Just watched the show Deal or No Deal. It had a certain Wendy as its participant. I think she was part of the last Pinoy Big Brother show.
I really don't watch this show but what I heard at the beginning of the show caught my attention. The winnings of the contestant will be donated to a certain sick child named Erin. I felt disgusted when I heard this. If the show wants to help the child, just help the poor kid. Wag nang idaan pa sa contest. I felt more disgusted when Wendy said something like "yung buhay ng bata nakasalalay sa kanya". It's just too disgusting that this show is even using a sick child just to rate. All I am saying is, if they want to help the child, just help specially if it's a matter of life and death. Pero yung ipapa contest pa, that's below the belt na.
The total winning at the end of the show was P25,000. I really don't know if this amount is enough to save the child. Does it matter anyway? Nagamit na nila yung bata kung sino man sya.
Showing posts with label ala lang. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ala lang. Show all posts
Monday, July 9, 2007
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Shoo go away
I seldom engage myself in forum and group discussions in the internet. I believe I am past that stage. There are some occassions that I do specially when I feel that the issue is "non negotiable". On two occassions, I had a quite spirited discussion with Dindo Generoso of OFCouncil yahoo group. We never went personal and our discussion was quite productive. We ended our exchange of thoughts cordially keeping our respects for each other. But this Cyber Istambay is the exact opposite.
I have expressed my opinion on this blog and other blogs when I see it fit, that Ang Kapatiran is not yet ready to be part of the electoral process. That their participation will just be a waste. When this Cyber Istambay mentioned the Ang Kapatiran in the Ang Bagong Pinoy yahoo group, where I am also a member, I thought it would be nice to engage him in a small discussion in his blog with regards to my opinion on Ang Kapatiran's participation in this election. I did not discuss with him on the yahoo group to avoid offending other members that I personally know who are also Ang Kapatiran members. Secondly, I don't want to create more stir on that yahoo group. I have done enough already.
So I went to Cyber Istambay's blog where I re posted an entry in my blog.. At the start, there was really nothing unusual in our exchange of thoughts. I myself is trying to validate my opinion that Ang Kapatiran is not yet ready. If Ang Kapatiran supporters can convince me that they are ready, I can change my position. I am not an enemy. We are on the same side. Unfortunately, this Cyber Istambay became personal with his counter arguments. It came to a point where he insinuated that I support the trapos. Then pinagtabuyan nya ako from his blog by saying, "shooo go away, we are busy in this election" in the comment section of his blog.
Again, this is a mindset issue. It is not just the ordinary folks who have mindset issues. If we cannot be civil in cyberspace, what more in the real world. I created a thread on the Ang Kapatiran forum entitled hindi pa hinog. I again expressed my opinion that Ang Kapatiran is not yet ready. While there is a good discussion on the thread, someone butted in to say that "close the topic and let's move on". Well, it's their forum and I really have no intention to be a panggulo or kontrabida. So I acceded to the request and did not make a fuss out of it. Then came this "shoo go away" statement from Cyber Istambay.
On these two occassions, I was told to stop expressing my views. It does not feel good to be told to stop saying what you are saying simply because what you say does not jibe with their thoughts. The emotional reaction is quite natural. The moment it sinks in, you become more objective. Then you ask, why do these people say what they say. You perceive them as allies but they treat you as an enemy. It's an attitude problem. "If you are not with us, you are our enemy." A too narrow minded perspective. This is very prevalent in our society. An excellect example was when Bong Austero wrote an open letter which created quite a stir in cyberspace and in the real world. The anti GMA group immediately labeled Austero as "pakawala ng Malakanyang" and pro Arroyo while Malacanang extracted whatever propaganda juice it can get from the issue. But essentially, Austero is neither here nor there.
Why is it that people will only see things from their perspective? Can't we be mature enough to realize that in every issue, there are thousands of perspectives due to thousands of interests. The bigger question is, where does the greater interest lie? But then again, that is getting way, way ahead of the story.
This "shoo" incident is a form of arrogance that will never help our cause. This journey is truly a lonely one but I will keep my focus. I'll move on and hopefully allies may be found.
I have expressed my opinion on this blog and other blogs when I see it fit, that Ang Kapatiran is not yet ready to be part of the electoral process. That their participation will just be a waste. When this Cyber Istambay mentioned the Ang Kapatiran in the Ang Bagong Pinoy yahoo group, where I am also a member, I thought it would be nice to engage him in a small discussion in his blog with regards to my opinion on Ang Kapatiran's participation in this election. I did not discuss with him on the yahoo group to avoid offending other members that I personally know who are also Ang Kapatiran members. Secondly, I don't want to create more stir on that yahoo group. I have done enough already.
So I went to Cyber Istambay's blog where I re posted an entry in my blog.. At the start, there was really nothing unusual in our exchange of thoughts. I myself is trying to validate my opinion that Ang Kapatiran is not yet ready. If Ang Kapatiran supporters can convince me that they are ready, I can change my position. I am not an enemy. We are on the same side. Unfortunately, this Cyber Istambay became personal with his counter arguments. It came to a point where he insinuated that I support the trapos. Then pinagtabuyan nya ako from his blog by saying, "shooo go away, we are busy in this election" in the comment section of his blog.
Again, this is a mindset issue. It is not just the ordinary folks who have mindset issues. If we cannot be civil in cyberspace, what more in the real world. I created a thread on the Ang Kapatiran forum entitled hindi pa hinog. I again expressed my opinion that Ang Kapatiran is not yet ready. While there is a good discussion on the thread, someone butted in to say that "close the topic and let's move on". Well, it's their forum and I really have no intention to be a panggulo or kontrabida. So I acceded to the request and did not make a fuss out of it. Then came this "shoo go away" statement from Cyber Istambay.
On these two occassions, I was told to stop expressing my views. It does not feel good to be told to stop saying what you are saying simply because what you say does not jibe with their thoughts. The emotional reaction is quite natural. The moment it sinks in, you become more objective. Then you ask, why do these people say what they say. You perceive them as allies but they treat you as an enemy. It's an attitude problem. "If you are not with us, you are our enemy." A too narrow minded perspective. This is very prevalent in our society. An excellect example was when Bong Austero wrote an open letter which created quite a stir in cyberspace and in the real world. The anti GMA group immediately labeled Austero as "pakawala ng Malakanyang" and pro Arroyo while Malacanang extracted whatever propaganda juice it can get from the issue. But essentially, Austero is neither here nor there.
