Thursday, June 11, 2009

Be aware! Read the Proposed Charter Amendments.

Wednesday, March 05, 2008

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Our Filipino Unification Wars buddy, Joel Sugay, called me on my cellphone while Randy and I were playing Tribal Wars game. Joel warned me to tell the kids not to go to Makati area in fear of another Coup d' etat when Senator Trillanes walked out from the hearing. Some personalities were arrested, including the press who were covering the news inside The Manila Peninsula Hotel.

I was dismayed at how the military handled the situation. Who would believe that armored personnel carrier rammed the elegant entrance of The Manila Peninsula Hotel. It's kind of overkill and I felt some kind of embarassment how the world would view it.

Anyway, when Randy woke up, we're eager to know how the news would be like in the USA and he watched the entire morning news but there was nothing about the Makati standoff. Or, maybe because the media personnel covering the news were also arrested, along with Trillanes group?

We didn't pray the rosary because I wasn't feeling well from the iced tea I had at the mall. Paul Denise and I bought early in the evening a 4-pin lamp for my table lamp and we also paid some bills. We had dinner at Chow King and maybe the iced tea I had upset my stomach.

When Randy logged out to work, I was getting ready to bed when I heard on TV that curfew is up effective tonight, between 12 midnight and 5:00 o'clock in the morning and I'm sure it will inconvenience everyone.

I found this site from inquirer.net, SUNDALO: Tagapagtanggol ng Pilipino and I googled Senator Trillanes website.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Arroyo grants pardon to former President Joseph Ejercito after 43 days the Guilty Verdict on plunder had been given.

Moral-Majority believes this is a political ploy intended to shift the focus of public debate away from the ZTE scandal and palace payoffs towards this potentially divisive issue. "We [Moral-Majority] are not against pardon per se, especially if it is granted for humanitarian reasons. What we oppose is the timing and the motives behind it." (Ref: [Moral-Majority] Digest Number 44).

State prosecutor questions legality of Estrada pardon but, it is just fair to release Estrada after 6 long years of sufferings under the hands of the country's political ruling class...

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Defining moment in Philippines History, today, former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada was convicted by Sandiganbayan, a special anti-corruption court, of plunder beyond reasonable doubt but, acquitted him on PERJURY charges.

Following the evening news later over GMA 7's SAKSI, I captured some important shots that will remind me what the entire nation have witnessed on today's promulgation on Estrada's Plunder case:

Former Pres. Joseph Estrada has been acquitted on Jose Velarde account but many believed the Guilty verdict has been given to legitimize the Presidency of the incumbent Gloria Arroyo. Well, if there is justice in the Philippines, why the alleged ill-gotten wealth and human violation cases of the Marcoses are still not resolved?

Whether the former president is really guilty or not, this is the turning point how the justice system works in the Philippines... ruling class.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Gloria Arroyo visited the Vatican last Monday where she had a private audience with Pope Benedict XVI and she presented the Holy Pontiff yesterday a book-bound copy of Republic Act (RA) 9346 abolishing the 1994 Death Penalty Law (RA 7659) for certain heinous crimes.

Meanwhile, in the Philippines, Anti-GMA forces filed series of complaints.

"Pope knows about Garci scandal," says Bishop Cruz

Peace Caravan called the rally to accuse the government of being behind the killing of more than 100 activists since Arroyo took office in 2001

More than 3,000 marchers were blocked by riot police
wielding shields and truncheons.

Bayan Muna marchers were even dispersed with water cannon.

Before the protesters were allowed to hold a rally
on the highway fronting the palace for an hour.

Photos and news source: GMA7 24 Oras Evening News.

Thursday, April 06, 2006

The New York Times Editorial: "Mrs. Arroyo is no Ferdinand Marcos, at least not yet..."

Source: GMA7 Channel 7's 24 Oras Evening News

Wednesday, April 05, 2006

I would like to congratulate the people of Thailand on the resignation of their leader, Thaksin, as Thailand's Prime Minister. It was indeed an honorable sacrifice and I am hopeful the Philippine president would do the same thing, who is celebrating her 59th birthday today!

In spite of People's Initiative initiated by local government authorities, I say NO to Charter Change (CHA-CHA) which PGMA pushes anew, whose legitimacy as Philippine president-elect remains under question. There were times that I want to convince myself that Gloria Arroyo is the best president at the moment but, whenever I heard another government institution had been used to cover up hot issues, I feel betrayed and insulted!

