Saturday, February 28, 2004

I find the section of Eleksyon 2004, an INQ7.net's special site on the 2004 elections, featuring Candidates on Issues, is a very interesting, useful, and informative section that would help each Filipino voters be enlightened who among the six presidentiables, namely: Bro. Eddie Villanueva, Eddie Gil, Panfilo Lacson, Fernando Poe, Jr., Raul Rocco and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, should be the next President of the Philippines!

FOR THE RECORD ONLY (no intent to plagiarize), here are the Controversial Issues featured on Inq7.net's Eleksyon 2004:

1. What will you accomplish in your first 100 days in office?
2. Whom will you appoint to your Cabinet?
3. How will other appointees be selected by your administration?
4. What legislation will your administration consider high priority?
5. Can you provide an outline of your desired national budget for your first year in office?)
6. What is your stand on the country's foreign debt situation?
7. What is your stand on population control?
8. What are your plans for the environment?
9. How will you deal with the following armed groups:
   1. The Communist Party of the Philippines - New People's Army
   2. The Moro Islamic Liberation Front
   3. The Abu Sayyaf Bandit Group
10. What is your position on the Estrada trial? Should he be convicted, do you intend to issue a pardon or commutation of the sentence?
11. What is your stand on the Marcos wealth issue?
12. What measures do you intend to undertake against graft and corruption?
13. How important will military reforms be in your administration?
14. During your administration, will there be any changes in the country's foreign policy stance vis-à-vis the following:
    1. The United States war on terrorism and the Iraqi occupation
    2. The one-China policy
    3. The Spratlys
15. What specific reforms do you intend for the educational system?
16. What is your stand on the following?
    1. Abortion
    2. Divorce
    3. Same-sex marriage
    4. Gun control
    5. Death penalty

Meanwhile, efforts to disqualify FPJ is still on-going but, should this gentleman be disqualified, rumors abound that the Filipino people will rise against PGMA. Here are some interesting newsmakers for this week:

• Macapagal betrayed me thrice-Bro. Eddie
• Villanueva accusations 'self-serving': Palace
• Villanueva to supporters: Don't use religion
• President favors smaller, quieter crowds
• Poe touts business experience
• Burden of proof on Poe, says lawyer
• Roco ready to face Poe, Macapagal in Payatas
• Roco: RP needs new leader to erase 'shameful' image
• Macapagal dares rivals to debate on welfare of poor
• Bro. Eddie musters big force at Luneta
• Poe doubts own copy of birth certificate
• Who's facing whom in presidential debate?
• Lawyers ask SC to replace 2 new Comelec execs
• Macapagal rivals cast doubt on latest survey results
• Roco wants CPP-NPA removed from terror list
• Actors defend Poe on tirades of entertainment writer
• Army document cited to prove Poe Filipino
• Columnist recounts brush with Poe
• Poe 'not inclined' to join debate: spokesman
• Palace welcomes complaint at SC on Comelec appointees
• Macapagal catches up with Poe in new survey
• Poe is official LDP party bet, SC rules
• Poe snubs meeting on presidential debate
• New survey puts Poe ahead of Macapagal
• Comelec to set up satellite, field voting areas for OFWs
• Rosales: RP has not learned from EDSA I
• Macapagal rivals say survey amazing, twisted
• Lacson's Bulacan sortie ends with festive rally
• Lacson: Ex-justice chief should be jailed for graft
• Poe campaign snarls traffic in several Laguna towns
• Poe tops Macapagal in SWS survey
• US to field 50 observers to monitor May elections
• Lim, Revilla, Lapid lead Senate poll
• Gov't bent on pursuing Lacson case

Posting about this category had been neglected due to legal matters that kept me occupied for the past couple of weeks. The missing parts will be posted real soon...

Saturday, February 07, 2004

Election Season Starts On February 10
Meet the 2004 Final List of Philippine Presidential Candidates

Bro. Eddie Villanueva

Riding on a platform of "righteous government," Brother Eduardo Villanueva of the Jesus is Lord (JIL) Christian group intends to answer his "call of duty as a patriotic Filipino" by running for the presidency. The movement, which espouses the setting up of a righteous leadership in government, believes that in order to have national renewal and lift the country out of the mire, the principles of justice, truth and righteousness must be instituted in Philippine society. Source: DyaryoBoy.com

Eddie Gil

A presidential candidate who promised to give every Filipino P1 million, claims to have $20 billion in assets but is scoring less than one percent in opinion polls ahead of the May 10 vote. Presidential hopeful Eddie Gil risks being downgraded to presidential hopeless, after refusing to pay a hotel bill for his campaign staff five days ago. Read more: Newsflash.org.

Fernando Poe Jr.