Why is it that people will only see things from their perspective? Can't we be mature enough to realize that in every issue, there are thousands of perspectives due to thousands of interests. The bigger question is, where does the greater interest lie? But then again, that is getting way, way ahead of the story.
This "shoo" incident is a form of arrogance that will never help our cause. This journey is truly a lonely one but I will keep my focus. I'll move on and hopefully allies may be found.
Monday, April 2, 2007
Let us support Mabulo
I hope the people of Camarines will junk Dato and guard their votes. Making Dato run for a congressional seat is the height of greed for power. Making him lose may give a warning to those in power that they cannot always have it their way all of the time.
Against all Odds
By Sabas Mabulo
More than a decade ago, when I first entered government service by way of running in an elected position, it was clear in my mind that the only desire in me was to give a part of my life in the service for my people.
True enough, I was entrusted a sensitive post for 12 years (3 years as a municipal kagawad and 9 years as a local chief executive). But, least to my expectation and never in my wildest dreams have I considered the thought of wanting a higher post other than what was granted to me by my town folks for I am aware that, that would be like paddling against all odds.
In politics there is a popular clique, “there are no permanent friends and enemies only indestructible interests”. One day late last year news of unification of the 3 political kingpins in the province resonated all over our place. Congs. Villafuerte, Alfelor and Secretary Andaya forged an alliance making way to what is to be the strongest political alliance. Any decision to battle them was like banging one’s head against a brick wall – in short committing a political suicide. No one was taken aback by the sudden change in the flow of the tide, the once rivals are now comrades – they are indeed true blooded politicians who possess insatiable appetites.
Almost as soon as news of unification broke out, another dumbfounding issue appeared. The kingpins are endorsing Dato Arroyo to the congressional seat of the first district of Camarines Sur.
It was alarming news, to think that Andaya a stronghold in the first district is backing out in favor of the President’s son. The decision created a sensation; it made way to many implications.
First, considering the unification of the 3 naturally merging of the big parties including the mayors will follow, because they are now united who will have the guts to run against anyone in any position
more so with Dato – he will then run unopposed. Second, not everybody welcomed the idea with open heart and the same fervor as the seasoned politicians of the province. Questions emanated like, why is Dato here in the first district, what’s in it for the 3 if they can give Dato the congressional seat in a silver platter and is there no other local politician capable to run the business of his own territory?
To concretize the plans a meeting was set last December 10 by Secretary Andaya to make way for the forging of a covenant endorsing Dato But with the on going relief and rehabilitation operations to the victims of typhoon Reming the meeting was cancelled.
In disgust over the gesture of our political leaders, a core group composed of representatives from NGOs, People’s Organization, academe, business and church based organizations met and invited me over – I was surprised to find out that I was the only politician in the group. The occasion was the first step taken in their desire to redefine the stance, that in any election candidates with biggest machinery brings home the bacon and at the same time tackle the issue on Dato running unopposed. Yes, Dato will not run unoppossed; I was their best option.
I left the meeting in a state of awe as mixed emotions engulfed my being. I felt elated at the same time fearful , why a simple man like me whose only wish after June 30, 2007 is to go back to ordinary everyday life be the local choice for the congressional seat. There are a lot of things I would rather do – teach for instance or go back to NGO work or plant and go fishing in the farm, than go to what I a consider an unmatched fight in a bigger arena.
One result of that drum roll was the growing interest of opposition politicians who one by one began to call, inquiring and even insinuating the possibility to offer myself as alternative. At that time my only response was a laughter or a big smile, for viewing the whole idea from all perspective I would say accepting the challenge is a long shot to make.
It was difficult to make a quick and decisive stand regarding the opposition and core group’s hope for a dramatic change. Committing myself to a delicate matter must be a conjoined decision of my family, relatives, friends, political contacts and leaders whom I consulted and gave me one common sentiment – GO AHEAD AND FIGHT.
Realizing that in any decision to make the thumbs up or the big yes of people around you is never enough, our trust in God’s divine wisdom is necessary. He alone knows the best, He alone will give me the one final answer.
So on February 12 in what I consider a crucial CLC prayer meeting, the issue I had long been trying avoid to face squarely was posed to me point blank. Despite my fears and unworthiness at the same time after carefully listening to my inner thoughts during that prayer meeting with the help of the community divine inspiration flowed through me. Specially touching was when
one shared – that all prophets were afraid and unworthy but they followed the calling. Right there I felt compelled to take the path that seemed to be risky and unthinkable.
Together with the decision I made were the many fears tagged along with it, for one there is the inconvenience of a political campaign on a broader scope, which I am not used to. When before I have to cover only the barangays in my town this time I have to reach all the barangays in the towns of the first district.
Security risk is another thing to contend with, considering I am fighting a powerful political force. Most of all my fear of not being able to reach the finish line for lack of logistics is one reality to face.
Although, despite the fears and unworthiness I constantly remind myself that they may have the finest arms, the support of the strongest political party, countless resources in the land, I am confident that I will give them a good fight because I have the most powerful campaign manager and shield at hand – God is with me expressed through the countless people who encouraged and expressed support to my YES, I can make a difference even as I sail in this battle paddling against all odds.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
May ibang paraan pa
Sila ba ay makabayan o sila ba ay panggulo ng bayan?
Simulan natin sa OAKWOOD MUTINY. Mga junior officers ng militar, kinontrol ang Oakwood sa Makati para ipakita ang kanilang pagkadismaya sa kasalukuyang gobyerno.
Makalipas ang ilang buwan, ang former ATO chief, kinontrol ang NAIA tower, bilang protesta sa umiiral na sistema ng pamahalaan sa Pilipinas.
Tapos kahapon, nagpyesta nanaman ang media. Mga bata hinostage bilang pagtutol sa political dynasties at rampant stealing in government.
Sa tatlong insidente, kitang kita ang frustration sa klase ng pamamalakad ng mga pulitiko sa ating bansa. Masyado nang naipon ang frustration na iyon kaya napunta sa act of desperation. Gumawa na ng krimen para lamang maipahatid ang kanilang hinaing sa pamahalaan. Kung tutuusin, di naman sila mga ordinaryong Pilipino. Mga may kaya at may pinag aralan. Pero bakit humahantong sa karahasan ang frustrations nila? Isa lang ang nakikita kong dahilan, atensyon.
