Statistical Thoughts and Everything Else

He loved me.

2011-07-31T05:59:00.000-07:00

He chose me before the world was known. He chose me to be His very own. He made me, then let me choose my way. I chose to move away.

He loved me when hope had taken wing. He loved me when I lost everything. He bought me; redemption's work was done though Jesus Christ, His Son.

Who shall separate me from the love of God? Shall dreams of tomorrow, pain, or sorrow? Can the need of food or earthly possessions, the threat of war or man's oppression? In all these things, victory is our reward though Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Of this I am sure, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, not height nor depth nor any creature shall separate me from the love of God. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Passing along a little spark.

2011-06-30T07:39:00.000-07:00

Robby was 11 years old when his mother (a single mom) dropped him off for his first piano lesson. I prefer that students (especially boys!) begin at an earlier age, which I explained to Robby. But Robby said that it had always been his mother's dream to hear him play the piano. So I took him as a student. Well, Robby began with his piano lessons and from the beginning I thought it was a hopeless endeavor. As much as Robby tried, he lacked the sense of tone and basic rhythm needed to excel. But he dutifully reviewed his scales and some elementary pieces that I require all my students to learn.

Over the months he tried and tried while I listened and cringed and tried to encourage him. At the end of each weekly lesson he'd always say, "My mom's going to hear me play someday." But it seemed hopeless. He just did not have any inborn ability. I only knew his mother from a distance as she dropped Robby off or waited in her aged car to pick him up. She always waved and smiled but never stopped in.

Then one day Robby stopped coming to our lessons. I thought about calling him but assumed, because of his lack of ability, that he had decided to pursue something else. I also was glad that he stopped coming. He was a bad advertisement for my teaching!

Several weeks later I mailed to the student's homes a flyer on the upcoming recital. To my surprise Robby (who received a flyer) asked me if he could be in the recital. I told him that the recital was for current pupils and because he had dropped out he really did not qualify. He said that his mom had been sick and unable to take him to piano lessons but he was still practicing. "Miss Hondorf... I've just got to play!" he insisted. I don't know what led me to allow him to play in the recital. Maybe it was his persistence or maybe it was something inside of me saying that it would be all right.

The night for the recital came. The high school gymnasium was packed with parents, friends and relatives. I put Robby up last in the program before I was to come up and thank all the students and play a finishing piece. I thought that any damage he would do would come at the end of the program and I could always salvage his poor performance through my "curtain closer."

Well, the recital went off without a hitch. The students had been practicing and it showed. Then Robby came up on stage. His clothes were wrinkled and his hair looked like he'd run an eggbeater through it. "Why didn't he dress up like the other students?" I thought. "Why didn't his mother at least make him comb his hair for this special night?"

Robby pulled out the piano bench and he began. I was surprised when he announced that he had chosen Mozart's Concerto #21 in C Major. I was not prepared for what I heard next. His fingers were light on pianissimo to fortissimo...from allegro to virtuoso.

His suspended chords that Mozart demands were magnificent! Never had I heard Mozart played so well by a person his age. After six and a half minutes he ended in a grand crescendo and everyone was on their feet in wild applause. Overcome and in tears I ran up on stage and put my arms around Robby in joy. "I've never heard you play like that Robby! How'd you do it?" Through the microphone Robby explained: "Well Miss Hondorf...remember I told you my mom was sick? Well, actually she had cancer and passed away this morning. And well....she was born deaf so tonight was the first time she ever heard me play. I wanted to make it special." There wasn't a dry eye in the house that evening. As the people from Social Services led Robby from the stage to be placed into foster care, I noticed that even their eyes were red and puffy and I thought to myself how much richer my life had been for taking Robby as my pupil. No, I've never had a protigi but that night I became a protigi... of Robby's. He was the teacher and I was the pupil. For it is he that taught me the meaning of perseverance and love and believing in yourself and maybe even taking a chance in someone and you don't know why.

(A footnote to this story) After serving in Desert Storm, Robby was killed in the senseless bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City in April of 1995, where he was reportedly....playing the piano. And now, a footnote to the story.

This story has been passed around by e-mail. It has not yet been proven to be a true story as no mention has been made of the exact name of the music teacher nor of the boy. The story proves that we all can make a difference. We all have thousands of opportunities a day to help realize God's plan. So many seemingly trivial interactions between two people present us with a choice: "Do we pass along a spark of the Divine?"

Ang Hukbong Mapagpalaya ng Bayan

2011-05-01T03:57:00.000-07:00

Ako'y manggagawa. Nagsisikap upang mabigyan ng disenteng pamumuhay ang aking pamilya. Nagsisikap upang maiahon ang sarili sa hikahos na buhay at makatikim ng ginhawa. Ngunit patuloy akong pinapasakit ng kabi-kabilang pagtataas ng presyo ng mga pangunahing bilihin katulad ng bigas, asukal, tinapay, at iba pa, na sinasabayan naman ng hindi pagtugon sa panawagan ng mas mataas na sahod.

Ako'y manggagawa. Nagsisikap upang mapag-aral ang aking mga anak. Nagsisikap upang matupad ang mga pangarap. Ngunit patuloy rin akong pinapasakit ng tuloy-tuloy na pagtalikod ng pamahalaan sa responsibilidad nito sa edukasyon, na makikita sa kabi-kabilang budget cuts at tuition and other fees increases.

Ako'y manggagawa. Nagsisikap upang makarating sa ibang mga lugar na hindi ko pa nararating. Nagsisikap upang lalong makilala ang mundong aking ginagalawan. Ngunit patuloy rin akong pinapasakit ng kabi-kabilang pagtaas ng presyo ng gasolina at iba pang produktong petrolyo, mapagsamantalang oil companies, at hindi pagbasura sa Oil Deregulation Law.

Ako'y manggagawa. Naniniwala ako na panahon na upang magkaisa at kumilos laban sa puwersa ng mapagsamantalang kapitalista. Naniniwala ako na panahon na upang tayong lahat ay magpumiglas sa pagkakagapos ng mga pasakit na ito.

Ako'y manggagawa. Ang hukbong mapagpalaya ng bayan.

Time

2011-04-29T08:09:00.000-07:00

Time, where did you go? Why did you leave me here alone? Wait! Don't go so fast; I'm missing the moments as they pass. I look in the mirror and the world's getting clearer so wait for me this time.

I'm down on my knees, begging for all your sympathy. But you're just an illusion; you humble people everywhere. I take what you give me; please know that I'm learning so wait for me this time.

I should've known better. I should've not wasted those days and afternoons. Many moments I've thrown all away. Now this is my time and I'm going to make it right.

I take what you give me so please know that I'm learning. I look in the mirror and the world's getting clearer so wait for me this time.

from the movie, "Uptown Girls"

They seem not to need God anymore...

2011-04-21T08:35:00.001-07:00

Jesus said that "whoever has not sinned be the first to throw the stone." (John 8:7) Honestly, I (figuratively) raise an eyebrow when people claim that they have not sinned. Remember that "all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23).

As a Catholic I believe in forgiveness, but I think claiming that "I have not sinned", for me, is tantamount to saying "I don't need God anymore". I firmly believe that for us to be able to accept God in our lives, we should first recognize that we are sinners and we need His Grace for us to be saved.

Willie Revillame, get off the air. NOW

2011-03-28T09:07:00.001-07:00

To WILLIE REVILLAME,

For making fun of a hapless 6 year old boy, you should not be on TV.

For forcing that boy to dance sensually on national TV, you should not be interacting with kids.

For allowing the audience to egg on the kid, you should not be hosting a game show.

For banking on poverty of your contestants as an excuse to humiliate them, you should not be receiving millions of pesos as talent fee.

For violating Republic Act 7610, you and your show should be taken off the air.

PROTECT THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD AGAINST DISCRIMINATION AND ABUSE!

UPHOLD MORALITY IN TELEVISION!

Arriba Almora!

2011-02-21T07:27:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, as I settled myself in the Buklod HQ before I start training the Buklod candidates, a tall, lanky guy approached me and introduced himself.

"Hi Kuya, I'm Jay Almora," he said. "I'm the Buklod USC Vice Chairperson." Of course I reciprocated.

Initiating a contact. From then on, I already realized the huge potential this kid has. And as I trained these young leaders, I really felt that the UPLB student community will be in good hands under Jay Almora.

I've never campaigned this much for a particular Buklod candidate. But I'm ready to give it all for Jay. For I believe in this kid, I believe that he has what it takes to lead and defend the UPLB student community with the three core principles of integrity, initiative, and involvement.

To Jay, if ever you get to read this note:

I am personally grateful to have known you and to have trained you to become the leader that you are. No matter what the outcome of this election may be, UPLB will be rest assured that they have someone like you to lead and defend them. Just continue to be of service to the students and to the people. We're so proud of you, bro.

The Top 30 songs of 2010

2011-01-31T06:41:00.000-08:00

The top 30 songs of 2010 as compiled by our online music appreciation group

30. Ke$ha - Tiktok

29. Lady Antebellum - Need You Now

28. Usher feat. Will.I.Am - OMG

27. B.O.B. feat. Bruno Mars - Nothin' on You

26. Tim McGraw - Southern Voice

25. Train - Hey Soul Sister

24. Orianthi feat. Steve Vai - Highly Strung

23. Jason DeRulo - In My Head

22. Iyaz - Solo

21. Lady Gaga - Bad Romance

20. Taylor Swift - Mine

19. John Legend & The Roots feat. Common & Melanie Fiona - Wake Up Everybody

18. Jay-Z feat. Alicia Keys - Empire State of Mind

17. Kylie Minogue - Get Outta My Way

16. Katy Perry feat. Snoop Dogg - California Gurls

15. Demi Lovato - The Gift of a Friend

14. Neyo feat. Cassandra Steen - Never Knew I Needed

13. Katherine McPhee feat. Zachary Levi - Terrified

12. David Guetta feat. Kelly Rowland - Commander

11. We are the Fallen - Bury Me Alive

10. Shakira feat. Freshly Ground - Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)

9. Orianthi - According to You

8. Lady Gaga feat. Beyonce - Telephone

7. Katy Perry - Teenage Dream

6. Mariah Carey feat. Ne-Yo - Angels Cry

5. Amelia Vega - Pasa un Segundito

4. 25 for Haiti - We Are The World 2010

3. Kutless - What Faith Can Do

2. Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are

1. Charice feat. Iyaz - Pyramid

"Where You Are"

2010-12-24T01:56:00.001-08:00

This story was inspired by the song "Where You Are", written by Julius Guevara and Mark Lopez and sung by Hangad Music Ministry (lifted from their album "Pasko Naming Hangad"), and in part by the events that took place in the life of a good friend of mine.

========

Shivering in cold, Brian tearfully entered the hollow halls of that white stucco house. It has been years since he last saw that house, a house full of childhood memories that was suddenly turned into sorrow, grief, and anger. As he entered the dining room, those dark images of three years ago continue to haunt him. The cold December air felt even colder inside the house. No Christmas lights, no Christmas tree, no one to share the warmth and joy of the Christmas season.

Failing to brave the sorrows, Bryan turned back and went outside for a walk. Tears started to run down his cheeks. Outside, he can see children playing, smiles painted across their faces. Families walking together. Beautiful voices singing carols straining through the night.

Bryan reached the town plaza and sat on one of the benches. He looked up and saw the multitude of stars. However, a certain star shining very brightly caught his attention. It is giving a strong beam of light that seems to be illuminating something. Bryan’s gaze became fixed that he was already oblivious to the surroundings. Until…

“Why don’t you follow that star?” said a voice.

Bryan looked around but so no one. Again he gazed at the star, then heard the same voice.

“Follow it. It will guide you.”

Without further ado, Bryan got up the bench, raced back home, locked the old stucco house, got into his car and drove to the direction of the star. The drive was seemingly endless, but he was determined to see what that star was all about. He drove and drove until…

He reached the home of his best friend Gino. Gino earlier invited Bryan to their home for Noche Buena but he turned it down.

The light of the star was pointing to the Belen at Gino’s yard. As Gino let him in, Bryan went straight to the Belen. The image of the Christ Child at the center seemed to be smiling at him.

With more tears welling up his eyes, he said to himself, “I was lost deep in the night, but Your bright star led me to where You are, to where I am supposed to be. I lost my family, but You led me to a new one.”

========

Sometimes we are fixated in looking for the superficial things that would most complete us. But as we commemorate the Birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, let us remember that back then in that first Christmas, the Bright Star led the three Wise Men to where Jesus is. Let us find our own stars of Bethlehem and let the light of Christ's love lead us to where He is.

Geo's Fruit Pie

2010-12-24T01:06:00.001-08:00

Geo's Fruit Pie

Ingredients:

1 500g can of fruit cocktail

2 300g cans of all purpose cream, chilled.

1 300g can of condensed milk, chilled.

6 cups crushed graham crackers

1 225g bar of butter

1/2 cup powdered sugar

3 pcs cherries

Topping: 1 cup crushed almonds or 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers

1. Melt butter in low heat.

2. Place crushed grahams in a large pan; pour in melted butter. (A circular pan is most recommended

3. Place in freezer for 3 hours.

4. Mix all purpose cream and milk. Return to chiller and bring out only when it will be used already.

5. Once graham crust is hardened, top with fruit cocktail.

6. Add in chilled milk-cream mixture until it covers the fruits.

7. Top with crushed almonds or crushed graham crackers.

8. Place in freezer.

SERVE CHILLED.

Potato Casserole with Cream Sauce

2010-12-24T00:51:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:

1/2 kg marble potatoes

4 cups water

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp paprika, powdered

1 300g can of all purpose cream

2 onions, finely chopped

1 250g can of mushrooms

1/4 cup butter

2 tsp dried basil

2 tsp dried parsley

half pack of Aji Ginisa

half block of mozzarella cheese, grated.

salt & pepper to taste

1. Place 4 cups water over medium heat until simmering.

2. Add potatoes, dried oregano and paprika. Bring to a boil then drain.

3. Saute onions and mushroom in butter.

4. Reducing heat, pour in all-purpose cream gradually, constantly stirring.

5. Add the remaining oregano and Aji-Ginisa pack. Heat until mixture simmers while constantly stirring.

6. Remove from heat then add salt and pepper, constantly stirring.

7. Arrange potatoes in a large platter. Add in cream mixture.

8. Top with mozzarella cheese, sprinkle with basil and parsley.

9. Microwave for 5 minutes in medium-low setting.

Pineapple Pork with Pineapple & Veggie Tomato Sauce

2010-12-14T08:06:00.001-08:00

As I was cooking for lunch earlier, I just tried a dish that I haven't really cooked before. I thought at first it will taste bad but I was surprised that my folks liked it. I'm gonna share the "recipe" with you guys. I even named it already.

Pineapple Pork with Pineapple & Veggie Tomato Sauce

You need:

1.5 kilo of pork liempo,thinly sliced and cut into three

1 can pineapple tidbits

1/8 cup Worcestershire sauce

1 sayote, julienne cut

1 can mushrooms

2 small/1 big potato, julienne cut

1 carrot, julienne cut

1 bell pepper, red, julienne cut

1 onion, cut into quarters and each layer separated

1 garlic, finely chopped

1 500g pack tomato sauce

1 small pack Aji-Ginisa

1/2 cup honey

1 cup water

1/4 cup red wine (optional)

1.5 cups flour

cooking oil

salt & pepper to taste

1. Separate the pineapple tidbits from its juice/syrup

2. Marinate pork in the pineapple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and half of the AjiGinisa pack; add a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside for a while.

while the pork is set aside, make the sauce.

3. In a sauce pan, saute garlic, onions, sayote, carrot, and potato.

4. Add bell pepper, mushrooms, and pineapple tidbits.

5. Add tomato sauce.

6. Add some salt and pepper and the remainder of the AjiGinisa pack.

7. Add the water. Cover the mixture until it simmers.

8. Add wine and honey. Cover again until it simmers. Set aside.

After making the sauce,

9. Coat the pieces of pork in flour and fry until golden brown.

10. Serve with sauce on the side.

Sample:

There is no available liempo that's why I used adobo cut. You can actually use any meat for this one.

30-Something and All that Jazz

2010-11-24T00:51:00.000-08:00

1. As of this writing, I haven't entered a cinema/movie house for more than a year now.

2. I always wanted to go to Tibet.

3. Blue as my favorite color has got nothing to do with my political affiliation.

4. I don't like to be the mean. I always wanted to be the extreme event.

5. I enjoy watching Broadway.

6. If I was an algorithm, I have the tendency to put myself in an infinite loop.

7. I talk much.

8. One thing the President and I have in common - a sister. [You'll get my drift]

9. Speaking of drifts, I always wanted to learn how to drift [automotive sport].

10. I was asthmatic.

11. I am fascinated about Latin American culture.

12. I learned how to use a computer at age 4.

13. Everyday for me is filled with music.

14. I play mahjong.

15. Whether the seating is arranged alphabetically or by height, I'm always seated at or near the back.

16. I always wished Diana and Charles had a daughter.

17. You may call me weird.

18. I so love the 80s and the 90s.

19. I know how to make cheesecake.

20. But I still wanna learn how to bake.

21. I can understand a few French and Spanish words.

22. I'm a social networking addict. [Ain't it obvious?]

23. I'm eclectic, borderline eccentric.

24. My dream job has something to do with the building on the 20-peso bill.

25. Sometimes I feel I'm schizo.

26. If I'm asked to play a villainous role in a movie, I'd play Judas Iscariot in Jesus Christ Superstar. His "villainy" was essential to the salvation of mankind.

27. My folks had problems feeding me when I was a child: the problem of how to make me stop eating.

28. I'm adventurous.

29. I wanted to be a street racer so freakin' bad!

30. ♫ I'll let the pain bring all the rain ♫. In other words, I often get LSS.

Butterfly Insights

2010-11-24T00:47:00.000-08:00

A marvelous lesson appeared for me just now as I was exiting thru the garage, to come to this little playplace they call an office.

As I opened the garage door, I startled a large moth, which, upon spreading it's wings, displayed a bright red "tail" hidden by the motley brown wings, more a "butterfly" than a moth.

It flew immediately to its perceived escape, the circle-topped window where it frantically tried to exit thru the invisible wall of closed glass.

I raised the third-car garage door in hopes of aiding it's escape. That caused it to fly higher and higher and become entangled in a spider web. Fearful that it would remain entangled in the web, I selected a long-handled broom to assist him escaping the tangled threads.

At this, he returned to furiously pumping his wings and banging into the glass, which was, in his perspective, the pathway of escape, but remained his cage.