Also populary known as FPJ, he is Ronald Allan Kelly Poe in real life, son of actor-producer Fernando Poe Sr. who modeled for the well-known University of the Philippines' Oblation statue. He was born on Aug. 20, 1939, the second of six children. Uncertain at the moment are his visions for the country, FPJ remains the person to beat in the upcoming elections (according to several surveys) due to his popularity. (Source: DyaryoBoy.com) Despite his avowed disinterest in politics, a signature campaign designed to convince him to run has been launched. It is called FPJ for President Movement, his initials standing for Freedom, Peace and Justice. The prospect of being defeated by FPJ must have sent a thousand Mayon volcanoes erupting in Macapagal-Arroyo's mind, accompanied by whatever expletives her katarayan (razor-tongue) regularly spouts. Source: Bulatlat.com

Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo

The current president of the Philippine Republic, she was instituted during EDSA 2 which involved the ousting of now former President Joseph Estrada. GMA as she is also popularly known started her presidency with the aim of a Strong Republic and poverty alleviation. Source: DyaryoBoy.com

Panfilo 'Ping' M. Lacson

He is the former PNP and PAOCTF chief and currently a senator. Senator Lacson's cardinal principle is very inspiring: What is right, must be kept right. What is wrong, must be set right. This is a leader principle that made him a recipient in 1982 of PC Metrodiscom Officer of the Year, 2 Outstand-ing Achievement Medals, 5 Bronze Cross Medals, 17 Military Merit Medals, 3 Medalya ng Kadakilaan, and 3 Medalya ng Kagalingan Awards. In 1988 he received the Ten Outstanding Policemen of the Philippines (TOPP) and PMA Alumni Achievement Award, among others. Source: Profile of Ping Lacson

Raul S. Roco

Aside from being widely known for his floral shirts, Raul Roco is the former Education Secretary and a former senator. He is the president of the Aksyon Demokratiko Party and the presidential standard bearer for the Alliance of Hope. Roco spearheads his campaign with the placing importance on education. He constantly reminds of the greatness of the Filipino and the history and achievements each Filipino can be proud of. He topped several surveys for a long period of time and is strongly backed by the youth and women's groups. Despite the survey results, Roco still needs to make himself more appealing to the lower classes, where, needless to say, a huge chunk of the votes come from. Source: Dyaryoboy.com

As usual, here are the top local news that has something to do with the 2004 Philippine Election:

• Macapagal open to Roco tie-up
• Secret report bares plot to oust Poe if he wins
• Macapagal, Poe camps doubt Honasan plot
• Liberal Party still hoping to unite Macapagal, Roco
• Tell truth, Saycon urges junior military officers
• Saycon, 5 Kawal men charged
• NPC divided into Poe, Macapagal factions
• Let SC end all speculations on Poe citizenship: Pimentel
• "It's the truth," says Poe of his lovechild
• Bishops, NGOs seek peace covenant in May elections
• Poe citizenship question is up to SC
• Poe proud of child by ex-movie starlet
• More love children in Poe's closet, says spokesman
• Poe mum on 2 more alleged illegitimate kids
• Senate committee recommends filing graft raps vs Manapat
• Comelec throws out bid to disqualify Poe
• Macapagal innocent of early campaigning charge: Bunye
• Senate report: Manapat fabricated Poe papers
• 'Da King' throws punch at GMA administration
• Roco unfazed by survey setback
• Voters trust Comelec, but not its chair: survey
• Arroyo boys to have numbers in Comelec
• Loren linked to Saycon plot?
• Poll: Arroyo most experienced to lead RP
• Palace refuses to counter FPJ's attack on GMA
• Comelec take 2 on FPJ out today?
• Ping claims Palace still scheming against him
• Campaign season: Glitz, glamor, fiesta
• Campaign 101
• Election rules are meant to be broken

Although I haven't known anyone among my family, friends, nor enermies, who wants to retain PGMA as the President of the Philippines, I am one of those people who believe in voting anyone of the above presidentiables EXCEPT the lone Lady Presidentiable! I am just so curious to see changes in the current administration.

Saturday, January 31, 2004

It's unbelievable and unthinkable that analysts see close fight between Poe and Macapagal. I find this some kind of mind programming technique, inducing in the minds of the Filipino people that PGMA is still the best person to run this country. While it is true that Ate Glo has the experience among other presidentiables, we should be wary what kind of legacy her administration has given us. If this woman will remain in power for another six years, I am afraid the justice system in this country will probably be rampantly abused and misused!

Look at the latest scum just happened recently, the tampering of Poe's parent's documents by the Archive Chief, Manapat, which should not be ignored by remaining God-fearing politicians. He does not even respect the records of the deceased parents of the said Filipino Movie King. Appropriate charges should be filed against him and let him name who was the mastermind. It is important that the Filipino masses must be informed who were the big people behind him.

