Birthday Project: 30 at 30. Thirty trees for thirty years.

Lately, we have been experiencing Mother Earth behaving like a bipolar or better yet having her seemingly "menopause' episodes, swinging for sunny to rainy then scorchingly hot the next minute. Sadly this is an effect of global warming. 

Next month, I will be celebrating a milestone birthday. I will be turning three-oh! :) A beginning of a new decade. A beginning of new adventures. I felt that instead of throwing a party or going on a trip, it is best to give back to Mother Earth so she can have few more additional decades to live. 

In cooperation with Haribon Foundation (in support of its Road to 2020 Project), I created the project which I call:  

Hell to the Chief (Another soap opera of real life)

In just three days, the political landscape of the Philippines was changed drastically--and dramatically, at that. 

On Monday, 12 December 2011, the House of Representatives with a vote 1/3 of its total members or 188 Congressmen impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona. The Articles of Impeachment contain grounds involving betrayal of public trust, culpable violation of the Constitution and graft and corruption. It likewise specifically cites his “undue closeness” to former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. CJ Corona was the third to be impeached in Philippine History following Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez and former President Joseph Estrada. It was the first, however, to be submitted within six hours. This impeachment was rather surprising for most Filipinos considering that legal processes appear to be slow.

The following day, Tuesday, 13 December 2011, the Senate received the Articles of Impeachment. Under the Constitution, the Senate shall have the sole power to try and decide all cases of impeachment. 

Today, 14 September 2011, Wednesday, the RTC judges in the National Capital Region declared a court holiday in support of the impeached Chief Justice. The judges and court personnel convened to show numbers and extend warm support to the head of the Judiciary. At two o'clock in the afternoon, CJ Corona delivered his speech before a black-clad audience in front of the Supreme Court building in Padre Faura in Manila. He spoke sternly against President Noynoy Aquino and pointed to him as the mastermind of all these attacks. He stressed that the impeachment complaint was an attack not only to his person but most importantly to the judiciary as a whole. In a few hours after he delivered his speech, the Senators in their red robes convened as an impeachment court and resolved to convene again in January to try the Chief Justice.

I guess the next few days will turn out to be more exciting other than because of Christmas. 

On a personal note, I would like to remain neutral, although not necessarily apathetic regarding this matter. As a bar hopeful, I am concerned that the institution to which I will soon belong with is under attack much less its symbolic head. What I am more interested, though, is how this will affect the whole political scenario. Will the Chief Justice be impeached? How will the Senators decide on this? Will we ever finally impeach a public official with its trial seen through its end? Will the supremacy of the rule of law be upheld? On the other end, is the current president turning out to be a scheming dictator? Are we forsaking democracy? 

These are the more pressing questions running in my head at this point...and I am seriously excited to see how the answers will unfold. 

In this political boxing, I wish that in the end the Rule of Law and the common good will win. If this is a desperate move on the part of the President to remove the Arroyo-appointees, we do not really know. What I know, however, is that the impeachment was rushed and a little bit procedurally infirm, Although, these procedures are not specifically mandated by the Constitution, perhaps, we'll get away with that. :)

I also wish to see a more learned and mature Philippines--that includes both the government and the people. If it will be necessary, I hope there is a time machine that will transport us back to olden days and review the lessons of our bitter past. 

As we say it in Tagalog, "Abangan nalang natin ang susunod na kabanata..." (Let's see what happens next). See, we've got another soap opera to watch... :)

I wonder what Gabriela Silang would say

This week Gabriela Party-list refiles a bill legalizing divorce in the Philippines. According to them, the bill (if passed to law) would give “married couples in irreparable marriages another legal remedy that they can resort to in addition to the country’s existing laws on legal separation and annulment...and help put an end to domestic violence still prevalent among married Filipino couples.” (Philippine Daily Inquirer, 12 August 2010) 

Then my legal mind started to wonder, how then would Congress treat this bill? Isn't it that our very Constitution protects "Marriage as an inviolable social institution for it is the foundation of the family and shall be protected by the State" (1987 Philippine Constitution, Art XV, Sec 2)?" Realizing also that the people we elected in Congress are human as they are, would they espouse the common good or would they would again 'twist' the concept to espouse their own personal beliefs? It seemed to me that our lawmakers are not yet contended with the remedies provided by our existing laws. Isn't Psychological Incapacity as provided by the Family Code as a ground for declaration of nullity of marriage fully-stretched and abused enough to sever the relationship of troubled husbands and wives? Aren't we burdening the Judiciary of too much personal problems?

If this bill becomes a law, is our society now promoting a non-committal culture? What then are we telling our children? Have we been too westernized that we want to live life casually talking about our ex-wives/husbands and have children who calls each other 'half'? Where now are the values of Family (which by the way, very Filipino), Integrity, and Responsibility?

I am not afraid of change nor do I resist it. On the contrary, I always desired for growth. Looking at this Divorce Bill now, I do not see any resulting growth on the persons of the parties concerned and as a society as a whole. I see this again as a quick-fix to the issues that people want to escape from. True, there really are "irreconcilable" differences but I do believe that married people should put in their best efforts to reconcile them. Divorce isn't as simple as opting for separation pay in case of severed relationships of employers and employees if reinstatement is no longer viable. Didn't husbands and wives vowed to each other: "For better or for worse; For richer or for poorer; In sickness and in health; UNTIL DEATH DO US PART?" Too much? Yes.

