A Reaction to "Beware of the real bobotantes" An Editorial by Tonyo Cruz: Will the Real "Bobotante" Please Stand Up

A Manila Bulletin online editorial entitled "Beware of the real bobotantes" by Tonyo Cruz caught my attention. This editorial piece is all about the author's condescending opinion about Miriam Defensor-Santiago, her choice for Vice-President, and the voting public who chose her as their president whom he refers to as "bobotante".


Let me get this out of the way first, my primary candidate whom I have clearly expressed my support to upon the announcement of her candidacy this coming 2016 Philippine election is Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago. Now after that statement, you have either click out of this opinion piece because of an instant allergic reaction to (1) Senator Santiago in general, (2) the Santiago-Marcos tandem, or opinion against Tonyo's piece; or if you are still here, then congratulations for having an open mind willing to hear what other people has to say about the matter.



What I will be doing is quoting Tonyo Cruz' editorial piece online entitled "Beware of the real bobotantes" in the October 16 Editorial section of the Manila Bulletin website. I do not own nor claim ownership of the article and this will simply be a commentary that aims to dissect, provide rebuttals and counter-arguments in this condescending Manila Bulletin opinion piece. I will be addressing him. Let's get started.

Miriam Defensor Santiago gave the nation – especially the intellectuals – a much-needed reality check on Philippine traditional politics after she unapologetically announced Bongbong Marcos as her runningmate in the 2016 elections.

The announcement turned the tide of support for Miriam into a tsunami of frustration and disappointment.

Right from the start, you start off strong by indirectly implying that there is something awfully wrong about Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago's preference as her Vice-President running mate, Senator Bongbong Marcos. You imply that this will be problematic to the voting public, with the special mention of the intellectuals who have chosen her as their (our) President for the 2016 Philippine election.

You generalize that after such announcement that seemingly ALL supporter's perception of Santiago changed to frustration and disappointment. While some are true as I observed this myself, this was not the complete picture as a good majority are still supporting her candidacy as President of the Philippines for 2016. There is a reason for that... her achievements and performance as a lawmaker.

Because never mind that Filipinos can split the ticket, as we often do. What irks us is this: How could this highly intelligent and one of the nation’s brightest political superstars wittingly help deodorize the Marcoses and present a Marcos as a qualified vice president or president-in-waiting?

Why should we not mind that fact? Why are you discounting that the voting Filipinos can always opt out of Marcos and chose a different Vice-President candidate? We then find out what causes all this frustration and disappointments for him; Santiago choosing the son of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos who was held responsible (as how the chief of staff should be) for the atrocities committed during the Martial Law era.

Those who audaciously defend Miriam and Marcos are the real “bobotantes.” They are in the same league as those who defend Mar Roxas and Len Robredo, and Jejomar Binay and Gringo Honasan. Let me tell you why.

You then proceed to make a very bold and condescending statement that those who support Miriam and Marcos are the real "bobotantes". "Bobotantes", the combination of two Filipino word "bobo", a condescending insult which means stupid and "botante" which means voters; therefore "stupid voters". What is interesting here is that he mentions other Presidential and Vice-Presidential candidates like Mar Roxas and Len Robredo, and Jejomar Binay and Gringo Honasan.

We'll start to see who Tonyo may support in the 2016 Philippine election; the Presidential candidate Grace Poe and her Vice-Presidential running mate Chiz Escudero. One can argue that he has only named those who have officially filed their Certificate of Candidacy, but come on! We all know that Poe-Escudero will be in the game, so why not call them out? Well, why indeed; unless he finds no faults in them. He supports them. We'll get back to this one later on his piece.

The apologists of Miriam and Marcos are intellectual and moral orphans who want us to believe nothing is wrong in the tandem, and that nothing is wrong with Miriam’s vice-presidential battlecry “Marcos pa rin.”

I am a Santiago supporter, but I am not blind to the flaws and blunders committed by Santiago, nor turn a blind eye on the atrocities committed by Bongbong's father in the past. So basically this one is not for me, right? Or is it?! You continue on implying that these Apologists makes them (those non-supporters) think that there is nothing wrong with the tandem. I am aware of my candidate’s flaws, but amidst all of that I am still in support of Santiago. Like your awareness of the flaws of your candidate and still voting for her.

Well, I just hope that you are not making a fallacious statement as hasty generalization is not a good argument. I am referring to your statement that these Apologists are intellectual and moral orphans. Hmm curious, what do you mean when you used the term "intellectual orphan" and "moral orphan"? Is there an absolute parent of intelligence and morality? I hope you don't go all religious fundamentalist on us. My mind is no longer boxed in by religion.

For what is the use of intelligence if it is offered to help whitewash the Marcoses’ record and present its scion as a national leader worthy of votes and the vice presidency?

You seem to think that Anti-Marcos sentiments have the exclusivity to intelligence or how intelligence is proper utilized. I would like to assume that Santiago has something up her sleeve for choosing Marcos. Nothing is as plain as black and white like how you paint and view her. It is as faulty as to think that ALL Miriam supporters are INSTANTLY Marcos supporters (will vote for Marcos).

By choosing Marcos, Miriam reopens a can of worms: Her support for Joseph Estrada in the impeachment trial and her agitation at Edsa Tres. Her mental fitness to make important decision. Her moral compass

You assume here that past blunders committed by Santiago's will not resurface. Even if she didn't choose Marcos as her running mate, it will still be reopened as mudslinging is a common phenomenon in Philippine politics. There is no argument that Santiago has made blunders in the past; non-criminal blunders if I may emphasize; of her questionable loyalties whether it is to Estrada or to Arroyo. But amidst all these obvious criticisms to her in knowing how to play with an age-old established flawed political system in the Philippines, she still managed to performed and stood above the rest performance-wise. You can question her mental fitness to make important decision (For what? Your parties’ interest? To side with chaos and the unconstitutionality?) or her moral compass (which you seemingly imply to have exclusive superiority on). We chose her not for such blunders but for her achievements and what she will be capable of once she acquires the highest seat in the Philippines.

Miriam and the Miriam-Marcos defenders now own the distinction of being symbols of impunity that reigns in Philippine traditional politics. Their opportunism and naïveté are not our problems – except if their flawed reasoning manage to infect the electorate.

