Dear Ninoy

Dear Ninoy,

It is you I remember most these days.

I do not mean to disturb your peace.  You already have passed from this valley of tears to the House of the Father, but please, Ninoy, do not forget us in our present travails as a nation.  I know that you love this country so much.  You will not let us lose our hope.

Ninoy, embrace us and ask God to embrace your God-loving people.  Do not look at the blessings we have squandered and the heroism we have ridiculed.  Do not look at the biased media and the people that they have misled.  Do not look at the uncaring attitude of some people about the victims of the Mendiola massacre, the Hacienda Luisita massacre, and the SAF44 debacle.

Look at us in our fears and pray for us to God to heal our land. Give us more courage. Give us more hope.  Shake us up from political stupidity.

Thirty-one years after EDSA 1986, I hear our people ask: What shall we celebrate? What is there to celebrate?  By the corner of EDSA and Ortigas, I want to sit and weep as I remember the four glorious days of February 1986 now dimmed due to the failed promises of the past administrations after Ferdinand Marcos'.  The songs of peace now drowned by the hypocritical and self-serving people that we once trusted.

The bloodless revolt now stained by the blood of the victims under your wife and your son's leadership, and these same victims have yet to find peace and justice.

Four days of bloodless revolution!  Wow!

Now thirty-one years and the masquerading corrupt politicians still use the EDSA People Power in the name of delusional "change” that they abused for personal gain!  From Marcos' cronies, to Cory's Kamag-anak, Inc., and to PNoy's KKK - what a nightmare, Ninoy!  It is a shame.

The dictator ousted by people power is now buried among heroes, which in the first place would have never been possible IF Fidel V. Ramos did not allow his family to set foot in our country again.  This was the same man anointed by your own wife, Cory, to be her successor; the same man I voted, for the love of Cory.

The lady of 1,200-plus pairs of shoes is now a representative in Congress, and her family still lives a comfortable life.

A former actor - president ousted for plunder continues to be in power.

Another former president known for corruption is back in Congress.

Any Filipino can run for the presidency even without any substantial experience.  History books and historical memory are mocked.  Thanks to our inutile 1986 Constitution and to the traditional political alliances.  Imagine, even you wife and your son ate their shit and supposed personal convictions to join a plunderer for political convenience!  Thank God, Ninoy, you did not live to see those days.

Tears flowed. Uncertainties choked us. It was hard to choose silence and just take the blows. I thought, "How long can we endure?" It was hard to fight for the right without question or pause and be willing to march into hell for a heavenly cause. You remember that song, Ninoy? Singing it makes me smile and makes me cry.

Were you ever discouraged and did you also question yourself if what you were doing was right? Were you ever afraid or did you ever feel the urge to stay in your zone of comfort instead of fighting the unbeatable foe?

My parents were loyal supporters of your family then, and I inherited their love for them.  However, even though they were among those people who were present during People Power 1, they got disillusioned with what had transpired over the years.  Slowly, they lost their interest in watching the annual celebrations which they dubbed as "pure entertainment only".  Nevertheless, for the love of you Ninoy, we still supported Cory's preferences in every election that followed, until 2007, for when we finally realized, "Enough is enough".  It was hard to turn a blind eye.  We could not stomach your wife's political alliance with a plunderer, just to show disdain for the administration at that time and to satisfy your son's political ambition. Just because one is against a corrupt president doesn't give him moral ascendance.  Ang isinuka, pwede rin pala nilang kainin muli.  Sobra na, tama na, itigil na ang kahibangan na ito.  Hindi sila mga santo.  Mga tao rin sila na may kanya-kanyang interes.  Pare-pareho lang pala sila, Ninoy...  Pare-pareho lang sila.

Ninoy, the thirty years of fakery have taught us to break away from political loyalty.  Those people who have failed us taught us how to cope more from disenchantment. They taught us how to be more courageous. They taught us to be more humorous (oh, you should see the creative memes now). They taught us to keep our faith that ONE DAY, WE, the FILIPINO people, WOULD BE ABLE TO BEAT THEM THROUGH A COLLECTIVE EFFORT AGAIN.  They taught us to be more discerning of the self-righteous authorities: may they be in the government or in religious groups. They woke us up from political blindness to be passionate again to fight for our country.

We were looking for you but you are not here. We were waiting for your voice but we cannot hear. We wanted to see you again but you seem so far away now.  In those years, we missed you.

Thirty years after, the TRAPOs have unknowingly created their own monster.  Thirty years after, we regained hope and trust, for that monster is "someone who is willing to march into hell for a heavenly cause".  Sounds familiar, Ninoy?  The TRAPOs now fear that monster.

Can we still celebrate EDSA people power? Maybe you'd say, "Yes, because EDSA is for the people.  The true celebration of the EDSA People Power lies and depends in your hearts and not on a grand celebration wherein you will only see a gathering of POLITICAL GARBAGE.  That is not a celebration, but pure POLITICAL and SOCIAL TOXIN."

As Loida Lewis put it, "Doesn't have to be true, just needs to look like it."  Hence, DECEPTION.

For EDSA is not about a particular political color or a political clan that most saintly men and women usually adore and continuously portray to be upright, BUT about the faith and bravery of the enormous NAMELESS PEOPLE who called upon the Lord in their distress and whose cry the Lord has heard from heaven.  EDSA is our people’s cry and our God’s loving reply.