By simply turning his focus to one side, he would have easily exited his prison. Rather, due to his intent on one direction, he remained confined, captive.

Some thoughts on the barangay and SK elections

2010-10-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

Today we, as one nation, trooped for the second time this year to our respective polling places and voted for our village (barangay) officials. We chose the people who will lead our communities.

The barangay is the basic unit of governance. The most basic of services should be delivered first and foremost by this unit. The barangay is also the governmental unit closest to home since it encompasses the community. Hence, the barangay elections were perceived by the authors of the Local Government Code to be as non-partisan as possible.

However, the barangay of today is not what it should be. Barangay councils start to lack credibility, transparency, and accountability. the barangay chairperson uses facilities such as the barangay patrol car for his/her personal use. Even the Sangguniang Kabataan, which is supposed to be the voice of the youth in the community, has now become a breeding ground for trapos or traditional politicians. And the positions are very much "to die for", explaining the culture of violence that marred past barangay elections, including this one.

The electoral process we have witnessed today is no different from the elections of the past. Perennial problems - missing names in voters list, blatant violation of the Omnibus Election Code, delayed delivery of election paraphernalia, and long lines - still exist. And as I have mentioned, several incidences of violence nationwide have rocked this electoral process.

Everyone is dismayed with the lack of preparation for today's electoral process. We still have a long way to go in terms of reforming our process.

But then again, why keep on whining? We are responsible for building this nation; let us start with our respective barangays.

Use Empowering Words When You Talk to Yourself

2010-10-23T02:03:00.001-07:00

got this again on email I need to share this.

Use Empowering Words When You Talk to Yourself

by Bill Greer

How do you talk to yourself?

Do you use the words "can't", "won't", "don't need to", "why try"? Many people do. Do you find that what you say to yourself turns out to be true? Why is this?

You see your brain is like a computer that you feed each day. It doesn't know always know what's real or not unless you tell it.

Example: If someone you love has hurt you, you may tell yourself that all people who love you will probably hurt you too.

Your brain just files this information for reference, it's data, little zeroes and ones and no column that asks "true or not true?" Now your brain thinks, based on what you told it, that everyone you'll ever love will hurt you.

How do you think you will respond the next time you get hurt?

Right!!

Now, what if we instead told our brain:

"Okay this person ripped my heart out - but that's only one person. I'm lovable and have many loving people in my life who are not out to hurt me. I know that the right people are coming into my life all the time. If someone hurts me, I will forgive them and bless them on their way."

Words can be empowering.

I can I love to I want to I will I must I am

We can reach a new level of living, if we feed ourselves empowering words and practice saying them until they become a habit.

I know first hand that it takes time. And I also know that it's worth it. Try it for a week.

Catch yourself saying, "I can't", when you don't really mean it and instead try, "I can", and see how you think and feel about yourself.

Remember, the words you use to empower yourself will have a lasting effect, only if you practice them and they become a habit (an acquired behavior pattern regularly followed until it has become almost involuntary).

They say it takes at least 28 days to develop a habit. After a week, you will see that it becomes easier. It's a mindset and you can control your thoughts. Be proactive and not reactive - give yourself some good words.

Dream big and empower yourself! Believe you can and you will.

Just a Little Smile

2010-09-18T09:55:00.001-07:00

another email just came in and it's so good. such stories should be shared with everyone.

Just a Little Smile

John W. Schlatter

Mark was walking home from school one day when he noticed the boy ahead of him had tripped and dropped all of the books he was carrying, along with two sweaters, a baseball bat, a glove and a small tape recorder. Mark knelt down and helped the boy pick up the scattered articles. Since they were going the same way, he helped to carry part of the burden. As they walked Mark discovered the boy's name was Bill, that he loved video games, baseball and history, and that he was having lots of trouble with his other subjects and that he had just broken up with his girlfriend.

They arrived at Bill's home first and Mark was invited in for a Coke and to watch some television. The afternoon passed pleasantly with a few laughs and some shared small talk, then Mark went home. They continued to see each other around school, had lunch together once or twice, then both graduated from junior high school. They ended up in the same high school where they had brief contacts over the years. Finally the long awaited senior year came and three weeks before graduation, Bill asked Mark if they could talk.

Bill reminded him of the day years ago when they had first met. "Did you ever wonder why I was carrying so many things home that day?" asked Bill. "You see, I cleaned out my locker because I didn't want to leave a mess for anyone else. I had stored away some of my mother's sleeping pills and I was going home to commit suicide. But after we spent some time together talking and laughing, I realized that if I had killed myself, I would have missed that time and so many others that might follow. So you see, Mark, when you picked up those books that day, you did a lot more. You saved my life."

Just Five More Minutes

2010-09-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

I received this story via email from a friend. I was really touched by the story and I thought this was worth reposting.

Just Five More Minutes

Author Unknown, Source Unknown

While at the park one day, a woman sat down next to a man on a bench near a playground. “That’s my son over there,” she said, pointing to a little boy in a red sweater who was gliding down the slide.

"He’s a fine looking boy” the man said. “That’s my daughter on the bike in the white dress.” Then, looking at his watch, he called to his daughter. “What do you say we go, Melissa?”

Melissa pleaded, “Just five more minutes, Dad. Please? Just five more minutes.”

The man nodded and Melissa continued to ride her bike to her heart’s content. Minutes passed and the father stood and called again to his daughter. “Time to go now?” Again Melissa pleaded, “Five more minutes, Dad. Just five more minutes.”

The man smiled and said, “OK.”

“My, you certainly are a patient father,” the woman responded.

The man smiled and then said, “Her older brother Tommy was killed by a drunk driver last year while he was riding his bike near here. I never spent much time with Tommy and now I’d give anything for just five more minutes with him. I’ve vowed not to make the same mistake with Melissa. She thinks she has five more minutes to ride her bike. The truth is, I get five more minutes to watch her play.”

Life is all about making priorities, what are your priorities? Give someone you love 5 more minutes of your time today!

One year after Ondoy, have we really learned our lessons?

2010-09-17T11:04:00.000-07:00

Almost a year has passed since the tragic and traumatic events of September 26, 2009 - the day Typhoon Ketsana (Ondoy) ravaged Luzon and brought devastating effects to the lives of millions of Filipinos. With the images of a year before, have we really learned our lesson in disaster preparedness?

I was listening to RockEd Radio last night, and the discussion revolved around Ondoy. A lot of listeners joined in on the conversation, and, surprisingly, many have declared that Filipinos seemed not to learn from Ondoy. Here are some points raised during the 2-hour radio program:

Filipinos are still undisciplined with regards to their trash. Also last night, GMA-7 news program 24 Oras aired a report stating that almost 200 Pinoys were apprehended by MMDA "Environmental Police" for littering the streets with candy wrappers, cigarette butts, and even their own spits! Flashback to the images of last year's deluge - the raging floodwaters were full of trash! When trash accumulates, it has the "power" to clog drainage channels, thus can result in floods when strong rains pour down.
Filipinos still take storm warnings for granted. Despite the fact that weather bureau, PAGASA, is ill-equipped, its meteorologists have not failed to give us warnings on what to do when a storm comes. The following lines are always broadcast on TV and radio: "We advise our fellow citizens to start stocking up on goods." "People living in coastal areas should be vigilant on sudden storm surges; we advise them to seek higher ground." "The waters are already dangerous, especially for small watercraft." However such warnings are taken for granted by many. "Malayo pa naman ang bagyo." and other excuses are commonplace. Then when the storm hits, they blame everything on PAGASA. The failure to make a proactive action and instead rely on reactive measures oftentimes yields undesirable results.
There is minimal action (at best) with regards to the woes of the nation's chief weather bureau. Since time immemorial, PAGASA has been asking for a modernization on their equipment, but until now everything is either just vocal or in paper. At best, minimal action has been undertaken - such as the installation of several Doppler radars, of which only one is fully operational.
The important science of meteorology is largely ignored. The Philippines is part of the Pacific typhoon belt, and annual typhoons are a fact of life. The science that understands such weather disturbances is meteorology, and it is sad to note that this science is not promoted in the country.
We Filipinos still has a lot to learn in taking care of the environment. As pointed out in the first bullet, littering is very much commonplace. Also, logging (mostly illegal) 'flourishes' in the mountains, leading to the destruction of our forests and watersheds. Pollution is all over the place. In this time and age, we should all do our part to minimize the effects of climate change.

While it is true that Ondoy brought out the best in each Filipino, it also brought out the worst in us. But it is not yet late. Though damage to property and infrastructure may be inevitable during a strong typhoon, loss of lives are preventable, or at least can be minimized. If we act now, who knows? Maybe the next storm that will ravage the Filipinos may result to 'zero-casualty'.

Start to be proactive.

Only me. Geo.

Ducks Quack. Eagles Soar.

2010-08-18T12:52:00.001-07:00

No one can make you serve customers well. That's because great service is a choice.

Harvey Mackay tells a wonderful story about a cab driver that proved this point.

He was waiting in line for a ride at the airport, when a cab pulled up. The first thing Harvey noticed was that the taxi was polished to a bright shine. Smartly dressed in a white shirt, black tie, and freshly pressed black slacks, the cab driver jumped out and rounded the car to open the back passenger door for Harvey.

He handed Harvey a laminated card and said -'I'm Wally, your driver. While I'm loading your bags in the trunk I'd like you to read my mission statement.' Taken aback, Harvey read the card. It said, "Wally's Mission Statement - To get my customers to their destination in the quickest, safest and cheapest way possible in a friendly environment."

This blew Harvey away. Especially when he noticed that the inside of the cab matched the outside. Spotlessly clean! As he slid behind the wheel, Wally said,' Would you like a cup of coffee? I have a thermos of regular and one of decaf.'

'No, I'd prefer a soft drink.' Said Harvey jokingly

Wally smiled and said, 'No problem. I have a cooler up front with regular and Diet Coke, water and orange juice.' Almost stuttering, Harvey said, 'I'll take a Diet Coke.'

Handing him his drink, Wally said, 'If you'd like something to read, I have The Wall Street Journal, Time, Sports Illustrated and USA Today.'

As they were pulling away, Wally handed my friend another laminated card. 'These are the stations I get and the music they play, if you'd like to listen to the radio.' And as if that weren't enough, Wally told Harvey that he had the air-conditioning on and asked if the temperature was comfortable for him.

Then he advised Harvey of the best route to his destination for that time of day. He also let him know that he'd be happy to chat and tell him about some of the sights or, if Harvey preferred, to leave him with his own thoughts.

'Tell me, Wally,' my amazed friend asked the driver, 'have you always served customers like this?'

Wally smiled into the rear view mirror. 'No not always. In fact, it's only been in the last two years. My first five years driving, I spent most of my time complaining like all the rest of the cabbies do.

Then I heard the personal growth guru, Wayne Dyer, on the radio one day. He had just written a book called 'You'll See It When You Believe It'. Dyer said that if you get up in the morning expecting to have a bad day, you'll rarely disappoint yourself.

He said, 'Stop complaining! Differentiate yourself from your competition. Don't be a duck. Be an eagle. Ducks quack and complain. Eagles soar above the crowd.'

'That hit me right between the eyes,' said Wally. 'Dyer was really talking about me. I was always quacking and complaining, so I decided to change my attitude and become an eagle. I looked around at the other cabs and their drivers. The cabs were dirty, the drivers were unfriendly, and the customers were unhappy. So I decided to make some changes. I put in a few at a time. When my customers responded well, I did more.'

'I take it that has paid off for you,' Harvey said.

'It sure has,' Wally replied. 'My first year as an eagle, I doubled my income from the previous year. This year I'll probably quadruple it. You were lucky to get me today. I don't sit at cabstands anymore. My customers call me for appointments on my cell phone or leave a message on my answering machine. If I can't pick them up myself, I get a reliable cabbie friend to do it and I take a piece of the action.'

Wally was phenomenal. He was running a limo service out of a Yellow Cab. I've probably told that story to more than fifty cab drivers over the years, and only two took the idea and ran with it. Whenever I go to their cities, I give them a call. The rest of the drivers quacked like ducks and told me all the reasons they couldn't do any of what I was suggesting. Wally the Cab Driver made a different choice. He decided to stop quacking like ducks and start soaring like eagles.

How about us? Smile, and the whole world smiles with you.

As they say 'The ball is in our hands'!!!!!! So do not sit and complain.....start to fly like an eagle.

This post originally came from a colleague who sent this through email. I just thought it was worth sharing.

Dear Teacheraka, patranslate naman

2010-08-18T12:50:00.000-07:00

From a youtube video: pakitranslate daw into Tagalog.

A mom's excuse letter on why her son can't take the exams.

Dear Teacheraka:

Kamustasa kalabasa? Keri ka lang ba? Bet kong ipagsabi sayels na wititit makakajosok sa iskulembang si Junakis ngayonchi. Rarampa kami ngayonchi at bet kong ka-join force si Junakis.

Nag-ispluk si Junakis na may periodical examinelya luli wawaw siya. Sana ay giblaban mo siya ng bonggang-bonggang especialinda examinelyaloo.

Trulibels yours,

Mudaks.

Original video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP9Jn8ZgmbY

Transcript of PNoy's First SONA

2010-07-26T17:10:00.001-07:00

State of the Nation Address
of His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III
President of the Philippines
to the Congress of the Philippines

Session Hall of the House of Representatives
July 26, 2010
Batasan Pambansa Complex, Quezon City

Speaker Feliciano Belmonte; Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile; Vice President Jejomar Binay; Chief Justice Renato Corona; Former Presidents Fidel Valdez Ramos and Joseph Ejercito Estrada; members of the House of Representatives and the Senate; distinguished members of the diplomatic corps; my fellow workers in government;

Mga minamahal kong kababayan:

Sa bawat sandali po ng pamamahala ay nahaharap tayo sa isang sangandaan.

Sa isang banda po ay ang pagpili para sa ikabubuti ng taumbayan. Ang pagtanaw sa interes ng nakakarami; ang pagkapit sa prinsipyo; at ang pagiging tapat sa sinumpaan nating tungkulin bilang lingkod-bayan. Ito po ang tuwid na daan.

Sa kabilang banda ay ang pag-una sa pansariling interes. Ang pagpapaalipin sa pulitikal na konsiderasyon, at pagsasakripisyo ng kapakanan ng taumbayan. Ito po ang baluktot na daan.

Matagal pong naligaw ang pamahalaan sa daang baluktot. Araw-araw po, lalong lumilinaw sa akin ang lawak ng problemang ating namana. Damang-dama ko ang bigat ng aking responsibilidad.

Sa unang tatlong linggo ng aming panunungkulan, marami po kaming natuklasan. Nais ko pong ipahayag sa inyo ang iilan lamang sa mga namana nating suliranin at ang ginagawa naming hakbang para lutasin ang mga ito.

Sulyap lamang po ito; hindi pa ito ang lahat ng problemang haharapin natin. Inilihim at sadyang iniligaw ang sambayanan sa totoong kalagayan ng ating bansa.

Sa unang anim na buwan ng taon, mas malaki ang ginastos ng gobyerno kaysa sa pumasok na kita. Lalong lumaki ang deficit natin, na umakyat na sa 196.7 billion pesos. Sa target na kuleksyon, kinapos tayo ng 23.8 billion pesos; ang tinataya namang gastos, nalagpasan natin ng 45.1 billion pesos.

Ang budget po sa 2010 ay 1.54 trillion pesos.

Nasa isandaang bilyong piso o anim at kalahating porsyento na lang ng kabuuan ang malaya nating magagamit para sa nalalabing anim na buwan ng taong ito.

Halos isang porsyento na lang po ng kabuuang budget ang natitira para sa bawat buwan.

Saan naman po dinala ang pera?

Naglaan ng dalawang bilyong piso na Calamity Fund bilang paghahanda para sa mga kalamidad na hindi pa nangyayari. Napakaliit na nga po ng pondong ito, ngunit kapapasok pa lang natin sa panahon ng baha at bagyo, 1.4 billion pesos o sitenta porsyento na ang nagastos.

Sa kabuuan ng 108 million pesos para sa lalawigan ng Pampanga, 105 million pesos nito ay napunta sa iisang distrito lamang. Samantala, ang lalawigan ng Pangasinan na sinalanta ng Pepeng ay nakatanggap ng limang milyong piso lamang para sa pinsalang idinulot ng bagyong Cosme, na nangyari noong 2008 pa.

Ibinigay po ang pondo ng Pampanga sa buwan ng eleksyon, pitong buwan pagkatapos ng Ondoy at Pepeng. Paano kung bumagyo bukas? Inubos na ang pondo nito para sa bagyong nangyari noong isang taon pa. Pagbabayaran ng kinabukasan ang kasakiman ng nakaraan.

Ganyan din po ang nangyari sa pondo ng MWSS. Kamakailan lamang, pumipila ang mga tao para lang makakuha ng tubig. Sa kabila nito, minabuti pa ng liderato ng MWSS na magbigay ng gantimpala sa sarili kahit hindi pa nababayaran ang pensyon ng mga retiradong empleyado.

Noong 2009, ang buong payroll ng MWSS ay 51.4 million pesos. Pero hindi lang naman po ito ang sahod nila; may mga additional allowances at benefits pa sila na aabot sa 160.1 million pesos. Sa madaling sabi, nakatanggap sila ng 211.5 million pesos noong nakaraang taon. Beinte-kuwatro porsyento lang nito ang normal na sahod, at sitenta’y sais porsyento ang dagdag.

Ang karaniwang manggagawa hanggang 13th month pay plus cash gift lang ang nakukuha. Sa MWSS, aabot sa katumbas ng mahigit sa tatlumpung buwan ang sahod kasama na ang lahat ng mga bonuses at allowances na nakuha nila.

Mas matindi po ang natuklasan natin sa pasahod ng kanilang Board of Trustees. Tingnan po natin ang mga allowances na tinatanggap nila:

Umupo ka lang sa Board of Trustees at Board Committee meeting, katorse mil na. Aabot ng nobenta’y otso mil ito kada buwan. May grocery incentive pa sila na otsenta mil kada taon.

Hindi lang iyon: may mid-year bonus, productivity bonus, anniversary bonus, year-end bonus, at Financial Assistance. May Christmas bonus na, may Additional Christmas Package pa. Kada isa sa mga ito, nobenta’y otso mil.

Sa suma total po, aabot ang lahat ng dalawa’t kalahating milyong piso kada taon sa bawat miyembro ng Board maliban sa pakotse, technical assistance, at pautang. Uulitin ko po. Lahat ng ito ay ibinibigay nila sa kanilang mga sarili habang hindi pa nababayaran ang mga pensyon ng kanilang mga retirees.