So we are a symbol of impunity now eh? But if you trace the source of this impunity, who or what can truly be held responsible for it? Who or what has allowed the impunity towards the Martial Law victims? Why is it that up this day that the Marcos(es) are not kicked out of this country, prevented from holding any position, or been brought to "justice"? Is it the Santiago's supporters fault? Are all Santiago supporters, Marcos supporters? You seem to be throwing fist in the air. Not pounding on the right doors. You seem to commit another hasty generalization; a non-sequitur and hasty generalization.

It is also a bit naive of you to think that your opinion is the only opinion that matters; or anti-Marcos sentiment that matters; that your sets of candidates are the only deserving candidates. That opposing opinion cannot influence the electorate. We can see the deep-seated hatred towards the Marcos that affecting you as a supposed rational man and "intellectual" as much as you avoid it.

The defenders of Roxas and Robredo are no different. They also commit the same intellectual and moral mistakes in their crazed ad crazy quest to install their idols.

Now this is where it gets interesting. You start dropping names. First off, Roxas and Robredo…

Nearly six years into Daang Matuwid of high taxes, collapsing public services, selective justice, incompetence, presidential pork barrel, disaster mismanagement and others, why do they insist that this yellow scam be “continued and expanded” even further? Are they masochists and do they want the rest of us to be masochists, too?

Finally something to agree on; well, Aquino and Roxas supporters will sing a different tune. But to their credit, they will tend to focus more on the positives and achievements as well that is pretty much obvious, right?

Talk to any of the few intellectual supporters of Roxas and Robredo and they’d say two things: Brag about their candidates’ character, and demonize the others. Character is obviously not enough, especially “manufactured” character – BS Aquino himself is the best argument against this.

It looks like you had no luck in finding intellectual supporters of the Roxas-Robredo camp as you seem to generalize that all they do is brag about their candidate and demonize the others. Not because you haven't found any, or have not put an effort to actually engaging in discussions with one, doesn't justify your hasty generalization. Hmm, isn't this what has been considered the norm in Philippine politics? While I am not supporting this or this is acceptable. Makes you wonder if there is any presidential candidate who has not demonize their opponents and has not bragged about their character... (Ahem! Poe! Ahem!)

There’s a third thing they’ll say: Daang Matuwid is perfect, Aquino is the best, and his reign must be continued. Shades of Marcos, if you ask me. But the most important response to them is this: We deserve better because Daang Matuwid has been weighed and found wanting.

We deserved better and those who claim that they too can also continue a Daang Matuwid (Grace Poe) variant should also be questioned, right? For crying out loud, don't you think Grace should get her own slogan? Even the "Bagong Umaga" is not even hers, but her father's. We deserved better and an inexperienced candidate like Grace Poe is miles below what Miriam Defensor-Santiago has achieved; or do you deny and dismiss that?

The stragglers of the Binay-Honasan camp are in other parts of the same complex where the yellow trolls and the Miriam-Marcos diehards reside.

How about the Poe-Escodero? are they on a different playing field? Poe is into necropolitics as well and Chiz is to supporting Marcos as well, or have you forgotten that. Necropolitics, let's get back to that.

Like his defenders, Binay refuses to accept the fact that his brand has been sullied by his utter failure to sufficiently respond to the serious charges hurled against him and his family. He seems to live in a bubble, oblivious to his falling fortunes in the eyes of the public.

What we can commend of Binay and his supporters are their resilience. Political will? Hahahaha. Binay lives in a bubble just like the Marcos(es) with how they believe and deny the atrocities committed during the reign of the father.

We have been told that elections are the “ultimate expression of democratic will” in our system, but these tandems and their defenders represent the worst in Philippine traditional politics.

Hmm, only those tandems? How about those whom you didn't mention? Are they the shining beacon of hope that this country needs? Where is Trillanes, Cayetano, Escudero, or Poe? The supporters/defenders and the tandem you heavily antagonized represent the worst? And what of you who seem to take it up your high horse to proselytize this. Who will be your candidate that you'll endorse? You have only endorsed Neri Colminares, and so far I have no qualms on his candidacy. Isn't it better to lay your cards on the table so that we can easily criticize and scrutinize each other's candidates?

The defenders of these tandems are spreading poisonous ideas of cynicism, resignation, and defeat, aside from the gross misinformation and deception. They boggle and tire the senses so that we would give up the cause of change.

Cynicism? Resignation? Defeat? Seriously. As far as I am aware, I am a supporter of Miriam and I have made it clear that I will continue to support her amidst her past blunders (support for Arroyo and Estrada - "I lied" interview). You seem to be making a fallacious statement. That defenders and supporters are ALL doing those condescending allegations which have no rationality. So what kind of poisonous ideas of cynicism, resignation and defeat are you referring to OR are we here to simply pull ad hominem (s) up our fundaments and throw at those who has opposing views here?

But how do we manage the avalanche of political trash this election season?

Well, our barangays tell us to segregate our trash into “nabubulok” and “di nabubulok” and we could use the same concept to guide our way:

Well that is a good concept. Let's see what you have to say.

Both the Binay-Honasan and Roxas-Robredo tandems are obviously “nabubulok” in their corruption, deception, incompetence, cynical candidacies of convenience, necropolitics, and the blatant use of public funds and ill-gotten wealth.

Miriam-Marcos meanwhile are “di-nabubulok,” due to impunity and naked political accommodation.

Okay, a bit harsh but has a point. Hmm, necropolitics. I wonder who else is seemingly using that tactic that didn't make the list (Ahem! Poe! Ahem).

I am not surprised with your stand on Miriam and Marcos.

They, their ideas, and their defenders all ought to be sent to the political garbage dump for proper disposition.

Well for someone who is striving for unity, and has a general positive outlook on Philippine politics; that sure is some pretty bold condescending statement; a statement claiming your side as the only valid opinion. This reminds me of that over-privilege religious group that cripples the traffic with their every undertaking just because they can. But alas we are in a democratic system and not a totalitarian one where your group's voice is the only thing that mattered and you’ll “dispose” those who go against it.

The similarities end there, however.

These three tandems should embolden citizens to study, criticize, and condemn a system that maintains only fake political parties, dominated by political dynasties, and ruled by guns, goons, and gold. This is at the root of our frustrations and disappointments, and at the same time the lifeline of the worst traditional politicians and their defenders – the true bobotantes.