In your final years, Ninoy, you were firm to remind us that THE FILIPINO IS WORTH DYING FOR.  The EDSA spirit is pure and worth celebrating always.  It is the hypocritical and self-serving people who have RAPED it, which is even worse than the supposed uncountable extra-judicial killings of drug users and syndicates.

May we always remind ourselves that the people who prostituted the EDSA democracy are the very same people who are now afraid to face their nightmare: to be taken out of power.  Never shall we allow ourselves to be fooled again.   Enough of those wolves in sheep's clothing.  NEVER AGAIN.

Against all odds, Ninoy, we will remember. We will give thanks. We will challenge ourselves to live for God and to live for country as you did.

Rest now, Ninoy. You have left us lessons to last us many lifetimes. All we must do is to keep on remembering and to keep the fire aglow. You have passed on that torch to us and we will not fail you, not like what your wife and son did.

Promise!

In the Lord's House, please hug my mom for me, who was a staunch believer in you.

Lovingly,

Choy

Matthew 7:1-2

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

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DISCLAIMER:

It's been almost a year since I wrote here.  I do not own the entire entry.  It was after reading Archbishop Soc Villegas' letter to the late Cardinal Sin that I got inspired to "rewrite" his letter, but this time, addressed to Ninoy.

You may find his original letter here:  http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/874307/edsa-is-our-peoples-cry-and-gods-loving-reply#ixzz4ZYwPpwjr

Survey Says..................

Sa tanang buhay ko, ni minsan hindi ako natanong sa political surveys. Kaya naman naisip ko na ako na lang mismo ang gumawa. Walang bayad o suhol, sarili ko lamang pagkukusa. Mahirap pero natapos ko rin.

Napansin ko lang:

1. Nag-aalangan sumagot ang ibang tao. Kapag sinabi kong personal survey ko lang at hindi commissioned (SWS/Pulse Asia), saka lang magpapa-unlak.

2. Hindi lahat, pero karamihan ng mga natanong ko sa Rosario at Jenny's ay para kina Binay at Poe, habang kay Duterte naman ang karamihan ng "yuppies" (ironically, marami sa kanila ay babae).
3. More or less, 20 ang nalapitan ko na hindi nakapagparehistro. Kaya hindi ko sila isinama sa survey.

This random survey was done from February 3 to 22.

I intentionally excluded my family members and friends from the survey.

The one-hundred respondents are all common folks: commuters, market vendors, students, and young & old professionals.

No specific class or age range

Area: Pasig City (Jenny's, Rosario, and Ortigas Center)

And now, for the results... Survey says..................
(Click on the image to view it in full.)

Adobo Mix

Finally!  Here is my very first digital album as an independent songwriter.  After years of putting aside my passion, I am now determined to fulfill my dream, one step at a time...

The songs / album are now available here  >>>  Adobo Mix

Initially, the album has three songs of various genres (ethnic, pop, and novelty) and which are all written in Filipino.  More songs will be added soon...

For purchasing method, kindly refer to >>>  OPM2Go

Here's the preview of the album:



I hope you'll find time to listen and support my original compositions.

Mabuhay ang OPM!  Maraming salamat po!

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED???

10.03.12

R.A. 10175

I simply do not forget...  Let's meet again come 2013 elections!

#FacebookLoggedOut
#TwitterOff
#FreedomOfSpeechDECEASED

On The Day of a Hero's Death Anniversary

When I woke up this morning the very first thing I asked my father was, “Nakita na ba si Robredo?”  As expected, his reply was still negative.  As we were watching the news I said, “Sana naman, ngayong death anniversary ni Ninoy, makita na s’ya.” Suddenly, there was a news flash and DOTC Sec. Mar Roxas just announced the retrieval of DILG Sec. Robredo’s dead body.  A closed fist on my lips and my tears immediately fell.  It is now confirmed.  We just lost a good man.

I admit.  I am slightly bitter.  I remember something but I’d rather not go there anymore.  Besides, that’s past already.  I need to appreciate instead how the President exerted much effort to be there for Sec. Robredo’s search and rescue.  I need to see the good side of things.  I just hope that the President realizes now the importance of putting a good man in his team.  REAL GOOD MEN.  Not the KKKs or the opportunistic-showbiz-minded personalities.

For the first time, I cried for the death of a man in the government.  I never experienced such for Ninoy’s since I was too young then.  It was hard for me to understand my mother’s utmost grief while she was crying in front of our television as the assassination of Ninoy was being reported.  I find it very timely that Sec. Robredo was found on the day of the death anniversary of one of the most loved Philippine heroes, Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino.

They say that good people die young.  I wonder why.  Why them, of all people?  On the other hand, who am I to ask the Lord?  He knows what’s best for all of us.  Let His will be done.

To Ninoy, you are forever remembered.  I pray, “Hindi ka nag-iisa”.  May there be more like you.. now and in the future.

To Sec. Robredo, may you rest eternally in peace.  Good job, sir!

http://ninoyaquino.50webs.com/

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/252450/robredo-2-others-missing-after-plane-crash

The Senator's Speech

It’s been a very looong time since I last wrote a blog entry here.  It was partly because of the addictive Facebook and Twitter that I am having a hard time maintaining not only one but three blogs.  Anyway, I felt the need to write one now since the subject matter is close to my heart.

Okay, here it goes...

