Eh-hum # 28

GRP Quick Schemes

First, it was the ostensible fiscal crisis. Our economy is in peril, as they say, and if we don’t do something about it, we’re doomed. So, what was the government’s prescription? SAVE THE @#$!! FILIPINO’S MONEY. Oh yeah, we’re on a roll!

Solutions: 1. GMA launched the Austerity Program (Damn. It’s nerve-wracking, really). 2. The proper administration of tax collection (Yep, good, I like that a lot). 3. The GRP must find a way how to effectively purge, once and for all, graft and corruption (Oh dear. Can we say, Mission: Impossible?). 4. Do something about the country’s peace and order situation (Totally agree on that one).

5. Ask donations from everybody (As my friend Quasi would say: HUH?!?) WHAT THE HELL?!?!! In the beginning, it seemed like a good idea, banking on the innate generosity of politicians and businessmen (yeah, right). But, I don’t consider it as a solution. Solutions are expected to be LONG TERM. Asking donations may help, but for how long? If those politicians keep giving their money, the people will become AWFULLY suspicious that for a honest salary of P30,000.00++ per month, how come they are able to shell out millions of pesos in a snap? AHA, GOTCHA!!! For a time, this “solution” was highly publicized. Come on people! It’s a quick solution to a massive problem. GEEEZZZZZ.

Another quick scheme is the FOOD COUPONS, as an answer to hunger. Hmmm. Okay, that’s nice and all but, doesn’t that encourage indolence? I mean, they (the poor) just wait for the free food (YIPEEEE!!!!) and not attempt to make something out of their lives. What they need are programs that would assist them in the beginning, then eventually, they have (they must) to be on their own. It’s good that the GRP admitted that the coupons would be only temporary and now, they are thinking that the GRP should subsidize the food allocation (costing P6 Billion a MONTH!) for the poor. Uh-huh. Not bad, but not totally good either. While we shall witness (we should be assured) that the government funds are being utilized for the better good, am still suggesting those livelihood programs.

“Keep giving a man fish, he will learn nothing. Teach him how to fish, he will never grow hungry”. Or something like that.

On the Songbird

Two weeks ago, I was on my way home using the UBER-convenient MRT, I came across this billboard of Channel 7’s new soap: Forever in My Heart. First of all, I think it’s a pretty boring title. I mean, I still prefer those drama titles using just one Filipino word. Anyway, that’s not what this is about. In the billboard, we find Richard Gomez, Ariel Rivera and of course, the heroine of the soap (and among other Channel 7 productions), Ms. Regine “Asia’s Songbird” Velasquez.

Ms. Velasquez the Songbird. In the beginning, Regine was this young lady from Bulacan with an unbelievable voice. It was unique and it paved the way for a rewarding career. I remembered she starred in this corny movie that featured her singing prowess with a duet with one of the lead characters. It wasn’t a flattering arrangement, but what the hell, it’s still a movie and definite exposure. And then there were the major international singing contests. I was able to watch one and she was AMAZING. And after that, she had concerts and shows and albums and more movies. Sorry to say, but while Ms. Velasquez became more popular, she began to physically MORPH as well (nice nose). It was WAY OBVIOUS people, so no denying here.

Let me just share a few insights on the Songbird. First, I find Ms. Velasquez voice more beautiful before than it is now. Though she can still reach the highest note, it was not as unique as before. Second, for someone who is famous, I think it’s about time to coordinate with a professional designer. It was in the now renamed “Search for a Star” episodes that I saw the Songbird wearing some totally unsightly gowns (short dresses a definite no). You may be adored by the Filipino masses, but that’s not an excuse to wear anything less than haute-couture. Third, the acting. I am not too sure of her acting. She’s a wonderful singer and all, but a serious actress? I am still doubtful. It’s the same way I feel about Kris Aquino: excellent TV host, still a questionable actress. Fourth, the way she speaks (my mom would agree with me on this one) English. She does this thing with her mouth in order to achieve this certain (pa-sosyal) accent, and honestly, it’s pretty annoying. And lastly, I think she’s a little overexposed. I think Channel 7 is riding on her popularity way too much without really thinking if she can give 100% to the task. You may be good in one thing, but that doesn't mean you can do everything. Give her a break guys, the lady deserves it.

Nope, I don't hate the Songbird. Again, I am just sharing my insights (besides, this is my blog). Maybe, it wouldn’t hurt if we don’t see her on TV 24/7 since it’s possible that she’s going to burn out fast. Too much work and no play, makes a diva lose her star quality by being overworked.