Now that the Prime Minister of Thailand resigns to defuse Thai political crisis, may Gloria Arroyo makes a supreme sacrifice instead of pushing for charter change to amend the 1987 Philippine constitution.

Nothing personal, PGMA, I just want to say NO to Cha-Cha...

• Thai PM Shinawatra resigns
• Do a Thaksin, Arroyo told
• Marcosian ploy seen in people's initiative
• Choices
• PCIJ: Charter Change
• Well-Laid Out Plan
• The Unmaking of the President
• Garci's faking passport
• Cha-Cha Drive Illegal

Friday, February 24, 2006

While concerned citizens were celebrating 1986 EDSA PEOPLE'S POWER REVOLUTION against Marcos dictatorship twenty years ago (22-25 February 1986), Gloria Arroyo today proclaimed State of National Emergency and issued Proclamation 1017, cancelling existing permits on mass rallies scheduled today. Confused rallyists were dispersed. Couple of personalities and officials were arrested.

Source: GMA7's 24 Oras News

Gloria Arroyo who ranked 4th among The Most Powerful Women In 2005, succeeded the presidency in 2001 after PRES. JOSEPH ESTRADA forced out from Malacañang Palace by a wave of largely middle class protests and mass street demonstrations. Since she was elected as President in 2004 Election, different personalities accused her of fraud, corruption, and cheating, calling her to step-down as a supreme sacrifice amid HELLO GARCI controversy last year.

Ironically, those personalities who seated Arroyo to the presidency were the same people asking her to step down. I am not happy that these situations were happening in my country:

• EDSA People's Power Revolution
• Arroyo declares state of emergency
• Proclamation 1017
• Gloria Arroyo
• The Most Powerful Women In 2005
• Rise and Fall of Joseph Estrada
• The Philippines elections 2004: issues and implications
• The Unmaking of the President
• Pressure Mounts on Philippine Leader
• Wire Tapping Controversy

Thursday, January 19, 2006

While waiting for the result of 128 M LOTTOmania this evening, these four Magdalo mutineers captured my attention, who are now wanted for the recent jailbreak from the Fort Bonifacio Army Headquarters in Makati City late Tuesday:

GMA's SAKSI late evening news reported that fellow soldiers helped in mutineers jailbreak according to their lawyer. Whether the above mutineers escaped or someone let them escape, Lt. Sg. Antonio Trillanes had this message:

I can smell something fishy going on in the next days to come but, I am not interested to make a stand, whether I want GMA out or allow her to CHA-CHA. Since no one wins the SuperLotto 6/49 winning combination 24 36 40 4 48 5 this evening, I would rather do some calculations and lots of guesses what possible lucky numbers will make me an instant millionaire on its next draw.

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

In the midst of a political storm that hits the Philippines, some 40,000 Filipino patriots from all walks of life gathered and rallied on Tuesday in Makati City, the country's financial district, and asked the arrogant president to quit her post.

In spite of efforts made by Arroyo's military men preventing protesters from different provinces in coming down to Manila to join the rally in guise of security and terrorism check, the anti-GMA rally in Makati turned out peacefully, many thanks to Mayor Binay!

SUSAN ROCES: "I am here, just as I promised, that if you go to the streets, I will join you."

SUSAN ROCES: "If we bring together our small voices, it will be strong... With God's help, we will solve our problems through peaceful means."

People from all sectors believe it is best for the country if she will have the initiative to resign soon than face the long expensive process of impeachment. Enough that the 'president' caused division among us. And, if it is true that she cheated in the 2004 Presidential Election, that means she's a fake president (as allegedly shouted by rallyist in the streets) then, what's keeping her staying in Malacañang and allow her to use all government resources and people at her own advantage?

This is not a one-woman show. Many believe it was former president RAMOS who is now running the country while GLORIA herself is busy with loyalty checks among her contituents visiting her in Malacañang (upon invitation?). The people who once supported and installed her to presidency in January 2001 were the same people asking her to step down.

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

In politics, there is truly no permanent friends nor enemies, only personal interest.

In fact, I was dismayed when 17 Representatives of several political parties agreed to push for a constituent assembly during a political conference at the Manila Hotel chaired by House Speaker Jose de Venecia. TARGET: Revision of the Constitution!

Amending the constitution in the middle of the moral and political crisis involving the president of the Philippines is definitely taking advantage of the situation. We have this crisis because of the recent GloriaGate scandal that rocks Malacañang Palace, including the revival of the Jose Pidal issue (involving the First Gentleman and his brother, Iggy) and Jueteng Payola (involving president's son and Iggy) that allegedly connect with the 2004 Presidential Election Fraud.