Pati po ang La Mesa Watershed ay hindi nila pinatawad. Para magkaroon ng tamang supply ng tubig, kailangang alagaan ang mga watershed. Sa watershed, puno ang kailangan. Pati po iyon na dapat puno ang nakatayo, tinayuan nila ng bahay para sa matataas na opisyal ng MWSS.

Hindi naman sila agad maaalis sa puwesto dahil kabilang sila sa mga Midnight Appointees ni dating Pangulong Arroyo. Iniimbestigahan na natin ang lahat nang ito. Kung mayroon pa silang kahit kaunting hiya na natitira – sana kusa na lang silang magbitiw sa puwesto.

Pag-usapan naman po natin ang pondo para sa imprastruktura. Tumukoy ang DPWH ng dalawandaan apatnapu’t anim na priority safety projects na popondohan ng Motor Vehicle Users Charge. Mangangailangan po ito ng budget na 425 million pesos.

Ang pinondohan po, dalawampu’t walong proyekto lang. Kinalimutan po ang dalawandaan at labing walong proyekto at pinalitan ng pitumpung proyekto na wala naman sa plano. Ang hininging 425 million pesos, naging 480 million pesos pa, lumaki lalo dahil sa mga proyektong sa piling-piling mga benepisyaryo lang napunta.

Mga proyekto po itong walang saysay, hindi pinag-aralan at hindi pinaghandaan, kaya parang kabuteng sumusulpot.

Tapos na po ang panahon para dito. Sa administrasyon po natin, walang kota-kota, walang tongpats, ang pera ng taumbayan ay gagastusin para sa taumbayan lamang.

Meron pa po tayong natuklasan. Limang araw bago matapos ang termino ng nakaraang administrasyon, nagpautos silang maglabas ng 3.5 billion pesos para sa rehabilitasyon ng mga nasalanta nina Ondoy at Pepeng.

Walumpu’t anim na proyekto ang paglalaanan dapat nito na hindi na sana idadaan sa public bidding. Labingsiyam sa mga ito na nagkakahalaga ng 981 million pesos ang muntik nang makalusot. Hindi pa nailalabas ang Special Allotment Release Order ay pirmado na ang mga kontrata.

Buti na lang po ay natuklasan at pinigilan ito ni Secretary Rogelio Singson ng DPWH. Ngayon po ay dadaan na ang kabuuan ng 3.5 billion pesos sa tapat na bidding, at magagamit na ang pondo na ito sa pagbibigay ng lingap sa mga nawalan ng tahanan dahil kina Ondoy at Pepeng.

Pag-usapan naman natin ang nangyari sa NAPOCOR. Noong 2001 hanggang 2004, pinilit ng gobyerno ang NAPOCOR na magbenta ng kuryente nang palugi para hindi tumaas ang presyo. Tila ang dahilan: pinaghahandaan na nila ang eleksyon.

Dahil dito, noong 2004, sumagad ang pagkakabaon sa utang ng NAPOCOR. Napilitan ang pambansang gobyerno na sagutin ang dalawandaang bilyong pisong utang nito.

Ang inakala ng taumbayan na natipid nila sa kuryente ay binabayaran din natin mula sa kaban ng bayan. May gastos na tayo sa kuryente, binabayaran pa natin ang dagdag na pagkakautang ng gobyerno.

Kung naging matino ang pag-utang, sana’y nadagdagan ang ating kasiguruhan sa supply ng kuryente. Pero ang desisyon ay ibinatay sa maling pulitika, at hindi sa pangangailangan ng taumbayan. Ang taumbayan, matapos pinagsakripisyo ay lalo pang pinahirapan.

Ganito rin po ang nangyari sa MRT. Sinubukan na namang bilhin ang ating pagmamahal. Pinilit ang operator na panatilihing mababa ang pamasahe.

Hindi tuloy nagampanan ang garantiyang ibinigay sa operator na mababawi nila ang kanilang puhunan. Dahil dito, inutusan ang Landbank at Development Bank of the Philippines na bilhin ang MRT.

Ang pera ng taumbayan, ipinagpalit sa isang naluluging operasyon.

Dumako naman po tayo sa pondo ng NFA.

Noong 2004: 117,000 metric tons ang pagkukulang ng supply ng Pilipinas. Ang binili nila, 900,000 metric tons. Kahit ulitin mo pa ng mahigit pitong beses ang pagkukulang, sobra pa rin ang binili nila.

Noong 2007: 589,000 metric tons ang pagkukulang ng supply sa Pilipinas. Ang binili nila, 1.827 million metric tons. Kahit ulitin mo pa ng mahigit tatlong beses ang pagkukulang, sobra na naman ang binili nila.

Ang masakit nito, dahil sobra-sobra ang binibili nila taun-taon, nabubulok lang pala sa mga kamalig ang bigas, kagaya ng nangyari noong 2008.

Hindi po ba krimen ito, na hinahayaan nilang mabulok ang bigas, sa kabila ng apat na milyong Pilipinong hindi kumakain ng tatlong beses sa isang araw?

Ang resulta nito, umabot na sa 171.6 billion pesos ang utang ng NFA noong Mayo ng taong ito.

Ang tinapon na ito, halos puwede na sanang pondohan ang mga sumusunod:

Ang budget ng buong Hudikatura, na 12.7 billion pesos sa taong ito.

Ang Conditional Cash Transfers para sa susunod na taon, na nagkakahalaga ng 29.6 billion pesos.

Ang lahat ng classroom na kailangan ng ating bansa, na nagkakahalaga ng 130 billion pesos.

Kasuklam-suklam ang kalakarang ito. Pera na, naging bato pa.

Narinig po ninyo kung paano nilustay ang kaban ng bayan. Ang malinaw po sa ngayon: ang anumang pagbabago ay magmumula sa pagsiguro natin na magwawakas na ang pagiging maluho at pagwawaldas.

Kaya nga po mula ngayon: ititigil na natin ang paglulustay sa salapi ng bayan. Tatanggalin natin ang mga proyektong mali.

Ito po ang punto ng tinatawag nating zero-based approach sa ating budget. Ang naging kalakaran po, taun-taon ay inuulit lamang ang budget na puno ng tagas. Dadagdagan lang nang konti, puwede na.

Sa susunod na buwan ay maghahain tayo ng budget na kumikilala nang tama sa mga problema, at magtutuon din ng pansin sa tamang solusyon.

Ilan lang ito sa mga natuklasan nating problema. Heto naman po ang ilang halimbawa ng mga hakbang na ginagawa natin.

Nandiyan po ang kaso ng isang may-ari ng sanglaan. Bumili siya ng sasakyang tinatayang nasa dalawampu’t anim na milyong piso ang halaga.

Kung kaya mong bumili ng Lamborghini, bakit hindi mo kayang magbayad ng buwis?

Nasampahan na po ito ng kaso. Sa pangunguna nina Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, BIR Commissioner Kim Henares at Customs Commissioner Lito Alvarez, bawat linggo po ay may bago tayong kasong isinasampa kontra sa mga smuggler at sa mga hindi nagbabayad ng tamang buwis.

Natukoy na rin po ang salarin sa mga kaso nina Francisco Baldomero, Jose Daguio at Miguel Belen, tatlo sa anim na insidente ng extralegal killings mula nang umupo tayo.

Singkuwenta porsyento po ng mga insidente ng extralegal killings ang patungo na sa kanilang resolusyon.

Ang natitira pong kalahati ay hindi natin tatantanan ang pag-usig hanggang makamit ang katarungan.

Pananagutin natin ang mga mamamatay-tao. Pananagutin din natin ang mga corrupt sa gobyerno.

Nagsimula nang mabuo ang ating Truth Commission, sa pangunguna ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide. Hahanapin natin ang katotohanan sa mga nangyari diumanong katiwalian noong nakaraang siyam na taon.

Sa loob ng linggong ito, pipirmahan ko ang kauna-unahang Executive Order na nagtatalaga sa pagbuo nitong Truth Commission.

Kung ang sagot sa kawalan ng katarungan ay pananagutan, ang sagot naman sa kakulangan natin sa pondo ay mga makabago at malikhaing paraan para tugunan ang mga pagkatagal-tagal nang problema.

Napakarami po ng ating pangangailangan: mula sa edukasyon, imprastruktura, pangkalusugan, pangangailangan ng militar at kapulisan, at marami pang iba. Hindi kakasya ang pondo para mapunan ang lahat ng ito.

Kahit gaano po kalaki ang kakulangan para mapunan ang mga listahan ng ating pangangailangan, ganado pa rin ako dahil marami nang nagpakita ng panibagong interes at kumpyansa sa Pilipinas.

Ito ang magiging solusyon: mga Public-Private Partnerships. Kahit wala pa pong pirmahang nangyayari dito, masasabi kong maganda ang magiging bunga ng maraming usapin ukol dito.

May mga nagpakita na po ng interes, gustong magtayo ng expressway na mula Maynila, tatahak ng Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, hanggang sa dulo ng Cagayan Valley nang hindi gugugol ang estado kahit na po piso.

Sa larangan ng ating Sandatahang Lakas:

Mayroon po tayong 36,000 nautical miles ng baybayin. Ang mayroon lamang tayo: tatlumpu’t dalawang barko. Itong mga barkong ito, panahon pa ni MacArthur.

May nagmungkahi sa atin, ito ang proposisyon: uupahan po nila ang headquarters ng Navy sa Roxas Boulevard at ang Naval Station sa Fort Bonifacio.

Sagot po nila ang paglipat ng Navy Headquarters sa Camp Aguinaldo. Agaran, bibigyan tayo ng isandaang milyong dolyar. At dagdag pa sa lahat nang iyan, magsusubi pa sila sa atin ng kita mula sa mga negosyong itatayo nila sa uupahan nilang lupa.

Sa madali pong sabi: Makukuha natin ang kailangan natin, hindi tatayo gagastos, kikita pa tayo.

Marami na pong nag-alok at nagmungkahi sa atin, mula lokal hanggang dayuhang negosyante, na magpuno ng iba’t ibang pangangailangan.

Mula sa mga public-private partnerships na ito, lalago ang ating ekonomiya, at bawat Pilipino makikinabang. Napakaraming sektor na matutulungan nito.

Maipapatayo na po ang imprastrukturang kailangan natin para palaguin ang turismo.

Sa agrikultura, makapagtatayo na tayo ng mga grains terminals, refrigeration facilities, maayos na road networks at post-harvest facilities.

Kung maisasaayos natin ang ating food supply chain sa tulong ng pribadong sektor, sa halip na mag-angkat tayo ay maari na sana tayong mangarap na mag-supply sa pandaigdigang merkado.

Kung maitatayo ang minumungkahi sa ating railway system, bababa ang presyo ng bilihin. Mas mura, mas mabilis, mas maginhawa, at makakaiwas pa sa kotong cops at mga kumokotong na rebelde ang mga bumibiyahe.

Paalala lang po: una sa ating plataporma ang paglikha ng mga trabaho, at nanggagaling ang trabaho sa paglago ng industriya. Lalago lamang ang industriya kung gagawin nating mas malinis, mas mabilis, at mas maginhawa ang proseso para sa mga gustong magnegosyo.

Pabibilisin natin ang proseso ng mga proyektong sumasailalim sa Build-Operate-Transfer. Sa tulong ng lahat ng sangay ng gobyerno at ng mga mamamayan, pabababain natin sa anim na buwan ang proseso na noon ay inaabot ng taon kung hindi dekada.

May mga hakbang na rin pong sinisimulan ang DTI, sa pamumuno ni Secretary Gregory Domingo:

Ang walang-katapusang pabalik-balik sa proseso ng pagrehistro ng pangalan ng kumpanya, na kada dalaw ay umaabot ng apat hanggang walong oras, ibababa na natin sa labinlimang minuto.

Ang dating listahan ng tatlumpu’t anim na dokumento, ibababa natin sa anim. Ang dating walong pahinang application form, ibababa natin sa isang pahina.

Nananawagan ako sa ating mga LGUs. Habang naghahanap tayo ng paraan para gawing mas mabilis ang pagbubukas ng mga negosyo, pag-aralan din sana nila ang kanilang mga proseso. Kailangan itong gawing mas mabilis, at kailangan itong itugma sa mga sinisumulan nating reporma.

Negosyante, sundalo, rebelde, at karaniwang Pilipino, lahat po makikinabang dito. Basta po hindi dehado ang Pilipino, papasukin po natin lahat iyan. Kailangan na po nating simulan ang pagtutulungan para makamit ito. Huwag nating pahirapan ang isa’t isa.

Parating na po ang panahon na hindi na natin kailangang mamili sa pagitan ng seguridad ng ating mamamayan o sa kinabukasan ng inyong mga anak.

Oras na maipatupad ang public-private partnerships na ito, mapopondohan ang mga serbisyong panlipunan, alinsunod sa ating plataporma.

Magkakapondo na po para maipatupad ang mga plano natin sa edukasyon.

Mapapalawak natin ang basic education cycle mula sa napakaikling sampung taon tungo sa global standard na labindalawang taon.

Madadagdagan natin ang mga classroom. Mapopondohan natin ang service contracting sa ilalim ng GASTPE.

Pati ang conditional cash transfers, na magbabawas ng pabigat sa bulsa ng mga pamilya, madadagdan na rin ng pondo.

Maipapatupad ang plano natin sa PhilHealth.

Una, tutukuyin natin ang tunay na bilang ng mga nangangailangan nito. Sa ngayon, hindi magkakatugma ang datos. Sabi ng PhilHealth sa isang bibig, walumpu’t pitong porsyento na raw ang merong coverage. Sa kabilang bibig naman, singkuwenta’y tres porsyento naman. Ayon naman sa National Statistics Office, tatlumpu’t walong porsyento ang may coverage.

Ngayon pa lang, kumikilos na si Secretary Dinky Soliman at ang DSWD upang ipatupad ang National Household Targetting System, na magtutukoy sa mga pamilyang higit na nagangailangan ng tulong. Tinatayang siyam na bilyon ang kailangan para mabigyan ng PhilHealth ang limang milyong pinakamaralitang pamilyang Pilipino.

Napakaganda po ng hinaharap natin. Kasama na po natin ang pribadong sektor, at kasama na rin natin ang League of Provinces, sa pangunguna nina Governor Alfonso Umali kasama sina Governor L-Ray Villafuerte at Governor Icot Petilla. Handa na pong makipagtulungan para makibahagi sa pagtustos ng mga gastusin. Alam ko rin pong hindi magpapahuli ang League of Cities sa pangunguna ni Mayor Oscar Rodriguez.

Kung ang mga gobyernong lokal ay nakikiramay na sa ating mga adhikain, ang Kongreso namang pinanggalingan ko, siguro naman maasahan ko din.

Nagpakitang-gilas na po ang gabinete sa pagtukoy ng ating mga problema at sa paglulunsad ng mga solusyon sa loob lamang ng tatlong linggo.

Nang bagyo pong Basyang, ang sabi sa atin ng mga may prangkisa sa kuryente, apat na araw na walang kuryente. Dahil sa mabilis na pagkilos ni Secretary Rene Almendras at ng Department of Energy, naibalik ang kuryente sa halos lahat sa loob lamang ng beinte-kwatro oras.

Ito pong sinasabing kakulangan sa tubig sa Metro Manila, kinilusan agad ni Secretary Rogelio Singson at ng DPWH. Hindi na siya naghintay ng utos, kaya nabawasan ang perwisyo.

Nakita na rin natin ang gilas ng mga hinirang nating makatulong sa Gabinete. Makatuwiran naman po sigurong umasa na hindi na sila padadaanin sa butas ng karayom para makumpirma ng Commission on Appointments. Kung mangyayari po ito, marami pa sa mga mahuhusay na Pilipino ang maeengganyong magsilbi sa gobyerno.

Sa lalong madaling panahon po, uupo na tayo sa LEDAC at pag-uusapan ang mga mahahalagang batas na kailangan nating ipasa. Makakaasa kayo na mananatiling bukas ang aking isipan, at ang ating ugnayan ay mananatiling tapat.

Isinusulong po natin ang Fiscal Responsibility Bill, kung saan hindi tayo magpapasa ng batas na mangangailangan ng pondo kung hindi pa natukoy ang panggagalingan nito. May 104.1 billion pesos tayong kailangan para pondohan ang mga batas na naipasa na, ngunit hindi maipatupad.

Kailangan din nating isaayos ang mga insentibong piskal na ibinigay noong nakaraan. Ngayong naghihigpit tayo ng sinturon, kailangang balikan kung alin sa mga ito ang dapat manatili at kung ano ang dapat nang itigil.

Huwag po tayong pumayag na magkaroon ng isa pang NBN-ZTE. Sa lokal man o dayuhan manggagaling ang pondo, dapat dumaan ito sa tamang proseso. Hinihingi ko po ang tulong ninyo upang amiyendahan ang ating Procurement Law.

Ayon po sa Saligang Batas, tungkulin ng estado ang siguruhing walang lamangan sa merkado. Bawal ang monopolya, bawal ang mga cartel na sasakal sa kumpetisyon. Kailangan po natin ng isang Anti-Trust Law na magbibigay-buhay sa mga prinsipyong ito. Ito ang magbibigay ng pagkakataon sa mga Small- at Medium-scale Enterprises na makilahok at tumulong sa paglago ng ating ekonomiya.

Ipasa na po natin ang National Land Use Bill.

Una rin pong naging batas ng Commonwealth ang National Defense Act, na ipinasa noon pang 1935. Kailangan nang palitan ito ng batas na tutugon sa pangangailangan ng pambansang seguridad sa kasalukuyan.

Nakikiusap po akong isulong ang Whistleblower’s Bill upang patuloy nang iwaksi ang kultura ng takot at pananahimik.

Palalakasin pa lalo ang Witness Protection Program. Alalahanin po natin na noong taong 2009 hanggang 2010, may nahatulan sa 95% ng mga kaso kung saan may witness na sumailalim sa programang ito.

Kailangang repasuhin ang ating mga batas. Nanawagan po akong umpisahan na ang rekodipikasyon ng ating mga batas, upang siguruhing magkakatugma sila at hindi salu-salungat.

Ito pong mga batas na ito ang batayan ng kaayusan, ngunit ang pundasyon ng lahat ng ginagawa natin ay ang prinsipyong wala tayong mararating kung walang kapayapaan at katahimikan.

Dalawa ang hinaharap nating suliranin sa usapin ng kapayapaan: ang situwasyon sa Mindanao, at ang patuloy na pag-aaklas ng CPP-NPA-NDF.