This is not about the RH Bill.  I do not have any problems with Senator Tito Sotto’s stand on the issue.  That is HIS OWN position.  I respect it.  However, to know that a portion of his speech was taken from a blog which was not even credited is not right at all.  I am a blogger myself and whatever I write here comes from my own words.  Not copied.  Not plagiarized.  If I need to quote an article or any piece of work, I add the link or insert a screenshot.  It’s that simple.  So, I expect the same courtesy from other people.

To summarize, here are just a few lessons that may be learned from the so-called plagiarism issue:

1.  Write your own speech. It may not be the best but at least, it is something you can call your own.

In my opinion, a speech should be taken as personal.  I do not understand the reason of some people getting a speechwriter.  Getting a speech "editor" or "translator" maybe, but not someone who would write an entire speech for you.  Can’t they do it themselves?  Yes, a lot of them are busy BUT if you really want to make a point and express something straight from your heart, you’ll find the time to do it.  Otherwise, one needs to make sure that his/her ghost writer is an honest individual who wouldn’t just copy and plagiarize someone else’s work, plus you may just end up consulting Mr. Google for verification purposes.

I’m just a regular person with a normal I.Q. but I was able to write my own speech once.  So, I do not see any reason why others cannot do it, especially those who are being looked up to by the people.

2.  Do not forget to cite your source(s).  A simple acknowledgement won't hurt.

Freedom of speech does not give anybody the right to plagiarize.  Any piece of work is already covered by copyright protection from the moment of its creation.  Thus, it is what we call "automatic copyright".

http://www.ipophil.gov.ph/main2.php?contentid=12

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copyright

When you quote a portion of an article, have the decency to acknowledge the source.  Besides, you already got the information for free.  What inconvenience would it cause you to simply name the author?  

3.  Respond in a more appropriate manner.  Send a private message or e-mail instead of replying in the comment box.

For someone who is called the “Chief of Staff”, more so a lawyer, you are expected to be more knowledgeable of proper communication etiquette.  Instead of doing your boss (in this case, it’s Senator Tito Sotto) a favor, you even added fuel to the fire.  Who, in his right frame of mind, would actually reply in a blog’s comment box when the matter at hand should have been addressed in a formal way?  As far as I know, only YOU, Mr. Hector Villacorta.  [Why didn’t I address him as “Attorney”?  Simple.  With the way he responded, I do not think he deserves it.]

4.  Write decently.  Do not forget the simple rule in composition: Capitalize the first letter of a sentence.

Isn’t Mr. Villacorta aware that the first letter of a sentence must be written in capital?  He did not only reply in an informal way but he did also write in an uneducated manner.  Is that how lawyers respond to issues nowadays?

5.  Respect and humility.

The concerned senator was quoted as saying, “Ba’t ko naman iko-quote ‘yung blogger? Blogger lang ‘yun.”  By saying that, he did not only insult Ms. Sarah Pope but the bloggers as a whole.  So, is that how low he regards us, bloggers?

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/369837/sen-tito-sotto-denies-plagiarism-allegations-blogger-amused-over-involvement

If indeed, blogger “LANG” ‘yun, his speechwriter should have conducted his research from an article by a more popular and distinctive author.  Para naman mas mataas ang level sa taste ng senador.  So, why did he opt to source information from a blog instead?

To add insult to injury, the “Chief of Staff” replied in a rather semi-apologetic tone with a hint of sarcasm.  Please do not apologize if it is not wholehearted in the first place.

http://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/on-plagiarism-the-pill-and-presumptuousness/

Honestly, this is an issue that could have been resolved easily by simply respecting the writer and sincerely admitting one’s shortcoming.  After all, nobody's perfect.  People, most especially in public office and their staff members, should always learn to reply in a proper and polite manner.  Remember, how you speak and write reflect your personality.

I am a blogger, a part-time blogger.  I do not write to get paid.  I do it for free.

I am a blogger, a part-time blogger BUT I am NOT JUST a blogger.  I have other jobs.  Decent jobs.  And I am not indebted to taxpayers' money.

So, to you Tito Sen:

The business tycoon, Mr. Manny V. Pangilinan, was once in the same situation.  The only difference is he owned up to his speechwriter’s mistake and even voluntarily resigned from the Ateneo Board of Trustees.  I can only describe his act in one word – DELICADEZA.

Further, do not belittle other people.  Just because you cried during your speech that made you righteous and sincere.  Truth be told, the recent event only showed the darker side of your character.  Always remember the “Golden Rule” for you do not want to be looked down as, “artista lang”, do you?

Ars Cantica Ensemble on ASAP XV

Our group, Ars Cantica Ensemble, guested with Ms. Jamie Rivera and Juris on ASAP XV in line with the Sa 'Yo Lamang movie launch on the 29th of August 2010.

Sa 'Yo Lamang Music Video

This is it! Here's the "SA 'YO LAMANG" music video featuring Juris, Airdance and our group, Ars Cantica Ensemble. Directed by Ms. Cathy Garcia-Molina. Watch out for the movie which will be shown on September 1. :)

Thank You GIBO Teodoro and Volunteers!

This is my simple tribute to the man who gave us hope to strive for a better future and to the volunteers who dared to make a big difference.