Alam na nating lahat na corrupt ang pamahalaan magmula sa mga ordinaryong empleyado ng gobyerno hanggang sa kataas taasang pinuno nito. Na puros pansariling interes lamang ang alam ng mga pulitiko. Pero may ginagawa na ba tayo para labanan at tutulan ito? O nagkikibit balikat na lang ba tayo at tinatanggap na ganun talaga ang kalakaran dito sa ating bansa? Para sa iba nating mga kababayan, napuno na ang salop. Gumawa na sila ng hakbang kahit labag sa batas. Justified ba ito? Para sa akin, sa kahit anong anggulo mo tignan, hindi justified ang mga ganitong pamamaraan. May ibang paraan pa upang makakuha ng atensyon.
Sa paggamit ng armas, di malayo na may maaaring mapahamak. Maaaring may mga buhay na madamay. May mga inosenteng masasaktan. Pero kailangan nila ng armas para sila mapansin. Kung magtatalumpati sila sa gitna ng kalye upang ipahayag nag kanilang saloobin, baka isiping may topak pa sila. Pero kung may hawak silang baril at granada, tiyak pyesta ang media.
Pero hindi naman kailangang may baril ka para mapansin ng media. Ang kailangan lang naman, magiging kakaiba ka. Be creative. May mga ibang pamamaraan pa upang maipahayag ang ating pagka dismaya. May ibang paraan pa upang makuha ang simpatya ng tao. Hindi natin kailangang magpapansin. Gumawa na lang tayo ng mga bagay bagay na kanilang mapapansin. Dapat ang atensyon, nasa isyu hindi sa tao. At kapag nagtanong ang media ng sino, wala silang makikitang kasagutan dito. Ganun dapat. May ibang paraan pa.
Simulan natin sa OAKWOOD MUTINY. Mga junior officers ng militar, kinontrol ang Oakwood sa Makati para ipakita ang kanilang pagkadismaya sa kasalukuyang gobyerno.
Makalipas ang ilang buwan, ang former ATO chief, kinontrol ang NAIA tower, bilang protesta sa umiiral na sistema ng pamahalaan sa Pilipinas.
Tapos kahapon, nagpyesta nanaman ang media. Mga bata hinostage bilang pagtutol sa political dynasties at rampant stealing in government.
Sa tatlong insidente, kitang kita ang frustration sa klase ng pamamalakad ng mga pulitiko sa ating bansa. Masyado nang naipon ang frustration na iyon kaya napunta sa act of desperation. Gumawa na ng krimen para lamang maipahatid ang kanilang hinaing sa pamahalaan. Kung tutuusin, di naman sila mga ordinaryong Pilipino. Mga may kaya at may pinag aralan. Pero bakit humahantong sa karahasan ang frustrations nila? Isa lang ang nakikita kong dahilan, atensyon.
Alam na nating lahat na corrupt ang pamahalaan magmula sa mga ordinaryong empleyado ng gobyerno hanggang sa kataas taasang pinuno nito. Na puros pansariling interes lamang ang alam ng mga pulitiko. Pero may ginagawa na ba tayo para labanan at tutulan ito? O nagkikibit balikat na lang ba tayo at tinatanggap na ganun talaga ang kalakaran dito sa ating bansa? Para sa iba nating mga kababayan, napuno na ang salop. Gumawa na sila ng hakbang kahit labag sa batas. Justified ba ito? Para sa akin, sa kahit anong anggulo mo tignan, hindi justified ang mga ganitong pamamaraan. May ibang paraan pa upang makakuha ng atensyon.
Sa paggamit ng armas, di malayo na may maaaring mapahamak. Maaaring may mga buhay na madamay. May mga inosenteng masasaktan. Pero kailangan nila ng armas para sila mapansin. Kung magtatalumpati sila sa gitna ng kalye upang ipahayag nag kanilang saloobin, baka isiping may topak pa sila. Pero kung may hawak silang baril at granada, tiyak pyesta ang media.
Pero hindi naman kailangang may baril ka para mapansin ng media. Ang kailangan lang naman, magiging kakaiba ka. Be creative. May mga ibang pamamaraan pa upang maipahayag ang ating pagka dismaya. May ibang paraan pa upang makuha ang simpatya ng tao. Hindi natin kailangang magpapansin. Gumawa na lang tayo ng mga bagay bagay na kanilang mapapansin. Dapat ang atensyon, nasa isyu hindi sa tao. At kapag nagtanong ang media ng sino, wala silang makikitang kasagutan dito. Ganun dapat. May ibang paraan pa.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Bakit ngayon lang?
Part of GOOD CITIZENSHIP is to admit ones mistake and to say sorry kung sino man ang nasaktan. Pero yung "sorry" ni Oreta, hindi naman talaga sorry iyon. May agenda yung "sorry" nya. Ang makabalik sa Senado.
Hindi ko pa napapanood yung ad ni Oreta. Madalang lang naman kasi ako magbukas ng tv. Nakakasuka kasing mapanood yung mga political ads. Kahit itong ad ni Oreta, wala akong balak na abangan. Ang akin lang sana matalo sya.
Nang matalo sya sa halalan noong 2004, napabalita na naging relihiyosa sya. Ganun? Kailangan bang ipagsigawan yon? Tapos noong napabalitang hindi sya mapapasama sa lineup ng opposition, biglang bumaligtad kasama si Sotto? Ano yun? Ganun ba talaga sila kagahaman sa pwesto? Walang prinsi prinsipyo, ang importante maupo sa pwesto. Dahil nangungulelat sa survey, ngayon may pa sorry sorry pa sya? Hellloooooooooo.....
Magsorry sya sa lelang nyang panot. Kung talagang sorry sya sa pagiging dancing queen nya, dapat noon pa nya ginawa, noong hindi pa sya nangangampanya. Noong sinasabing naging relihiyosa na sya. Kung talagang sorry sya, umatras na lang sya sa pagtakbo para hindi pag isipan na may iba syang motibo.
Yung nasa malakanyang naman, kaagad agad nag sorry dahil political survival nya ang at stake. Pero syempre alam natin na hindi sincere iyon. Naghahanap lang sya ng karamay. Para sa akin, kapag ang pulitiko ang nag sorry, mahirap tanggapin. Dahil alam ko may iba silang agenda.
