I Just Want Answers

Self-determination is a double-edged sword. Many have been using this to point out why the Philippines has no right in claiming it as part of the country. We have many conflicts because of this and the UN's participation in cutting up countries. Because of Israel's creation, this so-called self-determination has been disregarded. Palastine refuses to be a part of Israel. It was only recently that the world recognized its existence. Ethnicity when used, can create a huge problem.

Why then should we force upon Mindanao the wishes of the Manila gov't? Why then should we prevent the people of Mindanao to decide for themselves if they want to be a part of the Philippines? Much like the Sabahans, Mindanao is cinhabited by many tribes who have existed even before the Philippines was discovered by Spain. Is it because that Many people from Luzon has migrated to Mindanao? Are we too stupid realize that Malaysia had been meddling in Mindanao's affairs perhaps in the hope that Mindanao will eventually be part of their federation?

Instead of trying to negotiate for peace, why not simply allow the people of Mindanao to determine for themselves if the want to be Filipinos or not? Why the double standards? Why the hypocrisy? What is imperial Manila afraid of? Who knows, the residents of Mindanao might choose to be called Filipinos. I am not a critic of the administration nor a PNoy basher, I just want a clear stand and policy on the issue. For once, the palace should categorically state how it views the Sabah issue. Are we dropping the claim or not. Saying one thing and doing another is a great injustice to us all. I am not a Kiram supporter nor agree to the Sultan's actions. I just want a definite position. Many have been trying to explain PNoy's actions. 

Mr. President, I want answers to my questions. I can only guess that you have relinquished Sabah to attain peace in Mindanao. Never mind the proprietary claim of the Sultan of Sulu. We can accept that peace is more important than a monarchy long gone. Transparency is all I ask from you so that your critics can finally be silenced. Things would have been different if you did not ignore the Kirams. owould not have died if you used your intelligence funds more wisely. Your administration wouldn't have looked like a headless chicken.

==> READ MORE

Get Real

Let's call a spade a spade. Recently, the archdiocese of Bacolod came out with posters of Team Buhay (anti-RH) and Team Patay (pro RH) senatorial bets. These posters are clearly a form of campaigning. The posters are endorsing voting for and not voting for certain candidates. The CBCP claims they are exercising their right of expression. Come on, let's get real, after all, lying is a sin. It's so obvious that you are not expressing your sentiments but endorsing candidates.

The Comelec has requested the church to re-size the posters to what is allowed in the election code. They sought relief from the Supreme Court citing the right to freedom of expression. The SC issued a TRO which to me is quite perplexing. It doesn't take a genius to differentiate a campaign material from that of an expression. Is the Catholic church above the law? If the justices are not swayed by their faith, I am very sure that they will tell the church to follow the law on campaign materials.

The moral lesson here is that lying is acceptable if it's for the church. What a way to teach us about values. Will you please get real? You've been lying long enough and getting away with it. Mahiya naman kayo!

==> READ MORE

Disappointed

Some may argue and even defend the president for his handling of the Sabah issue. There are those who would say that we shouldn't be dragged into the Sultan of Sulu's personal claim to Sabah. I agree that the means employed by the Kirams was wrong. There are other ways to go about this issue. 

What disappoints me is the arrogance by which this administration treated the Kirams, they are after all Filipinos and treated as royalty by our Muslim brothers. He said that we are his boss yet treats shabbily a constituent. Would I be treated the same way? He went out of his way to meet the leaders of the MILF, could he have given the Kirams the same treatment. It's a PR stunt gone bad. He gave the perception that the Malaysians is his boss. Granting that a letter sent to him asking for a dialogue never reached him, it would have been presidential on his part to give the Kirams a phone call during the early days of the standoff. 

I guess his high trust rating clouded his judgement a bit. He forgot that this rating could fall in a blink of an eye. He could have convinced the Kirams in private instead of insulting them in public just to appease the Malaysians. Now that Filipino blood has been spilled, add his pronouncements, there will be political repercussions. This could affect the mid-term elections or even go as far as the 2016 presidential elections. Things could have been handled differently. Humility would have been a more prudent choice than legal threats. 

Only time will tell if the administration's arrogance will wane. Maybe the next surveys will jolt their senses. They cannot deny the fact that this unfortunate episode will have an adverse effect on the administration.