Disclaimer:
I only did the editing and I don't own any part of the video. The various photos and video clips were taken from the following:
Gilbert GIBO Teodoro, Jr. Facebook Fan Page
Green Team 2010 Facebook Fan Page
GIBO Squad Facebook Fan Page
Gibo Teodoro YouTube Channel
GMA 7
ABS-CBN News Channel

Me and Ms. Tintin

Me and Tintin Bersola-Babao, one of GIBO Teodoro's Ganda at Talino supporters. I accidentally saw her last night at The Podium and I bravely introduced myself to her. We are actually Tweetmates because of GIBO and it was very timely that we met just one day after the elections. She's very sweet and down-to-earth. It was fun talking to her. Glad that we finally met. :)

Why I Will NOT Vote for Noynoy Aquino

Subject: Why I Will NOT Vote For Noynoy
To: ramon.banas@dlsu.edu.ph
Date: Monday, April 5, 2010, 9:37 PM


Dear Mr. Banas,

This is in reference to your article "Why I Will Vote For Noynoy" in Manila Standard dated March 29. You had your chance to express your opinion, now it's time to express mine.

I respect your choice. After all, we have the right to choose our own candidate. I just noticed that you failed to include Gordon. In my opinion, Gibo and Gordon are the two most qualified candidates for the presidency. But that's just my opinion and I don't expect you to agree with me.

What I didn't like, however, was the reason that you gave against Gibo Teodoro. What does he have to do with the wrongdoings of Ferdinand Marcos? Are they the same people with the same brains? What did he do to deserve such comparison? It's very unfair to compare Gibo with Marcos just because they are both intelligent. It's the same thing as it's unfair to judge Cory Aquino as an irresponsible parent just because she had a daughter like Kris.

I would have appreciated it more if you just concentrated on discussing your stand on supporting Noynoy Aquino instead of giving us reasons to not vote for his opponents. Furthermore, your point against Gibo Teodoro is baseless. So you mean to say that anybody who is intelligent and witty should not be voted because he might end up like FM?! Masama na pala ngayon ang maging magaling at matalino at baka makatulad ni Marcos. Sorry but for me, this is such a lame excuse, especially if coming from a university professor like you. How would you feel if I say that I'm afraid to vote for Noynoy for the simple reason that he acts like his sister, Kris - shooting his mouth off without thinking well? At least, comparing Noynoy to Kris, I have facts to back up my point.

You are praising Noynoy Aquino for his untarnished record, as if Noynoy has the monopoly of cleanliness. Maybe you aren't aware that Gibo also has an untarnished record against corruption and he also has a reputation to protect. Just because Noynoy is an Aquino that makes Gibo Teodoro a less righteous individual. Gibo's father served during the Marcos regime as the SSS President but never was he accused of any anomaly. That in itself was remarkable. Same thing applies to Gibo - he was considered as one of the most upright cabinet members despite having a (perceived to be) corrupt superior - GMA. Don't we deserve an upright servant even under a corrupt government? This only proves that working under a corrupt government does not necessarily make one a corrupt individual also. Mind you, even those in the opposition have praises for Gibo because either they were able to work with him or they are fully aware of his capabilities as a leader. One good example is Bishop Cruz, who is known as one of GMA critics but is supporting Gibo Teodoro nonetheless.
http://www.angtinig.com/bishop-cruz-turns-green/
Objectively speaking, it only shows that one's disgust towards our government is not a hindrance from supporting a viable administration candidate like Gibo Teodoro.

I hate to say negative remarks but since you started it, I'll say them anyway --- If Noynoy was not able to discipline his own sister (Kris Aquino) and still cannot solve their own land problem, what makes him fit to run our whole country?! Linisin muna n'ya sariling nilang bakuran bago s'ya maglinis ng iba. Do you honestly believe in his slogans - "Tanggalin ang Tiwali, Itama ang Mali"; "Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap."; and his famous line in his ad, "Hindi ako magnanakaw."?! Do you still remember who was he with in 2007? Joseph ERAP Estrada! I think this is self-explanatory, I don't need to elaborate on this. And just recently, he had the nerve to say that GMA was wrong in pardoning Erap. Who is he to say that? If indeed he knew that Erap was guilty and deserved punishment, they why did he get his endorsement in 2007 anyway? Hypocrite. Isn't that indicative of a man without principles? Imagine, the people who fought for the impeachment of Erap (Noynoy, Mar, Villar, Legarda, etc) were the very same people who kissed his ass in 2007 just for political convenience. Isn't this what TRAPOs always do: they unite simply because they want to overthrow somebody, never mind if their "allies" are as unscrupulous as the one that they are cursing? Aanhin ko naman ang pagiging malinis n'ya kung wala rin naman pala s'yang prinsipyo? On the other hand, is this really what you can call as a "clean" candidate? And HOW exactly can we have a "clean government" with such kind of a mindset?

Sorry but I don't buy his slogans/ads. Those kinds of slogans/ads have been used and reused for so many times every election. In short, gasgas na, pang-TRAPO. Sino ba naman ang magsasabing "Magnanakaw ako kapag naging Pangulo"? "Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap" - hindi ka nga corrupt pero wala ka naman sariling paninindigan. "Tanggalin ang Tiwali, Itama ang Mali" - eh nakuha nga n'yang maki-alyado sa isang tiwali na isa ring napakalaking pagkakamaling naiboto ng mga Pilipino. Sino niloloko n'ya?! Clearly, he doesn't know how to practice what he preaches. Palagi na lang ba kailangan mag-drama kapag nangangampanya? Para na silang nagsasagutan ni Villar sa ads... Namatayan ng kapatid si Villar, tapos s'ya rin inapi at namatayan naman ng mga magulang. Kailangan ba lagi nasa ads sina Ninoy at Cory? Sino ba talaga ang kandidato, sila o si Noynoy? Goodness gracious. Konting respeto naman. Patahimikin na sana ang mga yumao at huwag na sila gamitin para lang paglaruan ang emosyon ng mga tao.