Hindi ko pa napapanood yung ad ni Oreta. Madalang lang naman kasi ako magbukas ng tv. Nakakasuka kasing mapanood yung mga political ads. Kahit itong ad ni Oreta, wala akong balak na abangan. Ang akin lang sana matalo sya.
Nang matalo sya sa halalan noong 2004, napabalita na naging relihiyosa sya. Ganun? Kailangan bang ipagsigawan yon? Tapos noong napabalitang hindi sya mapapasama sa lineup ng opposition, biglang bumaligtad kasama si Sotto? Ano yun? Ganun ba talaga sila kagahaman sa pwesto? Walang prinsi prinsipyo, ang importante maupo sa pwesto. Dahil nangungulelat sa survey, ngayon may pa sorry sorry pa sya? Hellloooooooooo.....
Magsorry sya sa lelang nyang panot. Kung talagang sorry sya sa pagiging dancing queen nya, dapat noon pa nya ginawa, noong hindi pa sya nangangampanya. Noong sinasabing naging relihiyosa na sya. Kung talagang sorry sya, umatras na lang sya sa pagtakbo para hindi pag isipan na may iba syang motibo.
Yung nasa malakanyang naman, kaagad agad nag sorry dahil political survival nya ang at stake. Pero syempre alam natin na hindi sincere iyon. Naghahanap lang sya ng karamay. Para sa akin, kapag ang pulitiko ang nag sorry, mahirap tanggapin. Dahil alam ko may iba silang agenda.
Philippine Agenda
Kakapanood ko lang ng episode ng Philippine Agenda, isang News and Public Affairs program ng channel 7. Mga ilang linggo na rin akong hindi nanonood ng tv. Ngayon lang uli at nakaka depress pa ang napanood ko.
Topic sa episode ng programa ang state of Philippine education. Siguro hindi na lingid sa kaalaman natin kung gaano ka talamak ang sistema ng edukasyon. We all know that there is so much to be desired in our educational system. Sa programa, nagkaroon ng mukha ang klase ng edukasyon meron tayo.
Naantig ako ng husto doon sa batang babae na 12 taong gulang na nasa grade 1 pa lang. Kailangan nya pang mamulot ng basura para may pang baon. Masigasig ang bata mag aral. Ayaw nyang mag absent. Aktibo sa klase kahit kulang sa timbang. Napa shit na lang ako ng sabihin ng nanay patitigilin na sya sa susunod na pasukan. Parang gusto na lang yatang pagkakitaan ng nanany yung anak. Di ko masyado nakuha yung dahilan kung bakit patitigilin yung bata.
Yung teacher tricycle driver bago at pagkatapos ng klase. Yung isang estudyante, amgtitinda muna ng pandesal sa umaga para may makain ang mga kapatid bago sya pumasok.
Inabangan ko kung ano ang io offer na solusyon ng programa. Ayun, nauwi sa boto. Ang sabi, pag isipan ng husto kung sino ang iboboto. Ako? Wala, wala akong maio offer na solusyon. Malalim ang ugat nito mula sa kariharap, pulitika, corruption. It is the state of our nation. Sa munting simulaing ito, nawa'y lumuganap ito at magtulong tulong tayong mapabuti ang kalagayan ng ating bansa.
Topic sa episode ng programa ang state of Philippine education. Siguro hindi na lingid sa kaalaman natin kung gaano ka talamak ang sistema ng edukasyon. We all know that there is so much to be desired in our educational system. Sa programa, nagkaroon ng mukha ang klase ng edukasyon meron tayo.
Naantig ako ng husto doon sa batang babae na 12 taong gulang na nasa grade 1 pa lang. Kailangan nya pang mamulot ng basura para may pang baon. Masigasig ang bata mag aral. Ayaw nyang mag absent. Aktibo sa klase kahit kulang sa timbang. Napa shit na lang ako ng sabihin ng nanay patitigilin na sya sa susunod na pasukan. Parang gusto na lang yatang pagkakitaan ng nanany yung anak. Di ko masyado nakuha yung dahilan kung bakit patitigilin yung bata.
Yung teacher tricycle driver bago at pagkatapos ng klase. Yung isang estudyante, amgtitinda muna ng pandesal sa umaga para may makain ang mga kapatid bago sya pumasok.
Inabangan ko kung ano ang io offer na solusyon ng programa. Ayun, nauwi sa boto. Ang sabi, pag isipan ng husto kung sino ang iboboto. Ako? Wala, wala akong maio offer na solusyon. Malalim ang ugat nito mula sa kariharap, pulitika, corruption. It is the state of our nation. Sa munting simulaing ito, nawa'y lumuganap ito at magtulong tulong tayong mapabuti ang kalagayan ng ating bansa.
Friday, March 23, 2007
MONAY
When I first saw the trailer of this movie, alam kong hindi sya maganda. Sa trailer pa lang, mukha siyang pito pitong pelikula. Out of curiousity, pinanood ko kanina. Di nga ako nagkamali.
I know Jun Urbano means well. He has a message to share to all of us. His call is for us to change by showing what is bad about us. He is sincere and that his intentions are pure. Unfortunately, he failed miserably.
Sobrang pangit talaga ng pelikula to the max. I don't even find their comedy funny. Some even borders into being insulting. The movie tries to appeal to our senses but the movie itself doesn't make sense at all. The plot is just too absurd.
The movie tries to show the kind of citizens that we are. That we are bad citizens. Mga pulis na nangongotong. Mga pulitikong kurakot. Taxi driver na mapagsamantala. Mga umiihi sa pader kahit may karatulang bawal umihi. Mga estudyanteng walang alam sa kasaysayan. Pinapakita ng pelikula ang mga mali sa atin bilang mga mamamayan. Pero pati yung pelikula, napakagandang halimbawa kung ano tayo, mediocre. The movie is soooooo mediocre. Wala ka man lang makakitaan ng attempt na mag stive for excllence. Yung tipong basta matapos lang, ok na. Walang karapatan ang pelikula na magsabi kung ano ang mali sa atin dahil yung pelikula mismo isang malaking pagkakamali. Taong 2007 na pero yung pelikula parang circa 70s pa. Ganun na lang ba talaga ang kaya natin?