==> READ MORE

You're Offending My Feelings

During the battle for the RH bill, the bishops engaged its opponents not just in name-calling but threatened to excommunicate those who support the landmark bill. In the midst of the battle, Carlos Celdran showed the stuff that legends are made of and mounted his own protest. DAMASO, will go down in history not just a Jose Rizal villain, but a representation of how repressive and backward the Catholic church can be. Celdran was dragged out of church and was eventually charged in court.

Today, the court handed down a guilty verdict on Celdran for offending the religious feelings of the Catholic church. I did not know that there is such an offense. I should have made the same accusation to the bishops who not only offended my religious feelings, but my intelligence as well. Perhaps someone should remind them that Jesus was crucified for offending the religious feelings of the church and that brought about the creation of the Catholic faith.

It's an absurd decision which insults the intelligence and senses of all of us. Is it now a crime to question the integrity of "HUMAN" priests who portray themselves as gods and judges of men? Can we not questions the doctrines of a church created by men? I am reminded of the middle ages and how the church manipulated everything to favor them. It's no wonder why the church's flock continue to dwindle. Many are disappointed with the church's actuation. 

The church should be more in touch with the faithful's feelings. Not to heed them may cause them their flock.  

==> READ MORE

My Prayers Were Answered

Until late last night, I was not sure if the prosecution had the numbers to convict Renato Corona. I was busy coaching my players competing in the Philippine National Game. I frantically texted some friends to ask if we had the numbers, they replied, yes. I still did not believe them and snuck out several times to listen to each verdict. When the count went past the 3-2 result, I knew Corona will be found guilty. What surprised me is the final count, 20-3. The expected holdouts stuck to their stands. Lapid, Revilla and Villar surprised me. Lapid showed how he used on common sense better than Joker, Miriam and Marcos.

I must commend the "grand old statesman" of the senate, Senate Pres. Juan Ponce Enrile fairly and justly managed the impeachment from start to finish. He even delivered the coup de grace and will leave a legacy he can truly be proud of. One after the other, senator judges used the case of Delsa Flores. It's as if the heavens sent each senator an email of my humble request. Twenty out of twenty-three heeded my prayers. Equal protection of the law was applied. A big fish was caught and convicted because of his arrogance and his self-serving interpretation of an outdated law. Corona was betrayed by his arrogance. After his own admission, he sealed his own fate. All the drama and the theatrics was not able to save him.

Corona is finally convicted. His illegitimate reign as the Supreme Court Chief Justice is over. He not only disgraced himself but he is the first chief justice to be removed from office. He will lose his job and his retirement benefits. He will never work in government again. He should have resigned instead of dragging the entire judiciary and using it to defend himself. He will lose his simple life of P15,000 dinners, his P25,000 Barong Tagalogs and his P100,000 Christmas gifts. Even his traveling privileges will be taken away. PAL no longer needs to cozy up to him. Perhaps, his wife Cristina will truly reconcile with her relatives and not use them as props for her PR stunts. Corona will now have all the time in the world to dissect what happened to him. He can now look back and hopefully realize that his position and his power to interpret the law to use to serve his purpose wrong. Maybe he would regret ever wanting to be chief justice despite his obvious lack of court service. 

I am not kicking a man when he is down even if he deserves it. I'm simply pointing out why he is where he is now, why things had to happen and why his career ended this way. I can now sleep soundly at night knowing that Lady Justice is blind again. No discrimination between rich and poor and the law will be equally applied. We just sent the justices a strong message, they can be made accountable. My prayers were answered.

==> READ MORE

Equal Protection Of The Law

We demand and exact very high standards on "all" government employees. From the lowly janitor, messenger and even clerks to the highest officials of the land. Administrative cases are harsh. When found guilty, a government employee will be dismissed from office, barred 'til death from ever serving in government and all his/her retirement benefits taken away. I have always emphasized that these standards of ethics and integrity is raised as the position goes higher. What then makes Renato Corona an exception to the rule? Do we not expect more from him? His excuses are nothing, as pointed out by Rep. Rodolfo Farinas. They are self-serving and flimsy and even revolting to our common sense. 

In the '90s, a lowly court interpreter was dismissed by the Supreme Court for failing to disclose a small market stall she owns. The value, a mere P1,000. Corona hid millions in pesos and dollars. How then can we reconcile these two very similar case? Yes, one is administrative in nature, and the other an impeachable official. Isn't it just proper that we apply the law equally? To acquit Corona because of his flimsy legal justification, are we applying the law equally? Both are government employees, public servants that we all expect to be honest, person of integrity and possessing very high moral values. Isn't it proper to say that we should treat as both public servants?