Different times call for different strategies. Cory Aquino's victory was intended to regain our lost democracy. That was then, now is different. We need to move forward to improve our economy and strengthen our unity as a nation. Please don’t get me wrong. I know that Gibo is not perfect but I'd rather support him (a less popular candidate but with a very positive attitude) than support someone who:
- is perceived to be clean but actually eats his own garbage
- has a habit of flip-flopping with his own statements (http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideOpinion.htm?f=2010/march/3/jojorobles.isx&d=2010/march/3)
- regards debates as a waste of time (http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php/top-stories/5028-noynoy-debates-just-waste-of-time.html)
- is too blinded by hatred towards GMA, etc. (http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/insideOpinion.htm?f=2010/march/17/emiljurado.isx&d=2010/march/17)

We don't deserve someone who allies himself with a convicted plunderer, if need be, for political convenience. We don't deserve a fickle-minded leader. We don't deserve a candidate who insults the intelligence of the Filipino voters by not attending debates because as he said, "It's just a waste of time." Oh, come on! But if the invitation comes from ABS-CBN, he can readily accept it. Again, hypocrite. We don't deserve a candidate whose mind is just stuck with criticizing GMA that even the El Nino phenomenon is perceived by him as a government's excuse to cheat (http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=553635&publicationSubCategoryId=64). Etcetera, etcetera...

Sadly, most of the time, when Noynoy supporters are faced with these facts, they try to gloat by saying, "It's okay, he still tops the surveys because the people love him." That's all?! Does this mean that because he is an Aquino, he has the liberty to commit mistakes and get away with them?! So, we just need to rely on the surveys? So we just need to rely on our love... but for whom really - for Noynoy or just for his parents? Wouldn't it be better to show our love for our country by voting wisely and not just because we are bound by surveys or by our love for somebody else's legacy?

I hate hearing people say that we don't need an intelligent president anymore because we ONLY need an honest one in order to have a corruption-free government. I beg to differ. We need a president who is not only HONEST but also INTELLIGENT, SMART, COMPASSIONATE, HARDWORKING and GOD-FEARING in order to lead our people by example and rebuild our country's pride. In short, it should be a complete package. It's the same thing when evaluating an applicant - you hire him on the basis of his credentials, examinations (IQ / personality / physical), on-the-job training performance & clearances and not merely just by looking at his referrals nor by just knowing his parents/relatives. Otherwise, you will be accused of not giving equal job opportunity for applicants. In this case, it looks like many people are guilty of such when evaluating a candidate. Aren't we supposed to look at every angle and not just focus on the surname that a candidate carries? Goodness is not enough to run this country. Otherwise, there are thousands of people who are more qualified than Noynoy Aquino. Remember, having a good moral character is not sufficient enough to be hired as a CEO of a big company. So, what more in leading this nation?

They also say that Noynoy Aquino is clean because he is "maka-Diyos" and "makatao". Really? Who do you think acts more like a true Christian: the one who participates in mudslinging or the one who practices positive campaigning? Action speaks louder than words, doesn't it? Aanhin ko ang madasalin o ang palasimba kung hindi naman nito isinasabuhay ang totoong Salita ng Diyos? Frankly speaking, not everyone who goes to church and pray can be considered as "maka-Diyos" and "makatao". It's the same thing as not everyone who rarely goes to church is non-Christian. I know some people who always attend Mass and pray the rosary but they don't truly practice Christianity. On the other hand, my father rarely goes to church but he lives in a true Christian way.

I love Noynoy's father, Ninoy and I still have respect for his late mother, Cory. I have nothing personal against Noynoy and I know that he may be a good person also but we need somebody much better than him to be our president. Truth be told, before Cory's death, Noynoy was never thought of as a presidential material; not even as a JOKE. In all honesty, I used to be a very loyal Aquino supporter every election. I had been following religiously all of Cory Aquino's endorsements. Sorry but that was then. I don't practice blind loyalty.

Gibo is not FM nor GMA = Noynoy is not Ninoy nor Cory

Again, just to clarify, I have no problem with you supporting Noynoy Aquino. That's your choice and I respect that. I just hope that next time, you will refrain from denigrating another candidate most especially when you don't have pertinent facts to back it up. Do not judge another candidate if you don't want yours to be judged also in the same way.

Matthew 7:1-2
"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Happy voting. Good luck to all of us.

The "Sa 'Yo Lamang" Inspirational Album

Hello, friends!

I just like to promote the inspirational album "Sa 'Yo Lamang", (especially made for this Lenten Season) wherein our choir, Ars Cantica Ensemble, is part of it. We have sung "On Eagle's Wings" (choral arrangement by our Musical Director, Ms. Julie Garcia) and the "Sa 'Yo Lamang" official movie theme with Juris as the lead vocals (choral arrangement by Mr. Paolo Zarate and Ms. Julie Garcia).

The album was produced by Ms. Jamie Rivera under Star Records and it's the official soundtrack for the upcoming movie with the same title under Star Cinema. It has twelve tracks and besides our choir and Ms. Jamie Rivera, it also includes various artists like Aiza Seguerra, Juris, Erik Santos, Fatima Soriano (the child healer) and other church choirs.

