Philippine Society. Politics. Rants. Critiques.

Showing posts with label Dick Gordon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dick Gordon. Show all posts

Noynoy Aquino is the 15th President of the Republic of the Philippines

| Wednesday, June 30, 2010

















I remember this quote from the movie, “Philadelphia” (Starring Tom Hanks in 1993), “Isn’t it true that when you send someone in a very important mission, you should choose the best, the most experienced, the TOP GUN?” [Rephrasing done by me].

Up to now, I don’t see Noynoy as the man fit for the job. (I bet I share the same sentiments with the pro-Gordon or pro-Gibo). And it depresses me how the electorate voted for him. But anyways, we are left but to support his new presidency. Tapos na eh, the non-calculating masses have spoken. All we have to do is support and cross our fingers that some miracles will be done by this man who came from a political pedigree.

Yesterday marked a new era for the Philippines. Five hundred thousand people flooded to the Quirino Grandstand to witness the historic event. The program lasted for two hours and it was sprinkled with performances from our singers.

Charice sang the national anthem while the APO Hiking Society also gave a song with the ringing chorus, “Mahal Ko ang Pilipinas”. I smirked when I saw Jim Paredes singing with Buboy and Danny. Why? As what I’ve said in my classes, it’s easy to say that one loves his country. My question for Jim Paredes is, if he really loves our country, isn’t it the wiser (and more patriotic) deed to remain and help our countrymen here than to live in Australia? Not all performers are doing what they sing. Tsk, tsk, tsk.

But one of the performances I enjoyed was that of Noel Cabangon. The catchy song that I heard months ago in Unang Hirit was also sung yesterday. The song’s entitled, “Panata” with catchy lyrics, “Pabor o lagay ay ’di ko pinapayagan/Tapat ang serbisyo ko sa mamamayaan/’Di ko binubulsa ang pera ng Bayan …”

Many scenarios were pretty funny and surprising. I was surprised that Corona was present despite the earlier reports by the media that he will not be coming. Before going to the grandstand, Pres. Gloria was smilingly shaking the hands of the new president. Whew. Sa politika nga naman, minsan, ang paplastik!

Here’s the transcript of Aquino’s speech in English which is followed by the original Filipino speech: (Click here for the source)

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and membersof the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

My presence here today is proof that you are my true strength. I never expected that I will be here taking my oath of office before you, as your president. I never imagined that I would be tasked with continuing the mission of my parents. I never entertained the ambition to be the symbol of hope, and to inherit the problems of our nation.

I had a simple goal in life: to be true to my parents and our country as an honorable son, a caring brother, and a good citizen.

My father offered his life so our democracy could live. My mother devoted her life to nurturing that democracy. I will dedicate my life to making our democracy reach its fullest potential: that of ensuring equality for all. My family has sacrificed much and I am willing to do this again if necessary.

Although I was born to famous parents, I know and feel the problems of ordinary citizens. We all know what it is like to have a government that plays deaf and dumb. We know what it is like to be denied justice, to be ignored by those in whom we placed our trust and tasked to become our advocates.

Have you ever been ignored by the very government you helped put in power? I have. Have you had to endure being rudely shoved aside by the siren-blaring escorts of those who love to display their position and power over you? I have, too. Have you experienced exasperation and anger at agovernment that instead of serving you, needs to be endured by you? So have I.

I am like you. Many of our countrymen have already voted with their feet – migrating to other countries in search of change or tranquility. They have endured hardship, risked their lives because they believe that compared to their current state here, there is more hope for them in another country, no matter how bleak it may be. In moments when I thought of only my own welfare, I also wondered—is it possible that I can find the peace and quiet that I crave in another country? Is ourgovernment beyond redemption? Has it been written that the Filipino’s lot is merely to suffer?

Today marks the end of a regime indifferent to the appeals of the people. It is not Noynoy who found a way. You are the reason why the silent suffering of the nation is about to end. This is the beginning of my burden, but if many of us will bear the cross we will lift it, no matter how heavy it is.

Through good governance in the coming years, we will lessen our problems. The destiny of the Filipino will return to its rightful place, and as each year passes, the Filipino’s problems will continue to lessen with the assurance of progress in their lives.
We are here to serve and not to lord over you. The mandate given to me was one of change. I accept your marching orders to transform ourgovernment from one that is self-serving to one that works for the welfare of the nation.

This mandate is the social contract that we agreed upon. It is the promise I made during the campaign, which you accepted on election day.

During the campaign we said, “If no one is corrupt, no one will be poor.” That is no mere slogan for posters—it is the defining principle that will serve as the foundation of our administration.

Our foremost duty is to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance.

The first step is to have leaders who are ethical, honest, and true public servants. I will set the example. I will strive to be a good model. I will not break thetrust you have placed in me. I will ensure that this, too, will be the advocacy of my Cabinet and those who will join our government.

I do not believe that all of those who serve in our government are corrupt. In truth, the majority of them are honest. They joined government to serve and do good.
Starting today, they will have the opportunity to show that they have what it takes. I am counting on them to help fight corruption within the bureaucracy.

