Why is RIP Jam Trending and the Philippine News Media Coverage

Today (March 4, 2015) a certain Filipino passed away because of cancer, Jamvhille Sebastian of the real life and social network "famous" couple called JaMich. The Philippine entertainment industry has been all over Jamvhille "Jam" Sebastian and Paolinne Michelle "Mich" Liggayu after Jam's battle against lung cancer has been made public.

Why is Jam Sebastian's battle against cancer made public?

That is the question. Why, indeed. Is it simply just because of the cancer patient's wishes to be so? We should understand that the JAMICH couple first gained popularity and notoriety by making their love story public and be a media spectacle through their various social media websites which I personally do not follow. Is it simply a matter of preference. How unfortunate are those non-celebrity status cancer patients for not having the spotlight focused on them even if they wanted it to. Guess that's just the reality of life.


Should the battle against cancer be made into a media spectacle?

Unbeknownst to our knowledge, countless of people have died or have been taken away from their families by the ruthlessness of the disease called cancer. Did these families in any way ask for television and social network coverage? I can understand if religious families and friends start asking people around them for prayers to heal (with the hopes of it working) their family member suffering from Cancer, but it is another thing to invite media to dip its dirty feet on it. I don't know the guy nor am a big fan, but should that mean that I should or the rest of the Filipino people sympathize? There are so many people dying without our knowledge. A good example is the Muslim individuals the unsung soldiers caught in the crossfire of the ongoing war from the land dispute in Mindanao. Were their deaths any less important or unimportant than Jam's death? NO, their family and friends mourned without the public knowing and sympathizing. I say let his family and friends mourn privately without the media spectacle.

A call for "political correctness" and "professionalism" in Philippine "news" media

This is an all-time low on Philippine "news" media. What contribution has Jam Sebastian made in the Philippine history and landscape that requires this much news media attention and coverage? Battling cancer? We can get stories of various people battling cancer all over the country. The Philippine news media should only take an effort to do so. Is simply because of JaMich' celebrity status the reason why you are covering them? Is this already considered news? Heck if the stupidity of the "Blue and Black vs White and Gold Dress social network argument" making the news just because it is trending, then it is only natural for news media to sensationalize this one as well, right?


A dying man's wish.

Jam Sebastian was visited by various celebrities like Vice Ganda, Kris Aquino, and Hayden Kho; and guess what, a camera crew is tailing these celebrities when they did visit the bedridden half of JaMich. How noble of these celebrities to visit and answer to a dying man's wish. I hope more celebrities can follow such terminally ill patients dying wish and for them to take time and visit all of them. Unfortunately, there isn't enough attention given to some "less recognized" individuals for them to receive celebrities sympathies and pity.


What is a news and what is newsworthy?

We can simply look for the definition of the word "news" on dictionaries or online via the usual sources (Google, Yahoo, Wikipedia, etc.). Why is JaM's death needed to be covered by leading local news media is beyond me. Is the celebrity status alone makes something newsworthy?

Upon reading this opinion piece, one might misunderstood this as a JaMich hater when in reality I just don't give a darn about who or what they are. What irks me is how the whole Jam Sebastian ordeal with cancer has been abused and sensationalized by the Philippine "news" media as if the Filipino media should know or even care about the cancer tribulations of a "celebrity". Of course, this won't be all possible without the "support" of the "loving" parents. Hopefully they are also open to criticism thrown their way since they are the once who allowed media to spectate on their supposedly private lives. Good and bad comments is all fair once you open the floodgates. There is no stopping what goes in or out.

Philippine news media's sensationalism and biases

Why are they riding the waves of Jam's death. Someone's passing should not even be made public unless they contributed something noteworthy that would actually make the the majority of Filipinos care. Was he a scientist? Was he a political figure? Was he a famous icon? Was he someone who contributed something to the betterment of the country, society, or a specific industry? If the answer is an astounding NO, then why even give them a segment on you supposedly professional news website and television program? I wouldn't be even surprised if I see an episode dedicated to JaMich on infotainment magazine programs like Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho and Rated K, or drama shows like Maalaala Mo Kaya or Magpakailanman.

Let the family and love ones of the Jam mourn in private. Sympathies are expected for the families of the deceased, but you as a respected news media organization are not required to focus your spotlight on them. The country has other issues worth reporting. what happened to the SAF44 Mamasapano clash? The continuous conflict on the Bangsamoro Basic Law? What is the status of the territorial disputes of Muslims claiming most of Mindanao as theirs? What is the status of China's claiming of our territories? what happened to the NBN-ZTE Deal? What happened to the Arroyo trial? What happened to the news about Hacienda Luisita? What is the status of the Freedom of Information Bill?

I find myself loathing Philippine "news" media more and more with these kinds of bad practices, biases, and unprofessionalism.

A Citizen's View on 20 Reasons Why I Dislike the Philippines: An Entertaining Social Commentary

20 Reasons Why I dislike the Philippines is a ChannelFlix Presentation and a Sorted Production video hosted by Jimmy Sieczka. This entertaining social commentary video about a foreigner's (to the Philippines that is) top 20 list on the things he disliked about the Philippines came to me today March 14, 2012 on Facebook. Intrigued by the title and some people crying fowl on the said video made me more curious to know what is the fuzz all about. So here is my diyes sentimos on this latest "INSULTING" video about the Filipinos.