There were times, I prefer not to read the newspaper nor watch the news anymore:

• Poe: There's no backing out
• Pimentel vows to pursue raps vs Comelec execs
• Former senator Shahani quits to join Poe team
• Comelec mulls filing case vs dailies over anti-Poe ad
• Malacañang allays fears of military takeover
• Guingona admits offer to be Poe adviser
• Fernando Poe, Jr. camp woos Vice-President Guingona
• Lacson boys cry foul over partisan charge
• Charges filed today against Archives chief Manapat
• House passes bill on gov't funding for political groups
• Senators mixed on move to disqualify Macapagal
• Macapagal blames peso fall on electioneering
• Ramos: RP must raise bar on presidency
• Catholic bishops call for vigilance in May elections
• Macapagal woos big business ahead of May vote
• Comelec appeals SC ruling on poll automation
• Comelec warns President, candidates of electioneering
• Estrada warns of civil war if Poe is barred
• Comelec panel dismisses case to disqualify preacher
• Military officers arrested for exposé vs Macapagal
• Macapagal tells business leaders: Choice is clear
• COPA implicated in plot
• Poe is not invincible: Pulse Asia official
• We were deceived, Kawal member tells Army probers
• Analysts see close fight between Poe, Macapagal

I am sick and tired of these unscrupulous officials... really!

Saturday, January 24, 2004

When Manila Auxiliary Bishop Socrates Villegas said he had given up on the country's dishonest and corrupt politicians as "Politicians have abused and betrayed people power." And in his 20-minute homily, called on Filipinos to save the nation from them IS a clear message that the Arroyo government and her cronies are not sincere in protecting the interest of the public but, rather, to place this country in big embarassment when one of her man was caught tampering Poe's documents.

Like Bishop Villegas, I wish to call not only the attention of all Filipinos here and abroad but, also ask your conscience, how far can you take these leaders? They are not good role models and should be removed from their posts immediately to restore integrity of government agencies they are serving.

I'd like to congratulate the three brave employees, Vicelyn Tarin, Remmel Talabis, and Emman Llamera of National Archives who disclosed the alleged fabrication of documents to make it appear Poe was not a Filipino citizen. I know how tough it is for them to move forward putting at risks not only their lives but also the lives of their families. I am proud of you!!! And, to Manapat, whether someone forced you or threathened your life to do this act, may God enlightened you to be brave enough like your employees to tell the truth and save this country from further embarassment. Have you not thought what your children and relatives are thinking about you now? Who is that big FISH behind you?

If Manapat was able to do this without even thinking the consequences and the scandal of his action, how many more Directors and Chairmen of government agencies are faking reports to make it appear that PGMA's government is doing great achievements and performances? If this is the case, who can we rely now for the accuracy of what's really going on in this country?

Do we have to wait for the May Election to remove Arroyo from her office? I am desperate being a mother of three kids, how I wish I could do something for the good of this country. Do you feel the same way, too?

• Comelec wants airing of TV political ads stopped
• Junk Angara plea, Aquino asks SC
• Marcoses ask Sandiganbayan not touch their money
• Estrada says he forgives those who ousted him
• Senator blasts archives chief for tampering records
• Senatorial bet says Poe can be the new Marcos
• Abalos still hoping for automated polls
• Jawo says Poe should get rid of 'insincere unqualified advisers'
• Roco backers to blaze campaign trail via text messages
• Bro. Eddie still in running
• Arroyo assures Filipinos abroad they'll be heard come May
• President mum on Poe citizenship case
• Publicity stunt, charge Poe supporters on print ad
• Records boost Poe disqualification case
• Lacson recognizes support of Chinese-Filipinos
• Bishop: We wasted EDSA II blessings
• Comelec authority on Poe case questioned
• Sotto: Archives chief faked marriage document
• Finger-pointing on automation hit
• Ramos, Almonte, law firm seen in Poe demolition job
• Makati businessmen call for Comelec chief's ouster
• Poe's records falsified
• Poe charms business leaders
• Palace on Manapat: Don't look at us
• Resignation of 2 Comelec officials urged
• Senate starts probe on Poe Sr. 'forgery'
• Poe grateful to Comelec, Archives employees
• Archives chief shelved
• Poe citizenship issue still valid, says Senate head
• Business sector wants Comelec chair out
• Comelec panel dismisses Poe disqualification case
• Complainants to bring case against Poe to high court
• FPJ case could reach Supreme Court
• Comelec: FPJ can run
• Arroyo welcomes Comelec ruling on Poe
• Poe's camp expecting more smear drives
• Lacson impresses business leaders
• Natural-born Filipino?

Saturday, January 17, 2004

What you didn't know will not hurt you. Are you happy as a Filipino?

Negative campaigns and disqualification moves were signs that the current administration is desperate enough to be the sole qualified presidential candidate in the May 10 Polls IF really there will be an election. I have not heard any one in the neighborhood that they will vote for PGMA, how about in your neighborhood? Would you still vote for her? Are you still willing to suffer another 6 years with this messy government? The people running this government said something differently than their actions... kind of two face clown...

PGMA's vow to shift to parliamentary government shows that she (and the people behind her) are very much eager to stay in power and run this country longer....

Do we have to resort to manual counting of votes after paying billions of pesos to automated election contract? How far do we have to take all these poor and embarassing performances by our leaders?