We should ask more from Corona because he is the highest magistrate and lawyer of the land. He is not exempted from the law that rules the ordinary government employee. Delsa Flores hid mere change compared to Corona's millions. His defense team claims no ill intent on the part of Corona. They say that Corona's poor judgement is not enough reason to convict him. Can they say this while looking at Delsa Flores straight in the eye? Isn't it the height of absurdity to try and justify hiding millions from the public? I'm not a genius but certainly not stupid. It is clear that Corona willfully. It came straight from Corona himself. He was trying to avoid forfeiture. 

To the senator judges who will decide Corona's fate, I have only one request, bare in mind that a lowly court interpreter lost everything for a measly P1080. Corona deserves to be removed from office, barred from ever holding any public position and his retirement benefits taken away. Corona deserves no less. His position is not a guarantee for immunity. We have always asked why only the small fish fry. Here is a good chance for us to make a big fish pay. All we ask is that the constitutional guarantee of equal protection of the law be applied.    

==> READ MORE

The King And His Court

Renato Corona finally took the witness stand to tell his side of the story. His litany took all three hours to complete. Al through his storytelling, he took jabs at all his critics. Even the dead was not spared. He used all the adjectives he can use to malign his detractors. Like a child throwing a tantrum, he utilized every liberal minute afforded to him by the very lenient presiding officer of the impeachment court. He couldn't care less who insulted. The illegitimate chief justice spewed lie after lie after lie to defend himself. Acting like a pompous ass of a king, he declared his position at the end of his speech and walked out of the impeachment court.

The man who never served as a judge in any court tried to escape but was prevented by the senate's sergeant at arms from leaving the premises. Even Corona's driver was ready to spirit him away. Corona must be an avid viewer of past senate hearings. He has learned from past witnesses. Health is the key to escape being asked questions. He is the king of the imperialist Supreme Court. What they say is law. He can get away with anything. He can disrespect even a coequal branch of government. 

The senate finally has had enough. They cannot be bullied even by the illegitimate chief justice and gave his lawyers an ultimatum. This changes the entire picture. He must appear before the tribunal tomorrow. We can speculate on how things will play out tomorrow. He can always act, he has proven his acting prowess before. Yes, he will face the court with doctors in tow. His lawyers will ask him questions and from time to time, will ask him how he feels. After a while, he will appear weak and his doctors will ask the court to excuse him.

The presiding officer will be put in a bind. To ask that the Corona finish the direct and cross examination will make him appear heartless and inhuman. To discharge him without the prosecution and the senator asking Corona questions and then convicting Corona can be made by his camp to appear as an abuse of discretion and the trampling of his right to due process. A sickly Corona can claim bravery for risking his life if only to clear his name. What a travesty of justice. Corona's court can now declare the impeachment proceeding as an abuse of power.

I hope I am wrong. It's just my speculative mind at work. How about you, how do you think things will play out tomorrow?

==> READ MORE

The Impeachment's Redefining Moment

It's finally the turn of the defense to present their witnesses and evidences. To dispute the real ownership of Corona's Marikina properties, they presented Dimetrio Vicente, Corona's cousin who claims to owning the said lots. Armed with a deed of absolute sale, the defense said that this clearly proves ownership. Despite the title is still in Corona's wife's name, the tax receipts and even the account, they claim that that the deed of sale takes supremacy. Okay if you say so.

Then they presented the administrator and agent of the Columns. Another deed of absolute sale was presented. This time however, a transfer certificate was attached to it. The title of the condo unit was in the Coronas name. Because the building was still to be constructed, Renato Corona did not list it in his SALN. This time however, they say that despite a deed of sale, and a transfer certificate in Corona's name, ownership cannot be claimed as there was no physical unit yet. Wha? I thought a deed of sale is enough to prove ownership? Did they consider their first assertion with regards to the Vicente testimony?

I always thought thought, and as they always manifest, the document is the best evidence. It's absurd to say that the two cases are different. The fact of the matter is that they bought a condo unit. It is an asset just the same. It should be listed in his SALN period.

