BABALA

Kung ayaw mong maasar maging handa.

Ilang araw na lang at eleksyon na. Sigurado, sandumakmak na masikip na kalsada ang aabutan mo. Buhol-buhol na trapiko dahil sa naghahabaan at nagdadamihang motorcades. Higit pa riyan, asahan mo na rin ang mga re-routing dahil marami na ring nagtatayo ng mga entablado sa may kalsada. Kaya't maging handa at habaan ang pasensya. Pagbigyan na at sandaling araw na lang naman ito.

Pero kung wala ka namang importanteng lalakarin at ayaw mong masira ang araw mo, huwag ka na lang lumabas ng bahay.


Buti na lang handa ako, hindi ako masyadong naasar kanina sa haba ng trapik at sa layo nang nilakad ko.

******
Last Hoorah! Show support for Sonia Roco.
GO Grand Meeting de Avance, May 11, 5pm, at the Folk Arts Theater.

Isang Tanong

Watched some parts of GMA 7's 2nd episode of Isang Tanong. Whoever conceptualized the show deserves praise and gratitude.

Watching the show reminded me of my English III (Public Speaking/Oral Com). It's quite interesting to see our leaders acting like a classmate in an ENGLTRI exercise (They’re humans, too. Some buckled probably because they were nervous). Such activity enabled the viewers to know the stance of candidates in various issues. Aside from that, it's also a test of how well these candidates know different issues as well as how well they know comprehend their own platform. Aside from that, it also measures their ability to understand and think fast. It’s also good to note that the activity somehow helped in reflecting a candidate’s commitment and character through their answers (and even the manner that questions were addressed).

Lacson’s proposal to review the "Act Repealing the Death Penalty Law" reflected hiss view of implementing strictly harsh policies (kamay na bakal) to maintain Peace and Order. He never had my vote and such stand proves that he doesn't deserve my vote. There's no need to review the act. Sufficient and acceptable arguments for repealing the Death Penalty lAw have been presented already – (1) Death Penalty has not been proven deterrent, (2) The Country has a bad criminal justice system and inefficient police system, and (3) Being a poor country, not all is capable of hiring competent lawyers, (4) Majority of the countries (developed and developing) in the world don't utilize Death Penalty anymore. The more crucial thing that legislators should look at is improving our police and criminal justice system. Rather, they should oversee means to improve our police and criminal justice system. As a former PNP chief, he should know the rot in the PNP.

While Lacson was too transparent of his authoritarian-leaning perspectives, others were quite apprehensive in answering questions directly. Two possible reasons for this include: (1) They aren’t aware of the issue and would rather go tautological of their answers, and (2) They didn’t want to be associated with any stance that might affect their relationship with the coalition they belong. Just a simple yes or no and explanation were expected from them. But there are still those who failed to confront the challenge. Like any other English III class, it’s unavoidable to have a classmate who’s too nervous. Perfect example would be Mike Defensor who was not in the condition during the show (as evidenced by his answers,I think, he’s too ‘sabog’ or he’s probably nervous; and didn’t understand the question). He was asked what he wants the young leaders to become; and what laws would he support or author to fulfill this vision. He was able to answer the first question however it seems that he didn’t get the follow-up question. Instead of stating his legislative plans for young leaders, he mentioned his general legislative plans (yes, those in his advertisements). If he wasn’t confused during that time, it is also possible hat he wasn’t able to answer the second question (or opt to deviate his answers), as he doesn’t have specific legislative plans for the youth and aspiring leaders after all.

Being in the public service isn't about doling out. It's not as simple as donating money to make another person’s life better. It's not as simple as distributing your wealth to the poor to make this country a better place to live. That's one thing most candidates (esp. those coming from the showbiz industry) don’t understand. Like for example, Cesar Montano thinks that instead of spending much money for the elections, they could've given the money to the people. He doesn't understand that it's not just the money that matters but good leadership and sustainable projects.

Now, it's my turn. Isang tanong para sa akin: Sino-sino ang mga iboboto mo sa darating na halalan?

For Senators:

1. Sonia Roco
2. Manny Villar
3. Francis Pangilinan
4. Adrian Sison
5. Martin Bautista
6. Zosimo Paredes
7. Joker Arroyo? (After reading one of mlq3's column this week, I'm in a dilemma.)

Party List:

I'm currently torn between Kabataan and Akbayan. The former is the only party list that represents the Youth Sector. However, should Kabataan win, there'd be too many Bayan Muna Affiliated groups in the congress (RA). Meanwhile, I've somehow observed the performance of Akabayan in the past congress. They've always advocated for progressive bill vis-a-vis resisted bills that violate Human Rights. But given that both groups (Kabataan and Akbayan) are progressive, it's highly possible that they'd have similar stance on issues. The advantage of going for Kabataan is that they are (of course) more focused on the needs of they youth. Aside from that they've good nominees, Mong Palatino in particular.