• Macapagal vows to pursue shift to parliamentary gov't
• Supreme Court urged: Decide now on election automation
• Preacher-candidate accuses Malacañang of harassment
• Lawyer wants Poe disqualified
• FPJ: I am a Filipino
• Arroyo bats for parliamentary form of government
• Election automation bill lapses into law today
• Senators hold caucus on fate of Charter change
• Senators say delay in May polls explosive
• Poe maintains he's a Filipino citizen
• Polls can be reset: Drilon
• Macapagal: Gov't will help Poe settle citizenship issue
• De Castro unfazed by Arroyo warning
• Arroyo: Parliamentary gov't to make De Castro irrelevant
• Senators: SC decision casts doubt on Comelec integrity
• Comelec chief Abalos: No stopping polls
• Senators to tackle Charter change bid
• High court ruling leaves May elections in a mess
• It's back to manual count for Comelec
• Ed wants Lacson's candidacy nullified
• FPJ supporters threaten protest actions
• Sotto: We can prove FPJ is a Filipino
• Manual counting to be done overseas, too: Albert
• Solicitor General asks SC: Void Comelec ruling on LDP
• Poe asks Comelec to drop disqualification raps
• Despite SC ruling, May polls must push through
• Comelec to appeal SC decision junking poll automation
• Senate decides to kill Cha-cha
• 2 lawyers preparing to file falsification, perjury raps vs Poe
• FPJ: I'm not a clone of anybody
• Perjury, falsification raps filed vs FPJ for claiming to be Pinoy
• Poe charged with faking birth, citizenship papers
• Overseas Filipinos can still vote in May, says Macapagal
• Palace denies involvement in suits against Poe
• FPJ camp hits back at accuser
• Solicitor general backs Angara petition vs Lacson

Saturday, January 10, 2004

The biggest anomaly and the most disappointing one that happened this week is the inclusion of Santiago's People's Reform Party and officially now a part of the PGMA's K4 - Koalisyon ng Karanasan at Katapatan sa Kinabukasan (Coalition of Truth and Experience for the Future) completing the 12 senatorial ticket of PGMA. Truly in politics, there is no permanent friends nor enemies, just interests.

An adverse decision of the Supreme Court on the automation contract would possibly push back the elections by two months¹

"If it becomes a law, we have to follow it. We have to adjust. If we can't do it, we'll tell them we can't do it." - Benjamin Abalos, Comelec Chairperson

PGMA pushes for Charter Change (ChaCha), "Our present form of government has many gridlocks, which have become a hindrance to our socio-economic growth." Pushing for the passage of a bill that would pave the way for the election of delegates to a constitutional convention simultaneously with the May 10 elections which under the measure, the president who would be elected in May would reportedly serve as a "transition" leader until the change in the form of government was completed.²

Senator Rodolfo Biazon, who defected to the administration party to become one of its senatorial candidates, said the President's six-year term could not legally be abbreviated. ³

Heherson Alvarez has described the senatorial listing as "ungguyan" (monkeying around), a by-product of "political opportunism." Teresita Baltazar of Konsensyang Pilipino (Filipino Conscience) said her group was not "delirious with joy" over the President's "realpolitik" and the "compromises" she was making for political ends.⁴

Palace rejects poll showing the president behind rivals, a survey made by the IBON Foundation showed Poe topping the presidential race, jumping from third slot in the last survey.⁵

"I'm appealing to the lieutenants of (President Arroyo) to be a sport and exercise decency," Presidential aspirant Eddie Villanueva of the Jesus Is Lord (JIL) movement said, adding that his disqualification from the presidential race would only strengthen "public suspicion" that Malacañang is hitting back because he rejected its offer to run as Mrs. Arroyo's vice president in exchange for his withdrawal from the race.⁶

A petition was filed before the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) to disqualify FPJ from the presidential race claiming he is not a Filipino citizen! In a seven-page petition, lawyer Victorino X. Fornier said that Poe should be disqualified since he is not a natural-born Filipino citizen as the actor's parents were both foreigners and cited the 1935 Constitution which he said was applicable at the time of Poe's birth.⁷

With all these that had happened this week, I believe we need foreign countries' help to closely monitor the political situations here in the Philippines!

• Ex-senator Santiago bolts Poe camp
• Lakas still has to fill up Senate slate
• Business leader to Poe: Show us your platform
• Poe may not need me anymore - Estrada
• POLITICAL ACROBATICS IN FULL SWING Estrada defenders join Macapagal senatorial lineup
• Maceda, Estrada son join Poe's Senate slate
• Palace defends Macapagal reforms in gov't if elected
• Palace rejects poll showing President behind rivals
• Opportunism alarms civil society groups
• Macapagal to fight for shift to parliamentary gov't
• Estrada son, Marcos daughter in Poe's senatorial slate
• 28 groups to campaign for Poe, Legarda
• Opposition bloc revives unification efforts
• Palace: No hand in Comelec decision on LDP
• Loren Legarda, Estrada supporters bury hatchet
• Arroyo vows shift in form of gov't
• Maceda, Jinggoy joins KNP slate
• Lakas sees waves of defection after Osmeña, Biazon
• Lakas party spokesman vents ire on Macapagal
• Comelec not prepared for computerization: experts
• Macapagal pushes for Charter change
• Comelec forced to move mock polls to Jan. 30
• Santiago in Macapagal Senate ticket: campaign spokesman
• Estrada may defer US surgery till after polls, says party
• Communists say Macapagal allies paid campaign fees
• Call for Con-con polls gains support
• Pro-Estrada group rejects Legarda VP bid
• Comelec set to disqualify 79 presidential candidates
• 2 senators ask SC to resolve poll automation impasse
• KNP slate to meet, Estrada economic team tapped
• Macapagal says market reforms at stake in May polls
• Poe, Lacson independent candidates - poll lawyer
• KNP slot for Santiago ruled out
• Communist Party invites Poe to discuss peace process
• Elections may be postponed
• Santiago breaks ties with Poe, allies with Macapagal
• Macapagal favors quick Charter change
• Eddie: Palace trying to take me out of race
• Roco: We'll be damned if Gloria doesn't do her job
• GMA: Miriam against me only in '01-'04
• Comelec fails to implement ban on early campaigning
• Student leaders give support to FPJ