People who read this may think that I am not in the right position to speak about marriage because I have not been married myself, hence I do not have the first-hand experience of the gruesome (if you may) truth about marriage. Yet, I speak from the hopeful heart of a young individual who believes that commitments should be revered; That marriage, a vocation, is something that you owe to yourself, your partner and to the One who put you together. Being a commitment, marriage is a decision that one makes prior to indulging into it--a decision that should have well been discerned and prayed about. I speak because I know of real-life stories of people who despite of their "irreconcilable" differences had managed to stick it through--more so lived a happy life together. Not by chance, but because they decided to turn their situations around. I also speak because I think of my generation whose lives are just starting. Some of my friends have just began their married lives and I do not want them to just give up on their decisions of loving each other and living and building their lives together. I also speak because I know that our culture have been becoming permissive and I do not want to wake up one day seeing my future children getting married every five years. I want a life of conviction.

Gabriela Silang fought for the Philippines against the colonialism of the Spanish. Gabriela, the party-list, veers our culture to westernization of values toward marriage. Ironic, is it not?

let the change begin

I failed to see the live feed of Obama's inaugural speech over the news channels on Monday night. Nevertheless, I was very pleased to see it on CNN online the following morning and have been itching to blog after which.

I admit that I did not follow the US Presidential Elections Campaign. Although, I remember having commented how brave this African-American candidate was for running for the highest post in the American government where in fact, his color is largely different from the majority. His platform was change--one which I surmised he used to suit his distinction from the previous Presidents because of his skin color, and also to arrest the issue on the Americans getting tired of Bush (who unfortunately left White House with a very unsatisfactory performance rating).

I thought that either Obama has a savior syndrome or he simply has passion burning inside him which makes him see beyond the barriers. Perhaps, I thought, he knows his identity as an American so he carries it on his chest like a badge. And he does. More so, he contaminates his people with such awareness by reminding them the travails of how America--democracy--was fortified. With this my skepticism starts to break.

I am not yet a fan though, but I was impressed by his inauguration address. Eloquent and inspiring. I didn't feel any hint of pretense nor any promise of false hopes (unlike those we hear from our Presidents). I was drawn by his demeanor as a leader. It is devoid of self-loathing, instead he involves his people to work on things with him. His speech motivates yet in effect sends out a command to the people to "pick themselves up, dust their selves off, and begin again the work of remaking America." He realizes that he cannot work on rebuilding America's glory from the shambles it has created without the people whom he is to faithfully represent. The fact that he capitalizes on the support that he gathered from in Washington, shows how an intelligent leader he is.

He exudes an aura of confidence and he appears to have a battle plan. I was telling my brother last night that it seems to me that Obama knew from the start that he wanted to become president and he took sure steps to get there--silently, slowly and surely. Though there seems to be a few who believed, he persistently pursued his vision and later made other believe and share this with him. May his vision hopefully brings America and the rest of the world to flight all over again.

Yes, Obama is now president of the "most powerful and prosperous" state--the United States of America. So what do we care as Filipinos? How will it affect our daily lives considering we are not citizens of US? Many political analysts and the learned from the fields of economics, political science, public administration, etc., says that Obama's taking over the presidential post will greatly define the socio-economic sphere of the whole world. Especially because of the current global economic crunch, Obama might not have enough time to take his sweet time to savor his victory.

I do not know if my admiraton over Obama's inaugural address will be sustained. I hope, and I also hope Obama performs well.

As for the Filipino people, especially our politicians, let us find in ourselves out identity as Filipinos and let is work together towards one goal of rebuilding the Philippines. May the huge crowd that gathered in Washington, serve as a reminder that democracy will work only is the people work for one purpose. May our leaders abandon lip service, instead perform their jobs with utmost integrity and sincerity. Still I hope to see that one day divisions and factions in Philippine politics is over; that poverty is alleviated; that there is quality education for our children; that each Filipino family will live comfortable lives together without need of anyone of them working abroad. As Obama, puts it: "Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, (America): They will be met."

Hopefully, they will.

Here is the full inauguration address clip, courtesy of CNN Online

retirements and selling birthrights.

I want to own a house by the beach—preferably a cove. The thought of being awaken by the sound of the waves kissing the shore, or walking barefoot on fine, white sand, or witnessing spectacular sunrises and sunsets day in and out is just pure bliss.

I still have to settle where in the Philippines I will situate my haven, although I already have locations in mind.

******

Semestral break is nearing its end and I am catching up on TV (other than DVD marathons). As I was flicking channels, I chanced upon what seemed to be documentary about retiring in the Philippines in one of the government-owned networks.

Apparently, one of the present government’s thrust is to promote retirement in the Philippines targeting the “foreign market”. This means that the government is active in inviting foreigners to migrate in our country and permanently reside here (which also means influx of dollars in the Philippine economy). The Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) under the Bureau of Investments is the agency concerned in the processing of Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV). This gives foreigners the privilege to stay indefinitely in the Philippines with all the benefits and comfort—including owning properties, practicing professions, access to public schools for their children and many others.

No matter how much dollars this may bring in the Philippine Economy, I still find this alarming, absurd, and abhorrent.

This perhaps explains the Korean phenomena that everywhere Filipinos are there are twice or thrice the number of Koreans too. Statistics show that Korean migration has tripled in only a year's time. All along I have been surmising that they have only wanted to get educated in our schools, I never realized that they have really intended to reside in our homeland.

The opening segment of the documentary featured a Japanese national, with his wife, who has purchased an entire island in Cebu. Within this island, the locals depend on the livelihood provided by the couple. Another segment showed a Korean couple residing in a retiree’s village in Tagaytay. They own a house and employed two house helps and a driver—all Filipinos. Another Korean family in Makati employed themselves a Filipino chauffeur. This migration might have resulted to employment to some of our countrymen, but it is just very saddening to realize we are still servants to foreigners in our very own soil—and we even happily oblige. Has our hospitality really gone overboard? I understand how most Filipinos render services in foreign countries as medical staff, domestic helpers or teachers. But I cannot comprehend why even in our own homeland our fellow Filipinos allow themselves to be treated as inferiors. Have we really lost our sense of dignity that we are willing to trade anything in exchange of money? Has “poverty” really pushed us this far? Has discrimination became our comfort zone that we allow this even in our own backyard? Or we are simply sick mentally carrying in our heads the perspective that foreigners are our salvation?