Sayang ang pera. Sayang ang oras. Lahat sayang. Maganda sana ang intensyon kaya lang pati yung pelikula nagpe perpetuate ng culture of mediocrity.
I know Jun Urbano means well. He has a message to share to all of us. His call is for us to change by showing what is bad about us. He is sincere and that his intentions are pure. Unfortunately, he failed miserably.
Sobrang pangit talaga ng pelikula to the max. I don't even find their comedy funny. Some even borders into being insulting. The movie tries to appeal to our senses but the movie itself doesn't make sense at all. The plot is just too absurd.
The movie tries to show the kind of citizens that we are. That we are bad citizens. Mga pulis na nangongotong. Mga pulitikong kurakot. Taxi driver na mapagsamantala. Mga umiihi sa pader kahit may karatulang bawal umihi. Mga estudyanteng walang alam sa kasaysayan. Pinapakita ng pelikula ang mga mali sa atin bilang mga mamamayan. Pero pati yung pelikula, napakagandang halimbawa kung ano tayo, mediocre. The movie is soooooo mediocre. Wala ka man lang makakitaan ng attempt na mag stive for excllence. Yung tipong basta matapos lang, ok na. Walang karapatan ang pelikula na magsabi kung ano ang mali sa atin dahil yung pelikula mismo isang malaking pagkakamali. Taong 2007 na pero yung pelikula parang circa 70s pa. Ganun na lang ba talaga ang kaya natin?
Sayang ang pera. Sayang ang oras. Lahat sayang. Maganda sana ang intensyon kaya lang pati yung pelikula nagpe perpetuate ng culture of mediocrity.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Gold in Grass
I met Ms. Lilia Pelayo, finance officer of Gold in Grass Corporation through ANG BAGONG PINOY. We've attended several meetings together. I know she is in the lemon grass business but never really got to know the details. Not until today when I went to Megamall to visit the National Trade Fair.
I am not exactly impressed with the products in this year's fair. Halos pare pareho lang every year. But this lemon grass business, I believe has a potential. Not that I am making sipsip to Lilia because I know her personally but I am truly convinced that I has a huge potential.
I know nothing about essential oils and its product derivatives. What struck me with this product is the technology that they employ. The machine used to extact the oil from lemon grass was invented by Lilia's brother. There are other available equipments that can extract the oil but in terms of efficiency and quality, the machine they use in Gold In Grass is much better. There were email offers coming from other countries to buy the machine but no, they are not selling. I begged Lilia and her brother not to sell the technology if other offers come along and they assured my that they won't sell. Keep it as ours, I pleaded them.
Their main issue right now is expansion. In as much as they would want to extract more oil from lemon grass, they are limited by the fact that the only have one extractor at this time. It costs more that P7M to build one extrator. I am not really sure about the economics of this since its a huge amount on capital outlay for one machine. Maybe Lilia is a better position to explain in terms of ROI.
There must be a huge potential here considering that the lemon grass anywhere where cogon grow. The lemon grass can be harvested within three months with a minimal input. Compared to rice production, there is more to earn in lemon grass. Well, I am speaking from what Lilia told me. But the most important thing here is the technology. The technology is ours. It's something that we should/could capitalize on.
I am not exactly impressed with the products in this year's fair. Halos pare pareho lang every year. But this lemon grass business, I believe has a potential. Not that I am making sipsip to Lilia because I know her personally but I am truly convinced that I has a huge potential.
I know nothing about essential oils and its product derivatives. What struck me with this product is the technology that they employ. The machine used to extact the oil from lemon grass was invented by Lilia's brother. There are other available equipments that can extract the oil but in terms of efficiency and quality, the machine they use in Gold In Grass is much better. There were email offers coming from other countries to buy the machine but no, they are not selling. I begged Lilia and her brother not to sell the technology if other offers come along and they assured my that they won't sell. Keep it as ours, I pleaded them.
Their main issue right now is expansion. In as much as they would want to extract more oil from lemon grass, they are limited by the fact that the only have one extractor at this time. It costs more that P7M to build one extrator. I am not really sure about the economics of this since its a huge amount on capital outlay for one machine. Maybe Lilia is a better position to explain in terms of ROI.
There must be a huge potential here considering that the lemon grass anywhere where cogon grow. The lemon grass can be harvested within three months with a minimal input. Compared to rice production, there is more to earn in lemon grass. Well, I am speaking from what Lilia told me. But the most important thing here is the technology. The technology is ours. It's something that we should/could capitalize on.
National Trade Fair
The National Trade Fair (NTF) is a yearly event organized by the Department Trade and Industries. If I am not mistaken, this has always been held at the Megatrade Hall at Megamall. NTF is the government's attempt to introduce small producers to a bigger market. Support is also given in terms of product development, product design and packaging. Small producers are usually those that have graduated from the level of micro/backyard enterprise. The customary buyers for this fair are exporters, department stores, specialty shops/stores and some foreign buyers. This week is another NTF week.
After visiting NTF every year for several years now, all I can say is that it's still all the same. Not much has changed. It's the usual stuff; bags, accessories, bamboo craft, weaves, packaged food, wood craft, furnitures. Since the time that I visited the NTF event, the only product that I know that was truly developed and has matured is the virgin coconut oil. After all these year, it's still the same kind of products year in year out, except for this one..
I am not really sure if the NTF is focused on mass produced/handicraft/labor intensive products but that is my impression since they are dealing with small producers. The NTF is suppose to be a showcase of Filipino ingenuity and creativity. Well, I'm not impressed. Pare pareho na lang yung creativity at ingenuity na nakikita ko. Sana may ma create tayo na product na makita mo pa lang, ang masasabi mo agad, "Wow, this is something new!" Kaso halos puro replay lang yung mga produkto.
My wish is sana maka create tayo ng global brand. Kung magawa nating global brand ang adobo bakit hindi natin gawin. Ang Thai restaurant dito hindi lang pinapasok ng mga Thai kundi pati mga locals and expats. Ang Filipino restaurants abroad ba pina patronize din ng mga locals at expats doon? Di ba kadalasan tayo tayo ding mga Pinoy ang tumatangkilik sa mga Pinoy restaurant. Since nagkalat na tayo sa buong mundo, hindi ba natin pwedeng turuan ang ibang nationalities na ma appreciate ang pagkain natin. Di ba masarap pakinggan kung sasabihin ng mga expats, "Let's have Filipino food for lunch." Hindi na lang yung puro Chinese, Japanese, French, Thai, Mexican food ang choice nila. Ewan ko kung ano ang kinalaman nito sa NTF pero sana meron tayong ganung mindset, pang global ang approach hindi iyong puro handicraft na lang.