PGMA's and her allies' political strategies are big insults to the intelligence of the Filipino people.

Saturday, January 03, 2004

Disappointed with Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson's action when he filed his certificate of candidacy (COC) for President under LDP banner with Commission on Election (Comelec) on Monday, majority of the Filipinos who were hoping he would run as FPJ's running mate for vice-presidential post were saddened because he finally divided the opposition, favoring PGMA.

Dismayed with Bro. Eddie's initiative also, the founder of Jesus is Lord Movement, I believe he is an effective preacher and he should remain giving enlightenment to his followers by preaching the words of God and it would be better if he keeps politics away from his agenda. In my personal opinion, I believe Bro. Mike has more chances of uniting the Filipino people than you, Bro. Eddie. I am not aware what those Muslim Filipinos are thinking about you now. Not even Jesus Christ in his times had thought of ruling, so, why you have this sudden call?

Now that the 64 yr. old FPJ officially files his bid for President with his running mate, Sen. Loren Legarda, 43, rift widened, as Estrada supporters want Legarda to make a public apology, who as senator supported the ouster of President Joseph Estrada, FPJ's bosom friend!

Aren't the opposition wanted one standard bearer? Why these personalities cannot set aside personal interest and differences in aspiring for presidential post and just choose one among them who can possibly forge unity in a nation divided since EDSA started. Majority of the Filipinos didn't have confidence in PGMA anymore, if the opposition will not do something until Monday, I'm afraid PGMA has more chances of keeping her seat and, let's expect another six years of hopelessness and double standard of justice. Did you read the news when Estrada says Sandiganbayan forced him to sign letter that he was submitting himself to the jurisdiction of the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court trying him with plunder and graft charges due to the worsening health situation?

The nation needs one good man to change the current administration.

Last day for COC filing is on Monday, January 5th, more surprises and disappointments coming up... how I wish PGMA will not run anymore to save government funds from being diverted into her candidacy, who else would want Gloria to remain in office?

• De Castro-Roco team vs graft?
• Opposition closer to final split
• Roco taps blind lawyer for Senate ticket
• Lacson to file certificate today
• De Castro agrees to be Macapagal running mate
• Opposition senators belittle President's choice for VP
• Lacson splits opposition, files bid under LDP banner
• Roco, Bro. Eddie to file presidential bids today
• Lacson formalizes 2004 bid
• Estrada gets regular passport from DFA, wants to leave Jan. 24
• Noli is GMA's running mate
• Estrada: Sandigan forced me to sign letter
• Palace hails De Castro for big sacrifice
• Spiritual leader defies President, files candidacy
• Roco pulls surprise, taps an Aquino as running mate
• Banayo: Lacson-Fernando talks in final stages
• Lacson run won't hurt Poe, says LDP bloc
• Roco, Bro. Eddie file bids
• MMDA chief declines seat in Lakas senatorial slate
• Comelec fails to resolve LDP split over top bet
• Legarda is Poe's leading lady
• Sotto says FPJ has picked Loren
• Lakas bares tentative Senate slate
• Senatorial 'bet' in Lacson ticket cries foul
• Legarda choice seen splitting opposition
• Macapagal-De Castro team winnable
• Loren announces she's FPJ running mate
• Ping's LDP allies confident of fair shake at Comelec
• Palace: Nation on a roll in 2004
• It's official: FPJ files bid
• FPJ junks Jinggoy; Tessie Oreta backs out
• Estrada supporters want apology from Legarda
• Opinion: 2004 Showdown topbills GMA-Noli vs. FPJ-Loren

Message to Senator Lacson: Mr. Senator, I do believe in you but, if you will run for vice-president this year, you have more chances of winning the presidential post by 2010, please do not give many Filipinos this hard time choosing between you and FPJ.

For in-depth political commentaries, please visit also:

• Philippine Commentary by Dean Jorge Bocobo
• A Sassy Lawyer In Philippine Suburbia by Connie Veneracion

Saturday, December 27, 2003

Edmer F. Panesa of Manila Bulletin reported on December 24th that Sandiganbayan approves Estradas's travel to the US:

The Sandiganbayan Special Division allowed on 23rd of December 2003 former President Joseph Estrada to travel to the United States for three months to undergo knee replacement surgery.