Tungkol sa situwasyon sa Mindanao: Hindi po nagbabago ang ating pananaw. Mararating lamang ang kapayapaan at katahimikan kung mag-uusap ang lahat ng apektado: Moro, Lumad, at Kristiyano. Inatasan na natin si Dean Marvic Leonen na mangasiwa sa ginagawa nating pakikipag-usap sa MILF.

Iiwasan natin ang mga pagkakamaling nangyari sa nakaraang administrasyon, kung saan binulaga na lang ang mga mamamayan ng Mindanao. Hindi tayo puwedeng magbulag-bulagan sa mga dudang may kulay ng pulitika ang proseso, at hindi ang kapakanan ng taumbayan ang tanging interes.

Kinikilala natin ang mga hakbang na ginagawa ng MILF sa pamamagitan ng pagdidisplina sa kanilang hanay. Inaasahan natin na muling magsisimula ang negosasyon pagkatapos ng Ramadan.

Tungkol naman po sa CPP-NPA-NDF: handa na ba kayong maglaan ng kongkretong mungkahi, sa halip na pawang batikos lamang?

Kung kapayapaan din ang hangad ninyo, handa po kami sa malawakang tigil-putukan. Mag-usap tayo.

Mahirap magsimula ang usapan habang mayroon pang amoy ng pulbura sa hangin. Nananawagan ako: huwag po natin hayaang masayang ang napakagandang pagkakataong ito upang magtipon sa ilalim ng iisang adhikain.

Kapayapaan at katahimikan po ang pundasyon ng kaunlaran. Habang nagpapatuloy ang barilan, patuloy din ang pagkakagapos natin sa kahirapan.

Dapat din po nating mabatid: ito ay panahon ng sakripisyo. At ang sakripisyong ito ay magiging puhunan para sa ating kinabukasan. Kaakibat ng ating mga karapatan at kalayaan ay ang tungkulin natin sa kapwa at sa bayan.

Inaasahan ko po ang ating mga kaibigan sa media, lalo na sa radyo at sa print, sa mga nagbablock-time, at sa community newspapers, kayo na po mismo ang magbantay sa inyong hanay.

Mabigyang-buhay sana ang mga batayang prinsipyo ng inyong bokasyon: ang magbigay-linaw sa mahahalagang isyu; ang maging patas at makatotohanan, at ang itaas ang antas ng pampublikong diskurso.

Tungkulin po ng bawat Pilipino na tutukan ang mga pinunong tayo rin naman ang nagluklok sa puwesto. Humakbang mula sa pakikialam tungo sa pakikilahok. Dahil ang nakikialam, walang-hanggan ang reklamo. Ang nakikilahok, nakikibahagi sa solusyon.

Napakatagal na pong namamayani ang pananaw na ang susi sa asenso ay ang intindihin ang sarili kaysa intindihin ang kapwa. Malinaw po sa akin: paano tayo aasenso habang nilalamangan ang kapwa?

Ang hindi nabigyan ng pagkakataong mag-aral, paanong makakakuha ng trabaho? Kung walang trabaho, paanong magiging konsumer? Paanong mag-iimpok sa bangko?

Ngunit kung babaliktarin natin ang pananaw—kung iisipin nating “Dadagdagan ko ang kakayahan ng aking kapwa"—magbubunga po ito, at ang lahat ay magkakaroon ng pagkakataon.

Maganda na po ang nasimulan natin. At mas lalong maganda po ang mararating natin. Ngunit huwag nating kalimutan na mayroong mga nagnanasang hindi tayo magtagumpay. Dahil kapag hindi tayo nagtagumpay, makakabalik na naman sila sa kapangyarihan, at sa pagsasamantala sa taumbayan.

Akin pong paniwala na Diyos at taumbayan ang nagdala sa ating kinalalagyan ngayon. Habang nakatutok tayo sa kapakanan ng ating kapwa, bendisyon at patnubay ay tiyak na maaasahan natin sa Poong Maykapal. At kapag nanalig tayo na ang kasangga natin ay ang Diyos, mayroon ba tayong hindi kakayanin?

Ang mandato nating nakuha sa huling eleksyon ay patunay na umaasa pa rin ang Pilipino sa pagbabago. Iba na talaga ang situwasyon. Puwede na muling mangarap. Tayo nang tumungo sa katuparan ng ating mga pinangarap.

Maraming salamat po.

23 Years, 23 Realizations

2010-07-04T10:31:00.001-07:00

Since I'm turning 23 today, here are the 23 most astounding realizations I've seen during the past year. Negative and positive realizations mix here.

1. I'm still a child at heart.

2. God-centered activism yields more results.

3. When hearts are broken, no pain is more difficult to bear.

4. Philippine politics really hasn't changed.

5. If I'm a DotA hero, I'm more of the end-game hero than the hero for the pushing.

6. The youth is now a stronger force to be reckoned with in society.

7. The military needs to know their place in society.

8. Your personal growth should matter; salary is just secondary.

9. I don't have a big appetite. I only have this urge to keep on chewing (hence, chewing gum should always be in my pocket).

10. Mahjong is a game of chance that can be scientifically won.

11. Statisticians have an unfair advantage over others in a casino and even in trading in the stock market.

12. Basketball, boxing, and Miss Universe still unite Filipinos because the country had its glory days in these arenas before.

13. A few minutes without music may drive me crazy.

14. Only in letting go of oneself can one derive happiness.

15. One thing good about the Philippines being a third-world country is that Filipinos keep on clinging to their faith to hope for a better future.

16. Shallow laughs imply shallow tears.

17. Despite your determination to achieve your goal, if God doesn't will, you really will not achieve it. (Meaning, He has something better for you).

18. The solace of the night gives you the chance to rethink and reflect on your life.

19. If I'm gonna relocate, it should be some place where there's a 24-hour convenience store nearby; sometimes I see that I need something in the wee hours of the night.

20. If it's not baroque (broke), don't fix it.

21. I have a something in common with President Noynoy Aquino - a Kris Aquino for a sister. (Right Apy?)

22. I can't live without my younger sister, a source of my laughter. (Right Apy?)

23. I JUST REGAINED THREE POUNDS! ARAY!

A new day has come

2010-06-30T03:33:00.000-07:00

30 June 2010
4:07 AM

Filipinos around the world are excited with what will happen in a matter of eight hours. For today the Filipino people will usher in a new chapter in their history - the oath-taking of the 15th president of the Republic of the Philippines, Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Cojuangco Aquino III, and the 16th vice-president of the Republic, Jejomar Cabauatan Binay.

Noynoy's ascent to the presidency has brought hope for many Filipinos who were disillusioned by nine dark years of corruption and widespread poverty - broken promises of EDSA II. As the curtain falls on the Arroyo regime to usher in the second Aquino presidency, Filipinos remain hopeful that the problems of corruption and poverty will be at the least minimized after six years.

But hope should not remain hope. In this new chapter we Filipinos must do our part in rebuilding this nation and healing its wounds. Together with the new administration we should usher in a new brand of activism - activism that does not divide but unites; activism that knows no boundaries nor colors; activism that dares to act.

As the song goes (see title): "Where it was dark, now there's light. Where there was pain, now there's joy." It is the responsibility of each and every Filipino to shed light on our fellow, to share the joy that is brought about by this new chapter in history. Let us now be proactive than reactive.

As we welcome the new president and vice president and usher in a new dawn, let us be one in rebuilding this nation. From a single match starts a blaze of flame. Let each and everyone be that match so that the flame of a new Philippines be seen throughout the world.

Pilipino, ipagmalaki mo ang iyong lahi. Mabuhay ka!

World Cup 2010 and what-have-yous.

2010-06-30T03:28:00.000-07:00

Okay. It's the end of June and I haven't written a blog yet. Damn writers bloc! Haha... So eto na ang blog na sapilitan. Hahaha

Yes. I'm hooked to the World Cup. And I'll be watching it until Brazil is eliminated (kailan kaya mangyari yon?). Sad to say, the dream of having the first Asian win the World Cup championship has been vanquished when Korea lost to Uruguay and Japan lost (kanina lang) to Paraguay. Haha sabi nga ng isa kong friend, "ano ba naman tong mga Latin American nations na to? Sa kanila na nga Miss Universe pati ba naman World Cup?" Wooh! Idol ko na si Kaka! Hahaha

Yun nga lang, because of my being hooked to the World Cup, hindi ko na nasundan ang isa pang exciting event - the French Open. Nalaman ko nalang kaninang hapon na that Rafael Nadal and Francesca Schiavone won the men's and women's singles tournaments, respectively. Nadal nanaman? (Kapatid ba siya ni Barbie Nadal? nyahaha)

Oh oo nga pala. Because of World Cup being staged in Africa, I have a new-found appreciation for African Music. Woot woot Lebo M! Haha I dunno but I'm drawn by the clicking African chants of "Lea Halalela" as much as I am hooked to the vuvuzelas (not Venezuelas!)

Waah... so this blog is sooo random. Kaya ang pagtatapos ay random din (re: Yes Yes Show ~ "di ko alam kung pano tatapusin ang kanta kaya ganito nalang bigla nalang mawawala.)

Postscript:
Shalani Soledad is in the limelight. I remember when I was a kid my nickname was "Noy". Kaya tanong ko: Bakit hindi ako ung naging "Noy" ni Shalani? hahaha jokes!

Why I went for JC Delos Reyes.

2010-05-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

Since January I have already declared that I will vote for Olongapo City Councilor John Carlos Gordon-delos Reyes for president. And since January I've been getting lots of flak for choosing him. And until now I am standing my ground.

Why?
Because I believe that a vote for JC is a vote for Integrity.

I've always valued integrity even before I became a member of Buklod-UPLB, a youth organization whose principles revolve around its pillars of Integrity, Initiative, and Involvement. And ever since I've opened myself to the world around me, I have never seen a Philippine government whose integrity remained intact. Yes, there may be leaders whose ability to lead is unquestionable, but with their lack of integrity, development in all aspects, most especially moral, remained stagnant, if not deteriorating.

"Konsehal lang si JC. Kulang pa siya sa experience"
That's one thing impressive about JC. Only having served two terms as Olongapo City councilor (1995-1998; 2007-2010), he has already presented numerous projects, livelihood programs, etc. that helped uplift the livelihood of his constituents and make Olongapo City the "model city" it is now today. On my last visit to the city, I was able to interact with the residents, and they attested that "it was Councilor JC who actually upped the development momentum of Olongapo that his uncle Dick Gordon started." Another resident even told me that Councilor JC's office in the City Hall always has the longest queue of people asking for help, because "kapag kay Konsehal JC dinulog, 100% may tugon". And outside government service, according to Political Arena, JC is "n active member since 1995 was the National Renewal Movement and the Ang Kapatiran National Political Party or the Alliance for the Common Good, a registered political party that seeks to promote the politics of genuine social concern. Presently, he is national animator of Solidarity Philippines, a movement to pro-actively advance the Social Justice Agenda of the Church and Executive-director of Breaking the Yoke of Poverty Foundation whose project is Jubilee homes for the Poor, a housing project for 60 families."

While it's true that there are candidates whose C.V. can be more impressive than what JC has to offer, JC's commitment to help his countrymen is never a questionable issue. [INITIATIVE]

"Masyado pang bata si JC."
A mentality that should be removed from the Filipinos is the so-called "Seniority Complex", wherein the elders are always right and the younger people should just listen to what the elder people have to say; and that young people are just alike - nothing good to contribute to society. My dad put this as the "mentality of the quitters." I firmly believe that it is time for the Philippines to recognize that the youth is becoming a strong force in society that needs to be reckoned with. Today's young generation are better equipped with knowledge and wisdom that makes them a significant contributor to society. And JC's youthfulness and vigor is nothing short of an inspiration to today's youth. [INVOLVEMENT]

"Hindi naman mananalo yang si JC dahil hindi siya kilala."
It was Councilor JC himself who told me, "Standing up for the truth and integrity is a victory in itself." Though I also recognize that it may really be a long shot for JC this elections, the fight for integrity he and his party, Ang Kapatiran, is waging is already a triumph. As we have always put it, "You only win when you are in truth." [INTEGRITY]

I'm not saying that you vote for JC (otherwise I'll be considered campaigning and will be kicked out of PPCRV). The only message that I would like to convey is that it is high time to bring INTEGRITY back in our government.

just a postscript...
If JC does not win, I hope it's Dick Gordon. hehe :)

TOGETHER LET US STOP THE CULTURE OF VIOLENCE. [a repost]

2010-05-03T07:17:00.001-07:00

We are Lester Pascua’s friends.

We come together to give a voice to his story.

Five unknown men, brandishing metal pipes and hidden by masks, viciously attacked our friend, Lester, in Katipunan at the night of April 29. As our friend Lester was walking to buy dinner, these men mercilessly, and without any provocation, attacked him. They ganged up on him and beat him to a pulp. As if their treachery and brutality was never enough, they soon drove off in a silver Vios (plate number ZMD 300) to escape.

As his friends, we continue to receive persistent reports that this crime was a fraternity-related hit gone wrong. Knowing that our friend Lester was never a fraternity member in UP, and had no known enemies, only heightens our suspicions that this was a case of mistaken identity. In our eyes, Lester was an innocent person caught up in a senseless act of vendetta.

Even as we still piece together what really happened in this case, and we trust our authorities in their investigation, we still condemn – in the strongest terms – this barbaric act. If it was indeed true that this was a fraternity hit, these men who attacked him are no different from criminals. These criminals, whoever they are, must not go unpunished.

We are angry that these things can actually happen in our streets. We are indignant that these hoodlums think that they can get away with their crimes. Nonetheless, we are united by our demand to exact justice.

As Lester’s friends, we come together as one to bring attention to his case, and never stop until the criminals who have done this to him are punished.

If you believe in what we stand for, please repost this note and tag your friends.

LET US SHOW THESE CRIMINALS THAT WE DON'T TAKE THIS SITTING DOWN.

For those who are against violence and for those who condemn the barbaric act against Lester, please copy this note and post it as a new one so you can tag your contacts. Thank you very much.

Isang Pagpupugay sa Magsisipagtapos

2010-04-19T08:35:00.000-07:00

Sa Sabado, magsasara na ang isang masayang kabanata sa iyong buhay at magbubukas naman ang panibago.

Ang isa sa mga bagay na ikinatanyag ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas ay ang islogan nitong "SERVE THE PEOPLE". Ito ang pinaka-esensya ng ating pagiging Iskolar ng Bayan at Iskolar para sa Bayan. Kahit bumababa ang subsidiya ng pamahalaan sa ating edukasyon, hindi pa rin natin maitatanggi na malaki ang naging papel ng sambayanang Pilipino sa ating de-kalidad na edukasyon.

Kaya't nararapat lamang nating ibalik ang lahat sa sambayanang Pilipino. Hindi naman kailangang isang bonggang pagpapakamatay para sa bayan ang iyong gawin. Maging mapagmatyag at magkaroon ng sariling opinyon sa mga nangyayari sa iyong paligid. Pangalagaan ang likas na yamang bigay sa atin ng Inang Kalikasan. At higit sa lahat, pahalagaan ang demokrasya at ang mga institusyong nagtataguyod nito. Kahit sa iyong sariling pamamaraan ay mapapakita mo na ikaw ay makakapag-SERVE THE PEOPLE.

Sa inyong paglisan sa Unibersidad nawa'y baunin nyo ang mahahalagang liksyon kasama ng magagandang mga alaala.

At lalo't lalo, huwag mong kakalimutan ang iyong pinanggalingan, na ikaw ay Iskolar ng Bayan para sa Bayan, isang titulong iyong panghahawakan magpakailanman at hindi maagaw ninuman.

ISANG TAAS KAMAONG PAGPUPUGAY PARA SA MGA MAGSISIPAGTAPOS NA ISKOLAR NG BAYAN PARA SA BAYAN!

They are not leaders if they cannot follow simple rules.

2010-03-29T13:11:00.001-07:00

The CERIS Homeowners Association Incorporated (CHAI), the homeowners association of Ceris I & II Village, Canlubang, Laguna made it a rule that NO CAMPAIGN POSTER OF ANY CANDIDATE RUNNING FOR ANY ELECTIVE POST, WHETHER NATIONAL OR LOCAL, IS ALLOWED TO BE POSTED IN ANY OF THE COMMON AREAS OF THE VILLAGE, INCLUDING VILLAGE FENCES, TREES, AND THE LIKE. This is primarily because Ceris Village is a private property, and COMELEC did not include private subdivisions in the list of common poster areas.

This rule has already been enforced since the elections of 2004. Violators are to face protests from CHAI. All candidates and parties have been notified of this rule. CHAI Officers have been diligently removing these illegally posted paraphernalia.

However, as of 5pm of Monday, March 29, 2009: the following have already violated the said rule:

RAMIL HERNANDEZ, Nacionalista, for Laguna governor
DAVE ALMARINEZ, Nacionalista, for Laguna vice-governor
BIM BELARMINO, Lakas-Kampi, for Laguna 2nd District Board Member
RUTH MARIANO HERNANDEZ, Nacionalista, for Calamba City Councilor
MIRIAM PLATON, Nacionalista, Calamba City Councilor
PIO DIMAPILIS, Lakas-Kampi, for Calamba City Councilor
PEEWEE PEREZ, Lakas-Kampi, for Calamba City Councilor
EDDIE CATINDIG, Liberal, for Calamba City Councilor
CRIS CONTRERAS, Liberal, for Calamba City Councilor

How can they be Laguna's and Calamba's leaders if they themselves cannot follow simple rules?

So that the public may know.
Maybe you can reconsider voting for the abovementioned names.

forging a new brand of activism,

Ramon Angelo O. Robrigado
Alumnus,
Buklod-UPLB

Injustice in the Judiciary

2010-03-23T04:51:00.000-07:00

On March 17, 2010, the Supreme Court allowed Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to appoint the successor of Chief Justice Reynato Puno despite the ban on appointive posts during the election period.

Article VII Sec 15 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution states that Two months before the next presidential elections and up to the end of his term, the President…shall not make appointments….

The constitution does not state that this provision is exclusively for appointive government officials. Hence, it can be argued that this provision is also meant for the judiciary, whose top positions are all appointive.

But the decision of 9 Supreme Court Justices (who, mind you, were all Arroyo-appointed) was indeed, as UP Alyansa put it in a speech delivered at the March 19, 2010 indignation rally, a "bastardization of our Constitution."