"Top 20 Reasons Why I Dislike ______", right from the very start we should know that this video is negative in nature. If you are so blindly passionate about something, then as much as possible you better stay away with such titles like this. I can't blame people for still watching this though, it is human nature to be naturally curios about things especially when someone of a different race is talking about another person's Father or Motherland, in this case it is the Philippines.

Watch ChannelFlix 20 Reasons Why I dislike the Philippines here

About: If you think really hard, I'm sure you can come up with a couple reasons not to like something. In the land he loves so much, let Jimmy take you on a lighthearted tour of the negative aspects of living in a crowded country located at the earth's equator. On the flip side, check out 20 Reasons I Love _____.

I suggest you watch the video from beginning to end to completely understand the nature of the video. It is a social commentary and a darn entertaining one. If you haven't seen it or have seen it and had a bad impressions on it, I think it warrants a second look. Finished? Now tell me what have you noticed on the video?

First, it is a video that intentionally finds the most trivial matters about the Philippines to include it on its top 20. Traffic is a problem of every (if not all) major cities around the world, so it is really trivial and nitpicking of him to include it in the list. I can add a couple more faults about the Philippines than traffic especially about religion and politics, but they didn't do so, so right then and there you know that they are not really aiming for the serious kind (or journalistic approach) on their top 20. Isn't it true that major roads, especially on the major cities here in the Philippines suffer heavy traffic? We can also traced this to poor enforcement of traffic laws, undisciplined drivers and pedestrians. He also included shameless beeping of horns of most Filipino drivers which by itself is very annoying. He included the very annoying and abusive Filipino barkers. I just hate it when these barkers position themselves on loading/unloading stations and have the shame to ask for a tip. My father was once a public utility jeepney driver and I used to accompany him back in the days, and by then I already hated their existence. The very small money we earned from each passengers fare were being stolen from us by such abusive and unnecessary barkers. Then they have the guts to get angry at drivers who won't pay them any tip? That's just twisted as hell!

He also included beggars on the streets which I too have personal experience with. I saw this mother of three kids who are all beggars on the street taking a ride home. So basically she let her kids do the job for her rather than providing for them. He is also right not to give money to such beggars as it is stated by our law. We can pity them, and give them food if they were really hungry, but if they preferred money over the food you offered then the more reason to doubt these poor straved beggars, not to mention that most of them are taken under the care of the social services, but they eventually escape to just return to begging on the streets. Talk about these beggars really desperate for food and shelter? ...that was a sarcastic statement. LOL.

Then there are the laughable trivial things like the Filipino comfort room. You obviously know that the guy isn't completely honest that every comfort room in the Philippines is as unsanitary and as bad as what he featured on it. Heck, he even featured a decent hotel and shopping mall in Cebu but did he include the comfort rooms on those said establishments? He didn't which makes it funny. I've got to agree with him on some parts, most public toilets whether they are inside or outside shopping malls usually don't have tissues, luckily we are not that big users of tissues, unfortunately for him, he does. Then there is the excessive use of plastics and little tissues, which he also had some very valid points.

One very funny moment in the video was when he was attended to by lady-boy's in a bar/restaurant where he ask the question "Why is it that every hot girls in the Philippines is a lady-boy?", which is duh? That just cracked me up. We all know that there are very hot and lovely REAL women in the Philippines you just have to look at the right place.

This is really a creative and funny video in a guise of a social commentary. What makes it more funnier is that it is based on actual facts about us, our people, culture and tradition with some pretty trivial and irrelevant stuff added to the mix. Do not be mislead by the title alone or the negative feedback received by the video. Try watching it with an open-mind, think that what if the host was not a foreigner but a Filipino. Is there really a need to be defensive and be butthurt over this video?

I for one have been very open in saying my mind (opinions) on various local and international issues, films, and tv shows. I am not even a citizen of the said country, but I was able to express my thoughts on it, but have any of these political figures, celebrities, film and television productions cry fowl of my commentary or reaction to them? They don't because first I am not that popular to warrant their attention (HAHAHA) and second the internet is a free platform where one can freely express himself (to a very justified extent). The video itself is not even that comprehensive as a social commentary, so why even take it too seriously. If you check out the official ChannelFlix website, you will know that it is an entertainment channel. The same channel who previously made a 20 Reasons I Love the Philippines.

Watch ChannelFlix 20 Reasons Why I Love the Philippines here

We, Filipinos are happy people. We can still smile or laugh in the face of adversities and challenges, so why are most of us can't seem to take criticism about our people, culture, and tradition? Why is it that when some of us laugh at other nation's many faults, mishaps or shortcomings it is alright, but when the tables turn and they in turn does the same exact thing, it seems so wrong? It is so double standard. It is alright to be patriotic and nationalistic only if it is on the right context. An acquaintance on my social network used to say that it is a case of misplaced patriotism and I completely agree. Now if you are to take this supposed to be creative and entertaining video to the teeth, then let me ask you this question, did he not raise any valid points on what you now call a an offensive and racist commentary?

Everyone is free to express their opinion on this video. But sometimes it gets really tiring to see such videos or personalities featured on local news not because of their talent, but for their said to be "offensive" and "controversial" content. This is just my honest opinion about this particular matter. You might have a completely different interpretation of the said video, if you do or do not, then fell free to share your thoughts on 20 Reasons Why I Dislike the Philippines? on the comments section below:

A Citizen's View on Senator-Judge Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Private Prosecution Lawyer Vitaliano Aguirre II: See No Evil, Hear No Evil, and Speak no Evil

February 29, 2012 - Day 26 of the Chief Justice Renato Corona Impeachment Proceedings something special happened, A private lawyer from the prosecution panel Vitaliano Aguirre II stood up against Senator-Judge Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Yes, this is another one of those instances when the iconic Iron Lady from Iloilo City getting enraged ala Hulk by the many blunders happening on the Supreme Court's Chief Justice Renato Corona Impeachment Trial.