Our leaders are not solving the problems of this country. We have enough laws, all we have to do is punish those who breaks it.

I therefore SAY NO TO CHA-CHA (Charter Change)...

Related Topics:

• Political parties agree on constituent assembly
• Opposition keeps pressure on Arroyo
• A Blast from the Past: A Jose Pidal Retrospective
• 17 parties urge Comelec overhaul
• Most Metro Manilans believe Arroyo should resign -- survey
• Full text, CBCP statement on the crisis facing Arroyo
• Full text, resignation statement of 10 Cabinet members
• Statement of former president Corazon C. Aquino

I entered my email addy to support a petition by Moral Majority of the Filipino People in asking GMA to RESIGN NOW after I watched the GMA7's 24 Oras evening news. To give your support, please visit Save the Republic - GMA Resign Now.

Being a legitimate voter of this land, I feel my vote in the 2004 Presidential Election was maliciously not honored and so, this is my voice of disappointment. Lest, let the whole world know that I cannot tolerate the further dictatorship of Ramos-De Venecia-Gloria tandem.

FEAR FOR THE LIVES OF OUR BELOVED FAMILIES IF SHE DOES NOT QUIT SOON: SOFT TOUCH?

Friday, July 08, 2005

More political and influential groups, including the Senate President, Makati Business Club, and former President Corazon Aquino, are calling for the resignation of GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO as a supreme sacrifice for the greater welfare of the country.

Few political allies are still blindly supporting Arroyo while 59 percent of the Filipino people believe she told the election official to cheat based on SWS survey held recently. I believe, like many others, that she cheated the presidency not once but twice.

If PGMA has delicadeza, she should step down and make a graceful exit. Ten of her cabinet members submitted their irrevocable resignation today.

Meanwhile, former President Ramos finds an opportunity to propose charter change to amend the constitution to change the current presidential system to parliamentary which I believe is not a good idea as those traditional politicians will totally control this country... I firmly believe Ramos has always had a hand in governing this country.

Thursday, June 30, 2005

If I have the ability to turn back the clock, I will set it again in 2000, under JOSEPH ESTRADA's administration. That's the time when all these mess in the current government under Arroyo's administration began.

When SUSAN ROCES (widow of late FERNANDO POE, JR., the one who allegedly won the 2004 Presidential Election) demanded GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO's immediate resignation yesterday and said that Arroyo stole the presidency not once but twice, I told my daughter that GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO was a bad role model for the country. What kind of legacy she will pass on to the next generation if she will continue holding the position she didn't have the true mandate of the majority of the Filipinos. What will happen with the government institutions (like Supreme Court) that supported her in spite of nationwide protests?

GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO disappointed us enough. The only way for her right now is to exit and call for SNAP ELECTION or let PRESIDENT ESTRADA redeem his legitimate post. Sending her husband and son abroad wouldn't resolve the embarassment the First Family caused us. Why they will go abroad? Are they running away from Jose Pidal and Jueteng issues?

Ah! Wish there is a time tunnel... it would be easier for us to prevent Arroyo's supporters from ousting the legitimate president, JOSEPH ESTRADA (he was forced to leave Malacaňang Palace on January 20, 2001); at least, there's no Iraq war yet; and, most of all, I (still) have my property [sobbed] ...

Monday, June 27, 2005

The Philippine president, GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO, has now finally asked for forgiveness from the entire Filipino people (broadcast in national television) and admitted it was her voice in the GloriaGate Scandal.

As senator Panfilo Lacson says over GMA7 telephone interview, "Now that she authenticated the tape, she must vacate." It's now a matter of moral issue than political and I believe she should step down. After all, I do believe that she's not the legitimate president and she caused many of us the feeling of hopelessness. Enough that she serve this country for couple of years after they ousted PRESIDENT JOSEPH ESTRADA. I didn't see any positive changes under her governance.

Which is a serious offense? Wiretapping or election fraud?

Ah! GOD BLESS THE PHILIPPINES.

Wednesday, June 15, 2005

In behalf of the Filipino people, I'm hereby asking GLORIA MACAPAGAL ARROYO to please tell us whether it was her voice on the tape as GMA7's 24 Oras and Inquirer.net reported:

PAMPANGA Representative Juan Miguel "Mikey" Arroyo, the elder son of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, yesterday took a leave of absence for an indefinite period amid the raging Jueteng' scandal, I was wondering if the president would initiate the same assuming it was the President on the wire tapped CD recording.