The Korean family which I previously mentioned included two children who are given by PRA the privilege to access our public schools. I held out a smirk. How dare us allow children of other nations to public schools where in fact we cannot even provide quality education to our youth? How in the world will be allow another student share a book with a Filipino child, if we cannot even provide books for each student? Will they also fight for a chair against the other 60+ students? Worse, if these kids go to college, are they also allowed to go to UP, when most of our Filipino youth even haggle their way in against those from the elite, private schools?

Going back to the Japanese couple owning an entire island in the south, how come they were allowed to own property as vast as that? In the long term, if all these retirees will be allowed to do such, will there still be enough land mass left for the Filipinos? Has our government forgotten that millions of Filipinos does not even know what a land title looks like? Or are we really selling our country piecemeal? Mahilig talaga tayo sa tingi.

Has the Filipinos turned out to be greedy in the course of industrialization that all that we think about is money? Are ready to give up our birthrights in exchange of $50,000 which these foreigners pay to get SRRV? Or simply, we have just lost our sense of identity?

Juan, I refuse to be wake up one morning with chatters in language I do not know. (You’d hear them in elevators in most of the condominiums in the metro.)

Give me some enlightenment, please.

I may be sounding like an activist. I may be an idealist but I remain dreaming that the Philippines will rise in this in its glory. I love my country and perhaps that fuels my hope. If nationalism is passé, I know nothing else that would save the Philippines from going down the pit.

flickr and double C

I have just recently revived my Flickr account, which I have finally decided to be the repository of most of my amateur shots as a budding photographer (/lawyer). Most of those are random shots while some are documentation of my adventures with nature.

I have always loved taking pictures (and being taken of, as well. Hehe!) and most of my friends tell me that I have perspective. Guess, it is a flair. My works aren't as good as those which I have seen but I am happy when I see them.

Although back in college I have already wanted to get myself to get hold of a camera and shoot around, I refused to indulge. Back then, the SLR's are manual which work for films. I decided that it'll be too costly for me to spend on rolls and rolls of it. So randomly, I just took bits of photography advice from those who have decided to embark on the pricey hobby. And I noted. Most are about framing and focus. I tried using them everytime I get the chance peak through the lens.

In the advent of digital cameras, I took the pleasure of taking as many shots as I can with the little gadget that I used to borrow from friends. Until my dad brought home one pocket digital cam to my delight! My pocket digicam went with me to the mountains I've climbed to the bars with friends and to a city outside the Philippines. I took all the pictures I can. (This even caused my mom and I to fight. She accused me of being a photo addict. O yes, I am. Hahaha!) The pocket digicam later evolved to a DSLR. Woohoo! Although, it is a communal among all the family members, only one of my brothers and I use it most of the time.

This year, I will spend more time learning more of photography. The artsy side of me will be blooming once more.
---------------------------------


"Some rights reserved", hailed Creative Commons.

This afternoon, I attended the launching of Creative Commons and Creative Commons Philippines Philippines V. 3.0 (CC-PH) at school. It is a non-stock, non-profit organization worldwide which seeks to liberalize (according to the discretion of the author of the work) the use, distribution and exercise of all other rights of any created work without any legal repurcussions. Creative Commons provides creators with the option of acquiring licenses that defines which freedoms they want their works to carry.

Copyright immediately attaches to any person's created work. It can be a song (which may pertain to the melody or the lyrics together or separately), a book, a script, an article (which includes this blog entry), an artwork, a photo, maps, sketches, etc. Thus, the author of the created work is attributed as the rightful owner of the work and he/she can exercise all the rights attached to it. The symbol of depicting an encircled C serves as notice that the owner of the work reserves all his rights over the created work and excludes the whole world from exercising such. Although Copyright is protective, it may also be restrictive. CC provides for an option to make it less restrictive considering the proliferation of lots of created works in the Internet.

On a personal note, I find this initiative very good. It encourages freer exchange of works, promotes collaboration (which can lead to improvement of craft) and a maximized exercise of one's freedom.

Image on left:© 2008. Berne Guerrero. Some Rights Reserved. Except when otherwise noted , this work is licensed under
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/3.0/ph/

desperate

The comment made by Teri Hatcher's character in Desperate Housewives about Filipino doctors stirred a thick volume of anger for most Filipinos. Some of my friends started blogging it the moment they heard it in the news, while some started strings of discussions in message boards. I too was irrated that time.

Here are the dialogues from the episode:

MD: Well, everything seems normal. But, you say you’ve been having irregular periods?

Susan: Yeah, you know, one month off, two months on. That happens, right?

MD: Have you ever experienced night sweats? …. (few other lines here)

MD: How about hot flashes?

Susan: OK, whoa. I’m gonna stop you right there. I’m way too young for that, please refer to your chart.

MD: Susan, I know for a lot of women the word menopause has negative connotations. They hear aging, brittle bones, loss of sexual desire…

Susan: Before you go any further, can I check those diplomas? I would just like to make sure that they’re not from some med school in the Philippines…

E t*nga pala siya e. Ilang taon na ba siya? Normal kaya ang mag-menopause sa babae! Desperada na nga! Tsk. tsk.

