pichay
5. Simeon Datumanong
6. Luis Villafuerte

Though I would like to clarify that Villafuerte IS NOT the designated MUSE of the technical working group. Just a clarification.

I won't elaborate much on the matter because the phrase 'scrapping 2007 elections' says it all.

However, I was really surprised - no, amazed - nope, flabbergasted - when Nograles reacted that IT WAS UNFAIR TO ACCUSE THE MAJORITY THAT THEY ARE RAILROADING CON-ASS.

Damn.

He's a lawyer right? From Ateneo, no less. But 'railroading' is such a simple word. And I'm pretty sure that Nograles could afford a dictionary or a thesaurus.

But it seems that he doesn't know what the hell 'railroading' means.

Boy, okay ka lang? Patingin ka rin kaya sa St. Lukes baka may sakit ka ng malala.

Another clarification, it's not true that the Fake One was diagnosed with an incurable illness and has only up to December 22 to live THAT'S NOGRALES AND HIS GANG WANTS TO FINISH CON-ASS AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

That's not true.

Just a clarification.

Bet you wish it was...

Chiz Fans Out There

2006-11-24T12:58:00.000+08:00

CLICK the title of this entry and you'll be directed to the official website of House Minority Leader Francis Joseph Escudero.

Of course, this is all about the upcoming elections. But damn it, he's so hot in that suit and yellow tie!

The site is still under construction but I don't mind visiting it everyday. (That yellow shirt looks so good on him!)

Okay. So it seems that I'm just drooling over the pictures and not reading the essential articles posted in his site...but...the truth?

I have clipped those articles and is now part of my Chiz Escudro Scrapbook.

Goodness.

Damn. He's so hot!
That suit.

That tie.

That smile.

Max Soliven Passes Away

2006-11-24T11:49:00.000+08:00

Max Soliven of the Philippine Star died of pneumonia this morning. He was 77 years old.

I have been critical of his writing style and positions but we have to remember that he helped put up two of the leading broadsheets, Philippine Star and The Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Despite of your long and sometimes irritating articles, I still would like to say thank you.

For the last time, sanamagan.

The End of a Gag Show

2006-11-23T18:12:00.000+08:00

I hate the fact that Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita has announced that a gag order has been imposed to Mike Defensor.

Nooooooo! This cannot be happening!?!

Mike?

Why?

Ermita and Defensor has been this generation's Dolphy and Panchito. Or Laurel and Hardy. Or...or...

my point is, WHAT ABOUT THE COMIC SPARK THAT THIS TWO IDIOTS GIVE US?

There is an ongoing dearth of comedians right now - with the exception of Michael V. I mean if the King of Comedy is still working at a ripe old age, there is virtually a comic talent famine in the Philippines.

Then came the Ermita-Defensor I-announce-You-denounce routine. Goodness! THAT was a classic.

Let's do some memory tripping:
1. The Sam Macariola incident

2. The administration's senatorial slate

3. The new post for Jovito Palparan

4. The Avelino Cruz- Cabinet in-fighting

5. The Unity ticket

In a span of two months, five memorable comic stints! Wow.

And now the supposed gag order which Defensor denies. I told you; he's got some major comic timing.

Ermita is such a kill joy. I need to see more of this contradictory statements from the two little presidents. They made a new sub-genre out of their incompetence Contradictory Comedy.

Nonetheless, if this gag order is true - then folks, that's the end of it. However, let me extend my gratitude to the two officials.

I would like to thank Ermita and Defensor for showing how fractured this fake administration.

I would like to thank Ermita and Defensor for helping the opposition since they initiated a viscious implosion within the ranks of the administration.

I hope the Fake One would reconsider the gag order.

I need to laugh.

You Know Your Candidacy is in Trouble if...

2006-11-21T13:02:00.000+08:00

... you're still wearing that 'I Love Gloria' shirt.

... you're still wearing that 'Big Mike Rocks Big Time' shirt.

... your opponent's text mate is Virgilio Garciliano.

... your opponent's golfing buddy is Benjamin Abalos.

... you have the same sense of humor as John Kerry.

... you have the same political ideology as George Bush.

... your bumper sticker says, 'Administration Loves the Nation.'

... your other bumper sticker says, 'Palparan For Life.'

... you still believe in honest elections.

... you still believe that the COMELEC is an independent body.

... you still believe that agriculture funds are utilize for agricultural purposes.

... your vision of political future is Mike Defensor.

... your vision of political idealism is Prospero Nograles.

... you were part of the Congressional Contingent during the Pacquiao-Morales bout.

... you were part of the Annual Atienza Pacquiao Motorcade after the bout.