CALLS have mounted for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to publicly declare if it is indeed her voice that is on a supposed tape about alleged fraud in the May 2004 elections, or the issue will remain a ticking bomb for her.

Hello Garci CDs had been given away for free in Baclaran area to passersby. Holder of the CDs were invited in Police Station later.

Related stories and opinions:

• NBI charges Samuel Ong with inciting to sedition
• 3 face sedition raps for pasting anti-Arroyo posters
• Malig: Of 'Juetenggate 2' and 'Gloriagate'
• Singling out Doble
• Legislators ask Arroyo: Admit or deny
• Mother of all tapes
• Paguia tape and complete recordings
• Solon links ex-Isafp chief to audio tape
• No basis yet for Senate probe on tape - Drilon
• Arroyo dared: Break your silence on tapes
• Stories behind our stories
• No legislative inquiry; no Garcillano; to hell with the law
• A tale of two tapes - 1
• A tale of two tapes - 2
• MBC, managers to GMA: Confront charges
• Exercise your constitutional right and distribute the tape
• US firm says voices are Gloria's, Garci's
• The latest allegations of scandal come at a bad time for Philippines President Arroyo

"Hello, Garci" ringtone and jokes are spreading fast between cellphone users.

I do believe it was the voice of the president, based on the online Debate poll I submitted on June 9th. So? Everyone heard the president cheated in the last May 2004 Election. What are we going to do now? Is there a syndicate running the Philippine government? Where are the intelligent poeple in this country?

Tuesday, July 20, 2004

The whole nation is rejoicing upon knowing that Angelo dela Cruz is finally freed from Iraqi militants. That only shows those Iraqi militants were not "Al Qaeda" members but, Iraqi nationalists who just wanted to clean up Bush mess...

Ironically, I haven't heard of other news other than Angelo dela Cruz. The safe release of Angelo dela Cruz is not only dramatic but, full of hypocrisies. Most TV news channels were featuring dela Cruz while they are forgetting that he's just one of the over 80 million population that needs attention from the government. Everybody would like to help Angelo and his family, just to "ride" with his popularity and attention he's getting from the media. But, no one has heard of the ten Filipino OFWs who were stranded in Iraq due to lack of Iraqi security personnel to convoy them out of Iraq and I have read in one of the newsletters that these OFWs are running short of cash.

Anyway, thank you, Lord God, for granting our prayer requests. At least, for once, the whole nation was united in praying for Angelo, who became an instant symbol of the Philippines! God has many ways to correct Arroyo's mistakes (supporting George W. Bush to war Iraq) and since WMD was just a lie, Angelo became a great instrument to pull our humanitarian forces out of Iraq.

Monday, July 12, 2004

Once again, Gloria Arroyo made a wrong pronouncement, this time with Angelo dela Cruz whom they said was set free by the Iraqi militants.

"The president has lied. Government has deceived the family of de la Cruz and the Filipino people. Everyone was already celebrating after the reported release, but then you get this report that he is still in Iraqi hands. She has to pull out the troops now. Within 24 hours."

Connie Regalado
head of a militant organization representing Filipino overseas worker

Wednesday, June 30, 2004

Today, following the PRE-INAUGURAL in Manila and OATH-TAKING of the President and Vice-president in Cebu City on different News Channels gave me an impression that Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was good in acting.

The early morning 23-minutes Pre-Inaugural Speech of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as the 14th President of the Philippines at Quirino Grandstand in Manila (before her Oath-taking in Cebu City this afternoon).

The Oath-taking Ceremony of the 14th President of the Philippines, GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO, in Cebu City.

The Oath-taking Ceremony of the new Vice-President of the Philippines, NOLI DE CASTRO, in Cebu City.

While selective people in Cebu City are having street party this evening, I wonder where those militant groups are displaced who protestingly claimed it wasn't true that all the people in Cebu City were all PRO-GLORIA.

I heard one legislator was saying that electoral fraud should be considered a henious crime. After hearing such a comment, I pondered while buying BlogShares Ideas, which is more heinous, money-laundering (case filed against President Estrada) or electoral fraud (alleged accusation of the opposition against the Arroyo)?

Evidence of general electoral fraud were presented by the opposition yet, with Gloria Arroyo having plurarity among legislators, filing election protest by alleged true winner in the recently held election, Fernando Poe Jr., in electoral tribunal faces practical road blocks (at least they need P35 Million minimum to fund recount).

Under the Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's government in the past 3 years, they often said something differently from their actions. No wonder her 10-Point Economic Agenda sounds too ambitious.