Sorry for the foul language. I don't normally allow such profanity in my blog but that woman is really getting into my nerves! (Ow, my reaction haven't changed the first time I saw the video till now.) Isn't the writer of that freaking show aware that we were taught by the Thomasites who apparently are Americans? And haven't they realized that if not because of our doctors (and nurses), they could have been dead by now or at least their population have trimmed to half? St*pid! Hmn...a Filipino character should then be placed in Grey's Anatomy from now on. Hahaha!

I like Teri Hatcher as I was growing up. I frequently watched her as Lois Lane in Lois and Clark. But I am now disgusted with her uncritical acting. Good thing I never became a fan of that desperate series. Buti nalang tlaga.

Good thing the ABC Network had already issued it's statement of apology: “The producers of Desperate Housewives and ABC Studios offer our sincere apologies for any offence caused [by the insulting remark] in the season premier. There was no intent to disparage the integrity of any aspect of the medical community in the Philippines.” However, the Malacanang is demanding that an episode would carry and apology or at least take back the slur. (Clap, clap, clap! Good job on that Sec. Bunye.)

Now, let me talk to my fellow Filipinos: I am happy that we are fighting back. At least, we are aware of our worth and dignity as a Nation. Let the blood of Lapu-lapu and Gabriela Silang run free. The foreign influence might have caused us to feel insecure of our brown skins, but remember that these Caucasians are not better off than us. Never was, is and will be. More than our bronze skin, we are made of good stuff, Pinoys! Believe that and show the world...and those desperate housewives! Remember also that it isn't all about image, if we think that we are good, let's be better and continue proving them wrong.

battles fought and won

People's Champ

Manny Pacquiao won the bout against Marco Antonio Barrera all over again!

After 12 complete rounds, Manny emerged as the winner by a unanimous decision. I am not a boxing fanatic, but it is always sends chill down my spine to hear the "Lupang Hinirang" being sung atop the international boxing ring and see the Philippine flag raised in a foreign land. It would always, always make me sob inside. Simply because of pride that I am a Filipino, and whatever my country's circumstances are, I am still proud to be one.

There was some dirty play from Barrera on the 11th round, but Manny was gentleman enough not to throw some dirty tactics as well. I liked what Chino Trinidad commented to that: "Di na lumaban si Manny. Pilipino eh." Whether it is mind conditioning or simply for posterity, I would like to believe Chino. Manny knew the world is watching and he acted accordingly. May that little act of propriety remind us that we represent a Nation. We do not want to be branded as crooks or second-class, don't we? (I'll write about what Teri Hatcher's character said in Desperate Housewives about Filipino doctors next time.) I also thought that maybe, Manny would have wanted to give Barrera a graceful exit, since this is his final bout. That as a boxer he knew that Barrera deserves some dignity especially now that this is his farewell fight, even if Manny could have knocked him out. My brothers refuse to believe me, though. Haha!

I salute Manny Pacquiao. He transforms whenever he gives out his jabs and uppercuts. He is simply following his "flow". I tip my hat for the passion he's shown-- that heart for his craft and the determination not only to prove himself but also to bring honor to the country. He knew his victory isn't only his, but for the whole Philippines. Thank you for making us proud again. Thank you for showing the world that Filipinos can do something. That we too, can win.

And...I am really happy you didn't make it in Congress. You're battleground is the ring, not the legislative halls.ü

__________

Faith Battle

During the month of October, the Dominican Community in the Philippines, especially in Manila, celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of La Naval. (Next week the annual La Naval procession will be held around the Santo Domingo parish.) It commemorates the victory of the Filipino and Spanish soldiers in the Battle of Manila in the 1600's against the Dutch. It was believed that this victory is a miracle which happened through the aid of the intercession of Mary. The soldiers who were then praying the rosary promised to the Lady to walk barefoot from Cavite to the shrine of the Lady of the Holy Rosary in Manila. From then, this became a devotion which is now practiced for centuries.

This afternoon, I attended my Sunday Mass in UST Chapel. More than feeling that familiar home-y warmth, it also felt good to be in one of the places which actually shaped my faith. The Parish is celebrating its annual fiesta in celebration of the Feast of the Lady of the Holy Rosary. The re-appointed Rector of the University, Fr. Rolando Dela Rosa, O.P. is the main celebrant and homilist.

In his homily, Fr. Dela Rosa highlighted that battles are won not only because of one's ability, skill or intelligence to fight. It is more of the heart that drives one to conquer the obstacle set before him. It is also in recognizing that winning battles is about letting God create miracles from our limited creations. That realizing that we are "little gods"--potent and capable. It is after we have done the best that we can, that we allow His grace to meet us and bring us to heights we've never imagined.

A focused will, a fervent heart and faith in God
______

UAAP town is painted green.

The La Salle Green Archers are back with a vengeance.

After a year of suspension from playing basketball in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, the Archers capped the 70th UAAP season by bagging the Championship title against the University of the East. La Salle ran away with a 73-64 score against UE. Via television coverage, I witnessed how the La Sallista's cheered and raved for their school players. The players must have known that the school is counting on them, and supporting them with all hearts too. I have always admired their school spirit. "Animo La Salle..." as I would always hear during basketball games in my college days. De La Salle university is back..

The University of the East is a tough team to beat. After earning a 14-0 score during the eliminations, these guys have what it takes to give a good fight too. However, the De La Salle basketball team wanted to win--and they did. They know what they want, they worked for it, and they got it. Purpose, resilience and character.

I am not a La Sallista. In fact, I have seen La Salle as a persistent rival since there was a time that UST and La Salle would always meet in basketball championship way back when I was still a UAAP Basketball fan. Funny is I didn't even applied in La Salle for college because of this lame reason. Hahaha! But that is all history.