Only three? What of the other? What of Poe and Escudero? Or the independents like Trillanes and Cayetano? Shouldn't it far better if we ALL look at all these candidates? To look at them with a critical eye. What system maintains these fake political parties? What is a TRUE political party system to you? Condemn the system? Are you referring to the 1986 Philippine constitution, then? Then what do you propose? Are we simply shouting in a vacuum here or do you have a better alternative? Let's continue and we'll know what you have to offer.

We deserve a new, modern political system with genuine parties that hold caucuses, primaries, and conventions to openly select candidates and where citizens could actively participate, way ahead of Election Day. It is a system that puts platform and programs above personalities. This is what excites us and what we deserve as a proud people – the true saviors of our country.

I agree, we need a new political system. We had a taste of a totalitarian one and been "spoiled" and frustrated by a democratic system (and behind all them are strings pulled by a theocracy and oligarchy), it is probably time to try out other system. How about Parliamentary or Federalism, or a hybrid? Well, it could make a big difference if only the states men and women that will be voted this election will push for a much needed change; a charter change. But that can still work with the current democratic system, all it takes is the political will and numbers to amend or revise dated laws to give them a much needed update to cater to a more transparent and secular society; of change favoring debates and abolishing of political ads. It can happen if we place competent and progressive thinking lawmakers in office. .

This may not happen yet in the coming elections, but having such realizations would provide us a framework to make sense of the limited and elitist choices that we may soon have, expose and pit the warring dynasts against each other, and take concrete steps forward.

If so, then we need to put the right people in office. We can all start in putting people who have good platforms and not because of star power, necropolitics; or misplaced patriotism and nationalism. Concrete steps forward? Who has the political will and understanding for that? From where I am looking at right now, Miriam Defensor Santiago seems to be the best one; a game changer.

The latter may come in the form of a first people’s senator, and lots more patriotic partylist representatives – because those we could very possibly help win and introduce bold measures in Congress. There remain these openings for progressive change in an arena of dominated by political Frankensteins.

First people's senator? Who are you referring to? Pacquio? We have clashed ideas and I personally think Pacquiao's incompetence, poor performance in congress over his matches internationally, lack of focus, and dedication to lawmaking; makes him ineligible to even be considered to be voted as a Senator. We are not discounting that he has brought a good sense of pride to most Filipinos through boxing, but as a lawmaker? He miserably fails. How can a religious conservative become a progressive lawmaker? He is against such laws like the RH Law. But I digress; you are probably referring to new faces which I can back up. Not just the incompetent (in public service and lawmaking) poor performing (in track record) kind of Manny Pacquiao.

Political Frankenstein of whose creation? A frankenstein of what aspect? Are you making ad hominem reference again not backed up by rationality?

This early in the election season: Never give up quickly and never give in to the traditional politicians and their defenders – the real bobotantes. Don’t get mad, get even by taking a larger view and fight battles that we could win.

So this is how you define a REAL Bobotante. So a REAL or TRUE BOBOTANTE are the Filipino voting public who (1) gives up quickly (no longer casting their votes) and (2) gives in to traditional politician and their defenders. So define a traditional politician again? Is Grace Poe not a traditional politician with her recent blunders and necropolitics?

Well at least you are consistent with your cynicism, I mean condescending statement earlier with ~ those who audaciously defend Miriam and Marcos are the real “bobotantes.”

What I can say is this. What constitutes a Bobotante is someone who already pass judgment without even listening to the platforms and positions taken by a candidates. I initially support Miriam Defensor-Santiago because of some personal and rational biases, but if ever she makes a stand on issues that currently matter, then I can always choose another candidate with stronger political will and have better proposals. This is why debates are important.

Oh, I definitely agree on this one. This is why I am campaigning for Miriam Defensor-Santiago and not voting Grace Poe, Mar Roxas, or Jejomar Binay. I am also campaigning against Pacquiao and Sotto as they run for Senate; a bunch of religious fundamentalist conservatives who impose and force their belief system in legislating laws rather than passing progressive laws that will benefit the mass that lacks proper education.

In short: Don’t be cynical. Cynicism is the lifeblood of the system we hate and we hope to revolutionize soon.

Cynicism is an attitude or state of mind characterized by a general distrust of others' motives. Your stand on Miriam-Defensor Santiago, Bongbong Marcos, Mar Roxas, Len Robredo, Jejomar Binay, and Gringo Honasan are not cynicism? Then what do you call this?

I'll end this with a conversation we had about Pacquiao and how I expressed my strong criticism against him running. You gave me a "good optimistic" piece which obviously should now be applied to you on this post:



How ironic and a bit hypocritical.

What is AlDub and Why has ALDUB Trended on Twitter this 2015?

You just logged in on Twitter and saw a curious hashtag that has gained over more than 10 million tweets which included the keyword ALDUB and you might start to wonder What is AlDub and Why has ALDUB Trended on Twitter this 2015? People outside of its influence, today we'll answer that for you.


ALDUB is a combination of two names mainly AL and DUB. AL stands for Alden as in the Filipino celebrity (actor, singer, host) who goes by the screen name Alden Richards with a real name of Richard Reyes Faulkerson, Jr.. Meanwhile, DUB stands for Yaya Dub (directly translates to "Nanny Dub") a fictional character and persona created exclusively for a comedy-charitable segment called "Juan for All, All for Juan" on the Philippines longest running noontime show, Eat Bulaga!. Yaya Dub is played by an new rising television and online celebrity named Maine Mendoza with a real name of Nicomaine Dei Capili Mendoza.

Reasons Why has ALDUB Trended on Twitter this 2015

Maine Mendoza's Success in Her Dubsmash Video Series

Before becoming popular as Yaya Dub, Maine Mendoza first became popular with another technological fad called "Dubsmash". Dubsmash is an app in which people siyncs their lips and performance on a list of short audio files taken from movies, television, and music. Maine Mendoza's duubsmash video that she can now be deemed "Queen of DubSmashing in the Philippines". One can observe that Maine Mendoza is a naturally charming Filipina; a Filipina who is bold in making a fool of herself by making ridiculous faces. This is really nothing new (really) as this has been a formula of success of many comedians (in her case comedienne) and popular Youtubers. Her pretty face plus her boldness is what made her famous in dubsmashing and online. It was only then a matter of time before one of the two major rival Philippine television networks (ABS-CBN) grab a hold of her. In this case, GMA Network's Eat Bulaga won her over.