To those who have been put in positions by unlawful means, this is my warning: we will begin earning back the trust of our people by reviewing midnight appointments. Let this serve as a warning to those who intend to continue the crooked ways that have become the norm for too long.

To our impoverished countrymen, starting today, your government will be your champion.

We will not disregard the needs of our students. We will begin by addressing the glaring shortage in classrooms and educational facilities.

Gradually, we will lessen the lack of infrastructures for transportation, tourism and trade. From now on, mediocre work will not be good enough when it comes to roads, bridges, and buildings because we will hold contractors responsible for maintaining their projects in good condition.

We will revive the emergency employment program established by former President Corazon Aquino. This will provide jobs for local communities and will help in the development of their and our economy.

We will not be the cause of your suffering or hardship. We will strengthen collections by the Bureau of Internal Revenue and we will fight corruption in the Bureau of Customs in order to fund our objectivesfor the public welfare, such as:

• Quality education, including vocational education, so that those who choose not to attend college or those who cannot afford it can find dignified livelihood;
• Improved public health services such as PhilHealth for all within three years;
• A home for every family, within safe communities.

We will strengthen the armed forces and the police, not to serve the interests of those who want to wield power with impunity, but to give added protection for ordinary folk. The armed forces and the police risk their lives daily so that the nation can live in peace and security. The population has doubled and yet their numbers remain unchanged. It is not right that those who make sacrifices are treated pitifully.

If there was a fertilizer scam in the past, today there will be security for farmers. We will help them with irrigation, extension services, and marketing their products at the best possible prices.

We are directing Secretary Alcala to set up trading centers that will directly link farmers and consumers thereby eliminating middlemen and opportunities for corruption. In this way, funds can be shared by farmers and consumers. We will make our country attractive to investors. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and makegovernment an enabler, not a hindrance to business. This is the only means by which we can provide jobs for our people.

Our goal is to create jobs at home so that there will be no need to look for employment abroad. However, as we work towards that end, I am ordering the DFA, POEA, OWWA, and other relevant agencies to be even more responsive to the needs and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers.

We will strengthen the process of consultation and feedback. We will strive to uphold the constitutional right of citizens to information on matters of public concern.
We relived the spirit of people power during the campaign. Let it take us to good and effective governance. Those who believe in people power put the welfare of others before their own.

I can forgive those who did me wrong but I have no right to forgive those who abused our people.

To those who talk about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. When we allow crimes to go unpunished, we give consent to their occurring over and over again. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

We are also happy to inform you the acceptance of Chief Justice Hilario Davide of the challenge of strengthening and heading a Truth Commission that will shed light on many unanswered issues that continue to haunt our country.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflict, inclusive of the interests of all — may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.
We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. With proper governance life will improve for all. When we are all living well, who will want to go back to living under oppression?
If I have all of you by my side, we will be able to build a nation in which there will be equality of opportunity, because each of us fulfilled our duties and responsibilities equally.
After the elections, you proved that it is the people who wield power in this country.
This is what democracy means. It is the foundation of our unity. We campaigned for change. Because of this, the Filipino stands tall once more. We are all part of a nation that can begin to dream again.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.
We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Today, I am inviting you to pledge to yourselves and to our people. No one shall be left behind.

No more junkets, no more senseless spending. No more turning back on pledges made during the campaign, whether today or in the coming challenges that will confront us over the next six years. No more influence-peddling, no more patronage politics, no more stealing. No more sirens, no more short cuts, no more bribes. It is time for us to work together once more.

We are here today because we stood together and believed in hope. We had no resources to campaign other than our common faith in the inherent goodness of the Filipino.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. To those among you who are still undecided about sharing the common burden I have only one question: Are you going to quit now that we have won?
You are the boss so I cannot ignore your orders. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to your needs and aspirations.

You are the ones who brought me here—our volunteers—old, young, celebrity, ordinary folks who went around the country to campaign for change; my household help who provided for all my personal needs; my family, friends, colleagues at work, who shared, cared, and gave their support; my lawyers who stayed all hours to guard my votes and make sure they were counted; and the millions of Filipinos who prevailed, kept faith, and never lost hope – I offer my heartfelt gratitude.

I will not be able to face my parents and you who have brought me here if do not fulfill the promises I made.

My parents sought nothing less, died for nothing less, than democracy and peace. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

My hope is that when I leave office, everyone can say that we have traveled far on the right path, and that we are able to bequeath a better future to the next generation. Join me in continuing this fight for change.

Thank you and long live the Filipino people!

The following is the transcript of Pres. Aquino’s speech in Filipino: (Please click here for the source)

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

Ang pagtayo ko dito ngayon ay patunay na kayo ang aking tunay na lakas. Hindi ko inakala na darating tayo sa puntong ito, na ako’y manunumpa sa harap ninyo bilang inyong Pangulo. Hindi ko pinangarap maging tagapagtaguyod ng pag-asa at tagapagmana ng mga suliranin ng ating bayan.

Ang layunin ko sa buhay ay simple lang: maging tapat sa aking mga magulang at sa bayan bilang isang marangal na anak, mabait na kuya, at mabuting mamamayan.