It is just also interesting to note the teams coaches are brothers--Dindo and Franz Pumaren.ü
_______

I have a battle to fight too... Finals na.ü

the anti-graft court spoke

The Sandiganbayan through its Special Division already rendered its judgment.

The dispositive portion of the 300+ page decision reads:

WHEREFORE, in view of all the foregoing, judgment is hereby rendered in Criminal Case No. 26558 finding the accused, Former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada, GUILTY beyond reasonable doubt of the crime of PLUNDER defined in and penalized by Republic Act No. 7080, as amended. On the other hand, for failure of the prosecution to prove and establish their guilt beyond reasonable doubt, the Court finds the accused Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and Atty. Edward S. Serapio NOT GUILTY of the crime of plunder, and accordingly, the Court hereby orders their ACQUITTAL.

The penalty imposable for the crime of plunder under Republic Act No. 7080, as amended by Republic Act No. 7659, is Reclusion Perpetua to Death. There being no aggravating or mitigating circumstances, however, the lesser penalty shall be applied in accordance with Article 63 of the Revised Penal Code. Accordingly, accused Former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada is hereby sentenced to suffer the penalty of Reclusion Perpetua and the accessory penalties of civil interdiction during the period of sentence and perpetual absolute disqualification.

The period within which accused Former President Joseph Ejercito Estrada has been under detention shall be credited to him in full as long as he agrees voluntarily in writing to abide by the same disciplinary rules imposed upon convicted prisoners.

Moreover, in accordance with Section 2 of Republic Act No. 7080, as amended by Republic Act No. 7659, the Court hereby declares the forfeiture in favor of the government of the following:

(1) The total amount of Five Hundred Forty Two Million Seven Hundred Ninety One Thousand Pesos (P545,291,000.00), with interest and income earned, inclusive of the amount of Two Hundred Million Pesos (P200,000,000.00), deposited in the name and account of the Erap Muslim Youth Foundation.

(2) The amount of One Hundred Eighty Nine Million Pesos (P189,000,000.00), inclusive of interests and income earned, deposited in the Jose Velarde account.

(3) The real property consisting of a house and lot dubbed as “Boracay Mansion” located at #100 11th Street, New Manila, Quezon City.

The cash bonds posted by accused Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada and Atty. Edward S. Serapio are hereby ordered cancelled and released to the said accused or their duly authorized representatives upon presentation of the original receipt evidencing payment thereof and subject to the usual accounting and auditing procedures. Likewise, the hold-departure orders issued against the said accused are hereby recalled and declared functus oficio.

SO ORDERED.

The defense counsels for the Former President are still conferring as to the remedy they wish to avail. As far as my limited knowledge in Criminal Procedure (which by the way I took under the instruction of the Hon. Justice Peralta), within 15 days, Former President Estrada can either file an Motion for Reconsideration to the Sandiganbayan or file a Petition for Certiorari directly to the Supreme Court. Failure to avail of any of these options and after the lapse of the reglementary period, the decision will become final and executory.

More than anything, I agree with the Special Prosecutor when he said that this isn't only a victory for the prosecution but also of the Rule of Law. At least, this is a clear evidence that our judicial system is working.

More on this on my next post. I need to run.

brotherhood

For weeks now, the death of a UP fourth year Public Adminitration student has been filling our news.

Chris Mendez was allegedly killed in an initiation by a prominent fraternity in the university he is in. According to most of his friends, he aspires to become a lawyer which is probably why he was urged to join the fraternity in prepartion for entering UP Law School. His death has however dragged the name of the fraternity and caused the hiding of almost all its incumbernt officers and resident members. Although, the police are now out to pin down those who are responsible for his death.

Chris' death stirred opinions as to the violation of the Anti-Hazing Law. Aggressive as they are, UP students have started lobbying that justice be served. The parents whose children also died through these violent exercise of brotherhood now surfaces one after the other, perhaps to extend concern and support. More importantly to reiterate their cries for vindication for the loss of a loved one.

On a personal point of view, my heart goes to them for a death offered for a cause I too cannot understand. Brotherhood (or sisterhood, as the case may be) is supposed to be for encouragement, support and mutual respect, and never, never for violence. They might have their "fraternal" reasons. I just shrug my shoulders. I just really cannot comprehend.

_____________

Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago said that she will author a bill on the abolition of the Greek letter societies. To quote she said, “As far as I’m concerned, from my experience in UP Diliman for four years in the College of Law, these fraternities do not aid the academic tradition of the University. They are nothing but elitist enclaves...I really cannot be convinced of the necessity of joining fraternities and sororities. What is the benefit that is derived by these young, promising, idealistic students from the provinces who look at a UP education as their last ray of hope for success in life…”

I personally do not like the lady senator. I do not like everything about her--her points of view, her manner of speaking, her fashion sense and what have you. I infer that her statement may come from a personal, bitter experience of isolation or "post graduate bullying". The truth is no law school is without a fraternity or sorority. In fact, these societies has produced most of our prominent officials in the government. Members take pride in the association. But last night, while watching her on the news and letting out a smug, I have to partly agree on her observation, that in as far as one's stay in law school is concern there is a little that these societies offer. We are all equals. C'mon we study the same law.

Maybe I am speaking from the perspective of an outsider. Or perhaps as they say, the benefit comes after you are out of the school and is working you ass out there.

Or maybe, there isn't really a problem as to these societies. I think it's healthy to have "brods" and "sises", your so-called friends in law school. We too are social beings. We need people to cry with, whine and wine with, laugh with. Law school isolates such from the world outside, and sometimes they are all we have. However, maybe the prominence and privilege of brotherhood and the accumulation of "power" exercised over those who want to join their circle may have just gone overboard.