This is a blatant effort made by Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (notice that I don't put the word "President" anymore because she is not worthy of the title) to perpetuate herself and her, as one blogger put it, "Satanic" family in power. Her strategy of appointing Bangit in the helm of the AFP and now, another Arroyo appointee in the helm of the Supreme Court, are just the preliminaries for a greater scheme of things - a fearsome nationwide system of organized cheating to declare a national-level failure of elections.

We, as Filipinos, must act now and save our nation from more years of repression.

RESPECT THE CONSTITUTION!

STOP THE MIDNIGHT APPOINTMENT OF THE CHIEF JUSTICE!

SR's Open Letter to the UP Student Community

2010-03-19T06:01:00.001-07:00

BUKAS NA LIHAM SA MGA ISKOLAR NG BAYAN
HINGGIL SA PANGGIGIPIT AT PANUNUPIL NG BOR AT ADMINISTRASYONG PRESIDENT ROMAN LABAN SA OFFICE OF THE STUDENT REGENT

Opisina ng Rehente ng mga Mag-aaral
Unibersidad ng Pilipinas
March 8, 2010

Nagbabalik ang masalimuot na alaala at karanasan ng batas militar sa mga kasalukuyang pangyayari sa ating pinakamamahal na pamantasan.

Mula nang maitatag ang Office of the Student Regent (OSR) noong 1970, wala pang yugto sa kasaysayan ng ating Pamantasan kung saan nawalan ng kinatawan ang mga mag-aaral sa UP Board of Regents (BOR). Tanging sa loob ng isang dekada sa ilalim ng Batas Militar nilusaw ng diktadurya ang lahat ng mga institusyon at konseho ng mga mag-aaral, mga publikasyon at mga organisasyon sa loob ng pamantasan. Ngayong taon, matapos ang ilang dekada, Pebrero 25 nang ang BOR mismo ang tuluyang pumigil sa pag-upo sa kanilang pulong ang natatanging kinatawan ng mahigit 48,000 na mag-aaral ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas.

Isang malaking kawalan at disbentahe sa libu-libong mag-aaral ng UP ang pagtatanggal ni President Emerlinda Roman at ng BOR sa ating Student Regent (SR). Tangan ang militanteng tradisyon ng institusyon, ang OSR ay inaasahang kumatawan at magsulong ng mga interes at paninindigan ng mga mag-aaral hinggil sa mga usapin ng pamantasan, hanggang sa mga usapin sa pambansang saklaw.

Sa kabila ng mahalagang papel ng OSR sa demokratikong pamamahala sa ating pamantasan, tayo ay tinanggalan ng representasyon sa BOR.

Malinaw sa atin ang dahilan: Alam natin na hindi ito simpleng usapin ng pagsunod sa mga panuntunan ng pamantasan, sa halip,

ito ay hakbangin upang magsulong ng makasarili at makauring interes ng iilan sa loob ng BOR.

Ngayon, hinubad na ng BOR ang kanyang maskara at inilantad ang sarili—hindi ito kailanman nagsilbi sa interes ng mga mag-aaral at iba’t ibang sektor ng pamantasan, pagka’t ito’y nilikha upang bigyang-wangis o bigyang-ilusyon lamang na may demokratikong pamamahala sa ating pamantasan.

Pebrero 17, 2010 noong makatanggap ang SR ng liham mula sa Secretary of the University and of the Board of Regents na si Dr. Lourdes E. Abadingo. Nakasaad rito na sa pulong umano ng BOR noong Enero 29, 2010, “the Board of Regents agreed that you should no longer be allowed to participate in its deliberations as Student Regent for your failure to comply with the qualifications to continue serving as Student Regent…The Chair, however, has instructed the undersigned to invite you as Observer in the meeting of the Board scheduled on 25 February 2010”.

Walang pagtatangging tinatanggap ng SR ang naging kahinaan nito na makapagpasa ng application for residency sa takdang panahon sa UP Los Baños, ngunit ito’y hindi mulat na paglabag sa mga panuntunan ng pamantasan.

Sa panahong iyon, mapagpasyang inuna ng SR ang paggampan sa kanyang mga tungkulin at gawain sa buwan ng Nobyembre at maagang bahagi ng Disyembre. Bumisita ang SR sa iba’t ibang mga yunit ng UP upang maglunsad ng konsultasyon, umupo sa mga dayalogo hinggil sa pagtataas ng mga bayarin sa mga laboratoryo, magsaliksik sa mga usaping nakasampa sa BOR, at magbigay ng mga pag-aaral sa mga kapwa Iskolar ng Bayan. Lalo na’t iyon ang kritikal na panahon ng deliberasyon ng badyet para sa mga State Colleges and Universities (SUCs), kabilang na ang UP na kumakaharap sa P2 bilyong kaltas sa badyet. Naging bahagi rin ang SR ng mga pamprobinsiya at pambansang aktibidad ng mga kabataan. Hindi rin ito nawala sa mga pambansang araw ng pagkilos ng mga kabataan at mamamayan para sa kanilang karapatan sa edukasyon at batayang serbisyong panlipunan.

Bukod rito, hindi na kailanman naging maluwag at ganap na malaya para sa SR ang pagluwas papuntang UPLB nang walang pangamba sa seguridad matapos makaranas ng red-tagging, sampu ng mga naging kasamahan nito sa Konseho ng Mag-aaral ng UPLB, UPLB Perspective at Samahan ng Kabataan para sa Bayan (SAKBAYAN), mga lehitimong estudyante, at miyembro ng kaguruan sa UPLB. ng Kasabay ng naging hayagang presensya ng mga militar sa UPLB campus, palagian at masaklaw rin ang pagpapakalat ng mga black propaganda sa UPLB campus, pinararatangan ang SR at mga kasamahan nito bilang mga terorista at kasapi ng CPP-NPA-NDFP—suliranin na matagal nang naiulat sa administrasyon ng UPLB ngunit hanggang sa kasalukuyan ay wala pang wastong tugon mula sa Chancellor nito na si Dr. Luis Rey Velasco.

Mariin nating pinabubulaanan ang ipinapalaganap ng administrasyon ni President Roman na ang mayor na dahilan sa pagtatanggal sa SR ay ang usapin ng bona fide status nito.

Kung ito nga ang mayor na dahilan, madali itong maresolba sa pamamagitan ng pag-rekomenda at pag-aapruba ng kanyang application for residency sa UPLB.

IBAYONG PANGGIGIPIT AT PANLILINLANG ANG DINANAS NG SR

Sa kasalukuyan, naisasandal ang administrasyon ni UPLB Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco sa hindi nito pantay na pagturing sa SR at sa iba pang estudyante ng UPLB. Malinaw na kaiba ang pinagdadaanang proseso ng SR sa karaniwang proseso ng late application for residency. Bago pa ang pagpupulong ng BOR noong Disyembre 18, 2009, gumawa na ang SR ng liham para sa application for residency sa payo ng College Secretary ng College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) sa UPLB. Matapos makuha ang endorsement ng Adviser, Department Chair at College Secretary, ipinadala ang mga dokumento sa Office of the Chancellor.

Buwan ang lumipas at hindi pa rin ito inaaprubahan sa kabila nang napag-alaman natin na noong Pebrero 3 at Pebrero 16, 2010, dalawang estudyante mula sa UPLB ang kagyat na nakakuha ng late residency sa mismong araw na iyon. Tanging endorsement lamang ng kanilang College Secretary ang kinailangan upang payagan ang mga ito na mag-enroll. ‘Di tulad ng dalawang nasabing estudyante, kahit na residency form lamang ay hindi ibinibigay sa SR, bagama’t may endorsement na ng College Secretary ang application for residency ng SR.

Sa regular na proseso ng late application for residency, hindi na kinakailangang umabot sa Office of the Chancellor ang nasabing application, kaya naman kagyat na humingi na rin ang SR ng aksyon mula sa Dekano ng CAS na si Dr. Asunsion Raymundo sapagkat ito ang may pangunahing jurisdiction upang magpasya sa application. Bilang aksyon, iniakyat muli nito ang mga dokumento ng SR sa Office of the Chancellor—prosesong hindi naman pinagdaanan ng mga estudyante ng UPLB o ng anumang UP unit na humingi rin ng late application for residency. Bagama’t maaaring umaksyon ang Dekano ng CAS at bagama’t sila mismo ang nagsabi na dalhin sa Office of the Chancellor ang application, ang naging tugon ng Dekano sa liham ng SR ay “since you had already elevated the matter to the level of the Chancellor, the decision/mandate now lies on him”.

Pinabubulaanan natin ang ipinapalaganap ng administrasyon ni President Roman sa kanilang mga opisyal na pahayag na iniatras ‘di umano ng SR ang application for residency nito noong Enero 12. Kahit kailan, hindi sumulat at nagpasa ang SR ng pormal na liham sa Office of the Chancellor na iniaatras nito ang application for residency, hindi kailanman ito sumulat ng pormal na liham na pinahihintulutan ang sino man na iatras ito sa kanyang ngalan. Patunay rito ang mga liham ni Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco sa SR noong Pebrero 18 at Marso 3 kung saan dine-deny nito ang pag-aapruba sa nasabing application.

Pinabubulaanan rin natin ang ipinapalaganap ng administrasyon ni President Roman na aktwal na pagfa-file ng Leave of Absence (LOA) ng SR. Sumulat ang abogado ng SR na si Atty. Julius Matibag sa Dekano ng CAS upang tunggaliin ang sinasabi ng UPLB na hindi maaaring mag-LOA ang SR dahil sa mga nakabinbin na kaso sa Student Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT) at may intensyon itong mag-file kung gayunman. Ipinagkamali ng Dekano ng CAS ang liham na ito sa aktwal na pagfa-file ng LOA. Ito ay mga impormasyon hindi wastong inilalathala ng administrasyon ni President Roman.

Mapagbalat-kayong nagdadahilan ang administrasyon ni President Roman na ang pagsunod sa panuntunan ang tanging dahilan kung bakit tinanggal ang SR sa BOR, samantalang malinaw na sila at si Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco mismo ang tunay na nagmamalabis, lumalabag, at nag-mamaniobra sa mga proseso ng pamantasan upang maging pabor sa kanila. Malakas ang loob ni Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco na sabihin na siya ay nagpapasiya batay sa “merits” at pantay umano ang pagturing niya sa kaso ng SR at ng iba pang estudyante ng UPLB, habang ang administrasyon niya mismo ang nanlinlang sa SR mula sa wastong proseso na dapat nitong pagdaanan. Mapagbalat-kayo nitong sinasabi na ang kaso ng SR ay kakaiba, ngunit ang malinaw na tanging kaibahan ni Charisse Bernadine Bañez sa iba pang estudyante ng UPLB ay siya ang tanging kinatawan ng mga mag-aaral sa pinakamataas na lupon nito at susi ang pusisyong upang ilantad ang pagmamalabis ng administrasyon ng UPLB. Mapagbalat-kayong nagdadahilan ang BOR na ang dahilan sa pagtatanggal sa SR ay ang “failure to comply with the qualifications to continue serving as Student Regent” habang “incapacity to enroll or file an LOA” at hindi “failure” ang nakalagay sa CRSRS. Malinaw na may kapasidad ang SR na mag-apply kundi lamang iniipit at inaabuso ni Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco ang discretion ng administrasyon nito.

Sa lahat ng ito, hindi maitatanggi na may panlilinlang, panlilito, at pagkukubli ng mga detalye sa bahagi ng UP administration upang ipagtanggol ang pagtatanggal sa SR.

PAGTANGGAL SA SR, SUSI SA PAGPAPATALSIK RIN SA PGH DIRECTOR

Ang pagkakapanalo ni Dr. Jose Gonzales bilang bagong direktor ng UP Philippine General Hospital (PGH) ay isa sa minsang mga pagkakataon na nagtagumpay ang mga sektoral na representasyon sa BOR—ang Student, Faculty at Staff Regents—at nanaig ang desisyon ng mga sektor ng Unibersidad. Ngunit malinaw na hindi ito mapahintulutan nina President Roman at ng Malacanang.

Sa araw ng Disyembre 18, 2009, alinsunod sa palagiang ini-invoke¬ ng administrasyon ni President Roman at kanyang Vice President for Legal Affairs na si Atty. Theodore Te na Section 13 (T) ng UP Charter “the Board of Regents has the power ‘to prescribe rules for its own government’” (na nangangahulugan na may kapasyahan ito sa mga usapin inihahapag rito) pinagbotohan ang mosyon ni President Roman na gawing observer lamang ang SR. Natalo ang kanyang mosyon, 5-4 (pabor sa OSR).

Kabilang sa mga pangyayari na hindi inilalathala ng administrasyon ni President Roman ay ang pagpayag nila mismo na lumahok sa nasabing botohan at hindi pagrehistro ng anumang pagtutol rito. Kahit sa usapin ng paglahok at pagboto ng SR, sila ay pumayag at walang bakas ng pagrerehistro ng anumang “objection” rito. Matapos silang matalo sa botohan para sa PGH Director, saka nila tumutol sa resolusyong sila mismo ang lumahok. Ibinabato ng administrasyon ni President Roman na hindi dapat bumoto ang SR sa nasabing usapin, simple lang ang kasagutan—hindi katulad ng mga Malacañang Appointees na ang tanging kinakatawan ay ang kanilang mga sarili (o di kaya’y ang naglagay sa kanila sa pusisyon),

kinakatawan ng SR hindi ang kanyang sarili ngunit ang pinakamalaking sektor sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas—ang mga mag-aaral. Ang hindi pagboto ng SR ay hindi pagboto ng mga mag-aaral.

Sa kaparehas na araw, Disyembre 18, mapagpasyang boto ang ibinigay natin kay Dr. Jose Gonzales dahil, ‘di gaya ng mga kandidatong may basbas ng Malacañang, malinaw ang kaniyang paninindigan na ang batayang serbisyong pangkalusugan ay karapatan ng mamamayan at gayundin ang sa kanyang matibay na pagtindig laban sa pribatisasyon ng Philippine General Hospital. Si Dr. Gonzales ang napili ng BOR sa botong 6-5 (kabilang ang boto ni Sen. Mar Roxas at Cong. Cynthia Villar).

Hindi kailanman naipaliwanag ni President Roman at ng mga Malacañang Appointees kung bakit hindi nila gusto si Dr. Gonzales bilang bagong halal na direktor ng UP PGH. Matapos ang muntikan nang hindi pag-appoint at pagbibigay ng oath of office kay Dr. Gonzales sa maagang bahagi ng Enero, agad nilang sinubok na tanggalin ang PGH Director at ang SR sa pulong ng BOR noong Enero 29, 2010. Dahil sa malinaw na maniobra sa proseso, nagpasya ang apat na rehente—student, faculty, staff at alumni regents—na mag-walkout sa nasabing pulong. Sa kabila ng kawalan ng quorum o sapat na bilang upang magpasya, unilateral na tinanggal President Roman at ng mga Malacañang Appointees ang SR sa BOR.

Nagsampa na ng kaso ang SR laban sa UP Board of Regents sa Quezon City Regional Trial Court.

PAGKUKUBLI AT KATIWALIAN, KINAKANLONG NG ADMINISTRASYON NG PAMANTASAN

Isang taon nang ikinukubli ng adminstrasyon ni President Roman at ng mga Malacañang Appointees sa komunidad ng UP na lagpas isang taon nang expired ang mga termino ng appointments ng tatlong Malacañang Appointees na sina “Regents” Francis Chua, Nelia Gonzales at Abraham Sarmiento; isang katohohanang ikinubli at kailanman ay hindi binabanggit nina Pres. Roman sa tuwing nagtatanong ang BOR Chair kung may quorum ba sa mga pulong. Ang mga nasabing “Regents” ay hindi appointed bilang regular regents (na may tiyak na termino sa loob ng 2 taon) kundi bilang acting regents lamang, na sa ilalim ng Administrative Code of 1987, hindi maaaring lumampas ang termino ng isang taon—usapin na hindi masagot ng administrasyon ni President Roman at may pagtatangka pang lusutan sa pamamagitan ng pag-iiba ng pakahulugan sa “acting” sa “temporary”.

Sa pulong ng BOR noong Pebrero 25, 2010, maka-isang panig na tinanggal si Dr. Gonzales bilang PGH Director (nang wala pa ring paliwanag) at sa kabila ng paggigiit ng mga sektoral na representasyon sa BOR na magkonsulta, sa mosyon ni President Roman, maka-isang panig rin na inaprubahan ni President Roman at Malacañang Appointed “Regents” ang pagrerekomenda ng kanilang mga pangalan kay Gng. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo para sa kanilang regular appointment.

Sa mga pangyayaring ito, lantad na sa atin ang tunay na katangian ng UP Board of Regents at kung kaninong interes ang pinagsisilbihan ng mga ito. Payag ang iilang makapangyarihang ito sa prosesong sila mismo ang lumikha hangga’t ito’y paborable sa kanilang pangkat. Minamalaki ang pagkukulang ng tumitindig laban sa komersyalisado at pribatisadong landas na tinatahak ng pamantasan habang minamaliit at ikinukubli ang panlilinlang ng mga kakatig nila sa pagtataas ng matrikula at iba pang bayarin at paglalako ng pamantasan sa pribadong interes.

Tinanggal sa Board of Regents ang Rehente na may tunay na mandato habang abot-langit na pinagtatakpan ang panlilinlang ng mga Rehente na ang tanging kinakatawan ay interes ng Malacañang sa pamantasan.

Hindi Board of Regents ang magdidikta sa pagtatanggal sa ating kinatawan. At ang sino mang magtangkang humati sa ating hanay ay walang ipinagkaiba sa kanila.

Hindi kinakatawan ng SR ang kanyang sarili. Ang bawat atake na tinatanggap nito ay hindi atake sa kanyang sarili kundi atake sa karapatan sa representasyon ng lahat ng mag-aaral ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas.

Ang bawat bigwas na tinanggap nito ay bigwas sa ating karapatan sa edukasyon na pinagbayaran ng mga naunang mabubuting anak ng ating pamantasan. Ang laban ng OSR ay laban ng lahat ng mag-aaral ng pamantasan ng bayan.

Totoo at materyal ang tunggalian ng mga interes sa loob ng pamantasan. At tanging sa sama-samang pagkilos lamang tayo matagumpay na mananaig. Mananaig tayo hindi para sa ating mga sarili, kundi para sa interes at karapatan ng kabataan sa edukasyon at upang itaguyod ang tunay na demokratikong pamamahala sa pamantasang walang-imbot na nagsisilbi sa sambayanan.