Nilabanan ng aking ama ang diktaturya at ibinuwis niya ang kanyang buhay para tubusin ang ating demokrasya. Inalay ng aking ina ang kanyang buhay upang pangalagaan ang demokrasyang ito. Ilalaan ko ang aking buhay para siguraduhin na ang ating demokrasya ay kapaki-pakinabang sa bawat isa. Namuhunan na kami ng dugo at handang gawin itong muli kung kinakailangan.

Tanyag man ang aking mga magulang at ang kanilang mga nagawa, alam ko rin ang problema ng ordinaryong mamamayan. Alam nating lahat ang pakiramdam na magkaroon ng pamahalaang bulag at bingi. Alam natin ang pakiramdam na mapagkaitan ng hustisya, na mabalewala ng mga taong pinagkatiwalaan at inatasan nating maging ating tagapagtanggol.

Kayo ba ay minsan ring nalimutan ng pamahalaang inyong iniluklok sa puwesto? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay nagtiis na sa trapiko para lamang masingitan ng isang naghahari-hariang de-wangwang sa kalsada? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay sawang-sawa na sa pamahalaang sa halip na magsilbi sa taumbayan ay kailangan pa nila itong pagpasensiyahan at tiisin? Ako rin.

Katulad ninyo ako. Marami na sa atin ang bumoto gamit ang kanilang paa—nilisan na nila ang ating bansa sa kanilang paghahanap ng pagbabago at katahimikan. Tiniis nila ang hirap, sinugod ang panganib sa ibang bansa dahil doon may pag-asa kahit kaunti na dito sa atin ay hindi nila nakikita. Sa iilang sandali na sarili ko lang ang aking inaalala, pati ako ay napag-isip din—talaga bang hindi na mababago ang pamamahala natin dito? Hindi kaya nasa ibang bansa ang katahimikang hinahanap ko? Saan ba nakasulat na kailangang puro pagtitiis ang tadhana ng Pilipino?

Ngayon, sa araw na ito—dito magwawakas ang pamumunong manhid sa mga daing ng taumbayan. Hindi si Noynoy ang gumawa ng paraan, kayo ang dahilan kung bakit ngayon, magtatapos na ang pagtitiis ng sambayanan. Ito naman ang umpisa ng kalbaryo ko, ngunit kung marami tayong magpapasan ng krus ay kakayanin natin ito, gaano man kabigat.

Sa tulong ng wastong pamamahala sa mga darating na taon, maiibsan din ang marami nating problema. Ang tadhana ng Pilipino ay babalik sa tamang kalagayan, na sa bawat taon pabawas ng pabawas ang problema ng Pinoy na nagsusumikap at may kasiguruhan sila na magiging tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbuti ng kanilang sitwasyon.

Kami ay narito para magsilbi at hindi para maghari. Ang mandato ninyo sa amin ay pagbabago—isang malinaw na utos para ayusin ang gobyerno at lipunan mula sa pamahalaang iilan lamang ang nakikinabang tungo sa isang pamahalaang kabutihan ng mamamayan ang pinangangalagaan.

Ang mandatong ito ay isa kung saan kayo at ang inyong pangulo ay nagkasundo para sa pagbabago—isang paninindigan na ipinangako ko noong kampanya at tinanggap ninyo noong araw ng halalan.
Sigaw natin noong kampanya: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Hindi lamang ito pang slogan o pang poster—ito ang mga prinsipyong tinatayuan at nagsisilbing batayan ng ating administrasyon.

Ang ating pangunahing tungkulin ay ang magsikap na maiangat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan.

Ang unang hakbang ay ang pagkakaroon ng tuwid at tapat na hanay ng mga pinuno. Magsisimula ito sa akin. Sisikapin kong maging isang mabuting ehemplo. Hinding hindi ko sasayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sisiguraduhin ko na ganito rin ang adhikain ng aking Gabinete at ng mga magiging kasama sa ating pamahalaan.

Naniniwala akong hindi lahat ng nagsisilbi sa gobyerno ay corrupt. Sa katunayan, mas marami sa kanila ay tapat. Pinili nilang maglingkod sa gobyerno upang gumawa ng kabutihan. Ngayon, magkakaroon na sila ng pagkakataong magpakitang-gilas. Inaasahan natin sila sa pagsupil ng korapsyon sa loob mismo ng burukrasya.

Sa mga itinalaga sa paraang labag sa batas, ito ang aking babala: sisimulan natin ang pagbabalik ng tiwala sa pamamagitan ng pag-usisa sa mga “midnight appointments.” Sana ay magsilbi itong babala sa mga nag-iisip na ipagpatuloy ang baluktot na kalakarang nakasanayan na ng marami.

Sa mga kapuspalad nating mga kababayan, ngayon, ang pamahalaan ang inyong kampeon.

Hindi natin ipagpapaliban ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga estudyante, kaya’t sisikapin nating punan ang kakulangan sa ating mga silid-aralan.

Unti-unti din nating babawasan ang mga kakulangan sa imprastraktura para sa transportasyon, turismo at pangangalakal. Mula ngayon, hindi na puwede ang “puwede na” pagdating sa mga kalye, tulay at gusali dahil magiging responsibilidad ng mga kontratista ang panatilihing nasa mabuting kalagayan ang mga proyekto nila.