Day 26 Corona Impeachment Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago holds Vitaliano Aguirre in Contempt



News Source: Inquirer News: ‘Wah’ happened! Miriam Santiago goes Ballistic

This is my first time to actually watch the CJ Corona impeachment trial for a good hour and so, and oh boy, was I greatly rewarded by this scene. As much as I adore Miriam as apolitical character, I know that she went overboard (again) by getting enraged by the many blunders of the impeachment trial proceedings, mainly made by the prosecution panel. She can't be blamed though, the prosecution panel has shown what they are "capable" of and it sure was not any good. But the surprising part was a lawyer in black sitting in the prosecution panel was caught covering his ears as the madam Senator-Judge made her signature speech. I wouldn't go into great details as it has already been covered by various Philippine news websites nor even share what laws any parties have violated (in the end i am no law expert), I'll just share my opinion as a citizen of the Republic of the Philippines about the Day 26 - Leap Year Impeachment Trial pandemonium between Miriam Santiago and Vitaliano Aguirre II.

I've got to give credit to Atty. Aguirre for being honest and having the guts to cross Miriam, but man he definitely got what was coming to him, contempt of the Impeachment Court. I think the private lawyer knew what will happen next, that was both smart and devious of him to so if that was the case. The man knew that the punishment for contempt wasn't that severe so the heck with it, fed up being called names, why not show the same disrespect as what he thought was disrespect towards him. In my opinion, both Aguirre and Santiago went overboard and shown great disrespect for the whole impeachment trial. Miriam by not having the patience of Buddha and failing to control her temper resulting to calling the "competent" impeachment prosecutors names, and Aguirre for showing his disrespect and admitting that it was all intentional. I think they are not setting a good example here, and people have this general impression that educated people are more tact, patient, and respectful towards each other. Besides television news channels, concerned citizens, secondary and tertiary level students are also monitoring and watching the events of the impeachment proceedings. Just what impression would they give to the minds of our future lawyers and leaders with such actual chaos for a historical, public, and national event?

If Mr. Vitaliano Aguirre or any of the impeachment prosecution lawyers don't want to hear no evil, (when I mean "evil" it is Miriam doing what she is know for, being tactless in giving her opinion but honest), then they should have at least shown their competency as prosecutors, sensitive on what is at stake and respect towards the impeachment trial proceedings. On the other hand, I agree with Aguirre's last statement to Santiago that in order to demand respect, you've got to show respect. If you don't want to hear or see no evil, you have to speak no evil. Madam Senator-Judge might don't care as to what the rest of the world think of her and that is both good and bad for her: good that she is still still the same honest and legally vulgar (if such word exist hahaha), and bad for the very same reason. So she should have at least expected this scenario to happen once or twice, luckily she has the power to prosecute the feisty lawyer. The same goes to the prosecution panel, if they don't want Miriam to speak no evil of them or they don't want to hear no evil from Miriam, then they should show that they are serious with their case. They should let the impeachment court see the evil of Corona with the right evidence to prove him guilty.

People will always have something to say, like I do. In cases like this, if they don't want to accept or acknowledge what other people has to say about issues like this, then they shouldn't read or share their thoughts on this at all. The same goes to the Senator judges and both panels, if they don't want us to view them to be viewed or branded in a particular manner, then they definitely should show what they wanted us to see, not hearsays, speculations, but hard and solid evidences. In order for us to see such alleged evils (by CJCorona), then they should let us see; or if they don't want the Filipino viewing public to see them get humiliated by the highly outspoken political character Miriam Defensor-Santiago, then they shouldn't let us see them. The three wise monkeys portray and symbolically represent restrain over one self, in order not to be influence or do evil, they should cover the parts that might be involved with such corruption. But what if we are not the one's covering our ears, mouths and eyes, but rather some diabolical overseeing authority working in the shadows who would want us to be kept in the darkness to continue on with their evil? The impeachment trial must go on... to serve as a template for future possible impeachment trials and for fixing loopholes and highly exploitable laws, but please our honorable judges and panels please try to act with dignity, sensitivity and with utmost respect of the state.

See No Evil, Hear No Evil And Speak no Evil

A Citizen's View on The Preposterous House Resolution 2140: Philippine Politicians Asked Not to Be Portrayed as Criminals in Films and Television Programs

A news about the House Resolution 2140 filed by Pampanga Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr. made me both laughed my hearts out and scratched my head in dismay.

Pampanga Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr. filed the House Resolution 2140 which aims to appeal to the local television and movie industry to "minimize, prevent, or stop typecasting congressmen and congresswomen as villains or crooks in movies and television telenovelas, in order not to create stereotypes or negative public perception against members of the House of Representatives."

News Source: InterAksyon News | Inquirer News

How the Filipino Public Perceive the House of Representatives of the Philippines

There is no doubt that media has both direct and indirect influence on how most Filipinos view our "honorable" and "reputable" politicians. It is also natural to feel bad when one is called something that he is not. It has been like that from the moment you are born and will still "be" on the last moments of your life. Given the two points, we can say that it is only natural for a politician to somehow and sometimes feel pain when being stereotyped as a corrupt official when they are really not. So how can they get away with this negative image? Well, the House Resolution 2140 seems to address that issue.