The Right to Vote

"You have the right to vote and the right not to."

But isn't that the suffrage is also an obligation that mere right?

While people may argue that they opt not to vote because of the candidates and the kind of politics we have in the country, I don't think these are already acceptable reasons for you not to exercise your right and fulfill your duty as a Citizen. Impossible naman kasing wala kang pipiliin as there will always be the lesser evil to choose from.

If you're among those people who aren't voting this May, you don't have the right to whine/ complain (I think).

Skewed Reasonings Part II

I've been sending YM to friends, encouraging them to vote for Sonia Roco. So far, I've had good feedback. There was one friend who gave me a quite weird response. He asked me what position Mrs. Roco is running for (Gives you an idea how a lot of people are uninformed). He also asked me of Mrs. Roco's age. I answered his question but the usual curious that I am, I asked him why he wants to know Mrs. Roco's age. He said, "Ang tanda na pala niya. I'm up for younger ones eh. Ayoko na ng matanda kung baga if we look at it may corrupt sila. I'm not telling na si Sonia is corrupt diba but we cant also say na hindi siya corrupt."

My Response: "If the age will be your "sole" basis, lugi ka. while it can be assumed that older people are more corrupt since they are more exposed to "evil" deeds than the young ones, it's not safe to generalize that younger people are less corrupt. It's actually a matter of looking at the competence and the background (to know the character) of each candidate. I can tell you she's (Mrs. Roco) not corrupt because she's not a politiko unlike the young ones who have been in politics and have been involved in dirty deeds."

While it is understandable that younger people are perceived to be less corrupt, because they are still young and idealistic, people shouldn't base their vote on a candidate's age. Oh well, kung papatulan ang ganitong pangangatwiran. Eh di mas tamang iboto mo rin si Mrs. Roco, bbago lang siya sa politika, at sa tanda niyang iyon, ngayon pa ba niya babahiran ang pagkatao niya?

Meanwhile, is there such thing as "family vote"?

The entire family has agreed to vote for this mayoralty candidate. Well, again, I'm the exception. My father said, "Huwag mong sabihin mag-Dennis ka, dapat isang pamilya isang boto lang." Kalakohan na naman. I've the right to vote for that person whom I think can manage to make my town develop (change the perception of people about politics at "bata-bata" system).

Hinayupak

Akala ko hindi na-grant ng accreditationang FPJPM? Eh, bakit ang daming posters, stickers, at banners kong nakikita sa kalye? Anu naman kayang klase ng mga batas ang kanilang isusulong?

1. Pagpapatayo ng Rebulto ni FPJ dun sa may Luneta
2. Pagpapagalan ng kalsada, paaralan, at hmmm, sinehan kay FPJ
3. Pagsama sa curriculum ng Tagalog Cinema na tanging pelikula lang ni FPJ ang isusulong

Ah, ewan. Ang tanong, marginalized sector ba sila? Anong nirerepresent nila, supporters at fans ni FPJ?

At ano etong Sulong Barangay (something) na Party-List? Hindi ba redundant iyong idea na may party-list na para sa mga barangays? Eh hindi ba represented na nga ang barangay through the fact na eto ang unit na nga ito ng government system? Para saan pa itong party-list na ito?

Mainit ngayon kaya mainit ang ulo ko.

Inang Guro

It’s known to most people who know me that I was active n helping the campaigns of the late former Senator and Secretary Raul Roco in 2004. It’s just sad that he didn’t make it to the presidency and passed away. As I’ve always believed, his existence (and death) has touched and inspired a lot of people that there’s always hope for the country. Even if our country is in pain, someday, we’ll be in a better position.

It’s sad that we’ve lost a noble man that our country needs in this time where we are in great need of good and competent leaders. Considering that he has touched a lot of lives, inspired and mentored a lot of people, it isn’t impossible that he was able to contribute in creating noble persons that could be good leaders.

As of the moment, if there’s one person who is most influenced of the principles and perspectives of the late Raul Roco, it’s nonetheless his wife, Sonia Malasarte Roco. Her candidacy to the Senate is an apt move.

Politics is not a new world to Sonia. Being a daughter of a former governor, she was exposed to politics already. As a student, she was an active leader of different organizations. In fact, she received several awards and recognitions as a student leader. Of course, being the wife of Raul Roco even more heightened her knowledge, wisdom, and participation in the world of Politics. According to her, being married to Raul Roco is like being enrolled in Politics 101.

Not because she’s the wife of the late Senator she already deserves our vote. Of course, being married to Raul Roco is a plus. There are other reasons (like those that have been mentioned above) why we should vote for her. She’s far better than the other candidates we have right now. To know more about Sonia Roco (and to know why you should vote for her), visit Sonia Roco Blog.