Bubuhayin natin ang programang “emergency employment” ng dating pangulong Corazon Aquino sa pagtatayo ng mga bagong imprastraktura na ito. Ito ay magbibigay ng trabaho sa mga local na komunidad at makakatulong sa pagpapalago ng kanila at ng ating ekonomiya.

Hindi kami magiging sanhi ng inyong pasakit at perwisyo. Palalakasin natin ang koleksyon at pupuksain natin ang korapsyon sa Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas at Bureau of Customs para mapondohan natin ang ating mga hinahangad para sa lahat, tulad ng:

• dekalidad na edukasyon, kabilang ang edukasyong bokasyonal para makapaghanap ng marangal na trabaho ang hindi makapag-kolehiyo;
• serbisyong pangkalusugan, tulad ng Philhealth para sa lahat sa loob ng tatlong taon;
• tirahan sa loob ng mga ligtas na komunidad.

Palalakasin at palalaguin natin ang bilang ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan, hindi para tugunan ang interes ng mga naghahari-harian, ngunit para proteksyunan ang mamamayan. Itinataya nila ang kanilang buhay para mayroong pagkakataon sa katahimikan at kapayapaan sa sambayanan. Dumoble na ang populasyong kanilang binabantayan, nanatili naman sila sa bilang. Hindi tama na ang nagmamalasakit ay kinakawawa.

Kung dati ay may fertilizer scam, ngayon ay may kalinga na tunay para sa mga magsasaka. Tutulungan natin sila sa irigasyon, extension services, at sa pagbenta ng kanilang produkto sa pinakamataas na presyong maaari.

Inaatasan natin si papasok na Kalihim Alcala na magtayo ng mga trading centers kung saan diretso na ang magsasaka sa mamimili - lalaktawan natin ang gitna, kasama na ang kotong cop. Sa ganitong paraan, ang dating napupunta sa gitna ay maari nang paghatian ng magsasaka at mamimili.

Gagawin nating kaaya-aya sa negosyante ang ating bansa. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance, to business. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin mapupunan ang kakulangan ng trabaho para sa ating mga mamamayan.

Layunin nating paramihin ang trabaho dito sa ating bansa upang hindi na kailanganin ang mangibang-bansa para makahanap ng trabaho. Ngunit habang ito ay hindi pa natin naaabot, inaatasan ko ang mga kawani ng DFA, POEA, OWWA at iba pang mga kinauukulang ahensiya na mas lalo pang paigtingin ang pagtugon sa mga hinaing at pangangailangan ng ating mga overseas Filipino workers.

Papaigtingin namin ang proseso ng konsultasyon at pag-uulat sa taumbayan. Sisikapin naming isakatuparan ang nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mamamayan na magkaroon ng kaalaman ukol sa mga pampublikong alintana.

Binuhay natin ang diwa ng people power noong kampanya. Ipagpatuloy natin ito tungo sa tuwid at tapat na pamamahala. Ang naniniwala sa people power ay nakatuon sa kapwa at hindi sa sarili.

Sa mga nang-api sa akin, kaya ko kayong patawarin, at pinapatawad ko na kayo. Sa mga nang-api sa sambayanan, wala akong karapatan na limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan.

To those who are talking about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. Sa paglimot ng pagkakasala, sinisigurado mong mauulit muli ang mga pagkakasalang ito. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

Ikinagagalak din naming ibahagi sa inyo ang pagtanggap ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide sa hamon ng pagtatatag at pamumuno sa isang Truth Commission na magbibigay linaw sa maraming kahinahinalang isyu na hanggang ngayon ay walang kasagutan at resolusyon.

Ang sinumang nagkamali ay kailangang humarap sa hustisya. Hindi maaaring patuloy ang kalakaran ng walang pananagutan at tuloy na pang-aapi.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflicts, inclusive of the interests of all – may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. Sa tamang pamamahala gaganda ang buhay ng lahat, at sa buhay na maganda, sino pa ang gugustuhing bumalik sa panahon ng pang-aapi?

Kung kasama ko kayo, maitataguyod natin ang isang bayan kung saan pantay-pantay ang pagkakataon, dahil pantay-pantay nating ginagampanan ang ating mga pananagutan.

Kamakailan lamang, ang bawat isa sa atin ay nanindigan sa presinto. Bumoto tayo ayon sa ating karapatan at konsensiya. Hindi tayo umatras sa tungkulin nating ipaglaban ang karapatang ito.

Pagkatapos ng bilangan, pinatunayan ninyo na ang tao ang tunay na lakas ng bayan.

Ito ang kahalagahan ng ating demokrasya. Ito ang pundasyon ng ating pagkakaisa. Nangampanya tayo para sa pagbabago. Dahil dito taas-noo muli ang Pilipino. Tayong lahat ay kabilang sa isang bansa kung saan maaari nang mangarap muli.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Inaanyayahan ko kayo ngayon na manumpa sa ating mga sarili, sa sambayanan, WALANG MAIIWAN.