As law-abiding citizen of the Philippines, I wish to respect and accept the president, but, does she respect our mandate (when we elected someone else)?

Tuesday, June 29, 2004

One country, one people.

Yet, because of political differences, these unfortunate situations had happened...

...between cop dispersal team and POE's supporters this afternoon.

POE's (un-armed) supporters were supposed to go to the church to offer a prayer rally for their leader but, they were dispersed by violent cops...

Five minutes after the dispersal, Fernando Poe, Jr. and Makati Mayor Binay arrived in the area, most of POE's supporters were gone and fled for their lives.

NOTE: Above photos were captured from GMA7's 24 Oras telecast.

Some Law advocates denounced that there is undeclared MARTIAL LAW and the administration should stop pretending the Philippines is still a DEMOCRATIC COUNTRY under Arroyo's government...

Monday, June 28, 2004

The Filipino people have different interpretations on the proposed inauguration of President-'elect' in Cebu City on the 30th of this month. Some even tag it Cebu Republic now since the incumbent president, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, promised the Cebuanos (Filipinos in Cebu) that she's going to build Malacañang Palace in the South (Southern part of the Philippines), as the extension of her office.

Based on the COC Canvassed by the Joint Committee, it's the controversial votes in Cebu City that made her the President-Elect of the Philippines.

Militant groups were complaining to media people that the government stopped issuing permits (NO PERMIT, NO RALLY POLICY) so that they cannot stage a rally legally to express their sentiments and disappointments.

With the help of EDSA 2 People's Power, power-grab allegedly had taken place in 2001 against the legitimate President of the Philippines, Joseph Estrada, who was charged of money laundering. The Arroyo government, according to protesters, is allegedly taking all the necessary precautions to prevent 20 people or more to gather in one place and stage a protest rally (to prevent the regrouping of another EDSA People's Power).

NOTE: Photos were captured from today's news.

Recommended reading:
Bishops to probe poll fraud charges against Macapagal
Arroyo bares 10-point 'legacy' By JEFFRREY O. VALISNO
Lakas Ng Bayan: The People's Power/EDSA Revolution 1986
EDSA 2 People's Power
Power-Grab, By Cecilio T. Arillo
Tanikalang Ginto: People Power
Press Releases

Thursday, June 24, 2004

I had mixed emotions when I heard the Flash News over GMA7 about the outcome of joint canvassing panel. I was wondering what's the rush, the legislators finally proclaimed Ms. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as the new President of the Philippines AND Mr. Noli de Castro, as Vice-President, at 3:33 o'clock Thursday morning, the 44th day after the May 10 polls.

But, opposition leader Sen. Edgardo Angara refused to concede defeat, spoke of Ms Macapagal's "fractured mandate". And, whether the call for UNITY and RECONCILIATION by the administration to the entire Filipino people is sincere, in the bottom of my heart, it's very hard for me to accept these situations are happening at the tip of my nose. Too bad, I cannot do anything but, watch...

Wednesday, June 23, 2004

Following the news lately made me feel more disappointed. Whether the claim of the whistle blower, Rodolfo "Rudy" Galang, is true (or not) that Macapagal cheated in May 10 election, no one seemed to care anymore as pro-administration legislators called for her proclamation...

"Galang admitted that he formulated a plan for Mindanao that would ensure President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's victory in the region, called Oplan Mercury."*

"Presidential adviser on ecclesiastical affairs Conrado "Dodie" Limcauco admitted knowing Galang but denied he was part of Oplan Mercury."*

"Limcauco had allegedly asked for Galang's help in making sure that Ms Macapagal would win in Mindanao."*

"Galang said the plan involved getting two million votes in Mindanao through massive cheating, use of government funds through rice distribution, and bribing opposition candidates to sign a "pledge of support" for Ms Macapagal."*

*Source: news.balita.ph :: Photos by GMA7's 24 Oras

Earlier, my children were asking how come no one cares to check the authenticity of the Certificate of Canvass, and I didn't know what to answer... there's nothing I can think of except to include the Philippines' welfare in my morning prayers.

Tuesday, June 22, 2004

I received a Yahoo! message from someone this afternoon that says: "I think your blog is all hatred about the present govt. I myself is also ciritical," which followed by another one, "I always rallied against the wrong policies of the govt. Me, I want a total change of the present system." Smiling, I replied, "it's not hatred, i was just disappointed..."