==> READ MORE

Of Brilliance And Miscalculation

As the prosecution rests its case, the burden of proof now falls on the defense. With the Supreme Court's TRO, the prosecution's hands were tied. To rest their case now was a brilliant move. Corona and the defense have their backs against the wall. It is not surprising why Miriam Santiago exhibited such an unparliamentary behavior. She knows the consequences of such a move. Remember how the senators questioned the long list of witnesses and evidences of the prosecution? Now that the prosecution had shortened the proceedings, they again question it.

The move also puts the impeachment court in a very uncomfortable spot. Even if they decide not to admit the evidences on Art. 2, the fact remains that the public now knows the vast unexplained wealth of Corona. The TRO was supposed to protect Corona, it in fact did more harm than good. Corona is the only competent witness the defense has to refute all the evidences. He may have to take the witness stand. This will expose him to questioning from all sides. The SC miscalculated the prosecution's moves

Was the move intentional or did the prosecution unwittingly boxed everybody in? The defense will move heaven and earth to have all evidences declared inadmissible. But then there's the fact that bank records have already been testified on. Even if these were stricken out, the public knows how huge the undeclared wealth of Corona is. At the back of their minds, the senators will have to consider this. They cannot simply discount these information. The senate, after hearing the rationale behind withdrawing the other articles which all evidences are hinged on SC records and witnesses, will have tp use their common sense and see the true motive of the SC in issuing different TROs.

Even if Miriam lectures the public on procedures and technicalities, the public will not swallow them hook, line and sinker. The defense and senate is between a rock and a hard place. Only a conviction will be an acceptable result. Senators cannot claim (if they acquit Corona) that they echo the voice of the people. They cannot claim that our votes do not count. They will have to assert their power as an impeachment court this time around. The defense has reiterated that they will once again go to the SC to defend their client. Cuevas thinks this is useless. He also would like very much not to allow Corona to testify. People will now be watching more closely. We are tired of being played around with. Perhaps the senators will once again try to condition the public's mind that they cannot convict Corona due to technicalities we the people know goes against the intent of the law. We of course will not take this lightly. Public sentiment must take the front seat this time.

I would love to see what's in the senators' minds. I would love to see how much common sense they actually have. To overlook what's staring them in their faces is illogical even to the simplest of minds. Will they disappoint us again? Will we see logic and common sense employed by supposedly intelligent(?) senators? I salute the Prosecutors both public and private. I pity the senate for lacking resolve. I grin at the defense for they miscalculated the ability of the prosecution. Now I can smile, no laugh at Miriam. Her antics did not escape the public's eye and ire. I have only one advice for Corona, karma comes quickly for the wicked and evil. You may still avoid humiliation. You can always resign. We don't really want you there in the first place. We would rather have a chief justice who is appointed constitutionally. We do not like midnight appointees regardless of who the appointing president is.

==> READ MORE

Hoodlums In Robes

Claiming judicial privilege, the Supreme Court denied to allow even administrative employees from testifying in Corona's impeachment trial. The SC claims that they have their own internal rules. There is jurisprudence that executive privilege cannot be used in the commission of a crime. It is public knowledge that Corona extended "preferential" treatment to the Arroyos when he and his co-conspirators issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the Dept. of Justice (DOJ) watch list order. It is also public knowledge based on Justice Sereno's dissenting opinion that Corona tried to hide the truth from the public. It is my humble opinion that the SC is obstructing justice. One cannot invoke the bill of rights to coverup a crime.

With the senate's decision to avoid butting heads with the SC, any future impeachment case filed against any justice will be an exercise in futility. Clearly the SC is abusing its powers. The SC is telling us that they are untouchables. The last bastion of justice has just been turned into a mafia den. Because of these developments, it is useless to continue the impeachment proceedings if even public documents which would not violate the "sacred" judicial privilege is disallowed by the gods of Padre Faura to be subpoenaed by the impeachment court. I would have liked to see the senate assert its power as an impeachment court and go head to head with the SC. If a constitutional crisis would be the only way for the people to see how abusive the SC is, than so be it.

Shameless and devoid of any moral value is how I see the SC now. That is how I see "all" the justices. I say all because not even one of the justices has come forward to go against the scalawags of the SC. I do not understand why Carpio and Sereno has not volunteered their testimonies if only to shed light on the obvious injustice and abuse their colleagues have committed. The SC cannot punish them, it is only by way of impeachment that they can be punished, so what are they afraid of?

So, is there true justice in our country? I shudder at the thought that there is none. Lady justice here is controlled by a bunch of hoodlums in robes that will twist the constitution if only to serve their means.