Ewan ko kung may bagong technology na na imbento in terms of processing and production. Hindi naman kasi nakikita yun sa end product at usually iyon ang trade secret. But since pare pareho yung mga produkto, siguro walang bagong technology na naimbento, except for one. Siguro dapat mas mag focus tayo doon. Ewan ko kung na kopya na yung process nang paggawa ng virgin coconut oil sa ibang bansa pero I'm sure tayo ang naka develop ng process nun. Yung technology ng waterless fish hibernation, atin iyon. Pati din yung coconet technology. Yung mga ganito ang dapat natin i encourage at i develop. Yung mga bag, picture frames, fashion accessories na yan, kayang kayang gayahin yan sa China at bagsak presyo pa. Dapat ang mindset, ano yung di nila kayang gawin, ano yung hindi nila makokopya.
Sana ma transcend natin yung mindset na handicraft. Walang masama sa handicraft. Maraming nabubuhay dito. Ang akin lang naman, sana sige pa. May magagawa at madidiskubre pa tayo maliban sa handicraft.
After visiting NTF every year for several years now, all I can say is that it's still all the same. Not much has changed. It's the usual stuff; bags, accessories, bamboo craft, weaves, packaged food, wood craft, furnitures. Since the time that I visited the NTF event, the only product that I know that was truly developed and has matured is the virgin coconut oil. After all these year, it's still the same kind of products year in year out, except for this one..
I am not really sure if the NTF is focused on mass produced/handicraft/labor intensive products but that is my impression since they are dealing with small producers. The NTF is suppose to be a showcase of Filipino ingenuity and creativity. Well, I'm not impressed. Pare pareho na lang yung creativity at ingenuity na nakikita ko. Sana may ma create tayo na product na makita mo pa lang, ang masasabi mo agad, "Wow, this is something new!" Kaso halos puro replay lang yung mga produkto.
My wish is sana maka create tayo ng global brand. Kung magawa nating global brand ang adobo bakit hindi natin gawin. Ang Thai restaurant dito hindi lang pinapasok ng mga Thai kundi pati mga locals and expats. Ang Filipino restaurants abroad ba pina patronize din ng mga locals at expats doon? Di ba kadalasan tayo tayo ding mga Pinoy ang tumatangkilik sa mga Pinoy restaurant. Since nagkalat na tayo sa buong mundo, hindi ba natin pwedeng turuan ang ibang nationalities na ma appreciate ang pagkain natin. Di ba masarap pakinggan kung sasabihin ng mga expats, "Let's have Filipino food for lunch." Hindi na lang yung puro Chinese, Japanese, French, Thai, Mexican food ang choice nila. Ewan ko kung ano ang kinalaman nito sa NTF pero sana meron tayong ganung mindset, pang global ang approach hindi iyong puro handicraft na lang.
Ewan ko kung may bagong technology na na imbento in terms of processing and production. Hindi naman kasi nakikita yun sa end product at usually iyon ang trade secret. But since pare pareho yung mga produkto, siguro walang bagong technology na naimbento, except for one. Siguro dapat mas mag focus tayo doon. Ewan ko kung na kopya na yung process nang paggawa ng virgin coconut oil sa ibang bansa pero I'm sure tayo ang naka develop ng process nun. Yung technology ng waterless fish hibernation, atin iyon. Pati din yung coconet technology. Yung mga ganito ang dapat natin i encourage at i develop. Yung mga bag, picture frames, fashion accessories na yan, kayang kayang gayahin yan sa China at bagsak presyo pa. Dapat ang mindset, ano yung di nila kayang gawin, ano yung hindi nila makokopya.
Sana ma transcend natin yung mindset na handicraft. Walang masama sa handicraft. Maraming nabubuhay dito. Ang akin lang naman, sana sige pa. May magagawa at madidiskubre pa tayo maliban sa handicraft.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
M.O.N.A.Y.
State of the "neysion" is de Quiros' Inquirer column today. I will not react with what he wrote. I will just post a personal email I wrote to Leo Martinez last March 6, 2007 regarding this movie M.O.N.A.Y. Up to this day, I am still awaiting for his response. No word from him even if just "I got your email" note.
The following is my email to him.
Dear Mr. Martinez:
A few days ago, I had the chance to view the trailer of the movie M.O.N.A.Y. which will be shown in theaters this month. I also heard a plug on the radio on this movie where you said "ang problema tayo mismo" or something to that effect. I agree with you. The problem is us.
Although many of us do recognize that a major cause of our woes is us, there isn't really a serious campaign to address this. The movie M.O.N.A.Y. is an obvious attempt to show what is wrong with us as a people. Unfortunately, I doubt if people will take the message seriously. It is the "comedy" aspect that they will see.
GOOD CITIZENSHIP is my personal advocacy. I believe this is part of the solution. Unfortunately, I simply can't find people who may be willing to work on this cause. Everybody seems too busy with their own advocacies. I am writing simply to make a connection. I feel that GOOD CITIZENSHIP is also your cause. I am just an ordinary Filipino who wants to do his share in nation building. I am just taking my chance that maybe we could build up a strategic campaign on a regular, nationwide and sustained basis to change the collective consciousness and mindset of Filipinos. What I envision is a large scale campaign but we can always start with something small and build it up from there.
Just taking my chance.
Iniibig ko ang Pilipinas,
Pinoy
There is also an email I sent to Mr. Harvey Keh in reaction to his open letter about leaving the Philippines. To date, no response. Nada. I really wonder what's wrong with the GOOD CITIZENSHIP advocacy. But this is where my heart is. I am most willing to discuss this advocacy but no one seems to care. It's a lonely road.
The following is my email to him.
Dear Mr. Martinez:
A few days ago, I had the chance to view the trailer of the movie M.O.N.A.Y. which will be shown in theaters this month. I also heard a plug on the radio on this movie where you said "ang problema tayo mismo" or something to that effect. I agree with you. The problem is us.
Although many of us do recognize that a major cause of our woes is us, there isn't really a serious campaign to address this. The movie M.O.N.A.Y. is an obvious attempt to show what is wrong with us as a people. Unfortunately, I doubt if people will take the message seriously. It is the "comedy" aspect that they will see.