Tell me why...

Why are you voting for Trillanes?

I've been wondering why most of the friends/acquaintances from the progressive groups campaign for Trillanes. Does it simply have something to do with Trillanes being an oppositionist? Or do they consider the Oakwood Mutiny as an act of courage?

How can you vote for someone behind the bars? Should he be lucky enough to win in the elections, the question is how can he perform his tasks in prison? While Oakwood Mutiny may be considered as an act of courage and a statement of idealism, it still utilized an unconstitutional (I think) means of getting "justice." Ergo, is it possible that he doesn't value the constitution?

And, isn't that the Oakwood Mutiny is a politically backed uprising? Allegedly, these soldiers (idealists and passionate) were used by greedy politicians? Is it safe to assume that prior to the Oakwood Mutiny, he already had plans of running for public office? Also, is it possible for someone who went against (extremely against) the government to work within the same system that he abhors?

These are just my rants. I've less people to talk to about these insights. Heck, put it in this space. Enlighten me.

The Best Campaign Poster I've Seen So Far...

Don't get me wrong. I'm not campaigning for them. I was just breezing through different blogs and found this poster (Actually, the other day I saw two versions of the campaign poster. I don't know what happened with the other poster with Walden Bello in the picture. Will try to dig that poster somewhere - found the poster).

I find the poster to be too sincere. The simplicity of the design, the shot, the subject's facial expression are very appealing to capture attention. Not to mention the copy that is just so fine to make you pause and think for a while. There's something about the poster that gave me goosebumps. It was actually similar (because this one didn't make me cry naman) feeling I had when I saw RSR's Political Ad and the RSR Special (Meeting de Avance of sorts).

Walang bahid ng pa-cute. Walang bahid na pa-popular effect. Para siyang program ID ng Public Affairs program. Sana lahat ng advertisements and posters ng mga kandidato ganito. Something that can encourage you to think.

P.S. I'm still contemplating what party list to vote for. Kung pumasok lang ang "Ang Ladlad", meron na akong iboboto.

Skewed Reasonings

"Pare, dati hindi ko kilala si Pitchay. Pero astig ang advertisements niya. Nakilala ko tuloy siya. Iboboto ko siya."

These were the words I heard from an officemate. I was about to react but helped myself not to as I am just new in the office. It wouldn't be nice to interfere in their conversation (can't become bitchy as of the moment). I'm not sure if it was a joke but he seemed too serious about his statement.

Political advertisements are used to induce awareness. It should help the voters become aware of who the candidates are and learn a bit (very little) about these candidates and their platform. From there, it is the voters responsibility to learn more about the candidates that caught their attention.

We should be vigilant in learning more about the candidates that we will be voting for. This move is expected especially from those who are educated. It's now very easy to research on the background of candidates. There's the Internet where you can find loads of articles about every candidate. You can read the newspaper and see what these people are into. If you're too tired to do a research, is it that hard to ask around from people who can give you relevant information and good opinions about these candidates?

From the information we gather, we can start analyzing if these candidates really deserve posts in the Senate. If we will base our votes on who has the best political advertisement, we're just probably contributing to the country's deteriorating system.

"Si Roco lang ang iboboto ko sa opposition. Wala naman kasing ginawa ang mga taong iyan kung hindi mag-oppose. Parang walang nang ginawang tama si Gloria. Lahat mali. Iyan ba ang iboboto mo? Walang ginawa kung hindi manira? Team Unity + Roco ang iboboto ko."

If that's the kind of reasoning you have for voting, then, can you just not vote? (Or just probably vote for Roco.)

It's understandable that most of the opposition members are quite irritating. Yes it's true that most of these people (excluding Roco and Villar, oohh, I'm so biased) are tied on a platform of ousting GMA. Which is what makes them unappealing to others. If they will just be in the position to ruin the status quo, it can never be healthy (as there are other things that must be confronted). They could have presented themselves as oppositions but with greater visions and blue print for the Philippines (beyond ousting GMA). Then again, voting straight for team unity just because your fed up with the anti-GMA ideas of the opposition is never acceptable.

If you fear that the opposition candidates will just be particular of ousting GMA, don't you think it's even more fearful to vote for people from the administration who aren't qualified. Err, are you going to vote for Oreta & Sotto? C'mon think about it!

A protest vote like that is never healthy.

Sonia Roco sa Senado

Hindi pa pumapanaw ang pag-asa. Ipagpatuloy natin ang laban tungo sa pagkamit ng Bagong Pilipinas!

Election 2007 Random Thoughts

I've been busy, tired, and sick (physically), these past few days. Hence, I just came out with some random thoughts on Election 2007's latest happenings.