... your political strategist is Bobby Briliante.

... your political strategy involves cases to suspend incumbent officials.

... you join the administration's senate slate.

... you join the the Romulo Macalintal for Justice Secretary Movement.

The Top Ten Possible Ways for Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to have a Positive Trust Rating

2006-11-21T12:33:00.000+08:00

Note: Pulse Asia has released a new survey showing the Fake One's (dis)trust rating. In a nutshell, half of the Filipinos do not like her. Ouch. What's a little girl to do? What does she have to do to gain the trust of her countrymen? It is my duty to help a fellow citizen.

1. Let the Presidential Impeachment prosper and then proceed with a much needed Marital Annulment.

2. Appoint Luli as the chief security guard of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport as well as the Metro Railway Transit.

3. Keep Mikey Arroyo. Ask him to do things that are not related to politics and showbusiness.

4. Slap George W Bush in the face if she ever gets to have another nine minute bilateral talks (read APEC news) with the leader of the free world. Not only will it divert our attention from rampant political killings and government scandals - but it will surely gets the approval of a Democratic Congress. Who knows she might even receive the Congressional Medal of Honor?

5. Join any of fantaserye of the big networks. Ask Lopez or Gozon if you could play an evil dwarf queen. Filipinos are into fantaseryes, they might find you cute and lovable if you're part of it.

6. Or better yet, join any Koreanovela. What's a little help from a fellow Asian country to improve one's trust rating? I suggest that Arroyo would play a kimchi mascot. No. A cute and lovable kimchi mascot.

7. Join the opposition.

8. Or join Atong Ang in his cell.

9. Better yet join Estrada in Tanay. Forever. Unless Loi feels uncomfortable with the set-up. Everybody now...yuuuuuck!

10. Resignation is not an option. Ritual suicide like hara kiri or seppuku is more attractive. Stomach slashing or disembowelment is much preferred if held in Mendiola. Or in the Cebu International Convention Center.

The Ten Possible Alternative Uses for the Cebu International Convention Center

2006-11-15T15:40:00.000+08:00

Note: Although the government keeps on denying that the skeletal Cebu International Convention Center will still be used in the upcoming ASEAN Meet - the main point is -it's still skeletal framework. The completion of such a gargantuan, not to mention expensive structure - will take TIME. Conventions such as ASEAN are not held in the Philippines regularly. In order to avoid reaching white elephant status, I suggest the following alternatives for the more that P800 million project.

1. Turn it into the newest and biggest branch of Gaisano Mall.

2. Use it as a training academy for amateur Cebuano singers to prepare them for various talent shows.

3. Turn it into a call center and officially call it as Cebu International Call Center...

4...or into a state-of-the-art, leakage-proof nursing review center.

5. Use it for the 2020 ASEAN Meet. By that time, according to Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, the Philippines will be part of the First World. Suggested theme: Philippines Reaches the Enchanted Kingdom.

6. Make it as the official setting for Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia's photo shoot for Zee Magazine and The Philippine Tattler.

7. Turn it into the personal playground of Arroyo's grandchildren.

8. New Malacanang of the South, anyone?

9. Better yet, the new Malacanang.

10. Of course, use it as the official election headquarter of the administration. Why? It's Cebu. The COMELEC need not adjust much on their cheating strategies. Garci would be very much at home.

Elections - New Election Rumors

2006-11-13T19:57:00.000+08:00

I recently heard from a covert patola vine (my nationalist version of grapevine)these rumors regarding the upcoming elections.

Question 1: Why is the administration fielding such a pathetic line-up?

Answer: THEY ARE NOT. Actually, they are just using this as a ploy. The administration would actually field political old-timers such as Heherson Alvarez, Ernesto Herera, Orly Mercado, and Wigberto Tanada. Congressman Erin is with the opposition which really puzzles me. Though his old man run under the K4 banner before.

Question 2: What about the suppose automation?

Answer: Some say that it will be implemented in some parts. Some say that only the transmission of the COCs will be automated.

Question 3: Will there be cheating in the automated counting?

Answer: YES. What do you expect? And did you know that several groups have held training on how to cheat the machines? They are prepared. Very prepared.

Question 4: What about congressional candidates?

Answer: The Palace will field a lot of candidates to make sure that the administration will maintain the majority hold in the Lower House. Why? IMPEACHMENT.

Question 5: Possible candidates in the local level, Metro Manila area?

Answer: Connie Dy will challenge Peewee Trinidad for the mayoral post. So there's no need for her to deny that she doesn't have a hand in the suspension. Ping Lacson has already announced his mayoral bid in Manila. He's in a good position according to two recent surveys. He leads the surveys followed by Danny Lacuna (a distant second), then Fred Lim. Ali Atienza? Dead last.