Para sa mga mag-aaral at sa sambayanan,

CHARISSE BERNADINE I. BAÑEZ
UP Student Regent

Atty. Te's reply on the PDI Article Re: SR Issue

2010-03-19T05:59:00.001-07:00

REPLY TO ARTICLE BY MARICAR CINCO, PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER
Monday, March 15, 2010

10 March 2010

Mr Jorge V. Aruta
Opinion Editor
Philippine Daily Inquirer
1098 Chino Roces Street
corner Mascardo Street
Makati City, Metro Manila

Dear Mr. Aruta:

On behalf of the University of the Philippines, allow us to react to the story by Maricar Cinco entitled “UP STUDENT REGENT: I WAS ALLOWED TO VOTE IN PGH POLL” (PDI, March 7, 2010) by stating the following:

1. It is untrue that Ms. Charisse Banez, former student regent, “was not enrolled this school year because she had completed her academic requirements ahead of schedule and was awaiting graduation.” She herself admitted on two occasions before the Board of Regents that she was not enrolled because she was “busy.” She also admits this in her Complaint before the RTC of Quezon City. Despite having completed all the academic requirements for her degree, she knew that she needed to enroll to be nominated and to remain student regent; this much she admits when she enrolled for residency for the first semester.

2. It is misleading and false to say that Ms. Bañez was allowed to vote on the election of the PGH Director because the BOR had deliberated and voted on a motion of the UP President to “revoke her right to vote on the ground that she was not a bona fide student of the state university.”

On December 18, 2009, the UP President, at the start of the meeting, brought up the issue of Ms. Banez’s disqualification as Student Regent because she did not enroll for the second semester, a fact she admitted. At that point, it was clear that she was not qualified to sit as Student Regent because she was not a student and there was no disagreement among the regents on this matter. In fact, the President had already pointed out that the seat has been ipso facto vacated by Ms. Banez’s failure to enroll.

The President’s motion to allow Ms. Banez to continue participating in the December 18, 2009 BOR meeting but only as an observer was in response to an observation by the Faculty Regent that the students would be deprived of representation if Ms. Banez was asked to leave. Clearly the context of the observation of the Faculty Regent was to allow Ms. Banez to remain in the room, despite a clear disqualification on her part to sit as Student Regent. For this reason, the President moved that Banez be allowed to remain in the room, even if she was no longer a regent, but this time as an observer. The only “error” was in allowing Banez to remain in the room when the President’s motion to have her sit as an observer was defeated; as a non-student, she was not entitled to be in the room.

3. Ms. Banez’s references to a Malacanang block are unfortunate and unbecoming of a regent. This is ad hominem argumentation and name-calling that has no place in the Board of Regents of the national university.

4. Ms. Banez faults the President and the three government regents for actively voting on the President’s motion. It is strange that she would say this if she understands basic parliamentary procedure. That President Roman and the other regents voted on the motion is insignificant because it was their job to do so; that Ms. Banez voted and voted for herself is the height of impropriety and lack of delicadeza. The vote on the UP President’s motion, taken by secret ballot, was 5-4; clearly, had she done the ethical thing, the vote would have been 4-4 and inconclusive and Ms. Banez would have been asked to leave the room.

5. Ms. Banez says that she was surprised that Dr. Rolando Enrique Domingo, the PGH Director, was elected in the February meeting because his name had been supposedly removed from the list.

Dr. Domingo had not been disqualified by the BOR on December 18, 2009. When the Board voted, they were voting on the three nominees, as forwarded by the Chancellor of UP Manila. There was nothing sinister about Dr. Domingo’s name again being considered during the February 25, 2010 meeting. The Board simply took up the original list after it had disqualified Ms. Banez and annulled the vote taken on December 18, 2009 because of the decisive nature of Ms. Banez’s vote (it being a 6-5 vote).

6. On the three regents whose continued stay in the BOR has been questioned by Ms. Banez indirectly in her Complaint for Injunction, it is sufficient to say simply that two of those regents were appointed before the UP Charter took effect and so their term of office is defined by the law prevailing at that time, which prescribes that they stay in office up to two years or until replaced. For the third regent whose acting appointment was issued in September 2008, the acting appointment is for a public office with a fixed term, two years; that term ends in September 2010. The only effect of an acting appointment is that the holder of the acting appointment can be replaced at any time before the two year period. None of the three regents holding acting appointments have been replaced. By law, their continued membership in the BOR is legal and they remain fully qualified. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of Banez.

7. As for the two UPLB students whose applications for late registration for residency were approved and which Ms. Banez claims is unfair, it is sufficient to say that Ms. Banez never complied with any of the rules prescribed for late registration or late LOA; the two students did. Moreover, the documents submitted to the UPLB Chancellor’s office show that a request for late registration was submitted and then later withdrawn by Ms. Banez’s authorized representative; later, she would ask her lawyer to submit a letter of intent to take a leave of absence without filing an actual application for LOA. Under these circumstances, it would be almost impossible for the UPLB authorities to act on her application because her intentions were unclear, at best.

The news item ends with a quote from Ms. Banez that “It is unfair.” Perhaps it is high time to ask Ms. Banez if it was fair to her constituents that she deprive them of representation simply by refusing to do something so fundamental and so basic and so elementary? The UP has been transparent on this issue. A factual chronology is available on the University website; UP officials are always available for comment or reaction. It is thus surprising that the news item was printed without reaction from UP’s part.

In the interest of fair play, may we request that this reply be given the same prominence as that given to Ms. Banez.

Thank you.

ATTY. THEODORE O. TE
Vice President for Legal Affairs
University of the Philippines System

It's PI100: memories

2010-03-17T09:43:00.001-07:00

It's PI100
(to the tune of Love Story by Taylor Swift)

We were all old when I first saw you
I close my eyes and the flashbacks start
You're standing there
Behind you is Mam Beng

I see Rizal, I see the Fili, the Noli
I see you make your way to your seat
Mam Beng says hello
Little did we know

That you were seated there, I was seated here
Mam Beng said stay away from our cellphones
And she was sitting on her table
Telling us "ako ang panginoon"

No one said, Please take us somewhere
We wanna be alone
We were waiting for the semester to end
No one's a prince, no one's a princess
It's PI100, baby just say yes!

Then I sneaked out to the tindahan sa kanto
I was quiet coz i'm dead if she knew
Didn't close my eyes
Wanna escape this class for a little while

Then came the exam, I can't write a letter
Mam Beng said stay away from other papers
But I can't really answer
Exam, please just go

No one said, Please take us somewhere
We wanna be alone
We were waiting for the semester to end
No one's a prince, no one's a princess
It's PI100, baby just say yes!

Help us, save us, we wanna pass this course
This course is difficult, but it's real
I am afraid, wanna be out of this mess
It's PI100, baby just say yes!

Then we were waiting
At women's dorm, do the filming
Our group was really shaking
When we filmed on the freedom park

Aira said, Yaya take Pepe somewhere you could be alone
We'll be waiting, all you have to do is run
The sun's over my head, we don't know what we're doing
Someone fell to the ground, pulled out her hair and said,

"Ang hirap Aira, we can never be alone"
I hate this and that's all I really know
Can we talk to Mam Beng, and pick out another topic
It's Pi100, baby just say yes!

Now we were all old when we've done this!

Chronology of Events on the SR Issue

2010-03-16T12:55:00.000-07:00

Student Regent Issue PDF Print E-mail
Written by Office of the Chancellor
Friday, 05 March 2010 17:10

CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS

SDT CASE 08-01
(UPLB and CEB versus Charisse Bernadine Bañez)

SDT CASE 09-14
(UPLB versus Charisse Bernadine Bañez)

Feb. 8, 2008
Five College Secretaries who were members of the Central Electoral Board (CEB) for the University Student Council elections, filed a formal complaint with the UPLB SDT against Ms. Charisse Bernadine I. Bañez, Vice Chair of the UPLB USC, for “behaving with gross misconduct and deliberate discourtesy” against College Secretaries during a meeting of the CEB on February 6, 2008.

Note: While the case was being heard, Ms. Bañez was elected as Chair of the UPLB Student Council for SY 2008-2009.

April 3, 2008
Ms. Banez wrote to Atty. Florinida Blanca, SDT Chair, providing clarification on the complaint filed by some college Secretaries against her, explaining her manner of debating from the perspective of parliamentary procedures, etc.

Sept. 10, 2008
OSA Director Severino E. Cuevas issued a Formal Charge for SDT Case 08-01, UP Los Baños and CEB versus Charisse Bernadine I. Bañez

Feb. 18, 2009
Another complaint letter was submitted by some bona fide UPLB students against all officers of University Student Councils of UPLB since the administration of Mr. Leo XL Fuentes (AY 2007-2008) to the present (AY 2008-2009) led by Ms. Charisse Bernadine Banez, for violations of the UPLB USC Constitution.

April 7, 2009
OSA Director Dr. Vivian A. Gonzales issued Formal Charge for SDT Case 09-14a, UP Los Baños versus Acuña, Arbeen et al which included Charisse Bernadine I. Bañez, for violation of the 1984 Constitution

April 13, 2009
The Student Disciplinary Tribunal rendered a decision on SDT Case 08-01 against Charisse Bernadine I. Banez, finding her “guilty of misconduct” and imposing the “penalty of EXPRESSION OF APOLOGY, both written and oral, and submission of certification that she executed both, with a warning that in case of a second offense, she shall be penalized severely.”

Note: On 14 April 2009, the General Assembly of U.P. Student Councils (GASC) unanimously selected Ms. Bañez as the new 2009 Student Regent.

Note: Ms. Bañez completed all academic requirements for the 2009 graduation but was not recommended for graduation by the University council because of her pending cases.

May 29, 2009
BOR acknowledged the election of Ms. Banez. However, her Oath as Student Regent shall be administered once she has complied with the requirements of the Board during the BOR 1243th meeting held on May 29, 2009 at UP Visayas, to wit:

“1) As required of her by the Student Disciplinary Tribunal, she is to apologize to those she has been found discourteous to, and such apology should be both oral and in writing, publicly made; and

2)As demanded by the UPLB student complainants and as provided for in the rules set by the UPLB students themselves, she is to submit financial reports and other documents to account for proceeds from the February Fairs for her term and that of her predecessor’s.

June 18, 2009
Ms. Bañez wrote a letter of apology to the UPLB CEB and specifically to Prof. Lolita Vega, Prof. Mutya Manalo, Dr. Benjamin Reuel Marte, Prof. Agnes Banzon and Prof. Myrna Borines. Attached to the letter was a certification of the expression of apology. It showed that both written and oral apology was not rendered to Prof. Lolita Vega and an oral apology was not rendered to Prof. Borines. An apology to the CEB as a body was not also rendered.

July 27, 2009
Atty. Peralta, SDT Chair, wrote Dean Asuncion Raymundo informing her that based on the certification submitted by Ms. Bañez, it appears that Ms. Bañez have partially complied with the penalty prescribed by the SDT for SDT Case No. 08-01.

Dec. 7, 2009
The SDT rendered a decision on SDT Case No. 09-14, finding Ms. Bañez guilty and seven other respondents to have “violated the provisions of the 1984 USC Constitution”…and were “ordered suspended for a period not exceeding six months pursuant to Sec 24 (m) of the Rules and Regulations of Student Conduct and Discipline approved by the BOR on June 1992.”

Dec. 10, 2009
Dean Asuncion Raymundo, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, wrote to Chancellor Luis Rey I. Velasco informing him that Ms. Banez has not enrolled yet for the second semester of AY 2009-2010 and that her status is AWOL. The college also noted the receipt of the suspension order for Ms. Bañez thus she needs to file for Residence this Second Semester AY 2009-2010 to serve the suspension ordered by SDT

Dec. 15, 2009
Chancellor Luis Rey I. Velasco wrote to Pres. Emerlinda R. Roman informing her that UPLB SDT ordered the suspension of some members of the UPLB Student Council 2008-2009, including Ms. Bañez. He also informed the President of the need for Ms. Bañez to file for residence to serve her suspension but as of this time, she has not enrolled yet, rendering her as a non-bonafide student of UPLB.

Dec. 16, 2009
Ms. Banez wrote to Chancellor Velasco requesting that she be permitted to register or file for residency for the second semester AY 2009-2010. The letter, which was received by the Office of the Chancellor on January 11, 2010, included an authorization for a certain Ma. Elena Carlos to process the request to register or file for residency on her behalf.

Dec. 16, 2009
Ms. Banez submitted Motion for Reconsideration for SDT Case No. 09-14 through her counsel, Atty. Julius G. Matibag.

Jan. 11, 2010
Chancellor Velasco wrote Ms. Banez in response to her letter dated Dec. 16, 2009. He requested Ms. Bañez to submit a written explanation of why she failed to register during the regular registration period. The letter was sent to the Office of the Student Regent and a copy was sent through Ms. Elena Carlos on January 12, 2010.

Jan. 12, 2010
Atty. Julius Garcia Matibag, as Legal Counsel of Ms. Banez, wrote to Dean Asuncion Raymundo, requesting for a leave of absence for the Second Semester AY 2009-2010.

Jan. 12, 2010
The original letter of Ms. Banez addressed to Chancellor Velasco dated Dec. 16, 2009 was withdrawn by Ms. Carlos, accordingly, upon the instruction of Ms Bañez.

Jan. 15, 2010
Ms. Banez called the Office of the Chancellor and confirmed that she asked Ms. Carlos to withdraw her letter request. When asked if she will no longer pursue her request for registration, she said that she is putting it on hold pending the advice of her legal counsel. She also confirmed that she received the reply of the Chancellor dated Jan 11, 2010 to her letter dated Dec. 16, 2009. Further, she inquired if an explanation is the only requirement for the Chancellor to approve her late registration for residence.

Jan. 20, 2010
Ms. Banez responded to Chancellor Velasco’s letter dated January 11, 2010. In her letter, which was received by the Office of the Chancellor on Jan. 28, 2010, Ms. Bañez explained that “… it is most respectfully submitted that the filing of the application for residency of the undersigned for the second semester, 2009-2010, a few days after the regular registration period is not unreasonable.”

Jan. 21, 2010
Dean Asuncion Raymundo wrote to Atty. Julius Matibag disapproving the request for leave of absence (LOA) of Ms. Bañez for the following reasons:

1. The UPLB calendar provides that the last day for filing a leave of absence for those who are not enrolled was on 17 November 2009;

2. Application for leave should be accompanied by the approval of her adviser and her parents, which documents were not submitted;

3. Her application for leave was not accompanied by a clearance required by the College of Arts and Sciences;

4. The reason why she is filing a leave of absence is not clear and not adequately explained;

5. The above requirements should have been filed on or before 17 November 2009.

Feb. 18, 2010
Chan. Velasco replied to Ms. Banez’ letter dated Jan. 20, 2010 informing her “that inasmuch as you did not give concrete reasons why you did not file your application on time, I likewise do not have any basis to favorably act on your request”.

Feb. 23, 2010
Ms. Banez requested Dean Raymundo to allow her to file for late residency for the second semester AY 2009-2010

Feb. 24, 2010
Ms. Banez responded to Chan. Velasco’s letter dated Feb. 18, 2010 requesting to reconsider her request to file late residency for the Second Semester AY 2009-2010 based on several grounds that she presented. Among which is the approval of the late registration for residence of two students of the College of Forestry and Natural Resources.

Feb. 24, 2010
Dean Asuncion Raymundo responded to Ms. Banez’ letter dated Feb. 23, 2010 affirming the decision of the Chancellor disapproving the request for residency. The Dean pointed out “the efforts of the former College Secretary, Prof. Mabini DG. Dizon and her staff to remind and advise you on the need to file for residency for the 2nd semester 2009-2010.”

March 1, 2010
The Office of the Chancellor forwarded the Feb. 24 letter of Ms. Bañez to Dean Raymundo for her comment and recommendation.

March 3, 2010
Dean Raymundo submitted her comments on the letter of Ms. Bañez together with the report of Prof. Mabini Dizon, former College Secretary, regarding the effort of the OCS to notify Ms. Bañez of the need to register before the deadline for filing of residency.

March 4, 2010
Chancellor Velasco responded to the Feb. 24 letter of Ms. Bañez. A copy of the letter was sent to Ms. Bañez through the Office of the Dean, CAS.

Disorder in the Court.

2010-03-10T08:30:00.000-08:00

Dear All,

I don't know if you've read this already but for those who haven't, here it is. It's for everyone and anyone with a funny bone...especially lawyers :)

These are from a book called Disorder in the American Courts, and are things people actually said in court, word for word, taken down and now published by court reporters that had the torment of staying calm while these exchanges were actually taking place.

ATTORNEY: What was the first thing your husband said to you that morning?

WITNESS: He said, 'Where am I, Cathy?'
ATTORNEY: And why did that upset you?
WITNESS: My name is Susan!

ATTORNEY: Are you sexually active?
WITNESS: No, I just lie there.
____________________________________________

ATTORNEY: Now doctor, isn't it true that when a person dies in his sleep, he doesn't know about it until the next morning?
WITNESS: Did you actually pass the bar exam?

ATTORNEY: The youngest son, the twenty-year-old, how old is he?
WITNESS: He's twenty, much like your IQ.
____________________________ ______ _________

ATTORNEY: Were you present when your picture was taken?
WITNESS: Are you sh***ing me?
_________________________________________

ATTORNEY: So the date of conception (of the baby) was August 8th?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: And what were you doing at that time?
WITNESS: Getting laid
____________________________________________

ATTORNEY: She had three children, right?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: How many were boys?
WITNESS: None.
ATTORNEY: Were there any girls?
WITNESS: Your Honour, I think I need a different attorney. Can I get a new attorney?
___________________________________ ______ ___

ATTORNEY: How was your first marriage terminated?
WITNESS: By death.
ATTORNEY: And by whose death was it terminated?
WITNESS: Take a guess.
____________________________________________

ATTORNEY: Can you describe the individual?
WITNESS: He was about medium height and had a beard.
ATTORNEY: Was this a male or a female?
WITNESS: Unless the circus was in town, I'm going with male.
_____ ________________________________

ATTORNEY: Is your appearance here this morning pursuant to a deposition notice which I sent to your attorney?
WITNESS: No, this is how I dress when I go to work.
______________________________________

ATTORNEY: Doctor, how many of your autopsies have you performed on dead people?
WITNESS: All of them. The live ones put up too much of a fight.
________________________________________

ATTORNEY: ALL your responses MUST be oral, OK? What school did you go to?
WITNESS: Oral.
_________________________________________

ATTORNEY: Do you recall the time that you examined the body?
WIT NESS: The autopsy started around 8:30 p.m.
ATTORNEY: And Mr. Denton was dead at the time?
WITNESS: If not, he was by the time I finished.
____________________________________________

And the best for last:

ATTORNEY: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for blood pressure?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for breathing?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: How can you be so sure, Doctor?
WITNESS: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.
ATTORNEY: I see, but could the patient have still been alive, nevertheless?
WITNESS: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law.