Based on his Yahoo! profile, he's a 29 yr. old male. I offered him to write also about his thoughts by blogging, and I gave him the URL of blogger.com and blogdrive.com

Monday, June 21, 2004

While investor and philanthropist Paul G. Allen and Scaled Composites launched the first private manned vehicle beyond the Earth's atmosphere today (Full Story Here):

Back here in the Philippines, the Joint Committee finished canvassing the COC yesterday evening, the slowest ever in Philippine History:

As expected, the incumbent lady president won against FPJ (in spite of massive fraud protests) in the preliminary canvass, and whether the true mandate of the majority of the Filipino people was not honored, I pray that those guilty ones be punished by their own conscience...

How this nation will unite under the leadership of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, a nation with serious unemployment and overpopulation problems?

The Joint Committee should publish in all tabloids the regional and provincial results of their canvass, so the people may know which places PGMA got support...

Sunday, June 20, 2004

Today is Father's Day, yet, my father spends this day at Chinese General Hospital where his elder brother is confined. Anyway, my mother is here since yesterday morning to spend the weekend with us. We're watching together the deliberation of lawmakers and senators live on ANC Channel 21 instead of going out to spend this special day without my father around. BTW, to all family men out there, HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!

Reasonable efforts by the opposition were made with the Joint Committee (JC) to allow them to look at (allegedly faked) Certificate of Canvass (COC) to scrutinize and compare against Statement of Votes (SOV) and Election Returns (ER) but the motion was denied (4-6) where out-voting seemed automatic. There are five opposition members against 17 pro-administration members in the 22-man Joint Committe. Please SEE Section 30 of Republic Act 7166

EXCERPTS from The original meaning of 'canvass' by Randy David

Congress seems to equate "canvass" with the mere tabulation or addition of election results. Nothing is more mistaken. No existing standard definition of "canvass" reduces the word to tabulation or counting. Historically, the word has been used only in two senses: When applied to elections, it either means to thoroughly scrutinize election results, or to campaign for votes.

In 2001, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo became President without the benefit of a popular mandate. In 2004, her claim to the presidency is even more dubious; it totters on the edge of unopened election returns. Why anyone would like to be president of the country at this time under the same questionable circumstances is truly puzzling. Her allies in Congress could do her and the country an immense favor by opening contested election returns and removing all doubts that she won the presidency fair and square.

Click here for Full Details on The original meaning of 'canvass' by Randy David

Canvassing of votes is expected to finish this Sunday evening, in spite of fraud complaints. Within this week, the President of the Philippines will be proclaimed and this "bogus president" (not once, but twice, as many believes), will stay in power for the next six years. How the entire Filipino people will accept this, in spite of the widespread rumors that another presidential candidate actually wins in the recently held May 10 election.

Overview of Philippine Elections
Comelec goes slow on automation
R.A. 8436 Election Automation Law
Another election in the Dark Ages
SC voids P1.3B deal, orders Comelec probe
Macapagal used P15B in gov't funds
Session at Batasan
Namfrel Unofficial Count

Section 30 of Republic Act 7166

Congress as the National Board of Canvassers for the Election of President and Vice-President: Determination of Authenticity and Due Execution of Certificates of Canvass. - Congress shall determine the authenticity and due execution of the certificate of canvass for President and Vice-President as accomplished and transmitted to it by the local boards of canvassers, on a showing that: (1) each certificate of canvass was executed, signed and thumbmarked by the chairman and members of the board of canvassers and transmitted or caused to be transmitted to Congress by them; (2) each certificate of canvass contains the names of all of the candidates for President and Vice-President and their corresponding votes in words and in figures; and (3) there exists no discrepancy in other authentic copies of the certificate of canvass or discrepancy in the votes of any candidate in words and figures in the certificate.

When the certificate of canvass, duly certified by the board of canvassers of each province, city or district, appears to be incomplete, the Senate President shall require the board of canvassers concerned to transmit by personal delivery, the election returns from polling places that were not included in the certificate of canvass and supporting statements. Said election returns shall be submitted by personal delivery within two (2) days from receipt of notice.

When it appears that any certificate of canvass or supporting statement of votes by precinct bears erasures or alterations which may cast doubt as to the veracity of the number of votes stated therein and may affect the result of the election, upon request of the Presidential or Vice-Presidential candidate concerned or his party, Congress shall, for the sole purpose of verifying the actual number of votes cast for President and Vice-President, count the votes as they appear in the copies of the election returns submitted to it.

Saturday, June 19, 2004

I couldn't believe that there is really a Congressional Canvass today...

Administration congressmen defended the move to work overtime today for the Joint Committee to be able to guarantee the proclamation of winners before the June 30 constitutional deadline.