In a 13-page resolution, the court granted Estrada's Nov. 4 urgent motion to travel filed through his court-appointed lawyers "for humanitarian reasons and in the service of justice and equity," subject to at least nine conditions. Among the conditions imposed on the deposed leader, the court gave emphasis to the second and third conditions, namely:

• he shall submit in three days a personal undertaking that he will return to the country within the authorized period of his travel
• he will recognize the authority of the court over his person and over the case against him and, he shall post a P1 Million travel bond.

If the Arroyo government is really sincere in supporting Pres. Estrada's knee surgery for humanitarian reasons, why he will be forced to recognize the authority of the supreme court? Even Juan dela Cruz understood that once Estrada recognizes SC authority, he surrenders his position as the legitimate President of the Philippines and admits guilt on plunder charges against him!

Estrada's health is deteriorating and we all know that he's a big factor on the forthcoming May 2004 Election. Sending him for medical treatment abroad seems a political strategy to weaken the presidential bid of his kumpare, FPJ. And, the masang Pilipino are wondering what motivates the Arroyo government, why just now? President Estrada fears of forced asylum in the US should take into consideration, and he must be given assurance that he can come back as soon as he's done with his medical treatment abroad.

Now, we couldn't help but speculate that the current administration is aiming to send him away to keep from endorsing his presidential bet and strengthening his bet's candidacy. Please give me at least one good reason to trust PGMA's administration:

• Impatient Barbers threatens to bolt Lakas for Roco camp
• Amnesty not for me, says Estrada
• GMA-Noli team a done deal?
• Angara suspension from LDP is fiction
• GMA-Noli team a trial balloon
• President's VP, senators known after Christmas:report
• 15 of 16 LDP regional leaders back Poe
• Preacher's party needs Comelec OK - Abalos
• Senator Legarda: Let Poe break the news
• Poe accepts draft of opposition bloc
• Loren: Noli won't run for VP
• FPJs media team formed
• Roco: FPJ might suffer same fate as Estrada
• It is final: FPJ agrees to run for president
• Presidentiables urged to discuss Cha-cha
• Malacañang defends Macapagal support of Estrada surgery
• Catholic Bishops back court ruling on Estrada US trip
• Court allows Estrada to go to US; prosecution to appeal
• LDP may end up with no candidate because of row
• Karma pulled Ping out of contention
• Palace offers to help Erap obtain US visa
• Erap: FPJ won't be my clone
• Remulla: FPJ seeking reunification talks with Ping
• Presidential bets dared to bare economic programs
• Communists warn Macapagal against cheating in polls
• FOR ALLOWING ESTRADA TRIP Anti-graft court under fire
• GMA awaits final ruling on Estrada
• Comelec to summon LDP factions on Dec.
• Mike A seducing FPJ leaders?
• Abalos to Señeres on poll-computer problems: Go ahead, hack
• Pimentel bares new cheating mode in polls
• DOJ: Estrada can't seek political asylum in U.S.
• LP set to endorse presidential bet on Jan. 14

Saturday, December 20, 2003

A carpenter and a taxi driver were among the thirteen (13) first day filers who filed for certificate of candidacy (COC) for President showed up on December 16 at Commission on Elections (Comelec) office in Manila. Eddie C. Gil, the only one among the 13 presidential candidates has political party and the rest are running as independent candidates.

Called obscure candidates, Rigoberto Madera listed himself as a "messiah", 6-star general, and Ace Diamond Commander-in-Chief on Earth and said to unite the people. German Tupas Valladare would be running under the slogan, "Money for You, for Me, for Everyone." Heiress to the Sultanate of Sulu, Princess Soraya Sultan Julaspi Macarambon Kiram Rasheed, declared her candidacy on the 18th and promised to free the nation from economic stagnation and restore dignity to every Filipino, whether Muslim, Christian, or non-believer.

You see, I am not alone in this country who is wishing to run for President! Whatever the motives of these people are for running, I believe it's the calling to change the current administration prompted them to move forward and declared their interest to initiate changes. Filing for candidacy is extended until January 2nd where top opposition candidates are expected to file their COC at the last minute, including PGMA.

Looking closer to these candidates on the other hand, I didn't like to think that some invisible hands intentionally sent them to Comelec to cast a big JOKE. Just like any ordinary Juan dela Cruz who is applying for a simple job or position, it is not enough that he submits his BIO-DATA. Juan must also be physically and mentally healthy, and passed medical examination and get himself an NBI or police clearance, have a Barangay Clearance and residence certificate, before he can be qualified for screening and interview. The president and vice president positions are sensitive positions and should be given respect not only by the public but, the government officials as well. Is COMELEC doing fairly their duties?