*****
Before it was just Goma. Now there goes Montano. When asked why they want to run for public office, they had a common answer. "I want to help the country." Many Pacquiao had the same reason. Goodness! If they want to help the country, they should start by not running for public office. Why do most Filipinos have the notion that the best way to help the country is to be a public servant? Well, it can really be a big venue for helping the country only if you're competent and you've the character.

*****
Political ads are here again. However, I've yet to see an advertisement that is absolutely sincere. I particularly hate Lacson's ad. Di ko gusto ang paggamit ng HOPE as his platform. Well, there are some ads worth noting as they're able to communicate (somehow) the candidate's platform. Pero di pa rin nawawala ang pa"artista" effect ng mga candidates (kailangan siguro talaga).

*****
I want to come up with some sort of a personal Project Senate List 2007 that will contain the list of candidates I'll vote for alongside the reasons why I'll vote for them. However, I'm just too lazy to write down the reasons as of the moment. So here's my tentative list, tell me what you think (in no particular order).

Roco, Villar, Pangilinan, Arroyo
(hala, wala akong mabuo kahit anim man lang)

*****
Meanwhile, I can't understand why candidates (or their community organizers) are having a hard time following rules with regard proper posting of campaign materials. It's understandable that there's quite a big bunch of candidates fighting over designated areas. But is it that hard to ask for permission to let say a sari-sari store owner?

Looking back during the 2004 Elections, we were very particular (at least the team I was managing) of following posting rules. We were lucky enough that most of the time that we asked for a permission from a sari-sari store owner (or any establishment), we were allowed to place posters, stickers, tarpaulin, etc. Drivers even allowed us to staple posters (gawa sa sako ng bigas) and put campaign stickers in their tricycles and jeeps.

So anong mahirap sa pagsunod sa rules?

Not Just Because...

….he is good looking; he automatically deserves a seat in the Senate.

This picture from GMA News TV reminds me of the possibilities of how people may vote for a senatorial candidate. The COMELEC employees went gaga over Chiz Escudero (trying to get a hug and even a kiss from the handsome senatorial candidate).

I just hope going crazy over this somewhat good looking guy will not translate to votes.

Again, he doesn’t deserve a seat in the Senate because he looks good. Not just because he’s pleasant in the eyes, we already have to vote for him. Oh c’mon, think again. If it would be our prerequisite in choosing our senators, we’re crazy.

I find Escudero and Richard Gomez (of course) good looking and charming. But no, they won’t get my vote.

Political Hullabaloos

Sonia M. Roco (SMR), the wife of the late Sen. Raul S. Roco (RSR), has announced her interest in running for public office. The rationale is basically to continue what her late husband had already started. In a more figurative description, it would mean “nourishing the seeds that have been sowed.”

I’ve already posted my reaction about the move months ago. She’s equally competent and good like RSR. But in terms of political involvement (the art of politics), I’m still somehow worried. However, if you would just look at the intention for running, she definitely deserves a seat in the public office.

Lately, however, her name is being linked to Mark Jimenez (a former congressman and someone involved in illegal-doings). She was seen accompanying MJ during a relief operation in Albay. And just recently, MJ has been noisy about his support for SMR.

MJ has been claiming that he’s a member of Aksyon Demokratiko. To set the record clear, he is not a member of Aksyon Demokratiko. He hasn’t sworn to the party at all. In fact there was an article published in Daily Tribune on the junking of MJ’s application to Aksyon (link from Political Junkie's blog). That’s why there’s really something wrong about his declaration of support and membership to the party.

Amidst this earlier news article on the junking of MJ’s membership, in a news article last November 10, he was still associated to Aksyon not just as a supporter but as a member. (Oh, C’mmon, Mark, stop claiming that you’re a member because you aren’t!) If his intention of supporting Aksyon Demokratiko (national to local candidates) is sincere and has nothing to do with his political plans, I don’t think that there’s a need for him to have media statements. Declaration of support is enough but to go beyond that, as if he’s the spokesperson of Aksyon, is something else.

Personally, I don’t want him to be supporting Aksyon at all. He’s personality is very much tainted. He’s the ultimate opposite of the ideologies and principles of the party. I really don’t believe that he is supporting Aksyon because he believes in the principle of “new politics” alone. How could I believe him when I just saw his paid advertisement on Channel 11 (Bringing a poor barangay to Jollibee)? How could I believe him when last November 1 he distributed T-shirts with his name and face on it?

It is impossible that he is doing all these things because he wants to help. Why he wants to help is another thing. I think he’s gunning for something that may cause the party (as well as what RSR had sowed). And that I fear.

*********

Looking at the MJ link, SMR gained relative publicity. They say publicity, even if it's bad, is still publicity. Yet, it doesn't mean that its helpful at all (not because people hear more about you, the more they are going to vote for you). At least the MJ issues could serve as a sort of springboard in revealing the real SMR (ideologies and principles). I wish that the bad publicity could serve as a challenge for the people to think and ask -- be critical.