Maine Mendoza's doing a dubsmash of Kris Aquino in her official Youtube channel

The Power of Millennials and Social Network

Anything trends in social media as long as people interested in it keeps on talking about it. In ALDUB's case, it is all thanks to most Filipino Millennials (Generation Y) and even those in the older generation (Generation X Filipinos) who have now familiarized themselves with social media being allured by the charm of the on-screen television love team. Similarly, thanks to the "healthy" rivalry between GMA Network's Eat Bulaga! and ABS-CBN's It's Showtime, it seems that most fans have brought the rivalry online. Thus, fans from opposing end are tweeting (and at times hating) about AlDub and Pastillas Girl (It's Showtime's answer and imitation of AlDub). AlDub's phenomenal Philippine television and online success can now be traced on how well the the old and new media has united on this one. Eat Bulaga's creative team or social media team has embraced social media tapping in it's maximum potential... by uploading Eat Bulaga episode of the Kalye-Serye (Street Series) on Youtube and marketing it on various social media channels.



The social media power for Filipino Millenials was observed when the (hashtag) #ALDUBMostAwaitedDate trended on Twitter with more thatn 10 Million Tweets last September 19, 2015, Saturday, PH Time

ALDUB is on Eat Bulaga!

Eat Bulaga is the longest running noontime variety and game show in the Philippines that started from 1972 and still going strong as of the present (2015 as of the posting of this blog). On a relevant note, the noontime show has gained so much popularity that Indonesia has picked it up with Eat Bulaga! having its first overseas franchise with Eat Bulaga! Indonesia. ALDUB being on Eat Bulaga! greatly helped its popularity and in turn helped Eat Bulaga back to become more popular (worldwide) than it currently is. ALDUB has tapped the market of Eat Bulaga! and in returned receiving more viewership and attention. Eat Bulaga has struck gold with the AlDub phenomena.

Most Filipinos Love Rom-Coms

Most Filipinos loves an equal mix of comedy and romance which is probably why the romantic-comedy genre has became so successful and phenomenal in Philippine cinema in terms of box office; and television with viewership and tweets. The ALDUB is an on-screen love team which was developed when Yaya Dub's character was supposedly indifferent towards everyone around her and will just do her "dubsmash" gig only when her character calls for it. Maine broke character when the camera panned to Alden in one episode of All For Juan, Juan For All in and august 2015 episode and from then on, the love team was developed. In reality, AlDub is not that different from any showbiz love team that has become popular in recent memories, the only difference is that it has the power of the entire (GMA) network and its online counterpart to support it and so far it has worked for their favor (financially speaking that is with endorsements and advertisements; the lifeblood of television).

GMA Network and News Coverage of ALDUB

Another factor on why ALDUB has become phenomenally successful in the Philippines which transcended to the "Twitterverse"is how aggressive the network covers the phenomenal Philippine noontime show on-screen love team of AlDub. ALDub is being mentioned and featured in showbiz segment and even by reputable news reporter/anchors even in non-showbz segment in GMA Network's morning news in "Unang Hirit", it's sister company (separate Philippine television network/channel) GMA News TV's noontime news program "Balitanghali", GMA Network's afternoon news program 24 Oras, and the late night news program "Saksi". The success has also spun 2 television advertisement which may now appear in other television networks.



ALDUB 1st Television Commercial in the Philippines - ALDUB's AlDub Ko To Mc Donald's Chicken Ala King TV Commercial



ALDUB 2nd Television Commercial in the Philippines - ALDUB's Talk N' Text TV Commercial
Probably one of the more head-scratching one as the network has seemingly focused all their media machinery in promoting and endorsing the noontime show's on-screen pair. Guess it was expected of any traditional television media and somehow confirms the what the thinking Filipinos perception of the mass media.


The ALDub on-screen love team is here to stay whether Filipinos like it or not. AlDub will still trend just like any video game, television, of movie franchise; if it works, it will be milked until the cow is no longer capable of being milked. There is really no sense in fighting over it amongst fans or no reason in hating it if you are not into it. It is what it is. Not long ago we have a similar fad in the form of Boy Pick-Up where alMOST everyone seems to make pointless pick-up lines and thought that Boy Pick-Up was funny but it eventually died a natural death; this may very well happen to the AlDub just like Guy and Pip, Vilma and Bobot, Angelu and Bobby, Judy anne and Wowie, Leah and Aga, Regine and Ariel, Richard and Dawn, and many on-screen pairs that came before it. Then we'll have a newer generation of on-screen couple replacing AlDub that will bring "kilig" to many Filipino who prefer escapism than facing the harsh realities brought by poverty, government, justice system, war, and politics.

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.

Hilariously Subtitled Ghost Fighter Opening Theme Song by Wasted Productions

Wasted Production's Ghost Fighter Theme Song (Taglish) was one of those videos that took me by surprise which probably the reason why I can't stop laughing when I first saw it and get sudden bursts of laughter everytime I remember it. It featured the lyrics of the popular Japanese animated television series Yu Yu Hakusho a.k.a. Ghost Fighter which became very popular here in the Philippines around the 90's.

Watch Ghost Fighter Theme Song (Taglish) here:



Lyrics:

matsing oh! shit ang dumi
cat daga dumiskarte
hito ni bu-bunchek
ha? taena! isoli
ka siga pi-prito
hito ni bu-buncek

nood see the raw
nakita ko naron mag-jowa
puta subaru mo, sugat eh
trophy di auto nasa

mitsa mitsa, kurot she
grabe na di po init nasuka
kotse ko asul
you hit cubao ah
wah itek! krudo no ah
mista, mitsa kimchi
hinto the jeep
the who in it? me soda
yes! sa sea sya no?
selda ang tarik
sulu hmm there oh on me
hari got toyo sa himas

ewww mama
dyan lang kayo noh
chikito din
can u suck it? hmm..tatalon
ewww mama benta ko sayo narra
dont lie teh, wag ka rin tatalon

nood see the raw
kuya may toyo oh, kasuhan
nag-ani ikulong, kain teh
trophy di auto nasa
mista, mitsa
crush she don't kill that
the who in it? nasuka
no recon eto
you will hit cubao ah
wah itek! krudo no ah
mista, mitsa yes sa sea
hinto the jeep
the who in it? me soda
key busy sya noh
selda ang tarik
sulu hmm there oh on me
hari got toyo sa himas.