Sad but true.

verdict

Verdict - unanimous finding or decision of a jury on one or more matters (as counts of an indictment or complaint) submitted to it in trial that ordinarily in civil actions is for the plaintiff or for the defendant and in criminal actions is guilty or not guilty

Judgment - 1. a formal decision or determination on a matter or case by a court; 2. declaration by a court of the conviction of a criminal defendant and the punishment to be imposed.

Tomorrow, 12 September 2007, the Sandiganbayan will promulgate its judgment on the 4.3-Billion plunder case of former President Joseph Estrada. After six years of tedious and politically distabilizing trial, we will finally hear from the Court.

Former President Estrada's plunder case is composed of four charges -- acceptance of P545 million in protection money from illegal gambling (“jueteng”), misappropriation of P130 million in tobacco excise taxes, collection of a P189.7-million commission from the sale of the shares of Belle Corp. (a real estate firm), and amassing and depositing P3,233,104,173.17 in a bank account under the name Jose Velarde. He likewise falsely declared his assets which was imperative for public officials.

Although, he refused to enter a plea as to his guilt, he repeatedly underscored his innocence in the course of trial.

For the first time in the history of the Philippines, a former president was deposed, subjected to a full course trial, and now awaits to be sentenced. For what the law deems his guilt is, we have yet to find out. Whether he will be left to be unscathed by those collegiate justices or we'll wait until this thing drag itself to the Supreme Court, we will only be counting hours. My appeal is that the scale of justice, once and for all, be tipped to where justice will be equitably served. The position of these three justices are crucial. The Sandiganbayan's decision requires a unanimous vote of all three justices. I look highly on you and I appeal: Spell the difference.

Tomorrow, we will make history. Tomorrow, the Philippines will be changed. Whether it will spark massive upheaval or Filipinos will continue on turning a cold shoulder, we cannot change the fact that our government and society is faced with a new challenge to grow as a nation.

photos courtesy of www.philnews.com and www.abscbn.com

ramblings on public trains

I am a commuter.

Everyday of my life, I ride jitneys, tricycles, buses, FX and trains going around the metro. And thank God for the trains here in the Philippines! They made my life easier.

During my younger years, I do not like riding in trains. The smothering heat inside its cars makes me all sticky and smelly. Not to add the bodies that is all around you. It was as if a chemical reaction will happen that would set the trains to explode had everybody else stay a little longer than the whole trip duration. Riding trains in the Philippines back then is like subjecting yourself to torture and punishment being all cramped. Not to mention the threat of being picked-pocket. Well, I have to say that things have improved already. The trains are now air conditioned and several cars are provided solely for women, children and the senior citizens. Am not sure about the pickpockets but I do feel safer now compared before.

In every State an improved means of transportation is an indication of progress. There is a lot to improve for us, though.
___________________

Last Saturday on board the MRT on my way to Cubao, I took a seat in one of the train cars which is not exclusive for women. Meaning, there would be men in those cars. (Well, I was just too lazy to walk a little further down the station. Besides, I came from Taft station thus there are still more room in the cars.)

So, from Taft to Cubao obviously people started to fill the train cars to the brim--literally. I just realized that Filipinos do not care about boundaries. I mean, physical boundaries. It's alright for almost everyone to stand skin to skin with strangers. I didn't like it. I feel so unsafe as I stood up from my seat walking through the door and my body is touching all these people as I walk out.

I have been to several countries and I rode on their trains. (That is why, I was later convinced to ride on our trains) But I never encountered overpacked situations such as ours. It's culture so I believe.

But can't we at least respect space?
____________________

More on the previous observation.

Have we not realize that full-packed trains could mean overloading? Filipinos are never wary on these. From time to time our headlines would always bear news of sinking ships, buses turning turtle, and what have you because of accomodating passengers more than it's safe limit. In far flung provinces it is normal for people to squeeze human beings together with chickens and vegetables in every little space available in jitneys. Atop would be another roughly 20-30 people sitting under the sun and hoping to be transported alive to their destinations. It actually seems fun and practical, but is it safe? Think about it?

Under the law on transportation, common carriers are burdened with that extraordinary diligence in transporting persons and goods. This would include enough supervision on the number of passengers a certain vehicle must load for a certain trip. Apart from convenience and comfort of commuters, our transporation authority must first and foremost ensure safety. Check overloading, please.

On the other hand, I urge all Filipinos to look after ours as well. Don't squeeze in yourselves in our trains (or any transpo for that matter) just to get to some place.

Discipline.
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Walking out of train stations is also a feat. Filing for tickets is one as well, but getting out is more stressful.

I do not understand why most Filipinos don't know how to queue in line. There are those who will cut through or nonchalantly squeeze in. We are all in a hurry, people! Besides, getting out will be much faster should everyone find a more disciplined way of filing themselves in line.
______________

Til here, I still have to catch the train for school.

postscript

I received the article below from my climbing buddy, Ditas. It is a post election message from Martin Bautista, a senatorial bet from Ang Kapatiran. She wrote: "Hopefully our new public officials, elected whether by legitimate or unscrupulous means, would learn what the real essence of public service is all about. And may this serve as a lesson to all Filipinos."

The election is over. It is time to examine, and to both skeptics and sympathizers alike, explain my participation in it.

I gave up a flourishing medical practice in America, joined Kapatiran and ran for the Senate because I wanted not merely to prove a point, but to live by it.

And the point is this: we can change our country, help our people, not by talking or theorizing but by actually doing something about it. One cannot simply make a statement. He must apply it in his life, by example, by involvement, by action. Our political campaign was such a statement.

Did we succeed? We did not get enough votes for a seat in the senate. But we did get the attention of the electorate and, more importantly, we made people aware of alternative solutions, better political options.