Ang pambabastos ni SR Chaba

2010-02-23T17:16:00.000-08:00

Kahapon ginanap ang miting de avance ng dalawang partidong nagtutunggalian sa halalan ng konseho ng mag-aaral sa UP Los Baños. Naka-schedule ang mga College Student Councils anumang oras sa pagitan ng ala-una ng hapon hanggang alas-siyete ng gabi, na susundan ng University Student Council ng alas-otso ng gabi.

Kasama sa miting de avance ng USC ang Electoral Debate na pinamumunuan ng UPLB Perspective. Naging matagumpay ang pagdaraos ng debateng ito, lalo na ng Buklod UPLB na siya namang naging magaganda at malalaman ang mga kasagutan. Ang mga bagay-bagay na pinag-usapan ay ang pagkakaisa ng konseho sa gitna ng pagkakaiba-iba ng prinsipyo, ang Morong 43, at iba pang mga usapin,. Ngunit ang usaping naging sentro ng atensyon sa gabing iyon ay ang di pagkilala ng Board of Regents sa rehente ng mag-aaral na si Charisse "Chaba" Bañez.

Matapos ang debate tinawag ng mga kinatawan ng UPLB Perspective si SR Bañez upang "magbigay linaw" sa usaping iyon. Nasabihan ang Buklod-UPLB na magsasalita si Chaba isang oras lamang bago magsimula ang palatuntunan. Orihinal kasi na wala sa daloy ng palatuntunan si Chaba. Nangako naman ang mga kinatawan ng UPLB Perspective na gagawin nilang maikli lamang ang magiging pahayag ni Chaba.

Nagsimulang mag-init ang gabi ng mga taga-suporta ng Buklod nang makalipas na ang sampung minuto ay hindi pa rin tapos magsalita si Chaba. Ngunit ang ikinainit ng ulo ng lahat ay nang harap-harapan niyang sasabihin sa esensya na ang Buklod ay hindi nararapat maupo sa konseho dahil ang partido raw "ay mapagkompromiso", at binigyang diin pa na ang partido mismo ang nagsampa ng kasong grave misconduct at paglabag sa 1984 USC Constitution laban sa kanya at sa mga miyembro ng Konseho ng mag-aaral.

Isang paglilinaw lamang: muli, hindi Buklod UPLB ang nagsampa ng kaso kay SR Bañez at sa mga Konseho, kundi anim na indibidwal na mag-aaral na naniniwala sa demokrasya na transparent at accountable.

Nagmumula sa isang alumnus na nakasaksi sa mga pangyayari kagabi, aking ikinalulungkot at ikinagagalit at mariing kinukundena ang mga aksyon ng rehente ng mag-aaral.

Ilang beses naring nasabi ng SR na siya ay kumakatawan sa interes ng lahat ng mag-aaral at hindi ng iilan lamang. Hindi ba mag-aaral ang mga miyembro ng Buklod-UPLB? Malinaw pa sa sikat ng araw na kinilingan niya ang kabilang partido dahil sa pambabastos na ginawa niya sa partido Buklod, ang partido na isa rin sa kumikilala sa kanyang matinding papel bilang rehente ng mag-aaral. Mismong Buklod ay tumuturing din sa kanya biglang prutektor ng mga interes ng bawat isang mag-aaral.

Kaya naman ang partido ay hindi na nakatiis at nagdeklara ng malawakang pull-out ng mga kandidato, miyembro, at mga taga-suporta dahil mas nakita na ang sinasabing miting de avance kagabi ay hindi na venue upang maiparating ng parehong partido ang mga saloobin at plataporma nila sa isang balanseng paraan. Inalala na rin ng mga lider ng partido ang kapakanan ng bawat isang ka-Buklod na nasa loob ng bulwagan ng Student Union Amphitheater sa kung anumang maaaring mangyari dulot ng matinding pisikal at emosyonal na stress.

Nakakagalit isipin na sa itinagal-tagal nang pagbuo ng Buklod-UPLB sa kanyang pangalan ay dudungisan lamang at yuyurakan ng isang rehente sa loob lamang ng 30 minuto. Hindi nga lang pangalan ng partido ang kanyang dinungisan, ngunit niyurakan na din ni Chaba ang dangal at pagkatao ng bawat kandidato, miyembro, alumni, at taga-suporta ng partido.

ANG MGA BAGAY NA ITO AY HINDI DAPAT PINALALAMPAS.

Nawa'y makita ng mag-aaral ng UP Los Baños ngayong araw na ito ng halalan kung sino ang TUNAY NA MAGSUSULONG NG KANILANG INTERES bilang representante nila.

ITIGIL ANG CHARACTER ASSASSINATIONS!
KILALANIN ANG BAWAT ISANG MAG-AARAL ANUMAN ANG KULAY PULITIKAL

ISULONG ANG ISANG MALINIS NA HALALAN PARA SA ISANG MAKATAONG KONSEHO!

The State of Continuing Education in the Philippines

2010-02-22T13:59:00.000-08:00

A recent study led by Dr. Rene Ofreneo of the UP School of Labor and Industrial Relations shows that the Philippines is still a primarily export-oriented country, and labor is one of the top exports of the country. With the Philippines facing a major crisis of job mismatch, and high unemployment and underemployment rates, people getting into the labor force are equipping themselves with all necessary skills – skills that cannot be acquired solely by the four years (or more) in college.

The Philippines is struggling to become a “learning society”, one in which its citizens obtain a high-quality general education, appropriate vocational training, and a job worthy of a human being while continuing to participate in education and training throughout their lives (Edralin, 1999) and, when seen as a set of practices, can be viewed in any of the following: (1) an educated society, committed to active citizenship, liberal democracy, and equal opportunities; (2) a learning market, enabling institutions to provide services for individuals as a condition for supporting the competitiveness of the economy, and; (3) a learning network, where learners adopt a learning approach to life (Edwards, 1995). However, with globalization taking its toll on the country’s primarily below-poverty population, the government’s objective of achieving higher levels of employment, in a manifest attempt to reduce poverty, is hindered by the conspicuous mismatch between the skills offered by higher education institutions (HEIs) and those being looked for by potential employers – a situation further exacerbated by the government’s neo-liberal educational policies such as commercialization of education such as unjust tuition hikes and the like.

Graduates, therefore, in an effort to place themselves ahead of the competitive labor force pack, resort to advanced learning solutions via the practice of continuing education and adult education. Continuing education, as defined by Edralin (1999), refers to “the aggregate principles and practices encompassing education of individuals after they have left the formal system”. On the other hand, adult education is defined as “the entire body of organized educational processes… whereby persons regarded as adult by the society… develop their abilities, enrich their knowledge, improve their technical or professional qualifications… and bring about changes in their attitudes… in the two-fold perspective of full personal development and participation in balanced and independent social, economic, and cultural development (UNESCO, 1989). In many societies, especially the developing ones, education is an endless process.

Many business organizations in the country resort to seminars, conventions, academic studies, distance learning, authorship, inventions, teaching material preparation, on-the-job training, observation tours, and professorial chair lectures as part of their strategies to promote continuing education while on the job, all of which are recognized and promoted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) as part of the national program for continuing professional education (CPE). These are especially prepared to update professionals about recent developments in their respective fields.

As the Filipino work force is faced by a globally prepared competition, the government has required all Filipino professionals to undertake CPE programs, as mandated by Executive Order No. 266 signed by then President Fidel Ramos on July 25, 1995. Since then, at least 43,100 certificates of compliance have been issued by the PRC for professionals.

Continuing education is not spared from issues and concerns. Despite the growing need of college graduates to acquire more skills to better connect themselves with the rest of a globally competitive workforce, continuing education seem to become more of a privilege than a right.

One of the foremost problems facing continuing education programs in the country arises from the general level of educational attainment of Filipinos. A study by Conferido (1998) shows that the condition of the Philippine education system highlights the crisis the country is facing amidst continuing globalization. According to the study, only 11% of the total number of employed obtained tertiary education – a requirement for most continuing education programs.

Another issue is employee motivation. Edralin (1999) stated that, according to national surveys, majority of adults qualified to undertake CPEs do not enroll in one simply because they have no motivation, support, or interest. And even those who are undertaking CPEs can come up with lists of financial, institutional, situational, or behavioral factors that hinder them to actively and maximally participate in such programs.

Furthermore, most people do not perceive the relevance of continuing education in their careers. Many professionals only undertake CPEs simply because they are required to do so by the PRC in order for their licenses to be renewed. This has raised a question as to whether the CPEs actually raised the level of competencies of these professionals.

But the most important and most critical issue continuing education is facing will have to be financing. It has been proven even in developed countries that revenues from taxation are inadequate to finance the increasing costs of education in general and continuing education in particular. In the Philippines, with the advent of the government’s neo-liberal policies that have greatly affected the country’s educational system, unjust tuition hikes for both private and state colleges and universities, the privatization of certain state universities, and other issues are already convincing indicators of the government’s lack of resources to fund general education, which implies that the government must luck resources to fund continuing education. Therefore, to supplement the government’s inadequacy, employer contributions via payroll taxes are seen as additional funds for such programs. With the global economic crisis still hounding the global economy, businesses are most likely to respond to immediate needs and are less likely to commit resources for human resource development.

But how are these issues addressed? Edralin (1999) have recommended 16 salient points for improving the condition of continuing education in the Philippines:
1. The government should unify and standardize a human resource development framework.
2. Continuing education programs should be reviewed.
3. A progressive model of CPE programs should be adopted.
4. The government, through the PRC and other relevant agencies, should improve their monitoring of the CPEs.
5. The government must ensure that access to education should be maximized and democratized.
6. Professionals and workers should be encouraged to continue education by offering incentives such as scholarships.
7. The government should provide tax incentives to firms that promote continuing education.
8. The needs of employees should be identified and assessed.
9. Education and employment should be effectively integrated.
10. Employers, workers’ unions, and the government should work hand-in-hand to achieve their respective goals.
11. Effective financing schemes should be put in place.
12. The government must aggressively market their continuing education programs.
13. The academe should closely cooperate with all providers of continuing education.
14. The educational system must be reformed.
15. A policy review of the laws and guidelines concerning CPEs should be undertaken.
16. Areas for further research should be identified.

In this era of increasing globalization, the primary goal of continuing education in the country is to develop a more competitive labor force. An efficient employee should have the capability, competence, and potential to perform well to meet the grueling demands of the work place. If major reforms in the educational system of the country would be put in place, and if the government has the political will to implement their programs for continuing education and resources are properly allocated and utilized, then this goal will be realized. Continuing education shall eventually provide the momentum for a sustainable effort towards becoming a learning society.

References:
• Atchoarena, D. (ed). 1993. Lifelong Education in Selected Industrialized Countries. Paris, France: International Institute for Educational Planning & National Institute for Educational Research.
• Cervero, RM. 1988. Effective Continuing Education for Professionals. San Francisco, CA. Jossey-Bass.
• Conferido, RD. 1998. Building-blocks Towards Lifelong Learning in the Philippines. Manila, Philippines: Institute of Labor Studies, DOLE.
• Edralin, D. 1999. Continuing Professional / Technical Education in the Philippines. Manila, Philippines: De La Salle University.
• Ofreneo, RE, CL Erickson, S Kuruvilla, MA Ortiz. 2001. Recent Developments in Employment Relations in the Philippines. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University.
• http://solair.upd.edu.ph

this post is the extended, academic version of the feature article I have written for a company newsletter

Ang Tunay na Paglilingkod ay Hindi Oportunismo

2010-02-16T04:33:00.000-08:00

Nagwakas na rin ang Feb Fair. Ito'y natuloy sa pamamagitan ng walang humpay at tunay na paglilingkod ng dalawang tagapangulo ng pangkolehiyong konseho ng mag-aaral sa UP Los Baños - si G. Mark Flores ng Colehiyo ng Agham at Sining at Bb. Samantha Javier ng Kolehiyo ng Komunikasyong Pangkaunlaran.

Sa kanilang panunumpa bilang mga kinatawan ng mag-aaral sa pamantasan, sumumpa sila na hindi kailanman tatalikuran ang kanilang tungkulin at responsibilidad sa mga mag-aaral ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas sa Los Baños - anuman ang mangyari.

Ang sumpang ito ay kanilang pinatunayan nang masuspinde ang Pampanatasang Konseho ng Mag-aaral (University Student Council) ng tatlumpung araw bilang isang pamigil na hakbangin laban sa pagsasagawa ng isang ilegal na aktibidad - ang gawing "Protest Fair" ang FebFair of 2010.

Sa hiling ng mga 30 organisasyon at ilan pang mag-aaral na gustong matuloy ang isang tunay na FebFair, pinulong nina Flores at Javier ang mga mag-aaral na ito upang pag-usapan ang mga maaaring legal na hakbangin upang matuloy ang Fair. Napagkasunduan ng 30 organisasyon na magpasa ng isang liham sa administrasyon na kagyat na ituloy ang FebFair. Ito ay pinayagan ng administrasyon at mismong sila ang umasikaso ng mga papeles at dokumento upang maging legal at tunay ang pagdaraos ng taunang aktibidad na inaabangan ng humigit-kumulang sampung libong mag-aaral ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Los Baños.

Ang hakbanging isinagawa nina Flores at Javier ay pagpapatunay na sila ay gumaganap sa kanilang tungkulin. Ngunit, para sa mga taga-suporta ng nasuspindeng USC na hindi kailanma'y tumupad sa kanilang tungkulin bilang tagapaglingkod ng mga mag-aaral. Makikita sa screenshot sa ibaba na sina Flores (CAS Chair) at Javier (CDC Chair) ay inakusahan ng pagiging oportunista. Ito ay isa lamang sa kanilang mga maling defense mechanism upang pagtakpan ang kanilang kakulangan laban sa mga mag-aaral.

Ngunit aking nais itanong, KAILAN PA NAGING OPORTUNISMO ANG TUNAY NA PAGLILINGKOD AT PAGSISILBI SA NASASAKUPAN NA NAAYON SA SINUMPAAN NG MGA TUNAY NA LIDER-ESTUDYANTE NA ITO?

Ayon sa Free Dictionary, ang oportunismo ay ang isang konsyus na kilos o paguugali ng isang tao na makakuha ng agarang bentahe sa mga pumapaloob na sitwasyon nang walang kinikilalang prinsipyo.

Sa aking pagkakakilala kina Mark Flores at Sam Javier, ang dalawang kabataang ito ay kabataang may panindigan at prinsipyo - paninindigan na magbigay ng prinsipyadong paglilingkod sa hanay ng mga mag-aaral na kanilang nasasakupan anuman ang mangyari, anuman ang ideyolohiya o apilyason. At kanila itong ipinakita noong maglunsad sila ng kagyat na aksyon upang maibigay ang kahilingan ng mga mag-aaral na maresolba at matuloy ang FebFair na tila pinabayaan ng USC.

Isa lamang itong pagpapatunay na hindi kailanman nagwawagi ang makasariling paglilingkod at patuloy na mangingibabaw ang pagsisilbi sa tunay na interes ng mga mag-aaral ng Unibersidad.

Ang mga paratang ni Bb. Corky Maranan sa kanyang wall post sa Facebook ay isang patunay kung anong klaseng mga lider sila - makasarili at depensibo. Kinikilala lang ang interes ng kakaunti, ang interes ng mga sumusuporta sa kanila at hindi ang interes ng buong hanay ng mga mag-aaral. Sa pamamagitan nito, inilatag nila ang planong siraan ang mga tunay na lider estudyante na kumakatawan sa tunay na interes ng kapwa nila mag-aaral.

Hindi katulad nina Mark Flores at Sam Javier. Sila ang mga lider na kinakailangan ng kabataan ngayon. Sila ang mga lider ng kabataan na hindi namimili ng apilyason o ideyolohiya. Sila ang mga lider na handang tumulong sa kabataan at mag-aaral.

Hindi kailanman magiging oportunismo ang tunay na pagsisilbi sa kapwa mag-aaral.

Je T'aime Encore (a sad letter)

2010-02-15T13:30:00.000-08:00

Dear Someone,

Here the autumn ends, bringing back the rain. The old Chevy's dead, and I've tried to fix it in vain. Elise's got her first teeth. Little Jimmy's getting strong. I'm learning guitar - I almost know a song.

I found some Chanderelle at the market this morning. I'd like to live in Rome (oh it would be such a wonderful thing!), and try to grow some flowers - the same I've tried before.

I finally cut my hair (I hear you say, "at last"). It's been kinda strange but, you see, I survived. When I'm asked, I go out. I dance all night and more. But when I dance, I still love you.

Where are you? You're so far with no address. How's life for you? Time is my only caress.

Je t'aime encore, just like an old fashioned song, burns in my soul. Everything else seems to grow more and more as strong as it can be. Je t'aime encore, but you cannot here me.

Missing you,

Someone else

DARE TO ACT. Buklod UPLB

2010-02-15T07:21:00.000-08:00

UNIVERSITY STUDENT COUNCIL

Chairperson: ERNEST CALAYAG
Vice-Chairperson: DIANA MULA

Councilors:
CARLA CONDE
NOAH CORREA
CARLO CRUZ
GABRIELLE DE JURAS
MISH DELA CRUZ
ARTHUR HOLT
ARUM MONSERRAT
ANGELIQUE RIVERA
DENIJEZ TAN

COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES STUDENT COUNCIL

Chairperson: ARVIN AVES
Vice-Chairperson: ANGEL GUANZON
College Rep.: MAPY SEBASTIAN

Councilors:
PAOLO BEDRO
JOYCE DIVINO
KEN ERESE
CHRISTIAN MAÑALAC
AICE MANALO
GERALD SAAVEDRA
DAVID VALGUNA

COLLEGE OF DEVELOPMENT COMMUNICATION STUDENT COUNCIL

Chairperson: REAL RAMOS
Vice-Chairperson: DARIUS ZABALA
College Rep.: BEA MANALO

Councilors:
PATRICK CABANGON
ERNEST MACAPAGAL
ROMAN MORENO

campaign day 4

2010-02-15T07:14:00.001-08:00

Actually it's not day 4 anymore. But for the sake of MY continuity, I am labeling this post as "DAY 4".