**no copyrights infringement intended**
The First Encounter

November 2, 2012, a Friday, I started noticing my office mates barely controlling themselves from laughing really hard and loud as our Korean boss might come in any moment. I was curios as to what could be the source of this contagious and uncontrollable laughter, the a wild MSN link to the shared facebook uploaded video of the Badly Subtitled Yu Yu Hakusho Theme Song appeared on my MSN and the rest is history. I immediately shared it on my FB wall to spread the madness.

It is funny because it exactly brings back memories of me singing various anime (opening or closing) theme songs with the wrong lyrics or as how I heard them. It was before there was even the internet or anime magazines to help us sing it right. This video is so funny because it it is exactly that only funnier. A comedic take and a what-if scenario. What if someone tried to make sense of a Japanese song by associating words with this foreign language. That is what we get with the hilariously subtitled Ghost Fighter Opening Theme Song by Wasted Productions and it warrants to be both filed under the Social Network Vault and Fave Videos here at CMABLOGS.

A Wholehearted Participation in the Website Blackout Protest Against the Philippine Cyber Crime Prevention Law

Today, October 2, 2012 yours truly wholeheartedly joins the bwebsite black out protest/awareness raising for the cybercrime law. Do not get me wrong, the Cyber Crime Law is what the Filipinos need to protect their basic rights and welfare from being violated online, but the inclusion of a highly exploitative parts in the recent 2012 Philippine enacted law is what drove us mad, online libel.

Learn more about the Movement to Correct the Cyber Crime Prevention Law through the Philippine Internet Freedom Alliance Official Website

By now there have probably have countless write ups to discuss why most Filipino netizens hate the Cyber Crime Prevention Law of 2012. I suggest you seek them out, read from both sides and be the judge yourselves if we are just merely over reacting or there is truly a basis to all of this... which is the latter. I'll say it straight right from the get-go I don't have what it takes yet to march to march to the Philippine Supreme Court hours from now and join the rally and protest against this potentially malicious and oppressive law enacted by our "good" Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Aquino III along with majority of our 2012 Philippine senators with the exemption of Senator Teofisto Guingona III (I tip my hat to you, Sir). What I can do however is express myself like what I always do and plan to do so in an unforeseen future, only if this low gets amended/revise soon!

If you happen to pass by all of my blogs this October 2, 2012, (CMAQUEST, Retro Pilipinas, and Pinoy Movie Blogger) you'll notice that you'll first be introduced with a splash banner that aims to spread awareness that the freedom that most Filipinos currently enjoy online whether it is on a conversation via chat, social networks, or through blogs is threatened by the current state of the Cyber Crime Prevention Law. If ever all of these actions fail and Filipinos once again forget that there is that dangerous section in the Cyber Crime Prevention Law that is like a slowly crawling time bomb. How will you answer the younger generations (that is if you are still alive and free to even talk to them in this potential future that retains this law), "Where were you when the government started taking our freedom to freely express?" or "Was there any way that your generation could have done to right this error that we are suffering now?". If ever that dark dystopian hopeless Philippines does takes place, I will face them with pride and say "we fought the good fight back then but failed because our numbers weren't enough, that average Filipinos didn't give a darn.". The only question now is what will you do about the Cyber Crime Prevention Law while you still have the capability to stop it dead on its oppressive track towards that potentially dark future for freedom in the Philippines?

Remember remember the secondth of October...
Cyber Crime Prevention Law, tyranny, and freedom-suppressed.
I see no reason why Cyber Crime Prevention Law
Should ever be forgot...

- Inspired by Remember Remember Poem
(Guy Fawkes & the Gunpowder Plot)
V for Vendetta (2006) Film

Ramon Bautista's Tales from the Friend Zone: Insightful Relationship Advice Video Series from Ramon Bautista

I stumbled over Tales from the Friend Zone a few days ago, and was in for a treat when I started watching the Tales from the Friend Zone video series in RARivera's Youtube Video Channel. Tales from the Friend Zone is hosted by Ramon Bautista where he answer questions sent via Ramon Bautista's Formspring by everyday Filipinos trapped in the friend zone. The usually 5 - 7 minute long episode begins with the disclaimer "Ang susunod na programa ay hango sa tunay na buhay" ("the following program is based on true events") which later transitions to the show's title screen with the background OPM "Kaibigan lang Pala".

About Ramon Bautista's Tales from the Friend Zone

Love advise Internet show for people trapped in the Friend Zone. Made in the Philippines by Ramon Bautista and RA Rivera.

Source: Ramon Bautista's Tales from the Friend Zone Official FB Page

So why does Tales from the Friend Zone works (Each video currently has more than 100,000 pageviews and counting)? The video series slash love advice show is spoken in Filipino, so every Filipinos will feel right. Not to mention that almost everyone has (is, had) or knows someone who fell in love with someone but eventually got friend zoned putting them in crisis or utmost pain. Ramon Bautista's Tales from the Friend Zone (TFTFZ) is just like any of the currently airing love advice radio shows here in the Philippines. Ramon Bautista's TFTFZ features one chosen letter which will be read by Ramon with a funny re-enactment showcasing their interpretation of the letter sender's crisis. The re-enactment ends as soon as Ramon finish reading the letter where he later gives his insightful advice like a "pro" hahaha. In the end, the chosen letter sender will received a baby-tee, which Ramon says that should be given to their potential future partner with various prints related with being friend-zoned. He ends it with "Na-Friend Zone ka nga, may t-shirt ka naman" ("You might got friend-zoned, but you got a free t-shirt"). Besides the re-enactment, the episode is funny because we can all somehow relate and although it seems pretty simple to our perspective, the conflict is very much real in the eyes of those who got friendzoned. Well, honestly I am watching and learning from this video series, since I think I've experienced one myself. This will arm me from being friendzoned, hahaha. Well. I'll leave you with the first three episodes from Ramon Bautista's Tales from the Friend Zone. You can hit both the Subscribe button to get regular video updates from Ramon Bautista or Like their FB Page.

TALES FROM THE FRIEND ZONE episode 01
A story of deceit, passion, and murder


TALES FROM THE FRIEND ZONE episode 02
Mahal kita, kaso finriend zone mo ako


TALES FROM THE FRIEND ZONE episode 03
Do not strike when the iron is not yet hot


So how did you find the first three episodes of Ramon Bautista's Tales from the Friend Zone? Share your thoughts and opinion in the comments section below:

A Look on What Eat Bulaga! Indonesia Is Like

Last time we talked and confirmed that Indonesia officially franchised Eat Bulaga!. Now let's check out what Eat Bulaga! Indonesia is like on its first episode.