==> READ MORE

Betrayal Of Public Trust

"Public office is a public trust", this the reason why government employees whether appointed, or elected must ensure that they maintain their integrity and honesty. The Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth (SALN) is a sworn document. It's not a simple list of things you own. Every entry is presumed to be accurate and true. A discrepancy of a few thousand can be deemed honest mistakes or even lapses of memory. Discrepancies of several millions and more than half a dozen properties cannot be considered honest mistakes. If one is so forgetful as to overlook these is not fit to be chief justice.

We are taught as kids to never lie. Honesty, as we are all told, is the best policy. Was Corona absent when his teachers taught this in school? Was he sleeping when his parents discussed honesty in their home? The SALN is to ensure that all government employees do not enrich themselves during their stint in office. Being honest is to me the most important virtue every government employee must possess (loyalty to an appointing power is not included). I remember my mother who even lists the number of blouses she owns in her SAL/N.

The office Corona sits in is one of the highest offices in the land. Anyone who occupies it should not only be honest but extremely honest. Anyone who is appointed there was put there because the public trusts him. If one cannot execute his SALN truthfully, it is tantamount to betrayal of public trust. The senate should not take this lightly. Lying may not be a high crime but is the beginning and the end of all crimes. The constitution may not have a very clear definition of "Betrayal of Public Trust", but even a 7-year old can tell you what honesty means.

So what do you think of my argument? Is it safe to say that undervaluing your net worth constitutes lying? As being members of the "public", we should not be confused by technicalities. There are no gray areas when it comes to honesty, integrity and credibility.

==> READ MORE

Atat Na Atat

Renato Corona's first brush with the scandalous midnight appointment came during the Ramos administration. FVR wanted to appoint him as associate justice. But as fate would have it and an impartial Supreme Court during that time, shot down his appointment. The reason was his appointment came during an election ban. Former CJ Narvasa followed what the constitution said. His ambition became a reality when GMA appointed his as an associate justice during her term. Fast forward to 2010. Once again, Corona would face his old nemesis, midnight appointment. This time however, he has the numbers to make something illegal, legal.

The Supreme Court was full of Arroyo appointees. So they came up with a migraine-inducing resolution that upheld Corona's appointment. I guess they thought that Filipinos are dumb and stupid and that we all slept through our Constitution subject in college. Based on his statements, loyalty is what guides him. True enough, his decisions show how loyal he is. Unfortunately for the hapless Filipino, his colleagues live by the same creed. Never mind what is lawful, he an his cohorts will bend what is straight to protect their benefactor.

Under attack, Corona decided to throw in a monkey wrench to muddle the issue. He is now asserting that his impeachment is connected to the SC's decision on Hacienda Luisita. It was clearly a diversionary tactic to confuse the public who are increasingly disgusted with a very biased Supreme Court. Clearly, GMA is still pulling the strings. Is Corona collateral damage in making GMA accountable for he sins? No he is definitely not. He is a co-conspirator in destroying the judiciary so that GMA would not be brought to justice.

Corona's ambition took several years to materialize. He persisted and persevered and GMA rewarded him handsomely. So who is "Atat na Atat"? Not content with his power and influence, he is trying to drag the entire judiciary down with him. Corona is not the Supreme Court. I will follow this impeachment. I will list down the senators who will acquit him and make them pay come 2013.

==> READ MORE

Hate To The Chief

The judiciary has finally exhibited its arrogance. Despite the delays in justice, its employees (workers and judges) closed shop to hear CJ Corona call PNoy a dictator. As the final arbiter of the laws of the land, the Supreme Court can dictate what is legal or not. One perfect example of the SC's power is how they legitimized the obvious illegal appointment of Corona. I a blatant disregard for what is lawful, they upheld Corona's right to accept his otherwise midnight appointment. The SC said that Gloria Arroyo can appoint. Yes she can, dummies, as long as it is not within the prohibited period during elections. Any appointment within that period is unlawful. But hey, we are mere mortals who must swallow whatever the SC says. We cannot tangle with gods. They can jail us mortals if they wish to.

How then do we make them accountable? I support PNoy's move to impeach those we all know have and continue to abuse their power. I want them (the justices) to know what fear is. To hell with constitutional crisis. We can live with the justices who are left. What we cannot live with are demigods who obviously are not loyal to the constitution and the people they are supposed to serve. We cannot live with justices who are too loyal or grateful to the one who appointed them. Corona will fight tooth and nail and bring the judiciary down with him. For the first time, someone is serious about weeding out the termites in the judiciary.