The problem with the bill is narrowing it down to the entertainment industry, mainly television and film. I don't think that the Filipino people are that "dumb" to be able to state that Philippine politicians are corrupt because they saw a portrayal of one in a telenovela, or a film? Think about it, if the Filipino people indeed thinks that almost every politicians are committing acts of graft and corruption, would you honestly think that they would let it pass? Would you think they would participate in the electoral process? In some strange way, the Filipino people are still hopeful that the politician they entrusted with their votes will be responsible with the duty assigned to them, to make and improve laws that would benefit the Philippine people. So it is absolutely wrong to underestimate the intelligence of the people that because they saw an action film starring the Fernando Poe, Jr. out to take his vengeance on a corrupt congressman and his goons means that congressmen and women are also corrupt.

So why does the Filipino people still thinks of them as corrupt?

It is part of human nature to associate everything, stereotype things, and even discriminate. Given two or more factors, then a person would usually make his conclusion on to something. When all we are exposed to are isolated but numerous news reports about politicians being involved in criminal activities, then that is more than enough to make the impression that they are corrupt. Not to mention reports that they are not properly doing their jobs right but still are getting paid for. Just think of it, they are there to work but then you see empty seats in congress, then here they are receiving their regular salaries? Given that their salaries might get reduced if not put on hold because of unsatisfactory attendance in the house, most of them are still receiving their "pork barrels" which are the main source as to why people doubt their credibility and accountability. As long as there are questionable projects then this image of corrupt officials would never go away.

Questionable Intentions and Priorities

There are more important laws than the mere preservation of the image of our dear "reputable" congressmen and congresswomen. I am not a law expert, but know a thing or two about the Philippine constitution, and I believe that politicians can draft new and relevant laws and improved on existing laws filled with highly exploitable loopholes rather than making up with such absurd house resolutions or bills. How about passing the pushing and enacting the Freedom of Information Bill? Seeing that politicians prefer making laws to protect the welfare and image of a selected few (themselves) rather than the people itself, it makes you question their reliability, intelligence, and capability as a government elected official.

Rather than House Resolution 2140 how about giving more attention and priority to House Bill 3732 Freedom of Information Bill?

The funny thing is that that the representatives who filed and supported the said resolution knew that it will have a conflict with the constitutionally-guaranteed freedom of speech and of expression, and that they can only "appeal" to the entertainment industry. Once this news hit the social networks, where I personally found this, the said resolution has already received negative review from the outspoken Filipino netizens (as seen on the comments section of the news source I stated above), by the Philippine entertainment industry (headed by the MTRCB), and people just against any forms of censorship.

Another interesting fact is why come up with such trivial resolutions now? I haven't seen any film or television programs portraying politicians as criminals, not that I am aware of. Is it because the Philippine film industry plans to resurrect the action film genre which is famous for its portrayals of corrupt politicians as its main antagonists? If that is the case, then bravo to those congressmen who filed this resolution, you now became the part... the villain to the revival of action film genre.

Men and women in power are perfect villains to most films and telenovelas. This is probably why antagonists are often portrayed as corrupt politicians, generals, rich businessmen, or just stupendously rich people, and the protagonists are the victims of these greedy, evil corrupt villains.

Let's say that there currently ARE television dramas that use politicians as its main antagonists, so what? Let us say that in some twist of fate this resolution gets enacted as an actual law, will it stop people from perceiving them any other way. I strongly believe that it won't. If not, it would probably fuel the people to speculate even more; be more suspicious about our dear politicians censoring the creative freedom of the entertainment industry. People has affiliate people censoring or hiding the truth as people who has something devious to hide. People will then be more curious, more feisty and hungry for information, keeping an even closer eye to the once secret lives of our dear politicians. The Filipino mass then will depend on the news which is far more harsher than the actual truth. They can never censor news so their efforts on putting a lid on the entertainment industry will be the reason for people to doubt them more. Well, at least in telenovelas and films people will have a face to refer to. When the main protagonists triumphs over the said corrupt official, then it only proves that good always triumphs over evil; giving people the impression that corrupt politicians will someday pay for their crimes. But I don't think that it would be enough reason for a Philippine television and film audience will think of their local Representative in the same manner, unless there are reports or rumors inciting that the person might be so.

What-If Scenario

Let's just imagine that this gets enacted to an actual bill. What would happen next? There are honestly so many professions which can used by the Philippine entertainment industry as a villain to their films or telenovelas. Heck, there have even be actual films and television dramas that used doctors, teachers, office workers, supervisors, managers, etc. as their main villain. If the House of Representatives can ban the entertainment industry from portraying politicians as criminals, then the more reason that the common profession to demand to do the same. I can now imagine the Cojuanco empire asking for Hacienda owners not to be portrayed as oppressive villains in a film about Filipino farmers and their struggles. Are you ready for an action film starring a congressman who was framed and is out on a vengeance? Well, heck yeah that sounded like an interesting premise for an action film, but whoelse would the film's main villain? Another politician, that's impossible because of the LAW. Oh, how about an evil general? Well, no can do, he is still considered as a government official and if the position isn't listed on the law, then the Philippine Military and Constabulary would just ask for a similar law to be enacted... You know, to protect their image!