Eat Bulaga! Indonesia's version of Pambato ng Videoke ng Bayan



Eat Bulaga! Indonesia's version of Sugod Bahay Gang





INDONESIA PINTAR - Eat Bulaga! Indonesia's version of Pinoy Henyo Segment

Amidst the language barrier, I still find it amusing how Eat Bulaga! Indonesia has managed to duplicate the feel and the look of the original Philippine Eat Bulaga! in their own fun and conservative type of way. For most Filipinos who are not privileged enough to learn the Indonesian dialect, we just have to read the scenes as it is the exact same Eat Bulaga that we grew to loved with for 33 years, only with a different coat. Well it is expected for a franchise anyways. Hopefully Indonesia's localized version and franchise of Eat Bulaga! will soon become a household name that will not only entertain generations of Indonesians but provide public service to its people.

Eat Bulaga! Indonesia: Philippine's Longgest Running Noontime Variety Show Eat Bulaga Got Franchised!

Eat Bulaga! has been providing television entertainment for 3 decades and is tsill counting. Millions of Filipinos grew up with this long-running Philippine noontime variety show since it began airing back in 1979. I've seen almost everything there to see on Eat Bulaga and told myself that nothing will surprise me anymore with this television entertainment show for the mass, until I stumbled on a news about Eat Bulaga! Indonesia.

Eat Bulaga! Indonesia
Official News about the Eat Bulaga! Franchise in Indonesia

Yes, Philippine's undisputed number one noontime variety show got franchised by Surya Citra Televisi a.k.a SCTV Network in Indonesia. Indonesians will now be able to watch Eat Bulaga! Indonesia every Mondays to Saturdays at an afternoon timeslot of 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM starting July 16, 2012 in SCTV. Eat Bulaga! Indonesia will be hosted by Uya Kuya, Aja Farid, Reza No, Ramzi, Narji, Ciripa, Rian Ibram, Rio Indrawan, Steven, Leo Consul, Selena Alexandria, Jenny Tan, Bianca Lizza and Julie Christie. The Indonesian afternoon variety show will also feature its own version of Eat Bulaga's popular segments like Bulagaan (Bolagaan), Juan For All, All For Juan (Satu Untuk Semua, Semua Untuk Satu) and Pinoy Henyo (Indonesia Jenius). "We want this program to be a success like in the Philippines, where it has been running for the past 33 years," said Harsiwi Achmad, Director of Programs and Production at Studio Penta SCTV. "We’re not adapting 100% of the Philippines’ Eat Bulaga but will format in accordance with the state and introduce positive values, ​​environmental campaigns, and sharing with others," said Harsiwi.

News Source: KapanLagi

No thanks to my day job, I am not that updated with a much more live news from Eat Bulaga! that is currently airing on GMA Network. Luckily we have the internet to save me from the hassle. It is not an April Fool's Joke or anything and it has been confirmed by the Eat Bulaga Team themselves. Eat Bulaga! Indonesia is really happening.

Well, Eat Bulaga! didn't get to where it is now (as the longest running undisputed noontime variety show in the Philippines for 33 years) without the support of millions of Filipinos. Eat Bulaga! has endured the test of time, triumphed over its numerous competition, and survived some controversies that its host has gotten themselves into.Eat Bulaga has consistently evolved to the show that it is now. Besides the usual entertainment, Eat Bulaga! has now become a public service program that won the hearts of more Filipinos. The big question is to whether Eat Bulaga! Indonesia will have the same impact as what Eat Bulaga! did here in the Philippines. If all the cards are played right by the television compay and its initial 14 hosts, Indonesians will have something fun, entertaining and good on their television screen every weekdays at 4 PM with Eat Bulaga! Indonesia.

The Winners of the 1st Philippine Popular Music Festival: Rejuvenating the Philippine Music Industry this 2012

July 14, 2012 marks the new year for all original Filipino music with the 1st Philippine Popular Music Festival. I was still fortunate enough to at least saw the last part - announcement of winners of the Philippine Popular Music Festival 2012 telecast in TV5. I'm glad I did,

There are a total of 14 finalists for the 2012 PPOP Music Festival.
Check out their individual entries here.

Philippine Popular Music Festival Top 14

• "Kesa" music and lyrics by Edwin Marollano
• "Piso" music and lyrics by Krist Melecio
• "Dulo ng Dila" music and lyrics by Noah Zuñiga
• "Takusa" music and lyrics by Byron Ricamara
• "Tayo-Tayo Lang" music and lyrics by Toto Sorioso
• "3:00 AM" music and lyrics by Keiko Necesario
• "Bigtime" music and lyrics by Trina Belamide
• "Brown" music and lyrics by James Leyte
• "Himig Ng Panahon" music and lyrics by Thyro Alfaro
• "Minsa'y Isang Bansa" music and lyrics by Gary Granada
• "Bawat Hakbang" music and lyrics by Karl Villuga
• "Negastar" music and lyrics by Mike Villegas
• "Kontrabida" music and lyrics by Soc Villanueva
• "Slowdancing" music and lyrics by Kennard Faraon

Although almost all entries have somethings special to offer, unfortunately there can only be one grand winner. Here are the list of winners for the 1st PPOP Music Festival:

The Winners of the 1st Philippine Popular Music Festival

1st Philippine Popular Music Festival Smart People's Choice Awards:

"Brown"
Music and Lyrics by James Leyte
Interpreted by Brown Man Revival

1st Philippine Popular Music Festival 2nd Runner Up:

"Kontrabida"
Music and Lyrics by Soc Villanueva
Interpreted by Sam Concepcion

1st Philippine Popular Music Festival 1st Runner Up:

"Tayo-Tayo Lang"
Music and Lyrics by Toto Sorioso
Interpreted by Ebe Dancel

1st Philippine Popular Music Festival Grand Winner:

"Bawat Hakbang"
Music and Lyrics by Karl Villuga
Interpreted by Mark Santos with the Acafellas

Filipino music has taken a step back and has steadily decline over the past few years (if not decades) and this is because of a number of reasons. Rather than pondering on what almost destroyed it, let's look forward at what will build it anew. Hopefully the Philippine Popular Music Festival will become a consistent annual music event like what the Metro Manila Popular Music Festival (Metropop) has established before it. An annual event that will help rejuvenate the Philippine music industry by ushering in new all original Filipino music by creative and Filipino artists (Filipino composers and singers alike).