The album is already available in music stores nationwide and you can also download the songs from their website:
http://www.starrecords.ph/album_details.asp?id=316

Behind the Scenes: Recording of Various Artists
Fatima Soriano/Jamie Rivera/Ars Cantica Ensemble/Liezel Garcia/Chin-Chin Gutierrez
http://www.youtube.com/user/starrecordsinc#p/u/9/DTVmQ-P3Fa4

Sa 'Yo Lamang Lenten Season TVC:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmBaM_bPXlI


Thank you very much. :)

I Love Makati Video Contest

This really made my New Year a bit better. Although I had very limited resources, I still won as one of the runners-up. Thank you to Jupiter Suites! Thank you, Lord! :)

http://www.ilovemakati.ph/2010/01/winners-i-love-makati-video-contest.html

The TRUTH About "Posible"

(This may be too late already but I still want to post this here to show the truth about the "Posible" controversy that was blown out of proportion.)
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Taken from Mr. Dennis Garcia's Facebook Note dated January 11, 2010:

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=244750944434

I am a painfully shy person and this incident has given me extreme (and undeserved) irritation and anxiety. But I have always told my kids – never back off from a fight when you know you are right.

And so… my side.

I have been doing creative work for political clients for nearly two decades. At every opportunity, I make it a point to recommend that my clients use Original Pinoy Music. More often than not, OPM tends to make a campaign material ‘feel good’ and creates a connection with the audience much, much faster. What’s even nicer, it helps rekindle fondness for Original Pinoy Music whose rise to popularity I am proud to be a part of (with my band HOTDOG).

And I have unleashed this passion for OPM every election season. There was “Umagang Kay Ganda” for a Joe de Venecia TV ad in 1998. And the unforgettable “Mr Palengke” in 2004, Mar Roxas’ battle hymn adapted from a Parokya ni Edgar song. In 2007, there was Alan Peter Cayetano’s “Ito ang Gusto Ko” adapted from Francis M’s classic ditty. Same year saw Darlene Custodio knock out Pacman with “Bongga Ka ‘Day”. And the list goes on and on…

Recently, I was tasked to score the music for a Gibo Teodoro TV material. Given a free hand to use whatever music (existing or original) I want… I opted to go OPM.

I chose a gem I heard extensively during the SEA Games in Manila a few years back. The song was "Posible"… and I tracked down the artists and the publisher through my Viva friends.

The publisher turned out to be Ms. Lizza Nakpil. I had the paperwork prepared, the details spelled out… and paid the agreed-upon license fees (one of the perks of my being a composer is the fact that I tend to get charged much, much cheaper fees. Of course, the savings are always passed on to clients. Friend's price!).

I recorded the tune with the intention of staying faithful to the inspiring spirit of the song – with just one, solitary lyric change… ‘Gibo’ instead of ‘Laban’.

Everyone involved was happy with the results. The music, though merely there for setting the mood, was a great fit.

However when the TVC aired… a million speculations and conspiracy theories were hatched.

Each one – wrong.

No. The song was not illegally used. (I’m one of the staunchest defenders of Intellectual Property Rights – and will fight for its enforcement… patayan kung patayan.)

No. The song was not created to make it appear the band was endorsing the candidate.

No. We didn't hire a sound-alike to fool people. (The singer is one of my in-house talents who NEVER mimics other voices)

No. Gibo was not ignorant of IPR laws. (A trusting soul… Gibo left things up to me – showing a complete faith in my judgment, in my knowledge of how to be fair to my fellow musicians and songwriters… and in my inherent desire to always push for Original Pinoy Music.)

Through my nephew Toti Dalmacion, head of Terno Records, I relayed all these points to Rico Blanco (front man/creative guru of Rivermaya) who was being bombarded by tweets that mostly peddled innuendos. He listened and showed appreciation for the facts… and the truth.

I set a meeting with him on Jan. 6 to clear the air and correct any misconceptions. And he readily accepted. On the appointed date, he said there was no need to meet... that he knew there was no bad faith involved and that I should just inform his management team at Warner Music about the license.

Not content with just a phone call, I took pains to have the license sent to Warner Music’s offices on Jan. 7 for their review. (This completely creates doubts about Warner Music’s assertion in their press releases on Jan. 8 and 9 that “all it would have taken was phone call” to fix the matter.)

With the combative actions of Warner, I contacted Lizza to provide me with additional supporting papers for the song… which she did.

I now wonder what motives are behind this whole episode. There was never an instance of bad faith. Why penalize a diehard supporter of OPM? Why so many press releases? Why target Gibo ruthlessly?

But what worries me more is the fact that this incident will needlessly scare candidates from using Original Pinoy Music for their campaigns.

Goodbye, OPM. Hello… ‘nobody, nobody but you’.

[a scanned copy of the copyright was inserted in this portion - please refer to the Facebook Note link above]

PS. I expect a sincere apology from Rico Blanco and his music label. I also intend to file a case of piracy of my lyrics for the songs "O Lumapit Ka" and "Ikaw Pa Rin" which Warner Music brazenly used without remuneration and permission. Hey guys, practice what you preach.
A publisher and his/her artist should settle their differences... and not penalize or harass clients who have no inclination to be part of the mess...

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Obviously, this is contrary to Warner Music's press release that Mr. Dennis Garcia didn't even bother to make a phone call. Geessshhh.... :(

Hypocrisy of Noynoy Aquino's Facebook Page Administrator

From the yellow's Facebook page:
Benigno "Noynoy" S. Aquino III [Admin 2]
"Some candidates are flaunting intelligence and pushing for CHANGE. When you ask for change, that means there really is something WRONG. But let me ask you this, SINCE WHEN DID YOU DIVORCE YOURSELF FROM WHAT WAS WRONG? You can NEVER ask for CHANGE when the one you want to be changed is SUPPORTING YOU."