This is my opinion on this said news. I personally don't know or has any connection to Pampanga Representative Aurelio Gonzales Jr., he might have even drafted and co-authored a few House Bill and Resolutions, but this is just plain absurd. It is on the same level of absurdity as the Anti-Planking Bill. This news just compelled me to blog for I believe that through new media via blogs, we can freely exercise our constitutionally-guaranteed freedom of speech and of expression. Our opinions expressed and our voices heard. If in some weird way, my message reach these politicians, hopefully they keep an open mind about such criticism for them to become better public officials, and that is what this country needs the most.

What about you guys? What's your reaction to this news? Share your thoughts about the House Resolution 2140 on the comments section below:

For Philippine Television Networks Consideration: Create An All-Original Filipino Tokusatsu Series Seriously for the Younger Television Audience

An All-Original Filipino-Made and Produced Tokusatsu Series Taken Seriously for Younger Philippine Television Audience
By Christopher Aquino, January 17, 2012.

We are who we are thanks to the things we experienced in our lives. There are also some factors that influence and shapes us, one of which is the mass media. Mass media plays a very critical and important role in shaping the minds of the youth, the world's future leader. So as much as possible we need to protect them as our future may very well depend on them right? But what does the mass media, mainly he television provide our children? A regular weeknight primetime soap operas which regularly tackles convoluted plots with adult themes like infidelity, LGBT (Lesbian, Gays, Bisexual, and Transgender) suggestions and innuendos, betrayal, revenge, sex, and murder, which all are unsuited for the young minds of the children. In a way parents are also to blame for not adhering to the television show warnings and guidelines (Parental Guidance) provided by the MTRCB "effectively" placed before each show. I am no moralist or anyone so fixated with such extreme ideals that I actually suggest taking the fun out of the usual simple things. I am not against the removal of such shows for it is a source of entertainment for adults, but they have to also give something for the children to chew on. While to adults, adult themes are just part of the norm, to children they are a bizarre and sometimes very overwhelming matter. How many young niece, nephews, cousins, brothers, and sisters have asked while watching a show "Totoo ba yan?" or "Patay na ba talaga sya?"; how about you justifying a show "Wag kang maniniwala dyan, hindi yan totoo". Thus, the curiosity comes in, and when you have issues like betrayal, sex, revenge, and sexual innuendos then that is a deadly mix with a child's natural curiosity. As a matter of fact I liked my politically incorrect violent kids television shows (cartoons) back in the days, and that is probably one factor that made me who I am today, a geek, which is the new "cool" and "sexy" of the 21st century.

What's with a Tokusatsu series? Kids are different today, they now knew when someone is preaching on them, sometimes they become resilient of such cases. So when they are entertained by let's say a particular kid's show like a tokusatsu series their usual defenses against adults directly preaching them with good morals and right conduct will be down. Tokusatsu shows can subliminally educate children about various values and good morals like love for parents, respect, friendship, loyalty, optimism, hardwork, perseverance, and many more. So besides the rating, and potential merchandising empire created by a tokusatsu series, there is also a good cause to it.

I still can remember the times that I come home from school to watch my favorite cartoon shows in the afternoon, wake up early to catch that early morning kid's show, or impatiently wait until it's 5 o'clock in the afternoon to watch my favorite tokusatsu series every weekends. Speaking of tokusatsus, let's focus more on that, shall we? According to Wikipedia "Tokusatsu" is a Japanese term that applies to any live-action film or television drama that usually features superheroes and makes considerable use of special effects. Tokusatsu literally translates as "special filming" in Japanese. Back in the days, the three or four television companies IBC (Ch13), ABS CBN (Ch2), RPN (Ch9), and GMA (Ch7) features such forms of "kid-friendly" entertainment. Yup, it was a different era (the roaring 90's) that time, tv networks actually listens to the pulse of the mass by importing foreign shows abroad which go way back from the 80's. From American series to Japanese tokusatsus and animes, everyone had the option to what channel to go to to get their specific fix. I remember waiting for Ultraman and MagmaMan in ABS CBN (I wish my memory served me right), waiting for Maskman, MachineMan, Shaider, and Masked Rider Black on IBC 13, and Dragon Balls on RPN 9. They were every parents dream programming, to turn to one station which both entertain them and their children alike. I can remember father, taking the initiative to actually tune in to an episode of Masked Rider Black back in those days. It was a hot topic amongst boys when in school. "Did you see Robert Akizuki beat the crap out of that monster?!" is one of the sample lines one can hear from a group of classmates in our elementary school back then. But now, what?

Kamen Rider Black a testimony that Tokusatsu has a place in Philippine television scene

Although I had to give acknowledgement to the two major Philippine television network for coming out with television adaptation of some of Philippine comics most reverred superheroes, and creating the fantaserye (fantasy television series) Philippine programming category, they are not enough to entertain every generations of audiences. Let's say one generation had the opportunity to enjoy a super hero series like Pandakekoks, Kristala, Pintados, or Captain Barbel, but what about the generations that comes after that? Although I can also suggest for television networks to make all their classic super hero shoes available in home video format, but nothing beats the live primetime television version right? This is where Japan excels in providing entertainment for every generation of child audiences. They have the tokusatsu television tradition. This is where I am hoping the Philippine television networks could consider... to create an on-going all-original Filipino-made tokusatsu or super hero series.