I am happy that Corona is finally impeached, although I would have wanted his midnight appointment included in the articles of impeachment. Everyone in government must be accountable, even those who are supposed to be the experts on laws.

==> READ MORE

Conspiracy

The brouhaha at the Dept. of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) has not died down. Intrigues and speculations add more to the confusion that has muddled the issues. Personally, I feel that opposing interest groups are jockeying for position. Sadly, former DOTC Sec. Ping De Jesus is in the midst of this brewing war. I take the Virginia Torres out of the equation. Her case is a totally different issue. I can only feel how frustrated Sec. De Jesus must be. I would also throw in the towel and let these crocs finish each other off. While this infighting continues, the safety of our flying public is at risk. Even the media hungry for anything they can sensationalize become willing or unwitting victims to rumormongers at the DOTC.

Another issue has been floated. To the common man, it would seem that an another anomaly has been unearthed. To those in the know and are not corrupt, the radar system issue can be explained. If you're not familiar with how air traffic management works, it would seem that there is duplication. Before I comment on the matter, I did some of my own research and asked a friend who is familiar with how the entire system works. I am sure that you would agree with me that redundancy is imperative when safety is concerned. Are the claims of some about the two radar systems true or a ploy to destroy Sec. De Jesus? I would like to remind you that different "syndicates" are fighting for control of lucrative projects.

There are currently two simultaneous projects in place within the CAAP regarding radar and communication. Both projects are DOTC projects not CAAP projects. This means that DOTC provided the funds and conducted the bidding on behalf of CAAP. The projects are Communications Navigation Surveillance-Air Traffic Management (CNS-ATM) project and the new Manila Air Control Center (MACC) project.

The MACC project is envisioned to upgrade the air traffic radar system used by the air traffic controllers in Manila, servicing only Terminal 1, Centennial Terminal, Terminal 3 and the old domestic terminal which share the same runway. Whereas the CNS-ATM project is to provide satellite, radar facilities, communications, surveillance and air traffic management to all airports in the Philippines. The CNS-ATM is envisioned to be a "holistic" approach in improving the air navigation system of the Philippines.

It is true that the radar component of both projects is the same. The MACC radar system can fulfill the role of the CNS-ATM radar system and vice versa. This now becomes the crux of the "in-fighting" among the different groups within the DOTC and CAAP. I do not know if those people are aware that both systems are actually needed. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is responsible for air traffic management and the National Transportation and Safety Bureau (NTSB) is responsible for investigation. Both agencies (key word here is AGENCY) are independent of each other and have their own equipment and systems. Other countries have similar structure in place. The Philippines on the other hand, have both departments (in the Philippines both are only DEPARTMENTS) working under one organization, the CAAP. Having the operations and investigative departments under one organization using the same equipment pose a lot of concerns. It can even be construed as collusion, incestuous even, since one is not independent of the other. How can the public expect a non-partisan investigation on air traffic mishaps if both the operations and investigative department report to the same person?

Now people with their own agendas are positioning themselves in order to take out the "competition" because there are similar components/overlaps in the projects. Government projects can not have any duplication because in can be construed as waste of government funds. But for safety concerns there is a need for independent redundancy. The new MACC project is obviously a subset of the CNS-ATM project hence the MACC project in only a fraction of the cost of the later.

Rumors about corruption, obsolescence, ineligibility and duplication are rampant. The fact of the matter is both systems can be used complementing each other as long as one system is designated as to be the primary source and the latter as the investigative/audit source should any air traffic mishaps occur.

I am a firm believer of oversight and regulation. This is the only way we can stop corruption. The greed of some people are just insatiable. I do not think our institutions are capable of policing its ranks. We need an independent agency that would oversee the different government agencies. It should not be attached to any other and should operate on its own. Institutions that investigate themselves always clear themselves of any wrongdoing. How I wish that those in the DOTC who are true professionals would come out and expose these mafia groups in their office. I hope the DOTC has a Heidi Mendoza in its ranks.

There will always be people who would conspire to rid their departments of those who try to introduce change. PNoy I think, should look into these matters himself. I hope that Sec. Mar Roxas's entry to the DOTC, the agency would be cleansed of its undesirables.