• OMNIBUS ELECTION CODE OF THE PHILIPPINES Article IX: ELIGIBILITY OF CANDIDATES AND CERTIFICATE OF CANDIDACY

Meanwhile, as weeks passed by, more and more political news are being covered each day. With my poor memory, I find it useful to collect news headliners in my blog. At the end of the day, you will realize that in politics, there is no permanent friend nor enemy:

• Poe, Lacson meet finally
• Senator Pimentel warns of hi-tech poll fraud
• President criticized over vote-gathering HK trip
• Angara to back outcome of Poe-Lacson talks
• Macapagal lawyer resigns to help in 2004 campaign
• OUT OF 43 MILLION VOTERS Comelec validates registration of 9M voters
• 'Jesus Christ' files candidacy for vice president
• President woos spiritual leader to rejoin her team
• Pimentel swears to FPJ's true Filipino citizenship
• Election season officially begins today
• NPC faction backs Macapagal
• Lacson ready to 'go separate ways' with Poe
• 2 solons take leave from LDP
• Fernando Poe tells Muslims: No backing out of election
• Biggest OFW group inclined to back Roco
• Legarda confirms FPJ offer to be his veep
• Allies see GMA getting El Shaddai endorsement
• Born-again preacher gives Macapagal no commitment
• Lakas heckles Opposition efforts to unify its ranks
• GMA readies amnesty bill to unite RP
• Ban sought on TV appearance by politicos
• Lacson still open to unified ticket
• GMA to opposition: Get your act together
• Noli-FPJ team still possible?
• GMA running mate known around Christmas
• Lacson won't meet with Poe anymore
• Comelec extends period of filing of COCs for national posts
• Friction within the opposition continues
• Born-again preacher sure of running next year
• Solons: Require admission of guilt before giving amnesty
• Macapagal ally urges Roco: Be a statesman, run for VP
• Vic Sotto: FPJ can heal the land
• LDP panel suspends Angara
• SC: Elective bets need not resign
• Solon pushes 'isolated' meeting for Poe, Ping

Saturday, December 13, 2003

"Stand with anybody that stands right, stand with him while he is right and part with him when he goes wrong."

- Abraham Lincoln

I secretly admired former Finance Secretary, Jose Isidro Camacho, when he quits his job before speaking against the administration he's serving. "Change the political system. The leaders, too." These were suggestions from Jose Isidro Camacho at a testimonial luncheon hosted for him Thursday by five business groups, "We need to change our political leaders and bring back credibility, trust and sympathy and people who believe in who are leading them."

I agree with Camacho when he said that the government has lost the ability to shape our future, was beset by corruption, bureaucratic red tape AND has a peace and order problem BUT, I do not agree when he said that our country's current political system was inappropriate to move the country forward. I smell something fishy? It would be more appropriate if he suggested that all public servants, including politicians, government employees and even the police force should review their office jobs and agencies' functions. I believe if they fully understood their jobs well, this country has a chance to prosper...

Perhaps, what we really need from the government are officials who have patriotic hearts who will perform their duties well as public servants. Our main problem is not really the corruption itself BUT, lack of concern for the welfare of this country. Anyone who corrupts and pocketed government funds contributed to the indebtedness of every Filipino, including those unborn children of our great grandchildren. Cast the first stone...

Misleading news abound, politicians' and presidential aspirants' daily activities are being monitored. Obviously, news articles are enough to differentiate opportunism from patriotism:

• Poe surges ahead in latest SWS survey
• Macapagal 'open' to team up with Roco, says senator
• Ople, Bulacan mayors defect to Lakas-CMD
• Ban on transfer of govt men starts Dec. 15: Comelec
• 'E-Gloria' targets 2M students, teachers
• Noli's temptations
• FPJ, the man and the myth
• Lacson camp pushing for dialogue with FPJ
• Poe camp ready to talk with Lacson, says Sotto
• Lacson downplays Poe proclamation
• LDP solons chide Enrile for going FPJ
• Pimentel still eyeing presidency
• Palace woos Roco anew
• Poe says he's willing to yield to Lacson
• Lacson hangs on as Poe keeps mum on coalition nomination
• 'Too late,' says Sotto on Pimentel bid
• LP not yet sure about supporting Arroyo
• LDP rift affecting legislative work
• Mike's camp expecting 'black propaganda' from Lacson
• SC asks 'Kuratong' judge to answer charges: report
• Angara bars LDP 'nuisance' bets from joining '04 polls
• Roxas quits Cabinet to run for Senate
• Poe a no-show at proclamation
• Ex-finance chief: Change political system, leaders
• Palace: De Castro to eat Poe votes for Macapagal
• Butz threatens to suspend Angara as LDP president
• GMA has Shaddai, Lacson has INC
• Poe takes stand vs globalization
• Poe, Lacson agree: Only one to challenge Macapagal
• Inq7 Editorial: Plus or minus

2004 National Poll is less than five months away but the heat is now on. Have you noticed that garbage collections are now being done at least three times a week? Political season has its advantages and disadvantages...

Saturday, December 06, 2003

It's political season once again and trapos are realigning members with familiar faces and the same political interests and agenda prior to upcoming May 10 2004 National Poll while Juan dela Cruz and the like are feasting on everyday news drama and political dirty strategies in eliminating strong opponent out of the electoral race. The majority of Filipinos are in search of a unifying president for 2004 to lead this sick and troubled country and to unite its people. Sad to say, PGMA is the least favorite and if she has delicadeza, she should step down and concentrate with her campaign, distance herself from using government funds and let the dynamic duo, FG Miguel "Mike" Arroyo a.k.a. Jose Pidal and Ignacio "Iggy" Arroyo, tell the Filipino people the truth behind accusations of Eugenio Mahusay once and for all. Call for RECONCILIATION is not possible if PGMA administration is not transparent to the Filipino people...