For more information about the Philippine Popular Music Festival visit their official website at http://www.philpop.com.ph/

Dolphy's Death: The Death and the Celebrated Life of Philippines' Comedy King

Rodolfo Vera Quizon, Sr. a.k.a Dolphy - "The King of Comedy" died this July 10, 2012 at the age of 83. I will not go into further details explaining his life, career, and milestones, the media already got that covered. I'll just simply talk about Dolphy's influence on me and probably to most of us who new him as a good entertainer and public figure.

Well, other folks born before me might remember him in John en Marsha or from his other works he starred in, but being a 90's kid I was more familiar with Dolphy as Kevin Kosme from ABS-CBN's Home Along Da Riles. He became this cool, loving, traditional, funny and iconic second father figure with this long running television sitcom. I was oblivious to his career before Home Along or John en Marsha back then, but would later be greatly impressed when I made a researched and compiled the the list of the comedy films in the Philippines, because films featuring Dolphy was already more than a handful and was alone enough to fill that database.

The last film that featured the Philippine Comedy King was with the 2010 Metro Manila Film Festival Entry "Rosario" in a much more serious tone. I have high respect for commedians as comedy is a more complicated form of art/entertainment than let's say drama. Dolphy is one of those celebrities who can make us both laugh and cry everytime the circumstances calls for it. I blame it on the ever changing times that it somehow desensitize me with the last few television shows he starred in, but that doesn't take anything away from what Dolphy has accomplished as an entertainer, an actor.

Don't get me wrong, but I was not really surprised to see the news that Dolphy was in a bad shape when he was admitted to Makati Medical Center back in June 16, 2012. Death has always been a part of life, and Dolphy was already at the end of his life. I remember TV5's Trade Launch back in 2010 where he was on stage with Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon and by then I knew that he was already struggling with some health complications as we observe Dolphy seems to tire so fast and seems out of breath. Fortunately he was still capable after that and managed to still make two films on that same year, Father Jejemon and Rosario in 2010. The last television show that Pidol starred in was with TV5's Pidol's Wonderland.

I started receiving news on my Facebook timeline that Dolphy has indeed passed away. Being the skeptical person that I am, it was only natural to doubt these so-called internet news. So I double checked with this news from various Philippine online news portals. Eventually it was true. The Comedy King was indeed dead at the age of 83. It saddened me a bit to see another icon bite the dust, but it was inevitable. To the family, friends, and the lives of the people touched by the Dolphy, it can't be helped to mourn for his death. Dolphy may not lived a perfect life but he became a Filipino icon. Dolphy might have died but his legacy, contribution, and legendary status will continue to live on and will never be forgotten.

All Hail The Philippine's Comedy King.



Rodolfo "Dolphy" Vera Quizon, Sr., OGH, (July 25, 1928 – July 10, 2012)

Papa Jack and Chico Loco: Ending the Day Right with Two of Philippine Radio's Funniest DJs

I am not really a big music fan or radio listener, but when our television broke down at around four years back, still studying and with limited budget, we were forced to look for other modes of entertainment back then, and the only available one that time was the radio. This is when we heard 90.7 Love Radio's Papa Jack. It was a good one month of continuous listening to people's love problems, sound advices, and a very mass-friendly humor. All good things eventually must come to an end when we got a new television.

Fast forward to April 2012, after losing my three year job as an online outsourced writer for a foreign company, I am now forced to have a more stable and sustainable job. My new career that eats away 14-15 hours of my everyday life (except for two restdays per week). "Fifteen hours? What kind of job could that be?" you might ask, well it is because of the hours wasted in commuting. I lived in Dasmariñas Cavite and my work is located in Ortigas Center in Pasig City. So I have to anticipate the traffic every morning allocationg 2-3 hours depending on my sched. Currently I am schedule for the afternoon-night shift and after a normal day in the office, I am left with two more hours of waiting in the bus. Luckily I got a phone with radio feature in it. Now it is no longer just Papa Jack that can makes me smile and laugh silly while in the bus heading home, there is now 101.7 Yes YesFM's Chico Loco.

Even in the radio business, competition is inevitable. Every DJ or radio station seems to vye for the number one most listened to station in the Philippines. Times are changing and people's tastes are shifting. They could either prefer the old ways or look for something new. Radio listeners come from all walks of life, some might prefer the more classy radio DJ delivery while others may like an all-music less or little talk kind of radio. Although people may argue, statistics says otherwise. Love Radio has been successful in maintaining its position as the number one Philippine radio station and this is because of its mass appeal. Not far behind is a Radio station that adapted a similar format to Love, Yes FM. After a while, the once rival radio stations are now working together as one, Love Radio and Yes FM. Radio listeners to one or both the station will be usually hearing these lines on both stations: "Radyo? dalawa lang yan! Kundi Love, eh di Yes. Kung hindi Yes, eh di Love." I can testify to it as I usually end my day or night by listening and switching between 90.7 Love Radio's Papa Jack and 101.1 YesFM's Chico Loco.

Chico Loco in Papa Jack's Wild Confessions/True Love Conversations on July 20, 2011

To have a better idea on what goes on their show or their brand of humor. I looked for their radio show on Youtube and here is what I found. The materials shared below are copyright of YesFm and Love Radio. Yours truly didn't upload them on the popular video sharing website. These embed videos are for merely personal and "educational" purposes.

Papa Jack's True Love Conversations of TLC is a radio segment in Love Radio where he give his sound advices and interesting conversations with his callers usually with love problems and heartaches. Papa Jack's other segment is called Wild Confessions which deals with callers sharing their naughty experiences in a "public radio"-friendly manner. Papa Jack usually has this self-righteous tone when it comes to giving his advice which sometimes sounded so preachy. Although it sometimes bothers me, all in all his segment rocks. Maybe I just wanted to listen to a light heart conversations where he usually cracks jokes, but it can't be helped as some callers really deserved some scolding from the usually self-righteous radio jock.