GOOD CITIZENSHIP is my personal advocacy. I believe this is part of the solution. Unfortunately, I simply can't find people who may be willing to work on this cause. Everybody seems too busy with their own advocacies. I am writing simply to make a connection. I feel that GOOD CITIZENSHIP is also your cause. I am just an ordinary Filipino who wants to do his share in nation building. I am just taking my chance that maybe we could build up a strategic campaign on a regular, nationwide and sustained basis to change the collective consciousness and mindset of Filipinos. What I envision is a large scale campaign but we can always start with something small and build it up from there.
Just taking my chance.
Iniibig ko ang Pilipinas,
Pinoy
There is also an email I sent to Mr. Harvey Keh in reaction to his open letter about leaving the Philippines. To date, no response. Nada. I really wonder what's wrong with the GOOD CITIZENSHIP advocacy. But this is where my heart is. I am most willing to discuss this advocacy but no one seems to care. It's a lonely road.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Ang Kumpil
Di ako relihiyosong tao. Napapasok lang ako ng simbahan kung may okasyon. Mag a attend ng kasal o kinuhang ninong sa binyag. Sa araw na ito, napasok uli ako sa simbaha. Kinuha akong proxy na ninong ng isang kakilalang magpapakumpil. Magpapakumpil sya dahil requirement ito para makasal sa simbahan.
Sabi sa akin, 8:30 ng umaga ang kumpil. Mga 8:00 pa lang nasa labas na ako ng simbahan ng Quiapo. Doon gaganapin ang kumpil. Nauna pa ako sa aanakin sa kumpil. Nang magkita kita sa labas ng simbahan, sabay ng pumila sa labas ng Jaime Cardical Sin Building. Isa isang pinapapasok ang mga kukumpilan at mga ninong at ninang. Karamihan o halos lahat ng kukumpilan ay magpapakumpil dahil magpapakasal.
Sa thied floor ng building kami pinapunta. Mga 75 din ang kukumpilan. Sa tig P200 bawat ulo, malinaw na P15,000 ang kita ng simbahan. Iba pa yung P50 na kailangang bayaran pagkuha ng certificate. Nsa isang side ng kwarto ang mga kukumpilan at nasa kabila naman ang mga ninong at ninang.
Mga 8:45, may pumunta sa harapan ng kwarto. Levi pangalan nya. Pinaliwanag niya ang mga teknikal na aspeto ng kumpil; pag claim, maling pangalan, bakit hinahanapan ng kung anu anong dokumento bago kumpilan, etc. Mahigit isang oras din ang paliwanagan. Pagkatapos niyang magsalita, sumunod naman ang isang babae na di ko malaman kung pinakilala nya ang sarili nya. Ang papel naman nya ay ipaliwanag ang ispiritual na kahalagahan ng kumpil. Boring.
Sa pagpapaliwanag sa significance ng kumpil, halatang di ganun ka interesado yung mga tao sa sinasabi ng nagle lecture. Halos lahat siguro ang feeling, let's get it over with. Alam naman ng lahat na kaya sila nandun ay dahil sa red tape. Kailangan nila ng certificate na sila ay nakumpilan bago sila pwedeng makapag pakasal.
Habang nagsasalita yung babae, marami nanaman akong naiisip. Ang nae experience ko nang mga oras na iyon ay salamin lamang ng mas malaking problema ng simbahang Katoliko. Ewan ko sa ibang relihiyon dahil sa simbahang Katoliko lang naman ako nakakapasok, pero ang feeling ko ang lahat ng ginawa ng mga Katoliko ay pawang mga ritwal lamang. Ang binyag, ang kumpil, ang kasal at pati mismo ang pagsimba, ito ay pawang mga ritwal lamang na kanilang ginagawa kasi dapat nilang gawin. Hindi naman talaga lubusang naiintindihan ng mga Katoliko ang kahalagahan ng bawat sakramento. Basta makapag simba, yun na yon. Basta maka kumpisal, yun na yon. Pagkatapos na ritwal, balik uli sa kung ano man ang mundo nila sa labas ng simbahan.
Bakit ba nagpapakumpil ang mga tao sa loob ng kwartong iyon? Dahil kasi kailangan nila ang certificate para makapagkasal sa simbahan, isang panibagong ritwal. Pipilitin ng simbahan na ipaliwanag ang kahalagahan ng bawat ritwal. Sa mga oras na iyon, pinapaliwanang ang kahalagahan ng kumpil. Sa mga ikakasal, kailangang dumaan sa seminar. Pero yun na yon para sa simbahan. Magbibigay sila ng paliwanag bago magkumpil. Pati pala sa binyag nagbibigay na din sila ng paliwanag. Sa kasal, pinagse seminar ata. Pero naisasa puso ba talaga ng mga taong ito ang kahalagan o ang ibig sabihin ng mga ritwal na pinapasok nila? Siyempre hindi. Basta maiparaos lang ok na yon. Ang ganitong sistema ay sinasalamin ang dahilan kung bakit kahit na tayo ang nag iisang Kristyanong bansa dito sa Asya, hindi naman talaga kabutihan ang nangingbabaw sa ating lipunan.
Magampanan lang ng simbahan ang mga ritwal na dapat nyang gawin, ang magmisa, magbinyag, mgakasal, magkumpil, etc, ok na yon. Doon na natatapos ang lahat. Wala na siyang pakialam kung isinasabuhay ba talaga ng kanyang mga taga sunod ang turo ng simbahan. Ina assume nya na lang na ganun na nga. At sa kamatayan na lang magkakaalaman, kung langit ka o impyerno.
Kaya ayun, imbes na ang simabahan ang maging tagapaggabay sa tamang asal, tamang gawain, tinatapos ng simbahan ang kanyang papel sa lipunan sa pagko conduct ng mga ritwal. Bahala na ang tao kung isasapuso niya ang mga turo ng simbahan. Hindi na pinupukpok ang mga tao sa turo ng relihiyon tutal may impyerno naman silang panakot sa mga hindi susunod sa utos ng simbahan. Kaya kahit tayo'y isang Katolikong bansa, laganap ang "kasamaan" sa ating lipunan.