==> READ MORE

The Crying Lady

Who is this? A lady official cried and knelt before a leader of a sect. She begged for mercy and asked to be given another chance. Allegations of corruptions are hounding this lady. Her ploy worked. It was not simply a case of being friends with her boss. Her antics touched the heart of the sect's leader.

She'll soon go back to work despite the allegations. She has not been investigated yet. Her supervisor along with other officials of the agency she works under have resigned. Poor supervisor, hindi ikaw ang boss. Got back to your "private" life. At least that's what the prepared statement given to you said. As for your boss, his backup man couldn't be too happy. If things go as planned, your boss would be out of office by next year. His backup man could be siting behind the desk the people gave him

==> READ MORE

Domino Effect

Anti-RH Bill devotees are now calling for civil disobedience. Politic ans like Tito Sott, Roilo Golez and Joey Lina have even thrown in their voices in the debate. Let's dissect these issues one by one. The anti-RH fanatics are saying that they will not pay their taxes and risk facing sedition charges. Fine with e, it's their choice. What really grabs me is how some men of the cloth are saying they too are prepared to be jailed.

First, the church does not pay taxes, they are exempted from taxing. This only means that the billions they collect during mass and other services go directly to the church's coffers depriving the government additional revenue to spend for social services. Unless they pick up arms, they're immune from anything. Have you heard of a priest being jailed for molestation or rape? How about priests who use the church's money for their private pleasures.

Secondly, what we do in the confines of our bedrooms is none of your business. Whatever means we see fit to plan our family is our own choice. I am accountable for any choices I make in life and will face my Creator for my judgement. It is how you lived your life that will matter most. Who knows, I may even be more charitable than most of you? I can face my creator with a clean conscience anytime.

Thirdly, overpopulation creates a domino efect of sorts. Too many people leads to hunger because agriculture cannot keep pace with rapid population growth. This also leads to unemployment as we need to keep creating jobs. That is also the reason why we have a shortage of classrooms to accommodate students. Unless of course those who want us to be live like rabbits would create more businesses for jobs, turn their lands into farms for food production and build more schools, then by all means let's throw the RH Bill into the trash bin.

Tito Sotto should show proof of his allegations. We all know that some local execs are against family planning. Why then should be given funds for a program they do implement? He should substantiate his allegations with credible proof instead of listening to local officials without listening to the what the concerned agency have to say before going to the media. He should have investigated the matter thoroughly than simply wasting taxpayers, money on a witch hunt.

Thanks to the Lina Law, we have millions trooping to the cities. They then turn private properties into havens. Without assured employment, these people become slum-dwellers. Urbanization Mr. Lina is not a measurement forprogress. Without food security, urban areas will starve. This is the reason why an agricultural like the Philippines has high incidents of hunger. It is stupid to say that we should urbanize the entire country. Do you want us to import all our foods to feed our people? What then do we do with our farmlands, turn them into resettlement sites or sell them to unscrupulous real estate developers. Would friends from the CBCP donate their lands for resettlement?

Golez shoudl study more closely his claim that the more people we have, the more productive our country will be. Perhaps he should go to the slums of India and China to get the real score. Yes, despite the growth of these nations, they have many who live in poverty. I suggest you watch Discovery or National Geographic. We simply cannot produce food or jobs at the same pace our population is growing. Having no grasp on what the reality on the ground leads tomisinformation and disinformation.

We must face the problem head on. We cannot play around with the issue of overpopulation. When God ordered us to "Go and multiply", the world was in its infancy. It was sparsely populated. With population growth comes increased demand. If we cannot meet those demands, poverty is the result. Poverty drains government funds which deprives a country not only of progress but of decency and dignity as well.

==> READ MORE

URGENT: Public Service

I would like appeal to your kind hearts to help out a struggling family. Mrs. Judith Bautista gave birth to a premature baby girl. Both she and her husband Romwell are daily wage earners. Their baby girl needs to be incubated for a month. Their daily hospital bill amounts to P24,000.00.

If you can find a little space for this family in your hearts, you may directly contact Mrs. Bautista through her phone: 0999-438-8872.

==> READ MORE

Thieves Like Who?

My favorite senator, Manny Villar has filed a bill seeking stiffer penalties for theft and robbery in places of worship. Well it is a welcome bill, what I'd like to see are laws that gives stiffer penalties on thieves in church. Yes, there are wolves in priests' robes too. Another perhaps and should really be addressed is stiffer penalties for thieves of land. The latter I doubt very much if Villar would go along with.