Walang pangingibang-bayan at gastusan na walang wastong dahilan. Walang pagtatalikod sa mga salitang binitawan noong kampanya, ngayon at hanggang sa mga susunod pang pagsubok na pagdadaanan sa loob ng anim na taon.

Walang lamangan, walang padrino at walang pagnanakaw. Walang wang-wang, walang counterflow, walang tong. Panahon na upang tayo ay muling magkawang-gawa.

Nandito tayo ngayon dahil sama-sama tayong nanindigan at nagtiwala na may pag-asa.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. Sa inyong mga nag-iisip pa kung tutulong kayo sa pagpasan ng ating krus, isa lang ang aking tanong – kung kailan tayo nanalo, saka pa ba kayo susuko?

Kayo ang boss ko, kaya’t hindi maaaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos ninyo. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to the people’s needs and aspirations.

Kayo ang nagdala sa akin sa puntong ito—ang ating mga volunteers—matanda, bata, celebrity, ordinaryong tao, na umikot sa Pilipinas para ikampanya ang pagbabago; ang aking mga kasambahay, na nag-asikaso ng lahat ng aking mga personal na pangangailangan; ang aking pamilya, kaibigan at katrabaho, na dumamay, nag-alaga at nagbigay ng suporta sa akin; ang ating mga abogado, na nagpuyat para bantayan ang ating mga boto at siguraduhing mabibilang ang bawat isa; ang aking mga kapartido at kaalyado na kasama kong nangahas mangarap; at ang milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagkaisa, nagtiwala at hindi nawalan ng pag-asa—nasa inyo ang aking taus-pusong pasasalamat.

Hindi ko makakayang harapin ang aking mga magulang, at kayong mga nagdala sa akin sa yugto ng buhay kong ito, kung hindi ko maisasakatuparan ang aking mga binitawang salita sa araw na ito.

My parents sought nothing less and died for nothing less than democracy, peace and prosperity. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

Layunin ko na sa pagbaba ko sa katungkulan, masasabi ng lahat na malayo na ang narating natin sa pagtahak ng tuwid na landas at mas maganda na ang kinabukasang ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Samahan ninyo ako sa pagtatapos ng laban na ito. Tayo na sa tuwid na landas.

Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!
Let us hope that change will come. We pray that the new leaders in the national sphere will do their job honestly as the lives of 90 million people are at stake. Long live the Philippines, and may the Almighty have mercy on us!

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Here's the result of the poll last week:

Question:
In the scale of 1 to 10 (1-lowest; 10-highest), how would you rate Pres. Arroyo's Performance?

25% answered MAGALING.
25% answered OKEY NA RIN.
50% answered HINDI SIYA PAPASA SA AKIN.

We have a new survey, please vote now.

On the Marcos and Erap Issue: Are We Dumb or Just Forgiving?

| Wednesday, May 19, 2010

A Rare Moment in Philippine Elections History: Men Accepting Defeat

| Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The people has spoken. By that, I meant the non-calculating masses have spoken.

Noynoy Aquino got the highest votes for the presidential seat. Despite the complaints currently filed by former President Estrada, it is apparent that Noynoy’s got the sure win with 13 million votes in the lead compared to Estrada’s 8 million-plus votes.

Noynoy Aquino will be our 15th president. That is pretty obvious at this point in time.

After the automated elections, we have just witnessed one rare moment in Philippine election history. Not Noynoy’s installment, but because of the four people showing the exemplary attitude of being able to accept defeat honorably.

What these people have gone through was never easy. Manny Villar, Sen. Richard Gordon, Councilor JC delos Reyes, and Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. braved the months of hard-fought campaign, few hours of sleep, and showing up to different fora and debates in the different islands of the country. Kapoy pud na oi.

But I salute these people. They have showed us that there is nobility in defeat after all. They have left a positive mark for the nation’s present and next generations. Defeat is not easy to accept, but they did it valiantly and they have fought a good fight.

These citizens deserve our adulation for they have even invited the whole nation to unite and work with peace and harmony rather than "the usual" protest and rally. May this be the start of our candidates being statesmen enough to accept the electorate’s will in all succeeding elections.

Let us remember that the May 10 election was the first-time we had the polls automated. Despite the long lines and breaking down of PCOS machines, the results from the Automated Elections came out fast and become more credible. I believe this prodded the candidates to concede early on and not throw claims of cheating. Senator Dick Gordon, if you happen to stumble in this blog, I tell you this: You are also a winner. The automation elections was part of your legacy. ###

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To my fellow Filipinos:

It has been a few days after the elections.
Our responsibility does not end today. Even if the majority have elected Noynoy as our president, it is still us, the Filipino people who must make the difference for our country.

This is definitely not just about putting an individual on the pedestal and wait for him to change our poor status quo, Each one of us should do what we ought to do. All hands should be lifting the country up.

Let us pray for our country. Let us pray for our leaders. And let us pray for each other.
May God bless our beloved country.