TV Networks can pull this off. They already did create such special effect filled super hero television series like Panday, Captain Barbell, Darna, LastikMan, Flash Bomba, and Super Inggo to name a few. One of the most notable but negatively received series that a TV Network has ever come closed to making a Filipino tokusatsu is GMA Network's Zaido: Pulis Pangkalawakan, the Philippine TV Network's version or rather a loosely based sequel of the popular 1984-1985 classic Japanese Metal Hero "Space Sheriff Shaider". Shaider was a beloved classic to those who grew up watching the popular metal hero series, so when Zaido: Pulis Pangkalawakan, a 2007 series looks way inferior than the 1984 predecessor Space Sheriff Shaider that it draws inspiration from, it was only natural for the majority of the Shaider and generally tokusatsu fans spoiled with the top notched quality Japan has brought them to hate and complain about the unofficial Filipino sequel, Zaido. On the other hand, the newer generation of Filipino kids (Philippine televiewing mass) didn't mind it which is an obvious clear sign of the potential of a possible successful tokusatsu series. If only the TV Network listened to that community.

The problem with Zaido: Pulis Pangkalawakan is that it followed the traditional time slot of every Filipino soap opera. The Philippine television viewing public was presented with a 20-minutes-a-day primetime series every weeknights rather than following the trusted Japanese timeslot formula of one 30-40 minute episode a week format. Being only once a week could give more time for the production team to polish the visual and special effects used in every major monster fights, but since Zaido is a weeknights series then it is expected for the show to have a poorly applied special effects that even a nine twelve year old would notice as a fake. If only the TV Network has taken the tokusatsu tv series more seriously, and focused more on a niche market the kids. If they only dropped all the unnecessary soap opera-ish drama cliches uncalled for a superhero series, focusing more on convincing special effects, engaging plot, awesome fight sequences and creative monster and superhero designs, then the network might had something special in their hands back then. Unfortunately, Zaido just miserably fail.

Learning from the failure that is Zaido, I believe that there is money (for tV Networks) and entertainment (for the Philippine TV audience) to have in the super hero or tokusatsu genre that is taken seriously. It is time for the (now three) leading Philippine television networks (ABS CBN, GMA, and TV5) to invest and engage on a much more younger television audience by not only importing foreign shows, but by making an all-Filipino tokusatsu or super hero series in a one-hour time format presented on a once a week basis (preferably weekends). If the TV Networks followed the Japanese kind of tokusatsu TV Series formula, then they can create a new niche, a loyal following, and amoney making merchandise. Appealing to kids, Japanese tokusastu series like the Kamen Rider and the Super Sentai created this unique audience where they can successfully market the various merchandise like plush toys, collectible cards, action figures, and video games related to the series that kids loved to watch. So imagine, if a Philippine TV Network does create something as popular and phenomenal like an annual series similar to what a Kamen Rider or Super Sentai series is like, then they don't only have a competitive show with good ratings which brings moe advertising for them, but it can also bring them new money making machinery. Tokusatsu shows are presented on a once a week showing basis for it gives the series more lifespan which is good for any of its merchandise. Just imagine how many toy merchandise can a company make under such titles, and repeat that same success year after year if they established this unique market. As long as the TV Network takes the genre seriously, then their audience will take them seriously. In a way, they are also training these young audience to become loyal followers which will itself sustain the new TV genre for as long as the company can keep doing it.

Hopefully the Philippine TV Networks can consider making an all-Filipino tokusatsu series seriously even if it is aimed at a younger audience.

It's More Fun In The Philippines DOT Slogan Online Pinoy Community Discussion Extravaganza

It's More Fun in The Philippines is the latest (second) tourism campaign of the Department of Tourism (DOT) under the Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Aquino III's regime. Pilipinas Kay Ganda was the DOT's first slogan which was coldly received by majority of Filipinos both online and off because of its obvious resemblance to another country's tourism slogan. This time it is "It Is More Fun in The Philippines" turn to go under such scrutiny.

Wherever you go in the Philippines, it's the Filipinos that will make your holdiay unforgettable. Just ask anyone who's bee here. In fact, Lonely Planet guidebook calls us 'among the most easygoing and ebullient people anywhere'.


Find out for yourself why it’s more fun in the Philippines.
And make the most out of your next vacation.

The Republic of Philippines' Official Department of Tourism Slogan for 2012 It's More Fun In the Philippines http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/

Carlos Celdran, Gabriela Rep. Luz Ilagan and Pro-Life Philippines President Eric Manalang ANC Interview on the The RH Bill

Most of my friends and peers both in the offline and online community knows my passion when it comes to the Philippine Roman Catholic Churches Intervention or meddling with the affairs of the state by threatening civil disobedience and a possible excommunication to President Noynoy Aquino if the comprehensive Reproductive Health Bill of the Philippines gets passed. Even though I am still a Roman Catholic by paper, I still consider this threats to the state as unbecoming for a religious institution.

I started plurking about this issue which trigger my sense of concern and love for my country. Yes, I consider my stand against the leaders of my own church as patriotic and I take pride in doing it. Sadly my voice could never be heard nor reach by the majority of the Filipino people nor be enough for media to focus on it, who am I for the world to listen anyways... just a mere blogger and patriot, then came Mr. Celdran. Carlos Celdran, a patriot, Intramuros tour guide, artist and a blogger (Vist Carlos Celdran's Official blog at Carlos Celdran's Walk This Way at http://celdrantours.blogspot.com/) has done the most foolish yet exemplary thing that we, supporters of a more progressive Philippines could not do, bring the fight to the grounds of Church. They threaten civil disobedience then let them have a taste of their own medicine, but still the method was not tolerable as he was eventually incarcerated.