We demonstrated that it is possible to conduct an open, honest, vigorous campaign on programs, not personalities.

We showed that there is no need for false promises, political gimmickry, immoderate spending; but that there is a need for continuing communication, defending and justifying our positions and priorities.

Our fundamental premise is this: Politics is not a means of livelihood. It is not an economic investment that will pay off in future material gain. Politics is a way of giving, of sharing, of helping. It is not soliciting support but providing it. It is not about rendering service in the senate when elected, but rendering service now, in the present, in this time and place, in one's capacity as a candidate, a citizen, a Filipino of compassion.

If we have, even in a small, tentative way, we have redefined politics in the Philippines, then we have been fully recompensed for our efforts. The accomplishments of our greatest heroes cannot be judged in the simplistic terms of triumph or defeat. Like Burgos, Gomez and Zamora, the Kapatiran candidates won no instant victory. But they achieved a beginning, advanced the cause for reform, and awakened a hope that such reform is possible.

A personal note of accountability. We received donations from many sectors of society. Added to our own private contribution to the campaign, the total amount exceeded our modest campaign expenses. The balance we shall turn over to Gawad Kalinga in accordance with our conviction that politics is not an enterprise for profit.

Finally I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to all the men and women of goodwill who stand with us in the common belief in a Filipino future. "Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat"

i casted my ballot

Yes, I exercised my right of suffrage.

Most of the people I know did not even bothered going to the polling precints to exercise their rights to vote. I am not sure if they are just nonchalant or they have just grown to be completely frustrated with the Philippine political system. I am saddened about this truth.

Yes, I do too abhor the filth of Philippine politics. I hate hypocrisy, betrayal and the ruthless taking advantage the people whom we have entrusted our country’s affairs to. I may have lost faith on this people, but my faith in Democracy is still alive. Being a citizen of a Democratic country, I am aware of the power of my ballot. By casting my ballot, I am exercising my power to change the people in government which will eventually change my future and that of my children and grandchildren. Yes, the choices may be limited, but we still have choices. The gamut of problems we face today have grown overtime and we cannot provide a solution for it overnight. We simply have to inject a little change here and there, and soon Philippines will be fine.

The right of suffrage is an attribute of sovereignty which resides in the people and entitles them to have a direct participation in government. Most people fail to recognize that in Democracy it is the people who can actually dictate the affairs of its government. It is us who will create the future of our country. We only have to discern wisely who are worthy enough to lend our rights to and govern the affairs of the nation. Spiderman puts it very well: “With great power, comes great responsibility”. The power of shaping the course of our mother land is in our hands, our responsibility is putting the people we think have the heart to serve and redeem our country from the pits of shame and poverty. If we think the choices are not good enough, then let us simply not write their names in our ballots, but at least we safeguarded our rights against those who intend to use them for selfish reasons.

If in any case, we made a mistake in our choices, we too have the power to remove them in office. We have successfully done that through the years—ejecting the Spaniards, the Americans, the Japanese, Ferdinand Marcos, and even Joseph Estrada. The power to choose includes the power to remove. We are powerful beyond our imaginations, my countrymen. I don't mean whimsical replacement, but that which is wise and careful--just as we have chosen.

The indelible ink on my forefinger signifies the indelible mark of my being a Filipino.

Filipinos, let us take charge. Let us claim our sovereignty. Let us claim our rights to meddle in the affairs of our society. Let play part rather than relentlessly complain.

according to jessica zafra

I got this from Kat Quijano, who used to be one of the EB members of UCSC and whom I have found to have very sound political opinions. The article below is from Jessica Zafra on how to vote and I totally agree to this. (Plus, I love Jessica Zafra's style of writing. Great.)

How to Vote
by jessica zafra

It’s really very simple.

Do not bedaunted by the sheer number of candidates vying for your vote. The fact that there are so many candidates does not mean there are too many choices, only the appearance of choice. I mean, look at them. By a simple process of elimination you can figure out whose names land in your ballot. Bear in mind that the desire to serve your country, no matter how sincere,does not in itself make you fit to hold public office. I want to play in a Wimbledon final, but am prevented by my total lack of tennis-playing ability. As for popularity, it is a qualification for winning elections,but not for doing the job (or knowing what it is). In the absence of a real party system, you have to look at the individuals. Here is a partial list ofthe candidates you cannot vote for.

A. Flaming idiots. That should get rid of at least half, and I’m being charitable.
B. The illiterate and ignorant.
C. The demonstrably inept.
D. The obviously corrupt.
E. Mayoral and gubernatorialcandidates with no managerialexperience whatsoever.
F. Senatorial wannabes and congressional aspirants who have no idea what the Constitution is.
G. Candidates with no actual plan.

You’ll find it is a very short list. Yes, we all wish we could elect thebest that the nation has to offer, butoften we have to settle for the leastatrocious of a disastrous lot.

manny pacquio in congress

Last night, I just heard from the news flash that Manny Pacquiao have finally decided to run for Congress. I do not know how to react on that, but I was trouble by the fact that he had give in into the pressure that the "Trapo’s" have been giving him.

While the other week, I read in the newspaper that Cesar Montano is in fact running for Senate too. I adore Cesar’s prowess of acting and directing. I love to see him on silver screen. However, my insides cringe by the thought of seeing him debate on the Higher House’s podium. I would know this is no drama.

The Philippine Political arena has really grown to be a circus. It was been dominated by people from the entertainment industry and the like. I strongly disagree to this, although I do not discount the fact that they too can contribute a lot to address the pressing concerns of our countrymen. I disagree because I feel that most of the opportunists are taking advantage of them as their "poster boys and girls" to perpetrate their evil plans. More so, I am not confident as to their skills in handling national concerns. I do believe that in their heart of hearts that they too have the desire to serve our motherland. But sometimes, desire is not enough to get things done. Skills are also imperative.