Why I Find Gibo Green: JRGon's View on Gibo

| Friday, May 7, 2010










I’ve found out that many of my friends and colleagues shortlist their top presidentiables into two. If you happen to view poll results in the net, the "thinking" youth and electorate vote for Gordon and Gibo. If you happen to watch presidential debates and fora, you will come up with the conclusion that both these two are articulate, and gives best answers to difficult questions. Both are witty and brilliant.


Gibo has charisma, he's a ‘Mr. Nice Guy”. He is the only one who never slung mud at his opponents. He uses his platform as his campaigning tool, which is great. But his plans for me looks succulent on the outside, but is sure is untested on the inside. With LAKAS KAMPI-CMD on his side, I believe it is not impossible to make attractive platforms anyway.


His slogan is “Galing at Talino” which implies that he’s the only one with “skill and intelligence” among other candidates. I concur with “talino”. A bar top-notcher,  got a master’s degree in Harvard Law School, it proves he is knowledgeable in fields that no ordinary politician will delve into. That’s exactly the reason that made me want to support him at first. Talino, check. Pero ang “galing” ng isang lider, kailangan pang patunayan ‘yan.


I’ve already posted why I chose Dick Gordon (Click here).This entry aims to examine the records and achievements of Gibo Teodoro and hopefully would make you think twice if he deserves your vote.


Let’s look into his achievements for us to assess if he really was a good leader. For three terms, he served in the Congress from 1998 to 2007. I tried to look for his legislations, this is what I found: Granting Provincial Airways Corp. a Franchise Act, Granting Radio Maria Foundation a Franchise Act, Various road conversion laws. As Congressman, he led the move to impeach then Chief Justice Davide which almost led to a constitutional crisis. It is also believed that he was acting in support of his uncle, Danding Cojuangco, who had pending cases with the Supreme Court.


For three-terms what has he accomplished as a congressman of Tarlac province? If the Cojuangcos (yes, I’ve included here my “ever-favorite to diss” Noynoy) actually improved the lives of the people in Tarlac or the Philippines as a whole we would have seen tangible results. But as of right now, I don’t see any improvements. He failed to clean his own backyard. Generations of Cojuangcos have lead the Philippines in one capacity or another, yet nothing has changed in this country. I don’t see pedigree changing the statusquo.


From 2007 to 2009, Gibo was the youngest person to be the Secretary of National Defense.  As the Secretary of the DND, he had direct supervision over the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Under this, he also headed the National Disaster Coordinating Council, the lead agency when it comes to disaster management and relief.


Who would forget the gruesome Maguindanao Massacre last year? A massacre done by people who could have been disarmed by the security forces who was then headed by someone named Gibo Teodoro. Yes, you may say that the Mindanao situation is complicated enough that it cannot be sorted with simple black and white policies but he could have ordered the AFP to dismantle all private armies. Gibo did not.


Typhoon Ondoy and others had caught NDCC unprepared, and the general evaluation was that the NDCC just did not know what to do. In fact, the NDCC had abdicated from its role and instead contented itself spewing statistics. The NDCC, with him on the helm, under could have prepared for disasters by investing in necessary rescue assets. Good thing Senator Gordon, and the Red Cross was there to help people in need.


Even if Gibo says that he’s not the one that should be blamed (yes, some are fortuitous events) but given the following duties, he is accountable for negligence of the said duty to protect people’s lives by taking preemptive measure that would prevent massacres and disasters from happening.


Lastly, his statement that he would NOT actively push for the prosecution of his patron, Gloria Arroyo, is in itself a reason why I am not voting for him. Gibo said in HARAPAN: 2010 that he won’t turn his back on GMA but he won’t let her dictate or affect his decision (kuno). Arroyo should be prosecuted for all the crimes that she committed in all those years she spent as president. And for the dismaying part, Gibo has already exonerated her. With Gibo not going after GMA anomalies, we should expect GMA to still be at Gibo’s shadow. I’ve honestly learned a lot from Gibo, I learned na dapat hindi mapasama sa “masamang barkada” (katulad ng LAKAS KAMPI CMD).


Record-wise, Gibo is no match to Senator Dick Gordon. His very sister-in-law would vote not even vote for him. He has to go out from the shadows of Lakas and has to do a lot to prove that he deserves the presidency. He has a lot of potential, he is still young, and he is still “green”. ###

ABS-CBN: Aquino Broadcasted Superbly (with the) Channel Belonging (to) Noynoy

| Thursday, May 6, 2010





ABS-CBN was never fair in treating the presidential candidates on their reports. I am not saying this because the one that I’m campaigning for (which is Senator Richard Gordon), was not given special treatment by the network. I write this article to point out how ABS-CBN was apparently biased on its reports.

Only here in the Philippines do we have a TV network both influential and political at the same time. Loren Legarda, Teddy Locsin, Noli de Castro to name a few, were former journalists-turned-politicians of what network? Dos. They may or may not be good in their own right but what is sure is, the network gave them exposure that they needed in running for a national position. (I intentionally excluded artists from the list).

It’s a no-brainer to determine who ABS-CBN is supporting for the presidency. It’s not Perlas. Definitley not Gordon. Not Villar. Not Madrigal. Not Villanueva. Not Delos Reyes. Not Estrada. Nor Gibo. This made me believe that ABS-CBN really means Aquino Broadcasted Superbly, (with the) Channel Belonging (to) Noynoy.