So much has been said about the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant. And it's a good thing that all seven candidates who attended the FOCAP forum in Mandarin Oriental, Makati City, voiced their opposition to reviving the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant.

The Philippines as a nuclear power generator? You've gotta be kidding us. Even Grade 3 students know that the country is sitting on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, the most seismically and volcanically active portion of the earth. Place a nuclear power plant in any of the countries located on the Ring of Fire and that country's sure to be obliterated from the face of the earth.

Teodoro even noted the age of the structure and said that an old structure is "not worth throwing good money [at]." Perlas, as a former technical consultant to the Senate Ad Hoc committee on the BNPP, cited previous studies that state that the plant has defects.

Gordon and Villanueva were not against the use of nuclear power in the country but opposed reviving the power plant because "it is decrepit" and it has "inherent defects". Madrigal said that reviving the plant is like "paying homage to Marcos' folly."

Aquino and Delos Reyes did not elaborate on their positions.

==========================

====================================

Support of religious groups has been seen as a powerful factor in an election outcome. No wonder so many politicians are starting to court religious leaders.

Villar and his running mate Loren Legarda attended a special celebration of the El Shaddai Hong Kong Chapter, escorted by none other than Mike Velarde. (wait, are running people allowed to leave the country? just a curious inquiry, though). He previously met with Kingdom of Jesus Christ Organization leader Apollo Quiboloy. Estrada, Teodoro, and Villanueva, also met with Quiboloy.

Velarde and Quiboloy, however, haven't revealed who their picks are.

These two religious groups, together with Iglesia ni Cristo, reportedly practices bloc voting which could sway results.

Crime Scene Investigation 101: Evidence Should Not Be Tampered

2010-02-11T05:14:00.001-08:00

Disclaimer: I am not a member of Upsilon, nor am I writing this as a member of Buklod-UPLB. This is an independent opinion position paper after following recent events in my beloved university.

Last week, a photograph circulated around Facebook depicting Eric Velasco, a member of Upsilon Sigma Phi and the son of UPLB Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco, being "escorted" by a policeman. The photograph was captioned as (in essence): "Anak ni Chancy, huli sa aktong nambablack prop." (http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs163.snc3/19038_289623651107_650711107_3226500_3655417_n.jpg). Mr. Velasco was accused by Sakbayan, a political party. In the photo, Mr. Velasco was only seen going out of a room with his left hand over his head. No black propaganda material was in his possession. With this, Mr. Velasco is now seen as a CRIMINAL.

However, according to Ms. Denijez Tan, a Sociology major, if one asks Sakbayan where the black propaganda paraphernalia is, they would simply answer "Nasa Amin."

Okay. Black propaganda, caught in the act = Eric's already a criminal. Big question: WHERE IS THE EVIDENCE? ACCORDING TO SAKBAYAN, IT'S IN THEIR POSSESSION.

I think I've watched too many CSI's, BONES, and NUMB3RS to know for a fact that the first protocol in "crime" investigation is NOT TO TAMPER WITH EVIDENCE FOUND AT THE CRIME SCENE. How come a group has gained possession of such evidence?

But the better question is:
IS THERE REALLY EVIDENCE TO BEGIN WITH?

These so-called student-leaders say they push for the genuine interests of all students, regardless of affiliation. Then why is Mr. Velasco treated unjustly and being tried via publicity? How about his rights as a student? Doesn't he have the right to due process? Mr. Velasco is still a student of UPLB, the son of chancellor or not.

These student-leaders clamor for social justice, but in this situation, then JUSTICE IS NOT BEING SERVED.

campaign day 3

2010-02-11T05:11:00.000-08:00

Unseated... unseated...

Bulacan Gov. Jonjon Mendoza and Pampanga Gov. Ed Panlilio has been unseated by the COMELEC, with Obet Pagdanganan and Lilia Pineda replacing them respectively. Okay.

Common denominators?

Mendoza and Panlilio are associated with the Liberal Party.

Pagdanganan and Pineda are affiliated with the administration.

Mendoza and Panlilio, as well as Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca, have promised support for Sen. Aquino in 2010.

The COMELEC resolutions for both Mendoza, Panlilio, and Padaca are at least 2,500 pages short.

They all have exposed anomalies done by the Arroyo administration and its goons.

Oh, and I think COMELEC would claim that these are mere coincidences.

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COMELEC wants celebrity endorsers to take a leave of absence from work during the campaign period. Okay lang. There's cable TV pa naman!

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Ping Lacson has posters all over the place. He's running for office. The one behind the Police Desk Officer, that is. Pero, how would he campaign? He's not even here in the country.

One of his talents, I presume - a fugitive campaigner. Hahaha.

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Oh, by the way, the campaign for student council positions have already begun both in UP Los Baños and UP Diliman. Mario Cerilles of UP Alyansa and Ernest Calayag of Buklod-UPLB are running for USC Chairperson of UPD and UPLB, respectively.

campaign day 2

2010-02-10T03:53:00.001-08:00

Si Dagat ng Basura nanaman ang nakita ko maghapon. Badtrip. Take note - si Dagat ng Basura lamang. Ni mukha ng running mate or senatorial ticket nya wala ako makita. Bakit ganon? Wala napansin ko lang.

Sa aming lungsod ng Calamba mas marami pang "Happy Valentines" greetings ang local candidates kesa sa mga official posters ng mga national candidates. Anong susunod, Kung Hei Fat Choi?

MMDA people started clearing posters of candidates posted in illegal areas. Hanggang ngayon pa naman ba hindi masunod-sunod ang rule na ito?

Liberal Party senatorial candidates, particularly Danny Lim and Risa Hontiveros, are very much seen all over the World Wide Web. Ayos! Pwedeng facebook friend na din kaya?

And now that Biñan, Laguna is officially the City of Biñan, will this mean another fresh mandate for Mayor Len Alonte?

campaign day 1

2010-02-09T04:36:00.000-08:00

February 9, 2010

Naiinis ako! Wala akong ibang makita kundi pagmumukha ni Mr. Dagat ng Basura, na laging inaaway nina Mr. Nanay at Tatay Ko at Ms. Know-it-all. Eto namang si Mr. Nanay at Tatay Ko at ang kanyang running mate super negative ang dating day 1 palang! Si Ms. Know-it-all naman na hindi alam kung magkano ang presyo ng itlog at tuyo dahil vegetarian daw siya ay feeling nakikiisa sa mga nasunugan sa Caloocan. Tandaan mo Ms. Know-it-all, anuman ang gawin mo, oligarka ka pa rin!

Buti pa itong sina Mr. Batang Konsehal at ang tiyuhin niyang si Mr. Turismong Subic, simple lang simulan ang kampanya. At si Mr. Batang Konsehal, talagang ipinapakita niya kung ano ang kaya niyang gawin.

Si Mr. Anim na Taong walang Korapsyon, sa Luneta naman nagsimula. In fairness, ang laki ng watawat!

Sa Tondo nga ba nagsimula si Mr. Two-and-a-half?

Si Mr. Kalikasan ang aking Programa naman, wala akong narinig tungkol sa kanya ngayong araw na to.

At si Mr. Pambato ng Administrasyon, hanep! Antipolo ang pagsisimula... dahil mataas daw na lugar ang Antipolo, simbulo raw ito ng kanilang nakakaangat na partido. Oo, chairman emeritus nila ang numero unong magnanakaw sa bansa eh.

Ano kaya etong si Mr. Adopt Me Please, Marcos? Nangampanya na rin kaya?

Again, ang mga tumatakbong presidente:

MR. ADOPT ME PLEASE, MARCOS
MR. NANAY AT TATAY KO
MR. BATANG KONSEHAL
MR. TWO-AND-A-HALF
MR. TURISMONG SUBIC
MS. KNOW IT ALL
MR. KALIKASAN ANG AKING PROGRAMA
MR. PAMBATO NG ADMINISTRASYON
MR. ANIM NA TAONG WALANG KORAPSYON
MR. DAGAT NG BASURA

wala... trip ko lang magbigay ng nicknames... hehehe

AN EXPOSE VS. DONALD TRUMP

2009-08-27T19:26:00.001-07:00

THE MISS UNIVERSE ORGANIZATION POST-PRODUCTION MEETING
By OverExposed (Canadian Fashion Designer and Makeup Artist)
Wardrobe Committee, Miss Universe 2009

Two days after the crowning of a new Miss Universe and a day before it finally leaves the Bahamas, the [Miss Universe Organization] called on a high level staff meeting behind closed doors in one of the Atlantis Resort's function rooms. The principal objective of the meeting: provide a post-production/post-event evaluation of the just concluded pageant. As a part of the "wardrobe crew" of this year's Miss Universe pageant, I had the privilege of joining the exclusive meeting and "in the interest of the truth," would now want to share with the public some of the things that I found out.

TRUMP AND MUO
Officers and staff of the MUO (including [President Paula Shugart]) aren't very happy with the way results are formulated year after year after year. Most of them feel really bad how pageant fans the world over react negatively to the MUO's supposed choices, especially since the final results declared on pageant night aren't exactly reflective of the real list that preliminary judges come up with. Paula even commented, "Pageant fans aren't blind. They have a good feel of who are in and who are not." She even feels for deserving contestants who get booted out by the so-called Trump ladies and has admitted to feeling very uncomfortable having to look at these ladies' supporters straight in the eye and give them an explanation for an obvious injustice. The fact that there were no Asians in this year's Final 15 made Paula shake her head in disappointment, saying, "There's just no way for us to deny that some of our results were somehow fixed. We could have at least had token spots." No matter how difficult, at the end of the day, Paula just chooses to stand by what her boss wants and be the pro that she is. Based on what I heard during the meeting, however, discontent over Trump's management of the MUO is growing.

TRUMP CARDS
No matter how hard they deny it or even cover up the existence of a Trump list, let it be said that Mr. Trump truly does a selection of his own favorites. This was thoroughly discussed during the meeting. In this year's edition of the pageant, five top 15 ladies were taken out of the list to give way to Mr. Trump's personal choices. Statuesque Ms. Vietnam Vo Hoang Yen was one of them. Even worse was the case of [Bianca Manalo of] the Philippines, [a country] which already had three delegates taken out of the semifinal list in the three editions of the Trump-organized Miss Universe pageant. India is another country that is slowly losing its steam as far as Mr. Trump is concerned. Mr. Trump once commented that Indian women are "way too smart and not very sexy."

IT'S ALL BUSINESS
While pageant fanatics may consider exclusion of their ladies as an act of racism or personal bias, the truth about the selection of Miss Universe winners under the Trump franchise is that this is all based on business. Check out the global footprint of the Trump Organization's Real Estate, Hotel, and Golf Club businesses. It will be easy to correlate their locations to the winners of his pageant. Aside from having these types of developments all over the USA, Mr. Trump has real estate projects in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic (it should no longer surprise you why Dominican Republic has been very successful in penetrating the top 5 almost yearly, with Amelia Vega as a recent winner); Toronto, Canada (of course Natalie's crown was a fitting "thank you"); Seoul, South Korea (Honey Lee's [third] runner-up finish was close); Rio Grande, Puerto Rico (okay, this is just so obvious - Puerto Rico's almost assured of a top 5 slot yearly); and Dubai, UAE (well he can't do much about this given the UAE's Muslim tradition). Other countries, which may be allotted regular spots in the Miss Universe final selection are: Panama (for Mr. Trump's projects in Panama City); Scotland (he's got developments in Aberdeen); and Turkey (to support his interests in Istanbul). Of course token spots may also be granted for Miss Universe sponsors, as in the cases of BSC (Thailand) and Mikimoto (Japan). To pageant fans, never ever forget that Mr. Trump is a businessman, A SHREWD ONE. As a business partner, I'd even say he's good. He know how to match a partner's generosity and kindness (quid pro quo) - and the easiest way for him is through the Miss Universe franchise.

I guess that's all I am allowed to share. You know how things are run in this pageant now. As for me, my job here's done - I guess. I've decided to tender my resignation after this whole thing is over. I am glad to have shared this with all of you.

~ from Missosology Miss Universe 2009 Forum

emphasis mine
- Geo R.

Let us be one. VOTE NO TO THE SR REFERENDUM

2009-01-19T02:59:00.001-08:00

Last Friday, UP Student Regent Shahana Abdulwahid released her statement rejecting the appeal made by some councils across the UP System calling for the addition of the five crucial proposals in the ballot for the upcoming SR Referendum. Hah! Talk about REJECTION

I dare answer her.
And my answer is a resounding NO.

Why? Because:

The current CRSRS does not protect the genuine interests and welfare of the students by not imposing a minimum academic requirement, thus allowing students not academically good to hold such office of high esteem, giving probability that student representation would be compromised (remember SR Ferdinand Zafranco?)
The current CRSRS does not guarantee transparency because the role and responsibilities of the student regent is not defined. In any guiding rules for election or selection, the responsibilities of the position being selected should be well-defined so that the panel that shall elect or select will be guided accordingly.
The current CRSRS allows for power monopolization by the inclusion of KASAMA sa UP in the selection process. As I quote Mr. Ernest Calayag: "The existence of the KASAMA sa UP which takes the secretariat seat on default breaks the essence of a democratic selection. We acknowledge the alliance’s contribution to the SR history but giving it a major participation without any process is like stealing from the students their right to democratically select who they truly want to represent them."
The current CRSRS does not call for maximum student participation by limiting the voting process to 2 votes for all autonomous units and 1 vote for all regional units. The selection of the student regent is a truly student affair and the students should have the final say in the selection of THEIR student regent. Giving voice to local councils is tantamount to giving voice to the students who democratically elected them and submitted themselves to be represented by the local councils.
The current CRSRS and its contents did not pass through genuine student consultation.

The Office of the Student Regent is an office very precious and crucial to us students. Only by allowing it to be democratized will it be a truly representative institution. However, the current system does not allow it to be truly representative. It only serves the interests of the few, and not the genuine interests of the student body.

WE CALL FOR A GENUINELY DEMOCRATIC STUDENT REGENT SELECTION PROCESS.

NO TO UNPROTECTED STUDENT INTERESTS!
NO TO POWER MONOPOLIZATION!
NO TO UNGUARANTEED TRANSPARENCY!
NO TO UNDEMOCRATIC VOTING PROCESS!
NO TO THE FLAWED CRSRS!

VOTE NO TO THE SR REFERENDUM!

Remove the Atmosphere of Deception

2009-01-15T02:38:00.000-08:00

"The councils belonging to the Defend the OSR Alliance have created an atmosphere of deception in the whole UP System."
~an anonymous UPLB student

This may be a glaring statement from an anonymous source, but it is true. What has transpired these past days in the University of the Philippines' political arena is nothing but a big DECEPTION. Yes, DECEPTION with the capitals D-E-C-E-P-T-I-O-N.

In whatever angle you look at the issue regarding the Office of the Student Regent, the members of the Defend the OSR Alliance have misinformed, misguided, and mislead the whole student community of the University, especially by claiming that a negative vote to the Student Regent Referendum is affirming the abolition of the Office of the Student Regent.

(excuse me for the term) BULLSHIT!

The only way to abolish an office mandated by law is to repeal the law that created it.

They are just afraid that the selection process will become a genuinely democratic one, henceforth lessening or even eliminating their chances to monopolize the Office of the Student Regent.

Why? Because there are five genuine reforms that the truly progressive student councils are pushing for:

The addition of a minimum grade requirement as one of the qualifications of the student regent nominee(s);
The inclusion of an express enumeration of the roles and responsibilities of the student regent;
The removal of the Kasama sa UP in the selection process;
The widening and democratization of the voting process; and
The rationalization of the rules by extending its effectivity to a set period (at least three years or as set by the GASC).

The members of the Defend the OSR Alliance reject these proposals.

The people who support an educated vote, those people calling for a halt to the MISINFORMATION CAMPAIGN being launched by the members of the Defend the OSR Alliance are being called anti-student.

The question is: Is pushing for a genuinely democratic student regent selection process anti-student?

in glaring capital words again:
I DON'T THINK SO!

Logic would in fact tell us that pushing for a genuinely democratic selection process is the pro-student one. Rejecting such is the anti-student one.

Pro-student because it protects the office of the student regent, henceforth protecting the representation of the student community and its genuine interests.

Pro-student because it calls for transparency and proper delineation of responsibility.

Pro-student because it removes power monopolization by the few.

Pro-student because it calls for wider and more representative participation.

Of course as UP students, we want our representation to the Board of Regents, the highest policy making body in the University. But we want our representative to be TRULY REPRESENTATIVE - democratically selected and will carry the true interests of the students.

STOP GUESSING. START KNOWING.
DEFEND THE OFFICE OF THE STUDENT REGENT BY AN EDUCATED VOTE.

REMOVE THE ATMOSPHERE OF DECEPTION.

Wanna Make A Difference? BE YOURSELF!

2008-02-18T08:58:00.000-08:00

I remember telling myself this when I was in high school: "I'd rather be remembered in this school as someone who made something possible than someone who graduated on top honors without leaving a significant mark." Now as I near the end of my college life, I'm asking myself, have I already made a significant mark as an Iskolar ng Bayan?

Earlier this evening, Karl Marx and I were having a chit-chat over dinner. He was talking about living with a purpose when I remembered that line I said back then in HS. Hearing Karl talk about such topics and all its birds and bees will make you realize life in general.

Now I ask myself: Do I know my purpose? If I did know about it, have I done it? Did I make or am I making a significant mark in this campus? After contemplating for a few minutes or so, the answers to the questions above struck me. And I was surprised to learn that the answer was a big YES!

How did I come up with that answer? Simple: I just became myself. I realized that I didn't have to be Superman or any other member of Justice League to leave a mark. I just became myself - friendly, loud, among others. I just did my stuff. And by merely doing my stuff, I gradually made a way to connect to others. By doing my stuff of solving complex statistical formulae, I was able to reach out to those who need help in Statistics. By being my usual loud manner, I was able to speak out my mind in my classes and some classmates would listen, and I do believe they made something out of what I said.

But I also dream big. Yes, I dream of ending up in Malacañang. I dream of being the leader of one of the largest (if not the largest) socio-civic groups in the world. Big things, big goals, high ambitions. But for me it isn't possible. If I would just be myself and not try to be something I am not, I believe I can go for my dream. BECAUSE BY BEING MYSELF IS ACTUALLY BELIEVING IN MYSELF. AND BELIEVING IN MYSELF MEANS THAT I CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE, NO MATTER HOW SMALL MY ACTIONS ARE.

So why not try to be yourself? Who knows, maybe tomorrow you're already someone - simply because you're you!