We don't need more laws on theft and robbery. What we need are laws that address the plight of farmers and indigenous people against land grabbers and opportunistic real estate businesses. Theft of these lands have economic and national repercussions. National food security is what is at stake here. Theft of land also deprives our indigenous people to preserve their heritage and threatens their very existence.

Theft and robbery are not exclusive to common criminals. They are also committed by politicians and greedy businessmen. or politicians with business interests. I hope Sen. Villar would focus more on the issues I mentioned above. We have many laws concerning common criminality. What we need are laws against those who use their influence, bribery of public officials and intimidation for material gain.

Well Mr. senator, are you willing to pick up the challenge?

==> READ MORE

Had We Been Complacent

Had we been complacent, Gloria Macapagal Arroyo could still be sitting as president if not prime minister of the Philippines. She had laid the groundwork that could have turned her 9-year rule into another dictatorship. She had the lower house and the supreme court but fortunately for us, not the senate. Money flowed in 2007 to make sure she got the senate but despite this, the people voted otherwise. The military was not completely hers either. She had the bigwigs in her pocket but not the other officers.

Institution after institution fell to her onslaught. Everyone submitted to her as she clearly micromanaged everything to ensure her absolute control. Pres. Cory Aquino may have saved our country again when she passed away. Noynoy Aquino was elevated to the presidency because of this. Had it not been for the late president, a Villaroyo could have ascended to the presidency. Guns, goons and gold did not work its magic in the 2010 elections. Even Erap fell by the wayside.

Despite Gloria's stepping down, remnants of her influence are still there to protect her. The SC shot down anything that could harm Arroyo. But the peole were beginning to realize that Gloria's unseen hand was still controlling the SC. The people's ire now trained on the SC. To save their necks, the justices had to have a scapegoat. They would not go down with Gloria's ship. They had to give somebody's head to the irate public. Omb. Merciditas Gutierrez was the anointed one. She is the sacrificial lamb. Her impeachment can still delay the Aquino administration. Arroyo's behind would be protected even for just awhile.

Rep. Fariñas is set to impeach 7 of the justices of the SC. They now cry foul and insinuates that the administration wants an Aquino Supreme Court. What's wrong with that? If that's the only way for reforms to be achieved then so be it. Impeachment is the only way we can make the SC accountable for whatever wrongs they have done. Nothing to be afraid of that if the SC is indeed clean. Nothing to worry about if indeed the current SC is not an Arroyo SC. Rep. Fariñas is right, it is only through impeachment that the SC can answer the accusation hurled against them.

Gloria Arroyo's henchmen are falling one by one. At least Angie Reyes got off easy. That rest of her gang will get their asses whooped. Thank God we're not a country of fence-sitters. We were not complacent and watched intently the goings on during Arroyo's reign. We may not have all gone out in the streets but we surely concerned ourselves with what Gloria was up to. In the end, evil did not triumph. With the new presidency, at least our small voices are heard.

==> READ MORE

Show No Mercy!

Embattled Ombudsman, Merceditas Gutierrez has nowhere to hide as congressmen tighten the noose around her neck. She will definitely have to face the music, finally. Not even her allies in the lower house's Justice Committee was able to derail her impeachment. Not even GMA's Supreme Court helped her. The SC has image problems of its own to contend with.

The last congress showed us how futile any attempt to bring Gloria to account failed time and again. She had almost everyone in her pocket. The shoe is on the other foot now. Her once formidable allies is the minority now. Public sentiment is also against Gutierrez. Gloria cannot save her now. Weather weather lang yan. Mercy's fighting this battle alone. The last congress's "zarzuela" of due process will not work here. If only she did her work, she wouldn't be in this situation now. That's what you get for sitting on the "bad eggs" too long.

Her no-show made matters worst for her. She doesn't seem invincible now. When her case is brought to the plenary, the usual numbers game is now on the other side. Tsk, tsk....she may end up facing the senate very soon. Arrogance will not win her any sympathies. The people are asking for accountability. We've been deprived of justice for almost a decade. She was supposed to prosecute not lawyer for Gloria's corrupt henchmen.

A new challenge faces the lower house. They too must save face. They have to redeem themselves. The lower house is also a tainted institution thanks to GMA. With all the exposes especially the Garcia plea-bargain, she should fry. I hope the congress shows her no mercy.

==> READ MORE