I remember one time listening to their news feature on a certain Presidential Forum. Isn’t it true that all candidates should have been mentioned and like how the forum went, etc.? I was shocked to see that they only mentioned THREE out of the NINE presidential candidates! They just mentioned Erap, Villar, and their favorite, Noynoy. How biased could that be?

On another instance, I was watching interviews of the presidentiables in YouTube.

You can see Dick Gordon interviewed by Anthony Taberna on Umagang Kay Ganda’s morning segment “Punto-por-Punto” by clicking here.

Well, one can observe that, the questions are discouragingly impertinent. It was a mere 7 minute-plus interview. (Good thing Gordon answers well).

Compare it to the interview of Aquino on the same show. Click here and here.

You will discover that it is a TWO-part interview. Talking about exposure and more air time (10+10= 20 minutes-plus of air time!). You call that fair? True service to the Filipinos, as part of the media, is being non-partisan, being impartial. Aquino Broadcasted Superbly, (with the) Channel Belonging (to) Noynoy is not.

In another note, did you know that the former President Cory publicly apologized to Pres. Erap Estrada on her role in ousting him? If you did not know that, probably you were watching TV Patrol World that time because they did not cover it. For Erap not to gain sympathy and pogi points to the masses. Luckily, it was shown on GMA 7.

It should be noted that during the Holy Week, no one is allowed to do infomercials or campaigning. But what was that three-hour movie shown on ABS-CBN and Studio 23? A Dangerous Life. The story of EDSA People Power which reminds us of whom? Pres. Cory Aquino, the mother of the ABS-CBN’s hero, Noynoy. What was featured in Maala-ala Mo Kaya? Still the Aquinos.

Another proof of the network's partiality? Look at this news piece by ABS-CN News.Com: Click here.

The title of the article is "Villar cuts Noynoy's lead to 11%" but the subtitle, directly below it is: "LP says Aquino's base is solid". More than half of the article talks on the defensive reaction of Noynoy's party (like they’re still going to air infomercials). And oh, would it be nice if there will be comments at all from any of Villar's spokespersons despite the fact that the biggest news about this new survey is “Villar cutting Noynoy's lead”? ABS-CBN is patheticly biased and they are good at it.

Aside from having an overacting younger sister in Channel 2, we should not forget that it was Pres. Cory Aquino who was able to bring the network back on air after being closed down by the dictator Pres. Marcos. That explains why ABS-CBN is obviously tilted to support Aquino’s candidacy.

It is just sad to note that the largest TV Network is so biased in a time where people deserve right information. Mainly the reason Filipinos are drawn to Noynoy is because he is the candidate whose current situation fits perfectly as a protagonist in a tasteless telenovela. His father was helplessly assassinated; his mom who continued “The Fight” recently died and then he got “discernment” from “Bro” to become the savior - thanks to ABS-CBN.

Banking on people’s emotions, good publicity, and biased reporting, I am not surprised that many eyes were blinded by A-Bias-CBN. Mga kababayan, niloloko tayo ng TV oh.

The Best Man for the Job: JRGon's President is...

| Tuesday, May 4, 2010















I am a small voice but allow me to be heard. I’m imploring you to read the following in the hope that you’ll understand why I think there is a need choose the right president this coming elections. I hope that you will judge on the merits of this article.

We Filipinos, as a nation, lack direction and foresight. We are lost. We, as a people, do not have a clear goal of what to be as a nation in the coming years. Our “bahala na” attitude is a clear manifestation of our carefree predisposition as a people. It is not even surprising that Time Magazine calls us the Asia’s Laggard. Why? Back in the 1960’s we are Asia’s economic giant only shy to Japan. We were the country with the highest literacy rate. Koreans and other neighboring Asian countries are envious of our success. Fifty years after, look at what kind of country we are now. With trillions of dollars as debt to the World Bank, 11% of the population looking for greener pastures abroad, more than half of the 94 million below poverty line, we are clearly lagging behind our Asian counterparts. We once dreamt of becoming a newly-industrialized country by the Year 2000, but up to now, we are still dreaming.

Our government has become a kakistocracy - a government run by the least qualified or most unprincipled. A government ran by the worst of its citizens. Many of us fail to elect the right leaders for the job.

We need strong leaders in order to restore our country. It is not enough to say for a leader that he or she is “for the poor”, what is important is he or she knows what to do to uplift every individual. Like a coach to his players, we need a leader that teaches and corrects us to help us win and succeed. A coach’s words may be harsh, but that is what real love is. That is what real concern and love for country is all about.

Our Asian counterparts have already done it on their own turfs. The late Park Chung Hee has done it in South Korea. Torn after the Korean War, Park has led the country to the industrialized status by 1988. Lee Kuan Yew of Singapore led the island nation to economic prosperity in a span of 29 years from 1959 to 1980. Japan on the other hand, was able to rise up and even hosted the 1964 Olympics (19 years after losing in the World War II).