Carlos Celdran holding a placard with a word "DAMASO" referring to the Roman Catholic Church's threatening civil disobedience and excommunication if the Philippine President supports the RH Bill as he protest on a Church meeting (explained later in a video)

For fellow-Filipinos who haven't watched or heard about this (which I doubt, but still) then here is the news about it:



Official News feature: In RH war of words, activist confronts bishops in church

With his action triggered something, that I can have my voice, that I can stand against this manipulation of the Catholic Church through theocracy and twisted science regarding the Reproductive Health Bill. I brought my fight to the official Facebook Fanpage of the Food Morning CBCP. Unfortunately, some of my argument have leaded to a more sensitive topic like the debate on religion, which might be triggered by other "commenters" response about the RH Bill is "evil" and "immoral", and what does that makes us? Still the point is the same, my cause is not to persuade the CBCP with my comments but to educate fellow Catholics about the issue of the meddling through petty threats of the Catholic Church and misinformation regarding the Reproductive Health Bill. If not only for this threat to excommunicate and civil disobedience announced by the CBCP representatives that will I not show my passion for my country. To end this very "involved" and passionate post about this Reproductive Bill which has been pending for almost fourteen years, I give you the ANC Headstart Interview regarding the RH Bill.

ANC Headstart guests (hosted by Ms. Karen Davila) tour guide Mr. Carlos Celdran and Gabriela Rep. Luz Ilagan talks about the RH Bill.







ANC Headstart guests (hosted by Ms. Karen Davila) Pro-Life Philippines president Eric Manalang talks about the grounds of being against the RH Bill.

The Roman Catholic Church Threatens the State of Committing Civil Disobedience regarding the Possible Approval of President Noynoy for the Reproductive Bill

Just saw the news a little while back regarding the Roman Catholic Church's threats that they will commit or even promote civil disobedience if ever President Noynoy Aquino would approve or help push the Reproductive Health Bill. Do not get me wrong for I am absolutely pro-life but am open to contraception methods of family planning as well. Here is my take on this Philippine news maker.



Official News Source:
Palace calls for sobriety after bishops threaten civil disobedience

I was infuriated upon seeing this news, how can such a religious organization threaten the state of mass disobedience if their wishes and expectations are not met by the government? This is just preposterous! I do not know if whether the ones to blame are the Roman Catholic Church in the Philippines or the Media Networks for getting only the side of the church alone. Though the majority of Filipinos are roman Catholic, there are still a great fractions of Filipinos under various religious organizations. If the state would always mind the demands of the Roman Catholic Church, succumb to it, and compromise progress then why not hear other religious organizations as well? Have you ever heard the Muslim community demand that pork should be abolished because it goes against their religion to consume such creatures, or on Hindu's against consuming beef? Imagine that, why of all the religions in the Philippines, the Roman Catholic religion alone has the power to manipulate critical decisions that will move the country forward. How long has this Bill been created? I believe there are responsible lawmakers who are against abortion who will filter it away, so why still go against the bill? Why because it may eventually mandate and enforce various government organizations to provide contraception method that the Filipino mass could not regularly afford or has little knowledge of it? What specific biblical verse or law the Catholic Church is coming from with this persistent hindrance of procedure?

I believe that the Philippines has already gone through one oppressive regime run by Spaniards and friars. Our national heroes who have died fighting for our freedom has made the Philippines of what it is right now, but how ironic that it does not differ from way back then, that the church has once again the power to meddle with the normal precedence of law and bent on what their interpretation of the Bible, which may not be accurate as well? I also challenge local media networks to deliver unbiased news regarding the issue through inquiry of other Filipinos with non-Roman Catholic religious origin like Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Atheism, Protestants, and other Christian sects. If that would happen, then democracy is exercised and the state will have a better way of approaching the bill. If not, then may I suggest the government to have a dialog with almost all of the religious organization thriving in the Philippines then through the systematic way of voting, decide if whether the state will push through with the bill or forever bury it in shame and disgrace.

Here is my last stand on the issue. The Catholic Church threatens to commit or even promote civil disobedience if ever the reproductive bill is supported by the President or get pushed through. If they commit such crime against the state which is intolerable under the rule of law, then they should be arrested and put to jail. No one above the law. Not because they can't have their way, doesn't mean they'll promote and threaten the the peace and order of the Republic of the Philippines.

Manny Villar on ABS CBN's Bandila Hot Seat - Answering the Filipino Netizens Timely Questions

One of the leading Presidential candidates this 2010 Philippine Presidential elections, Manny Villar answers most of the timely issues concerning him and his presidential candidacy on his Hot Seat interview on ABS CBN news program's Bandila last April 30, 2010. If you missed the Bandila's Hot Seat interview on Manny Villar, then watch it here:

Hot seat: Manny Villar - (Part 1)



Hot seat: Manny Villar - (Part 2)





Bandila has created a good initiative to help the Filipinos on deciding who to vote this coming 2010 elections, through a segment in their news program called the Hot Seat. The Hot seat segment features questions from various Filipino netizens via Facebook, which would later be collected, documented and chosen (by the people of Bandila) to be asked by the news anchor to the featured candidate of the day. Questions and interaction at Bandila Facebook page hit a record-breaking three thousand four hundred questions coming from Facebook users upon Bandila's announcement that Manny Villar would be the featured candidate on the Hot Seat the day before that. A testimony of either the popularity of the candidate or the news program, and that Filipinos are still actively participating on various discussion concerning the future of our country through the Philippine elections.