Opposition Senator Edgardo Angara said the motion to conduct tabulation beyond eight hours and on weekends is a violation of the rules.

More on Solons clash on Maguindanao CoC by BEN R. ROSARIO

Since we relocated here last April, we had SkyCable connected yesterday afternoon only. So, I was excited to watch Channel 21's Live Coverage on what's going on at the Batasang Pambansa where Fernando Poe, Jr.'s lead counsels, former Commission on Elections Chair Harriet Demetriou and former Immigration Commissioner Rodriguez, had been charged with kidnapping an election officer on Basilan island. The said election officer was formerly KNP's witness on massive cheating in the said area. Brillantes denounced the filing of the charges "dastardly acts of political harassment."

"If you are going to scare our lead lawyers, please don't," Brillantes told the committee. "If this is going to be done to our colleagues in the profession, then allow us to withdraw."

Kidnapping case is non-bailable in the Philippines.

FULL STORY By Christine O. Avendaño, Cynthia D. Balana, and Carlito Pablo at www.inq7.net

Meanwhile, the 22-man (11 senators and 11 congressmen) Joint Committee is breaking their own Canvassing Rules:

Under the approved rules, the joint committee will canvass votes eight hours a day from Monday to Friday at the House of Representatives.

ach candidate shall likewise be entitled to attorneys who shall serve during the entire canvassing proceedings.

A joint committee shall be created, which shall upon determination of authenticity and due execution of the certificates of canvass, preliminary canvass the votes for president and vice president.

Source: www.inquirer.net

Many believe the PHILIPPINES needs monitoring by international media...

Friday, June 18, 2004

I applauded Neal H. Cruz's today's Philippine Daily Inquirer Editorial/Opinion entitled, Tyranny of The Majority which he mentioned too many things related to what I understand and observed with the current situation in the country as far as the May 10 Polls is concerned. I'd thought earlier all media people are scared to discuss the truth behind massive disinformation campaign. I was really disgusted with the performance of the Senate and the Congress lately. You can really sense the "shared forces" are there, blocking every way possible, including media, to stop the opposition from exposing the truth to the public.

By June 30, if canvassing of votes does not meet the deadline and no president will be proclaimed, the Senate President, Franklin Drilon, will preside as acting President of the Philippines.

May God bless the Philippines! And, to Neal H. Cruz, your editorial is well-written, keep up the good work!!!

Sites To Read:
REPUBLIC ACT No. 7166: SYNCHRONIZED NATIONAL AND LOCAL ELECTIONS
RESULT OF CANVASSING OF ELECTION RETURNS
CONGRESS APPROVES CANVASSING RULES
THE SEARCH FOR DULY ELECTED PRESIDENT

For the record, here are some of the interesting issues he mentioned in his today's editorial:

• members of the majority in the joint committee doing the canvassing do not want to open the election returns to determine the authenticity of the numbers written on the provincial certificates of canvass (CoCs)
• the opposition claims the numbers in some CoCs do not tally with the totals of the election returns (votes for Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo were inflated while those for Fernando Poe Jr. were deflated).
• if there was no cheating and GMA really won, the election returns will show that.
• but hide those election returns and people will believe that GMA did steal the presidency from FPJ as she did earlier from his close friend Erap.
• GMA will then land in the Guinness Book of World Records as having stolen the presidency not only once but twice.
• Her supporters in Congress think they are being loyal to her but they don't realize that they are actually doing her a disservice -- if she had really won without cheating.
• By blocking every opposition move to make the canvassing more credible, they show how much they fear the election returns. You fear them only if they will show proof of cheating.
• The public is understandably fed up with the very slow count, and the blame is being heaped on the opposition, the canvassing is being delayed not by the opposition but by the fear of the administration to open the election returns.
• The excuse of those in the majority is that opening them would delay the canvassing and the proclamation of the new president, adding a threat of a power vacuum and chaos if no president is proclaimed by June 30, which is not true, and they know it.
• A delayed proclamation is better than proclaiming a bogus president.

Source: Inquirer Online Edition, Neil H. Cruz Editorial/Opinion

Saturday, June 12, 2004

Today marks the 106th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence from colonial rule but, do Filipinos have the reason to celebrate this day while we know the fact that the voice of the majority of the Filipino masses were not actually heard in the recent May 10 Presidential Polls because the actual winner allegedly was not winning in the canvassing, based on known issues reported by the opposition?