(Since they block everybody who contradicts them, I'd rather post my reaction here. Oh, yes! That's their interpretation of democracy --- blocking everyone who opposes their views rather than dealing with them decently.)

Noynoy Aquino's slogan states "Tanggalin ang Tiwali, Itama ang Mali" ---
If I may ask: Who joined the Genuine Opposition in 2007 and got Erap's endorsement for the Senatorial Elections? Who met with Erap during the height of Ondoy's relief operations? Who is still a good friend of a convicted plunderer? Come on! Don't be a hypocrite! Since when did you equate JOINING A CONVICTED PLUNDERER as SOMETHING GOOD in the TRUE SENSE of FIGHTING AGAINST CORRUPTION?! How do you expect me (and the rest of the disenchanted Aquino followers since then) to believe that slogan when Noynoy himself is still associated with a convicted plunderer?! Pasens'yahan, mula 2007, markado na ang mga ito sa akin: Aquino, Roxas, Villar, Legarda, etc. And I call them "political pigs" simply because they like to eat what they have thrown up, all for the sake of political convenience. It doesn't take a genius to translate their actions. Do your own cleaning first and look into the mirror before examining another person's dirt. Most of all, please practice what you preach.

P.S. I got blocked from their page just by defending Gibo Teodoro regarding the "Posible" copyright issue that (topic) was initiated by their own yellow member. Take note, I didn't even criticize Noynoy and I still got blocked. Pathetic!

Trillanes --- Look Who's Talking?!?

I have just read an article from Inquirer online:

http://politics.inquirer.net/view.php?db=1&article=20091204-240117

Now, they're talking... Most especially Trillanes --- look who's talking?! What has he contributed to improve this country? Oh, I know... staging 2 coup attempts! Creating chaos and giving paranoia to the innocent people inside those hotels!

Regarding the Ampatuans, what did the past administrations do with their private armies? NONE. It's easier said than done. I agree, this administration is partly at fault. However, although I don't like PGMA, she is not the only one to be blamed. Also, how could you blame Gibo Teodoro who had only served for 2 years as the Defense Secretary? He isn't a superhero. You're expecting a miracle. Think before you open your mouth!

Evil doesn't grow overnight. These private armies have been in existence for the longest time and yet people only point their fingers to the present administration. Aren't the past leaders guilty of the same thing, too? Just because this tragedy happened only now, I don't think that the past administrations are absolved from the same liability. Truth be told, the Ampatuans have been cuddled for DECADES and now we experienced their wrath!

Noynoy Aquino's Campaign Music Video

Honestly, I love the concept of this music video. Who wouldn't given the all-star cast and the dramatic execution? However, I would have appreciated it more if it was done for Ninoy's death anniv or for the EDSA 1's anniv. It's not quite appealing to me knowing that the real purpose of it is to campaign for Noynoy. Also, the Piso for Noynoy drive doesn't make any sense after watching this. Monetarily speaking, he has ALL the big stars to back him up. Well, maybe next time it would be much better if they could put up an ad focusing on Noynoy's own strengths and capabilities instead of showcasing his parents' legacy. ;)

Nevertheless, NINOY AQUINO will live in my heart forever! Truly, NAG-IISA lang s'ya. :)

Feedback on ANC's Forum (Local Government Champions Face-to-Face with Four Presidentiables: Oct. 6)

EDITORIAL: Not ready for the Presidency
The Daily Tribune
October 8, 2009

Going by the forum meeting between a group of local executives four presidential aspirants, the answers Sen. Noynoy Aquino, the Liberal Party presidential bet, gave the local executives showed clearly that he just isn’t ready for the presidency, and worse, he does not appear to have any understanding of how government works or shouldn’t work, under a system of laws.

The answers he gave to the questions raised by the local executives were much too vague and indirect, offering nothing substantive, probably because he has no position on these issues in the first place or he is plain clueless.

He kept on going about democracy and people power in virtually every answer he gave, two issues which are not the issues at this time, but as he was still evidently following the campaign spiels taken by his mother, former President Corazon Aquino, including the "walang alam" bit which is better than having an experienced one that is corrupt, which criticism had been leveled against his mother, he continues to tread this path, which will hardly resonate with the voters, just as it did not resonate with the local officials present in that forum.

But it has been noted for sometime that Noynoy Aquino, even in media interviews, is always vague and never directly answers the questions and at times, even his answers are off tangent. Mar Roxas has also been noted to "save" the day for Noynoy by explaining what Noynoy meant to say.

Another thing going against Noynoy, no matter what his yellow supporters say, is that he can’t seem to make any decision unless and until he gets his four sisters — and their husbands apparently — to agree on a decision to be made.

Even when he holds "unity meetings" with other opposition bets, the sisters and their husbands are always present. Can’t he make a decision on his own and make a firm stand on issues? Is his presidency going to be a presidency of five Aquino siblings?

What is, however, surprising is the ignorance of Aquino in local government issues, which should have been right up his alley, given the fact that Aquino is the chairman of the local governments committee.

It was apparent that Noynoy, as chairman, never studied his lessons, nor for that matter, has he even called some kind of hearing — even now, with the disaster and the unpreparedness of Malacañang and the local government officials in addressing the needs of the typhoon victims, today being questioned by the public.