Democrats Amazing Run

2006-11-08T15:42:00.000+08:00

Pundits say that 2006 American Midterm Elections is a sort of referendum for George W. Bush and his 'stay the course' policy in Iraq.

If that is true, then
1. Americans are not in favor of the Iraqi War.

2. Bush unpopularity has been validated.

3. Democrats proved that they can punch back.

Wow.

First Woman House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. How cool is that? I found it a nail-biting experience as I was watching the Democrats climb the House majority. It was even more exciting than the second game of Ateneo and UST during the last UAAP championship.

Is this any indication that by 2008 we will see the first woman president in the United States of America.

Let's us a Republican Lame Duck.
The Purple Phoenix: President Hillary Rodham Clinton. What's your reaction?
George Bush: uhmmm... Condi, do you want to be the first Black woman president of this country?

Elections - No Elections Rumors

2006-11-08T15:33:00.000+08:00

Let's make this simple.

Here are some Cha-Cha Chismis that I have heard from buzzing bees.
Rumor 1: the administration has accepted the reality that the 2007 elections will push through.

Rumor 2: the administration will try to halt elections arguing that computerized voting is not possible. COMELEC will 'complain' that they do not have enough time and budget to hold elections.

Rumor 3: the administration will push for Constitutional Assembly.

Rumor 4: the administration will push for Constitutional Assembly to divert interests on the Electoral Fraud issue that will figure again come election time.

Rumor 5: the administration is now preparing for Garci II. It may not be Garci but some other 'strategist.'

I can already smell elections.

Sino ang Tatapos: The Pichay-De Venecia Showdown

2006-11-02T09:22:00.000+08:00

I suggest that the current fight between Jose De Venecia and Prospero Pichay be placed as an undercard match in the upcoming fight of Manny Pacquiao and Erik Morales. It has more controversy than the Vegas prizefight. There are more things at stake other than pride in the speakership struggle – money, political clout, and eternal bragging rights. Maybe not the last one but who knows, you can’t determine the scope of their egos. But what is the skirmish all about? Charter Change. You see there are two versions in the Lower House regarding Plan B or Constitutional Assembly 1) the Jaurala version backed by Big Brother Joe 2) and the Pichay version as proposed by the challenger.

Pichay claims that his proposal has already gathered the necessary number of signatures that could push ConAss. If I’m not mistaken, a few months ago, the other Prospero – Nograles – claims that the De Venecia backed plan needs a few more signatures to start the ‘great Charter Change debate.’ So who really has the backing of the majority of the congressmen? Who was able to provide better deals and promises? Which of the two have more greedy friends in the Lower Chamber?

We can only speculate.

But we don’t need to speculate to realize that there’s a huge friction between the two congressmen. It’s not the first time that Pichay was rumored to be challenging the leadership of the Man from Pangasinan. Whenever there’s a rumored coup in the Lower Congress, the Shadow of Surigao del Sur seems to be skulking in the four corners of the supposed august chamber. Don’t you just love the alliteration?

Of course, Eduardo Ermita has denied all the conjectures floating around. It’s simply the work of the opposition who has been the constant destabilizer of the administration as the Little President from Batangas would explain. I was hoping that he would blame the New People’s Army so that there would be some novelty in his defense. He added that the Palace would never drop a strong and dependable ally like Joe De Venecia.

Wow. All that was missing is Gloria Macapagal Arroyo clenching her fist doing a Scarlett O’ Hara screaming in high heavens, ‘As God as my witness, I will never drop Joe. Ever!’ Who knows, she might do it one of these days.

In my opinion, De Venecia was this close of loosing his job. I do believe the ongoing buzz since he has been fancying himself as a prime minister. First rule: don’t fantasize something that it reserved for Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Do you really think the Fake One would simply fade away in 2010? No. No. No. She would make Dylan Thomas proud and ‘rage against the dying the light.’ Heck, if it actually necessitates to make drastic rules (the martial kind), she would. Hello, PP 1017.

For now, we have to contend ourselves with simple snide remarks in the speakership struggle. Again, don’t you just love the alliteration? I always get a kick whenever I see Taiwanese legislators literally brawling during sessions. The closest we had in recent memory was when one-time San Juan Congressman Jose Mari Gonzales cowardly hit a certain Barbo during the railroading of the Estrada impeachment complaint. What I really want is a down and dirty fracas. Imagine our esteemed lawmakers pulling hair, throwing punches, and kicking assess during sessions. Or Joe De Venecia using the gavel to break Butch Pichay’s nose. That would be a sight to see.