Nalala ko tuloy yung rally na pinatawag ng mga obispo laban sa charter change last December. Ang sabi nila, hindi charter change ang kailangan kundi character change. Agree ako. Kaso pagkasabi nila nun, may ginawa ba silang hakbang para ma initiate yung character change na sinasabi nila? Wala. Pagkasabi ng statement nila, yun na yun. Bahala na ang tao kung pakikinggan ang panawagan nila basta sila sinabi na nila yung sa palagay nila ay dapat nilang sabihin. Pero sa palagay ko, dapat sige pa. Hindi lamang dapat inili limit ng simbahan ang gawain nila sa mga ritwal. They should inspire "goodness" in people kaso hindi iyon ang nangyayari. Sapat nang may nakokolekta sila sa bawat ritwal na isinasagawa nila.
Sabi sa akin, 8:30 ng umaga ang kumpil. Mga 8:00 pa lang nasa labas na ako ng simbahan ng Quiapo. Doon gaganapin ang kumpil. Nauna pa ako sa aanakin sa kumpil. Nang magkita kita sa labas ng simbahan, sabay ng pumila sa labas ng Jaime Cardical Sin Building. Isa isang pinapapasok ang mga kukumpilan at mga ninong at ninang. Karamihan o halos lahat ng kukumpilan ay magpapakumpil dahil magpapakasal.
Sa thied floor ng building kami pinapunta. Mga 75 din ang kukumpilan. Sa tig P200 bawat ulo, malinaw na P15,000 ang kita ng simbahan. Iba pa yung P50 na kailangang bayaran pagkuha ng certificate. Nsa isang side ng kwarto ang mga kukumpilan at nasa kabila naman ang mga ninong at ninang.
Mga 8:45, may pumunta sa harapan ng kwarto. Levi pangalan nya. Pinaliwanag niya ang mga teknikal na aspeto ng kumpil; pag claim, maling pangalan, bakit hinahanapan ng kung anu anong dokumento bago kumpilan, etc. Mahigit isang oras din ang paliwanagan. Pagkatapos niyang magsalita, sumunod naman ang isang babae na di ko malaman kung pinakilala nya ang sarili nya. Ang papel naman nya ay ipaliwanag ang ispiritual na kahalagahan ng kumpil. Boring.
Sa pagpapaliwanag sa significance ng kumpil, halatang di ganun ka interesado yung mga tao sa sinasabi ng nagle lecture. Halos lahat siguro ang feeling, let's get it over with. Alam naman ng lahat na kaya sila nandun ay dahil sa red tape. Kailangan nila ng certificate na sila ay nakumpilan bago sila pwedeng makapag pakasal.
Habang nagsasalita yung babae, marami nanaman akong naiisip. Ang nae experience ko nang mga oras na iyon ay salamin lamang ng mas malaking problema ng simbahang Katoliko. Ewan ko sa ibang relihiyon dahil sa simbahang Katoliko lang naman ako nakakapasok, pero ang feeling ko ang lahat ng ginawa ng mga Katoliko ay pawang mga ritwal lamang. Ang binyag, ang kumpil, ang kasal at pati mismo ang pagsimba, ito ay pawang mga ritwal lamang na kanilang ginagawa kasi dapat nilang gawin. Hindi naman talaga lubusang naiintindihan ng mga Katoliko ang kahalagahan ng bawat sakramento. Basta makapag simba, yun na yon. Basta maka kumpisal, yun na yon. Pagkatapos na ritwal, balik uli sa kung ano man ang mundo nila sa labas ng simbahan.
Bakit ba nagpapakumpil ang mga tao sa loob ng kwartong iyon? Dahil kasi kailangan nila ang certificate para makapagkasal sa simbahan, isang panibagong ritwal. Pipilitin ng simbahan na ipaliwanag ang kahalagahan ng bawat ritwal. Sa mga oras na iyon, pinapaliwanang ang kahalagahan ng kumpil. Sa mga ikakasal, kailangang dumaan sa seminar. Pero yun na yon para sa simbahan. Magbibigay sila ng paliwanag bago magkumpil. Pati pala sa binyag nagbibigay na din sila ng paliwanag. Sa kasal, pinagse seminar ata. Pero naisasa puso ba talaga ng mga taong ito ang kahalagan o ang ibig sabihin ng mga ritwal na pinapasok nila? Siyempre hindi. Basta maiparaos lang ok na yon. Ang ganitong sistema ay sinasalamin ang dahilan kung bakit kahit na tayo ang nag iisang Kristyanong bansa dito sa Asya, hindi naman talaga kabutihan ang nangingbabaw sa ating lipunan.
Magampanan lang ng simbahan ang mga ritwal na dapat nyang gawin, ang magmisa, magbinyag, mgakasal, magkumpil, etc, ok na yon. Doon na natatapos ang lahat. Wala na siyang pakialam kung isinasabuhay ba talaga ng kanyang mga taga sunod ang turo ng simbahan. Ina assume nya na lang na ganun na nga. At sa kamatayan na lang magkakaalaman, kung langit ka o impyerno.
Kaya ayun, imbes na ang simabahan ang maging tagapaggabay sa tamang asal, tamang gawain, tinatapos ng simbahan ang kanyang papel sa lipunan sa pagko conduct ng mga ritwal. Bahala na ang tao kung isasapuso niya ang mga turo ng simbahan. Hindi na pinupukpok ang mga tao sa turo ng relihiyon tutal may impyerno naman silang panakot sa mga hindi susunod sa utos ng simbahan. Kaya kahit tayo'y isang Katolikong bansa, laganap ang "kasamaan" sa ating lipunan.
Nalala ko tuloy yung rally na pinatawag ng mga obispo laban sa charter change last December. Ang sabi nila, hindi charter change ang kailangan kundi character change. Agree ako. Kaso pagkasabi nila nun, may ginawa ba silang hakbang para ma initiate yung character change na sinasabi nila? Wala. Pagkasabi ng statement nila, yun na yun. Bahala na ang tao kung pakikinggan ang panawagan nila basta sila sinabi na nila yung sa palagay nila ay dapat nilang sabihin. Pero sa palagay ko, dapat sige pa. Hindi lamang dapat inili limit ng simbahan ang gawain nila sa mga ritwal. They should inspire "goodness" in people kaso hindi iyon ang nangyayari. Sapat nang may nakokolekta sila sa bawat ritwal na isinasagawa nila.
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