All Aquino said, by way of answers to the questions posed by the local governments, was that this and that have to studied first.

A bigger mistake he made was telling the local government executives that he wouldn’t, as president, be giving funds to the local government units that do not perform. But hey, such funds, meaning the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) fund is a must, as the law says the local government executives get 40 percent as IRA. To withhold it is unlawful and not to provide any funds to a non-performing LGU even when it is needed is unconscionable.

Outside of that, no specifics were given, no concrete examples were given on how he, as well as the other presidential bets, will go about their presidency in reforming the system, mainly because they really have no idea on how to bring about reforms, given their varied backgrounds.

If truth be told, none of the presidential aspirants invited to speak at the forum were impressive in their answers, but as all politicians do, they all mouthed motherhood statements, and from the faces of the audience, it was evident that the local officials were hardly impressed by the four presidentiables, with some looking much too bored.

As one former local executive put it, "If all that the candidate can tell us is that he will study it, we’ve been through that already. He has to say and do something good for us and the country."

Noynoy just lost a golden opportunity for him to prove to the nation that he is prepared for the presidency.

He just proved that he isn’t and won’t ever be.


About that job interview forum for President
SHOOTING STRAIGHT
By Bobit S. Avila (The Philippine Star)
Updated October 10, 2009 12:00 AM

Last Tuesday morning we watched on ANC the forum in AIM in Makati City with four presidentiables dubbed the 100 Local Government Champions face-to-face with the four presidentiables – Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr., Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, and Sen. Manny Villar. They said this was more of a job interview for the presidency as the people in the forum who were asking the questions where officials of local government units (LGUs) from all over the country.

Call it timely that we also attended the “Understanding Choices Forum on Genuine Leadership and Good Governance: How Shall We Lead the Philippines in 2010” at the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation’s (RAFI) Eduardo Aboitiz Development Studies Center (EADS) last Wednesday, and indeed, it was a great way of getting the criteria done in order to choose who should be the next president of this ailing nation.

The first presidentiable was Defense Secretary Teodoro who answered the question about peace in Mindanao. He pointed out that no one can claim to have a solution to the problems in Mindanao because the problems in Sulu are different from those in Compostela Valley or those in Maguindanao. Obviously, Gibo knows what he’s talking about.

He also pointed out correctly that one way for peace to move forward is for the government to disarm the armed groups roaming around Mindanao for various reasons. I have for so long written about this fact… that armed groups even proudly show their weapons on nationwide TV that only proves that there is a double standard in the application or enforcement of gun laws in this country. Defense Secretary Teodoro also stated that the military has been successful in neutralizing these armed groups… but the major problem is we cannot hold the territory for long. This is very true!

He added that we have only 120,000 men and women in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and another 130,000 in the Philippine National Police (PNP) despite our internal security problems, while Thailand, which has only a single internal threat in the south, has 300,000 men in arms, while Malaysia, which has no internal problems, has 130,000 military men. As I’ve always said, we can boost this number instantly by resurrecting the Reserved Officers Training Corps (ROTC), the cheapest way to recruit the youth.

On the controversial Reproductive Health Bill, Secretary Teodoro had this to say, “Population management is a necessary thing… the RH Bill minus certain punitive provisions may work… but I’m totally against abortion! Religious organizations have a very important role, but not through the state, but through the conscience of the people.” On the issue of Charter change, Gibo was very emphatic that there will be a constitutional convention (con-con) if he is elected president. This is something that brings hope to the rest of the country, more so that we are now seeing that Metro Manila, despite having the biggest slice of the nation’s revenues, cannot even fix itself due to tropical storm “Ondoy,” and federalism might just be the key to give full autonomy to the LGUs.

As for Sen. Manny Villar, he apparently believes that we don’t need a new system of governance… all we need is good leadership. This runs counter to my belief that even with good leadership, which we already had before during the terms of Tita Cory and President FVR, this nation still hasn’t moved forward. So what can we expect under a Sen. Manny Villar presidency… same as usual?

Among the four presidentiables, Sen. Escudero had the best charisma. He is young, talented and knows the issues very well. However, he failed to realize that some of the LGU officials asked their questions in English because they really cannot understand Tagalog. If he listens to good advice as he said he would, then if he is asked a question in English, he must learn to answer it in English, not in his monotone Tagalog.

Last to be interviewed was Sen. Aquino and when asked about Charter change, he replied: “We need to go into a national debate on whether this is what the people want.” He emphasized that his government will be a government of consultation. Perhaps Sen. Noynoy should be told that natural-born leaders take the bull by its horns and lead the people because they know what is good for the people.

If our Lord Jesus Christ consulted his Apostles and threw the question to them on whether he should die on the cross, I’m sure that the Apostles would have voted for him not to sacrifice his life and die on the cross. It’s not too late for Noynoy to change his attitude or approach and be a true leader. This is the first time that the four presidentiables have squared off; if they meet again, we can be more definite as to who we should elect as president.

The Green Team

I'd rather support an unpopular candidate who is competent and has his own visions for our country than someone who is just popular and overrated due to his parents' legacy.

After a long time of being undecided, I have just joined the Green Team (Gilbert "Gibo" Teodoro for 2010). I just hope and pray that he won't fail us.

If you like to join us also, just click on the image below or visit http://www.gibo.ph/.

September 26, 2009 - The Wrath of Typhoon Ondoy

*Video courtesy of YouTube member, mcfly1151985