Thanks to this Hot Seat interview on Manny Villar, I now see him on a more lighter perspective. Questions regarding the challenges in the presidential campaign of Manny Villar is answered by the candidate in a very classy and humble manner... a very traditional politician's approach, if you will ask me. Even with a limited amount of time (30 seconds) to answer each of the questions, Villar still managed to clarify most of the questions, controversies and propagandas against him.

Villar has a small complain against the traditional media (like news programs and various publications) that he shared on the hot seat interview. Traditional media focuses too much on the controversies, black propagandas against him or even his rival which in turn is "allegedly" traced back to him has seemingly villainize the candidate. Well, Villar can't be blamed because there are indeed instances that traditional media has become a one-sided party even how much they claim to be neutral or unbiased; one of which is the prolific reporting about the results of various social media surveys which by the way is a form of political brainwashing and mental conditioning.

All in all I found the Bandila's Hot Seat interview with Manny Villar to be pretty informative and enlightening. Somehow he gained my sympathy after the interview, but that does not necessary mean that he has my vote as well. It is with these types of initiative where traditional media deserved the praise from concerned Filipinos, helping them decide if they have chosen the right candidate or to educate those who haven't chosen one. The 2010 Philippine election, as I said in my previous posts is a very crucial turning point to our country. Let us not waste our one vote by being swayed off by the popularity contest, survey results, and political backlashing amongst candidates. Let's put an extra effort in knowing each candidates through watching interviews, debates and campaign rallies which we would later weigh, and if and only if he symbolizes all the necessary requirements of being the Philippine Head of State then let us help him get there.

A Citizen's View on Noynoy Aquino and Hacienda Luisita

The Republic of the Philippines, without a doubt is a majestic country and truly stands up for it's other name "The Pearl of the Orient Seas", but like any other nation it has its fair share of flaws and imperfections. This is why I've finally decided to pull off a political series of posts tackling various Philippine issues. Welcome to A Citizen's View on CMABLOGS where yours truly voices out his views and opinions regarding the Philippine and beyond.

The National Election is the most crucial national event that every citizen should be part of (no excuses and buts), for the country's future is at stake here. The 2010 Philippine Election will be marked as the first time that the Philippines will adapt an automated elections and my first time to cast my vote as a responsible and concerned Filipino. With so many candidates vying for the highest seat on the nation, who will we vote for? This is where traditional media (television, radio, and newspapers) and the New Media (blogs and news websites) comes in, to provide us the information for us to carefully scrutinize.

I am not a big fan of traditional media supporting, delivering and spreading news regarding who's on top of the social survey results but that is a completely different topic, today I will focus more on one of the Philippine Presidential candidates this 2010 and the issues that he should face. This is A Citizen's View on Noynoy Aquino and Hacienda Luisita.



Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Cojuangco Aquino III, popularly known as Noynoy Aquino is the son of the two late National heroes Corazon Aquino and Benigno Aquino. With two of his parents recognized by the country as national heroes, plus Noynoy has (so far)no bad political track record, these factors could be more than enough to make him one of the best option this 2010 elections. All seems perfect with Noynoy Aquino except for one thing, an issue that haunts his family... Hacienda Luisita.

Either a black propaganda against Noynoy Aquino or just the natural way of how things unfold, Noynoy is urged to solve Hacienda Luisita by various concerned Filipinos and adversaries. If you are a responsible Filipino voter and wants to know why Hacienda Luisita haunts and threatens the chances of Noynoy Aquino in vying as a Philippine presidential candidate then watch this video.

A warning though some of the scenes contain images of gore and violence. Watch and approach the "Hacienda Luisita massacre: An outstanding issue of the people on Benigno Noynoy Aquino III" featured video in an apolitical manner. Try to carefully weigh things for the video somehow (to me) seems to go against Noynoy Aquino:



The "alleged" land reform injustice and the violence against the farmers of Haceienda Luisita follows Noynoy Aquino like a dark shadow on a path of fame and light. Thanks to the power of new media, the online public may finally know what Noynoy plans for Hacienda Luisita. Noynoy's statement regarding the dispute of their family's (the Aquinos and Cojuagncos) land, Hacienda Luisita still does not offer an immediate answer to the pressing matter.

I am a bit of a realist myself, Noynoy stated that his family shall finally give the land (free from its debt) to its farmers (as mandated by the Law) but it would take another four years and so. Though that is still a big question for his mother, late-Cory Aquino failed to provide the land back at her term as a Philippine president, so chances are that Noynoy might experience the same conflict himself. In the end, Noynoy is only one of the many (family members) owners of Hacienda Luisita his actions and decisions regarding the controversial property may not necessary reflect the intentions and decisions of the rest of the family.

Justice must still be served to those unfortunate victims of the "Hacienda Luisita murder". What I am looking forward to is the incarceration of the people behind the murder (Still hoping that justice will triumph over money and power). The dedicated farmers have worked hard and endured for decades with high hopes that they shall be granted with the land promised to them. An indefinite delay of this is the main reason why the farmers held the massive protest in the first place, which unfortunately ended up in a bloody conclusion.

Hacienda Luisita farmers claiming their individual land that they deserved, mandated by the Philippine Constitution is the perfect scenario to finally closed this dark chapter of the Hacienda Luisita issue. The people hold Ninoy Aquino responsible because he is an Aquino and as long as this issue isn't resolve, this will haunt him as a public official. For now the only thing that the farmers can hold onto is Noynoy's promise and assurance that they will have their land. The Hacienda Luisita issue must be addressed whether Noynoy Aquino wins this 2010 Presidential Elections or not.