It's a shameful fact that while technology is available in this country, the system used by the Arroyo government in the canvassing of our votes will put the Philippines on The Guinness Book of Records for having the slowest process of canvassing the votes in a presidential election.

Friday, June 04, 2004

Can't help but, ask myself... I wonder what has happened with the Archives Director who allegedly forged FPJ's birth certificate and FPJ's parent's marriage contract? How many more higher authorities currently in office are forging vital documents, such as COCs and lately, have switched ballot boxes?

Is it about time the International Media should interfere???

Wednesday, June 02, 2004

In case the lawmakers had forgotten the constitution, here is a reminder to follow, to avoid red tape in counting our votes:

[EXCERPTS] THE 1987 PHILIPPINE CONSTITUTION
Article 7 - Executive Department

Section 4. The President and the Vice-President shall be elected by direct vote of the people for a term of six years which shall begin at noon on the thirtieth day of June next following the day of the election and shall end at noon of the same date six years thereafter. The President shall not be eligible for any reelection. No person who has succeeded as President and has served as such for more than four years shall be qualified for election to the same office at any time.

No Vice-President shall serve for more than two successive terms. Voluntary renunciation of the office for any length of time shall not be considered as an interruption in the continuity of the service for the full term for which he was elected.

Unless otherwise provided by law, the regular election for President and Vice-President shall be held on the second Monday of May.

The returns of every election for President and Vice-President, duly certified by the board of canvassers of each province or city, shall be transmitted to the Congress, directed to the President of the Senate. Upon receipt of the certificates of canvass, the President of the Senate shall, not later than thirty days after the day of the election, open all the certificates in the presence of the Senate and the House of Representatives in joint public session, and the Congress, upon determination of the authenticity and due execution thereof in the manner provided by law, canvass the votes.

The person having the highest number of votes shall be proclaimed elected, but in case two or more shall have an equal and highest number of votes, one of them shall forthwith be chosen by the vote of a majority of all the Members of both Houses of the Congress, voting separately.

The Congress shall promulgate its rules for the canvassing of the certificates.

The Supreme Court, sitting en banc, shall be the sole judge of all contests relating to the election, returns, and qualifications of the President or Vice-President, and may promulgate its rules for the purpose. Section 5. Before they enter on the execution of their office, the President, the Vice-President, or the Acting President shall take the following oath or affirmation:

"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully and conscientiously fulfill my duties as President (or Vice-President or Acting President) of the Philippines, preserve and defend its Constitution, execute its laws, do justice to every man, and consecrate myself to the service of the Nation. So help me God." (In case of affirmation, last sentence will be omitted.)

May all concerned have enlightenment, this is NOT the first election in the Philippines...

Source: The 1987 Philippine Constitution

It's a wedding month once again but the opening of 223 ballot boxes containing 176 certificates of canvass by "22-man Joint Committee" is expected to be completed by Thursday, June 3rd while the entire Filipino people are tired watching the local news drama and we didn't know who is really winning the May 10 Presidential Polls.

Opposition to ask SC to stop canvass, questioning legality of the creation of "Joint Committee":

• Congress as a whole, and not a 22-member joint committee, should be conducting the canvass.
• Opposition will question the constitutionality of the creation of the joint committee.
• The joint rules were not meant to be a fair canvass.
• Speaker Jose de Venecia, Senate President Franklin Drilon and other allies of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo dismissed the opposition plan.

Source: www.inq7.net

Saturday, May 22, 2004

Since the May 10, 2004 nationwide Presidential Elections was held, not a single Filipino can tell as of this point in time who is really winning the Presidential race despite the TV and media news reports that based on National Movement For Free Elections (NAMFREL) "Quick Count" results, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was leading among FPJ, Ping Lacson, Brother Eddie and Rocco.

Something is strange with the mentality of the leaders of this country. When the deposed president, Erap Estrada was on trial for money laundering, the public enjoyed full media coverage. The scandal between Joey Marquez and Kris Aquino were also featured by media.

Every Filipino who cast their votes on May 10 Polls has every full right to know what has happened to our votes and since the leaders running the present government do not enjoy confidence from the public anymore, the Filipino masses deserve itemized details from which provinces and regions those votes made Gloria Arroyo leads the presidential race. However, the opposition reported that FPJ was winning in most regions except in Region 6 & 7 where Arroyo was leading.

The media, both on TV, Radio, and newspapers are not allowed to release any reports other than what NAMFREL or COMELEC releases to the public, as ordered by the Supreme Court. What is this? Suppression of media coverage to make Arroyo wins this election?

WE WANT TO KNOW THE TRUTH...