I love our country, The Philippines and it crushes my heart to see that the choices I have for my leaders to whom I can entrust my rights to are incredible. I value democracy and good governance. It just pains me more to know that these concepts seem oblivious to most.

I do not want to lose hope.

flowers and traffic

Valentine's Day have became a commercial fanfare, especially so here in the Philippines. Stores are dressed in pink and red tinsels. Restaurants and bars offer so much discounts for couples who intend to celebrate the "love day" with some food and wine. Chocolates, stuffed toys and flowers are the top commodities for this week. Little nothings that spells love all over. But no matter how lovers want to express their romanticism, practicality still kicks in.

I live near the flower market known as Dangwa. It was popular ever since I remembered for its good quality flowers traded from Baguio at its very cheap prices. Over time, it has became more and more popular to many people including those who can really afford those designer flower arrangements. And since Valentine's day is nearing, (that is two days away as I write this), people start swarming to Dangwa. There are actually two times of the year when this is phenomena happens: V-day and All Soul's Day.

During these times there are just two things that I have observed whenever these come. One, the prices which used to be affordable suddenly escalate by the minute. One must have the dexterity (and the patience) to ask around to compare prices. It pays to do this for you to get the best value for your money. Be equipped with the skill to haggle. Second, traffic is a build up. Apart from the influx of consumers, cars line the sides of the main road for parking. This congests the usually cramped street all the more. I am more concerned about the second one over the first considering that I am a daily commuter. The usual 5 minute ride takes 30 minutes which actually seems forever. Hopefully, in the spirit of love we can work towards community sensitivity as well.

Nonetheless, I am amazed on how we Filipinos exert the extra effort of showing one's affections. Cheers to those who are brave enough to let the world know he is capable of sharing love.

Advance Happy Vday everyone! Spread love.

wanted: mayor, city of manila

I was leafing through the daily paper this morning when I learned that Panfilo "Ping" Lacson and Rosebud are at odds for the mayoralty post of Manila in next year’s local elections. I also heard rumors that Borgy Manotoc and Manny Pacquiao vying for the same position.

I cannot help but raise my eyebrows and shake my head in utter disbelief (add to that a smug). It is not the surprising disbelief how these people still have that guts to run for office but that frustrating disbelief how the political race in this country has became a career.
Allow me to just deliver my comments on these two rivals.

Who will not know Panfilo Lacson? This political nemesis has always in the forefront of several anti-administration campaigns. He once vied for the highest seat in the government. He was also elected as a legislator, after years of service in the police force.

Lacson’s battle cry is HOPE (Health, Order, Peace and Education) for the Manileño’s. If elected to office he will combat graft and corruption so as to uplift the image of the local government. Hallelujah, it is if this isn’t lip service! With all the benefit of the doubt, at least, there is one good soul in the government. I hope that this "HOPE" won’t turn out to be bleak.

He says that his running for office is the will of God after receiving a call from an unidentified man in the cloth. How blasphemous can that be! I am in no position to question each person’s appreciation of God’s signs and how God speaks to each of us but I suggest that we refrain from dragging God’s name in our filthy politicking. Please do not get me wrong. I am a woman of faith and my theology is that God has a hand in every area of our lives. I am just wary about the idea that God is being used as a pawn in this board game. I think that if one really finds in his heart that he is called for public service, it is best that he’d be man enough to take upon himself that responsibility without "name dropping".

However, if this is his means of preparing his way to run as President in 2010 National Elections, I just can’t say more. Veteran, he is.

Rosebud on the other hand, was the popular State witness in a case linking Lacson to illegal drugs and kidnapping some years back. I do not know her personally except for what I read in the papers, but I can trust my instincts that she isn’t fit to be in office. And for all it’s worth, I would not risk the leadership of my city to a neophyte. I doubt if she ever had a background in public governance, to which I will define as the "wild".

In an article today in Inquirer, she said that Ping’s decision of running forces her to run as well. I cannot follow such logic. Why would one run only because an antagonist is? Public office isn’t supposed to be a competition. If her messianic instincts are alarming her, let me remind her that super heroes aren’t real—and she can’t be one. She doesn’t possess super powers and she isn’t a god(dess) or at least a demi-god. I suppose she’s been spending much of her time in front of the TV. I am coming to the conclusion that she’s just using next year’s local elections as an opportunity for her to thicken the plot of her opposition of Ping. Her telenoleva-ic psyche seems to overtake her that she projects herself as the "doormat bida" and all the others as the villains, whose mission in life is to ruin her. As she puts it, "this is personal", which to my opinion is not a very good motive to run for office.

I have seen a lot of people scurrying their way into the political limelight—most of them local cinema actors, athletes, and in my judgment, those others not eligible to hold public office. Fellowmen, this isn’t reality TV (I should write another article on that), THIS IS REAL LIFE. No wonder everyone seems to be oblivious why government seems to malfunction. Yes, it’s neither the educational background nor the social status that matters in public service but a little background on the political system would help. And although, I agree that everyone should be entitled to equal opportunity in serving in the government, not everyone is necessarily worthy to be one.

I hope that our electorate would be more educated and wise in picking our leaders. To the few who gets to read this piece of my thoughts, please remember that democracy is the rule of all. Let us realize how much power we have in our hands; that each vote is an exercise of our identity and a delegation of our inherent power as members of the State.This few whom we have entrusted our rights to are in turn expected to render us some service. Let us be cautious to whom we give that power, so that it may be used for the good of many and not the perpetration of the selfishness of a few.