"Some of you may encounter the Devil's Bargain, if you get that far. Any old soul is worth saving, at least to a priest, but not every soul is worth buying. So you can take the offer as a compliment."

- William S. Burroughs

MAYBE IF we know how to read between the lines, the answers lie in the news we heard and watched everyday BUT we seemed careless and busy with our own lives. IF we want to see a great leader, perhaps the change should come from within us... if we are as corrupt as they are, this country is going to nowhere!

And, to Madame CORAZON AQUINO, your days as Philippine president was over since 1992, STOP YELLOW CRUSADING. The people behind your cause are believed raking billions of pesos in tax scams, behest loans AND maladministration and diversion of government agencies' resources to private firms. Maybe, just maybe... if you can prove WHO'S THE MASTERMIND behind the assassination of your husband, Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino (Peace be upon him!), that's the biggest achievement, I believe, you can give to the entire Filipino people. We had enough of KRIS, please do not disappoint us furthermore...

THREAT OF ANARCHY IS RISING. LET'S THINK AND WATCH CAREFULLY THOSE FAMILIAR FACES SINCE EDSA REVOLT IN 1986:

• Real FPJ is a US citizen, but he is dead
• Panic in Malacañang over FPJ's announcement
• Lakas solon sees members leaving party to join Poe
• Lacson softens up on Poe
• Suggestion for GMA leave of absence to campaign full-time for her 2004 bid turned down
• Angara's ouster as LDP president sought
• LDP faction nominates Lacson but Angara says it's illegal
• Gun ban, poll period start Dec. 15
• Poll critics admitting defeat
• Opposition bloc scraps Lacson from 2004 list
• Lacson meets Estrada over presidential bid
• Noli de Castro: The X factor?
• Yadao accused of dishonesty, partiality in Kuratong case
• Cojuangco abandons presidential bid
• Presidential candidates all alike, says Communist Party
• Macapagal or Roco? Liberal Party is divided on support
• Lacson scores Malacañang over 'La(x)son' stickers

Saturday, November 29, 2003

| PGMA Website | Lacson Website | Roco Website | FPJM Website |

ARTICLE VII EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT Section 2:

No person may be elected President unless he is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines, a registered voter, able to read and write, at least forty years of age on the day of the election, and a resident of the Philippines for at least ten years immediately preceding such election.

Suggested Reference:

• THE CONSTITUTION OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

Saturday, November 22, 2003

With the current political situation here in the Philippines, not to mention how the greater number of politicians can be influenced by their peers in decision-making instead of considering the welfare of the country, how I wish I could run for President!

I know lots of them wanted to run but they do not have the public's trust and support -- they know they're not-so-qualified to be a presidentiable. PGMA for President 2004? After she grabbed the power from the legitimate President, H.E. Joseph E. Estrada, I believe I had enough of the economist and didn't like to experience another 3 long years of her administration, even if they would just say she will be there in Malacañang as a transition president. Why 3 years? Why, of course, there's speculation that FVR will lead the Parliamentary Government, with JDV -- based in the 1987 Constitution, an elected president cannot run for reelection. This is why a Parliamentary form of government is being preferred by JDV. This is my opinion, please correct me if I'm wrong, Ka Totoy.




Macapagal: I'm running for president in 2004
Reported by Juliet Labog-Javellana of Philippine Daily Inquirer (04 OCT 2003):

"I will sacrifice my personal yearnings for personal quiet and release from the presidential strain and anxiety," Ms Macapagal said in a 35-minute speech. "I will offer myself to the electorate in 2004 as the leader with the experience and vision necessary to change society, achieve economic development and eliminate poverty."

"What matters more is that I changed my mind because there is a higher cause - to change society."

Excuse me? I beg your pardon, change society OR, the constitution? From Presidential to Parliamentary?

- To Be Continued Next Saturday -

Thursday, November 13, 2003

President seeks peace with Estrada, Cojuangco, Marcoses
Juliet Javellana of Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that

"The President wanted by 2004 and "beyond," to mend fences with the Marcos family, deposed President Joseph Estrada, business tycoon Eduardo "Danding" Cojuangco, the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People's Army, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, putschist elements of the military, and opposition personalities. " READ MORE

Even this is what all Filipinos are looking forward to -- to have TOTAL RECONCILIATION and REAL PEACE in our country -- hey, BUT, wait, look who is talking AND (with brows raised so high), who will initiate it?

People can't help but speculate what's PGMA motive for asking Total Reconciliation AFTER failure to resolve many incidents that kept dividing the Filipino people. Threat of anarchy is rising, where the elites and the influential people joined hands to cover up colleague in the guise of constitutional order. I wonder where and what are the intelligent people in our country are doing?

May God bless the Philippines!