Chico Loco's Yes Diaries on the other hand offers the same segment in terms of problem sharing but his style is way different that Papa Jack. Don't get me wrong he can be as self-righteous when giving advice to callers that deserve it but I somehow find his radio show more lighthearted. This is probably because before each caler share their issues with him, he has this routine skit where he reads people's fate by their birthday. So what's new with that you may ask? Well he doesn't really ave a black book of birthdays, he just uses this as a comedic skit. He changes his voice and takes up a character that will read the caller's fortune. Chico Loco can take up the characters like Madam Chiki (a flirty loud-mouthed drag queen), Notnot (a witch of some sort who uses rituals usually to curse the caller), Chiklet (a talkative and naughty kid that likes to tease and ask for money), and Kapitan Tutan (a male chauvinistic macho barangay captain who also was a former celebrity with tons of movies with naughty titles under his wing). I usually laugh silly when he assumes the role of his segment's many characters.

Since Love Radio and YesFM have jjoined forces and their DJs literally working on the same building. It can't be helped that other DJs from opposite stations make various cameos on their segment. In some rare occasions, Papa Jack might appear on Chico Loco's radio show or vice versa and usually a laugh out loud chaos ensues.

Papa Jack Wild Confession JV and Chico Loco Guests as Kapitan Tutan

You can only do so much when waiting in a bus headed home. You are lucky when the bus you rode in has a television open, but sometimes with that schedule there isn't much to watch, not to mention some televisions may be open but the audio and reception are horrible. So what is left is to sleep, bu what if you can't? This is where the radio show of these two jocks comes in. I usually prepare my handkerchief to cover my face so that people won't think I'm crazy while I listed to the jokes brought by these two amazing radio jockeys. For me, the best way to end you day is to listen to Papa Jack and Chico Loco.

You guys can follow them on twitter at:

Papa Jack's Official Twitter Account
Chico Loco's Official Twitter Account

or like Official Facebook Pages at:

Papa Jack's Official Facebook Page
Chico Loco's Official Facebook Page

A 99.9% Guaranteed Public Safety and Security Around the Metropolitan Locations in the Philippines

A 99.9% Guaranteed Public Safety and Security Around the Metropolitan Locations in the Philippines
A Special April 1 Citizen's View Post by Chris A.

Getting around the metro can be considered by some as the most challenging and fear or anxiety-inducing experience they can think of. I for one don't belong to this minority. How can you doubt an effective security protocol? Luckily, the Philippines is a country known for considering public safety and learning from past mistakes. I can definitely say that I feel 100% safe, wait that's too much for me to say. Let me rephrase that... I can definitely say that I feel 99.9% sure that I am safe and secured around the Metropolitan areas in the Philippines.

Thanks to my new career as a staff in this tech company in Ortigas City, I am now (more than ever) exposed to the beauty of public security and safety in the most metropolitan locations in the Philippines. I usually wake up two hours ahead of my schedule anticipating the usual lengthy and sometime heavy traffic from Dasmariñas City (my hometown) to Ortigas Center in Pasig. The routine goes like this: Taking the public transportation via air-conditioned bus (Cavite to Pasay), followed by the a train ride in MRT Taft to Ortigas Station, and finally, a good ten minute walk to the office. After spending eight hours in work, I just back tracked from office where I usually pass by the now operational SM Megamall and St. Francis Square Mall, then just a bus ride back home which also takes an hour or two (even three) depending on the flow of traffic. Now we go to the interesting part of this post, the guaranteed public safety and security.

Image Source: Article WN

First there is the excellent and superb security protocol upheld by the Metrostar Express Metro Rail Transit. To avoid the usual normal flow of traffic in EDSA, I usually take the Metrostar Express to reach my destination faster. I just can't help but notice as to how the security personnel in these public terminals uphold the global standards in maintaining public order and security. I believe it is worthy of recognition. Most of the time a public commuter brings an object to carry their personal belongings. If you are carrying a bag and want to access the public transportation system, you'll just have to go to a simple and standard security routine check. First, the security person will tell you to open your bag. Then, using this complex sorting stick, a security personnel will extensively go through the most of contents in your bag for a good two (or three max) seconds. I usually open all of the zippers in my bag for them to dip their advance browsing stick, but it seems like they trust me enough not to check the other pockets. Well, of course you are going to be bothered more if bring along a much more bigger container like a larger travel bag or sealed box. Finally, the security check ends with a final pat on the waist area to check for hidden weapons and other suspicious items. You will never know when a person might have a holstered gun or dangerous weapon on their waist area. I thank the security personnel for not being too forceful and invasive with their security patting. For that they deserve credit. I sometimes think if they should also pat my legs and areas above my waist to double check it, but I guess it is no longer necessary. Who would put a knife or a gun on their chest or legs anyway? Not to mention it would just waste the valuable time of the Metrostar Express patrons who are usually in a rush. This in-depth security protocol gives me so much assurance of a public safety.

Image Source: The Smart Travel Guide

The same can be said on the public malls like SM Megamall and St. Francis Square. Takenote that these are the malls I usually passed through everytime I go to work, so I can't really say about the others. As I made this special post (April 1, 2012), they are using the same effective system as that of the MetroStar Express. The only difference is that there are more security personnel with added device, a handy metal detector. This detector compliments the complex poking stick. Then a simple pat on the waist like that of the MRT and you're good to enter the mall premises. I saw a more complex metal detecting machines in The Podium, but I believe that large human scanner is too dangerous. I know I read some article that such advanced x-ray or scanning machines can induce cancer. So as much as possible I try not to even come near one. I trust the Metrostar Express and other malls that doesn't use dangerous methodologies and tools like large scanners/metal detectors and canine dogs. Honestly, I have an allergic reaction to dogs, so I am thankful for malls to be so considerate and sensitive to their patron's health and psychological conditions.

I was able to claim that there is only a 99.9% of guarantedd public safety and assurance because we can't deny that there are devious scourges of society that pass through this extensive security check with great sly and ease. A recent robbery incident in Robinson's Galleria, the fire in Ever Gotesco Grand Central Mall, and past terrorist bombing attacks that killed and wounded countless of public commuters in the Metro rail transit systems are some of these isolated cases in the past that I believe has been addressed with the implementation of extensive security system which I just mentioned here. There is still that 0.1% of danger, but when you know that God is up there watching over us, you'll forget all about it.

I feel so secured and relieved everytime I access these metropolitan locations in the Philippines. I am definitely in good and protecting hands. How about you guys?

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