We have few examples of strong leader ship here in the Philippines worthy to be followed. Despite being labeled as “The Punisher” by Time Magazine, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s iron hand in Davao made it, “The most peaceful city in Asia”. (You have to come to Davao to see for yourself because I did). Let us also not forget Mayor Alfredo Lim’s performance in Manila. It is apparent: discipline and political will is not a bad thing – it is timely and critically needed.

My president has a strong leadership. He enforces strong action, because for him it is the real essence of leadership, not a mere title.

My president studied History and Government in College.

My president did great results in an executive office. No other candidates did.

My president was visited by Margaret Thatcher, Dr. Mahatir Mohammad, and U.S. President Bill Clinton came to see the miracle of Subic’s great transformation from a sin city to a model city.

My president generated 200,000 jobs and was able to gather 8,000 volunteers to help rebuild the city after the Americans have left the bases.

My president is not a corrupt leader. His detractors filed 38 cases but all were dismissed; those cases did not even reach the Sandiganbayan.

My president, when he was still the Mayor of Olongapo, never failed to abandon his constituents during the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo despite the quake happening every two minutes. He saved 9,000 Aetas and forced them to evacuate the volcano’s perimeter. My President reminds me of New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani was there to help after the September 11 bombing.

My president has been a volunteer of the Red Cross for more than 40 years. He was there to help during the Guzman Tech Tragedy in Quiapo (1995), Pagoda Tragedy in Bulacan (1993), Mayon eruption (2009), Cabanatuan City Quake (1990), Typhoon Frank in Iloilo (2008), Release of Abu Sayyaf hostages in March 2000, Glorietta Blast, Typhoon Ondoy, and many more.

My president was able to bring in 6 million tourists to the Philippines despite the Bali bombing, and SARS outbreak. He made us say Wow! Philippines.

My president authored the Tourism Act of 2008, Veterans Equity Bill, and co-authored many more. He was the Chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee challenging the infamous ZTE-NBN Deal of the government as well as the Fertilizer Scam.

My president, when he was still a mayor, said on March 1980: “What we need is not just a change of men but a change IN men”.

My president is, like other candidates, a sweet-talker. But has ALREADY delivered what he said. He has already cleaned his own backyard in Olongapo before vying for the Senate, and now, the presidency.

I am campaigning for Senator Richard J. Gordon. I trust him my vote for I believe he can take us where we want to be. We need the one “who can get things done” and has achievements to back up the claims of his capability.

Let us leave the surveys behind, they do nothing but give us preconceived notions of who to vote. Sink or swim, my vote belongs to him for he deserves it. And by the way, did I fail to mention that Dick Gordon is the author of the Automated Elections Law? ###


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Finally, I was able to finish this article. Let us vote wisely and may God bless the Philippines! Feel free to comment on this article. Feel free to share this article to others.

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Elections: 7 Days to Go

| Monday, May 3, 2010
7 days to go before the Elections and what’s the latest buzz?

A few minutes ago, after watching 24 Oras, COMELEC people gave a warning on how people are gonna ruin the elections. The average voting time for this year’s elections would take 5 minutes with the maximum time of 7-8 minutes. Beyond that, say, 10-15 minutes, the voter can be arrested with the instructions coming from the Board of Election Inspector.

According to Jimenez, it will be a strategy of the badpeople to disrupt the elections. They will intentionally cause the delay by staying overtime while voting therefore boring the heck out of everyone on the queue for their turn to vote.

Speaking on the possibility of the election failure, Noynoy said that he will call for a "People Power". Bishop Gaudencio Rosales says that Noynoy's statement is so irresponsible. I definitely agree. (Kahilas lang pud niya oi! Wala pa gani!)

In the other news, Gibo Teodoro was endorsed by Apollo Quiboloy saying that Gibo was chosen by the “Father”. Seeing the spectacle on TV, Gibo was obviously emotional and teary-eyed which led then to JRGon’s speculations. What is on Gibo's mind?















a. "Leading pa rin si Noynoy at nauungusan na ako ng iba. May silbi pa ba itong endorsement na ito? Huhuhu."

b. "Pagod na ako, tapos 9% pa rin sa surveys. Huhuhu."

c. "Bakit si Quiboloy lang ang nag-endorse? Huhuhu."

d. "Totoo ba talagang 6 million ang ka-relihiyon ni Quiboloy? 'Di naman yata kapani-paniwala eh! Huhuhu."

Poll Results

Who would you vote for this coming May 11 Elections?

1. Dick Gordon 41%
2. Gibo Teodoro 25%
3. Manny Villar 16%
4. Nick Perlas and Noynoy Aquino 8%
5. JC Delos Reyes, Erap Estrada, Jamby Madrigal, and Eddie Villanueva 0%


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"Hindi lahat ng dilaw ay bayani. Let us vote wisely!"

Top 10 Body Parts or Presidentiables

| Monday, April 5, 2010
I love my body parts. I love the presidentiables. My top 10 body parts or presidentiables.

Top 10 Body Parts or Presidentiables


10. Heart














9. Jamby

8. Trachea

7. Nicanor

6.Kidney

5. Noynoy

4. Bladder

3. Gibo

2. Spleen














1. Dick


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"It's Gloria's birthday today, give her a death wish."

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