Eh-hum # 67

Lapse of Judgement

There were mixed reactions when the President has admitted and apologized on national television that she did contacted a COMELEC official during the 2004 Elections (However, I was only able to watch the first part of the message). Some lauded her effort and in that sense, "accepted" the apology while others seem to appreciate the effort but still would want to know the truth behind the tapes. As expected, the radical ones quickly interpreted it as proof of her cheating in the elections. Its a paradox really; whether the President keeps her silence or not, she will still be "condemned" by members of the Opposition and militant groups. The Administration ensured the public that the President did not cheat the elections. But still, the tapes put her in a compromising position since she was the incumbent during that time. While this is the time to lawfully find the truth behind the tapes and the allegations of election fraud, public opinion is fueled by speculations by the media. Too much speculations ultimately prevents us from answering this question: How did the President's conversation got wire-tapped in the first place?

Again, I am for the investigation of this issue by means allowed by our Constitution. Anything beyond that will be detrimental to our economy; We cannot keep resorting to a people power movement to solve our nation's problem. We need to FOCUS!!! The Opposition and militant groups are urging the public to take this fight to the streets. Honestly, with Susan Roces leading them, CAN THEY URGE THE MIDDLE AND UPPER CLASSES TO JOIN THEM? EH-HUM! Do they honestly think that Poe's widow has the capability to lead? She can stir emotions (she's an actress afterall), but I doubt she can be an effective leader.

Eh-hum # 66

After the passing of Pope John Paul II, former Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin died in hospital today (Tuesday morning) at 76 years old. Aside from being the former spiritual leader of the Philippines's Catholic community, he will be best remembered for his role in both People Power I and II (the ousting of Ferdinand Marcos and Joseph Estrada repectively). While he was very much revered by most Filipinos, critics called him a "politician-priest" because he interfered in state affairs. But the cardinal defended his actions, saying in his retirement speech in 2003: "Politics without Christ is the greatest scourge of our nation." Saint or not, he will surely go down in Philippine history as a man who's not afraid to express himself.

***

Its been a while since I wrote something relating to Philippine socio-political issues (however, the posts were not really an in-depth analysis of such concerns; just my opinion). I need not discuss in detail what is happening right now, just a few key words: Jueteng, Wire-Tapping, Election fraud, destabilization plots. I will make this one short.

Oh yeah, these issues have been the center of media-attention and as we move on, it gets messier and messier to the point that it becomes confusing. For example in the wire-tapping issue, first there was Paguia, then Ong, then Doble who claims that the Erap Estrada's mistress, Laarni Enriquez is also involved. Geewhiz. Both the Senate and the House have started, and will continue, hearings/investigations on such issues (Senate on Jueteng, which will resume on the June 24; and today, a House inquiry on the wire-tapping issue and the alleged election fraud by Arroyo).

Generally speaking, these hearings were conducted to shed light on these scandals, which seems fair. But, one cannot help but notice that these congressional hearings were not just for the public's benefit; it can serve as a convenient vehicle for the Opposition to discredit the Arroyo Administration (to demand for her resignation and for them to move in). Am sure they will be saying: No, this is for the Filipino, blah, blah, blah. Yeah, right. As they say (in the describing the U.S.) there are no permanent allies, only permanent interests. And yes, both the Administration and Opposition have permanent interests.

The Arroyo Administration is not doing very well in the ratings (Oh yeah, how do these surveys work? I have never been interviewed for such surveys. What gives?) because of these issues and it raises a lot of questions. Nonetheless, I will not be calling for the ouster of Arroyo in the streets; I rather have a constitutional ruling on these matters. I am weary of them solons grandstanding or asking stupid questions (paging Loi). Moreover, there is no guarantee that the country will be better off, if and when the President is impeached, especially since both Marcos and Estrada loyalists are alive and kicking And besides, the opposition has not given one freaking concrete and feasible suggestion of what will become of the government or the country when Arroyo does resigns.

I like to end this with a few questions to our dear, dear solons: Shouldn't you be looking into our country's problems and drafting relevant resolutions or bills on how to deter such issues? Will we only be seeing you in action during such hearings when the media are present? Also, for those party list congressmen/women (who are mostly militant groups), since you don't represent any district, how are you spending your pork barrel (thanks to Dubids for this one)? I hate to think that the money, coming from the pockets of taxpayers, fund your rallies (it has always been baffling to me that these rallies are complete with banners and huge paper mache figures eventhough the poor are the ones conducting it).

As Jesus Christ said: Who among who have not sinned, cast the first stone.

Eh-hum # 65

It just dawned on me that the HENYO blog is already a year old. Sweet. Though I must admit that I was unable update it as often as I initially wanted, at least that this project didn't just...vanish. Not bad at all. Happy blogging to me and to all you bloggers out there. :)

***

In my January 20, 2005 entry, I mentioned that I wanted to see two films: Mr. and Mrs. Smith and Batman Begins. Amazingly, both movies are now showing at local cinemas. While I have yet to see the Dark Knight, I am sure the film promises more action and acting (the latter being totally absent from the last Batman flick) thanks to the talented Christian Bale. The only thing, ehem person, that gets in the way of making me excited to see the film is Katie Holmes. No offense to the former Dawson's Creek star's fans, I can't understand why people are so enamored by her since she's not strikingly beautiful. I find her pretty, but definitely not drop-dead gorgeous. And what's the deal with her and Tom Cruise? Some support their so-called relationship but I find it kind of...weird. Oh well, suddenly, Tom's not so hot these days.

***

I was able to watch the Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie starrer last Philippine Independence Day (Mabuhay po sa ating lahat! Nawa'y malagpasan ng ating bansa ang mga suliranin na hinaharap ng ating gobyerno and ng sambayanang Pilipino) at the newly renovated SM Cinemas in North Edsa. Let me just say that I like Angelina Jolie. She's a really good actress, a devoted mother and a United Nation's Ambassador of Goodwill (aside from being an exotic beauty, of course). On the other hand, Brad Pitt, even at 41, is still hot. Not really a fantastic actor, but his presence always make an impact. There is much hype about this movie; fueled by Pitt's divorce from Jennifer Aniston and his and Jolie's alleged affair while filming Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Then there's that infamous paparazzi shot (sorry, can't find the pic) where in Jolie, her son Maddox and Pitt enjoying quality time by the beach in a Kenyan resort. Actually, the picture did not put any of them in a "compromising" position, meaning, no kissing or hugging or whatever. The shot looked more like this: Pitt was busy helping Maddox sculpt a sand castle while Jolie looks on. Oh yeah, that's a lot to drool about. Nonetheless, the rumors (or maybe not) did helped the movie earn $51 M last weekend and proved a point: Pitt and Jolie make a very sexy couple onscreen.

Again, the "scorching hot" couple

Overall, I enjoyed the film. The thought of them being assasins was great and they looked cool while doing. While the premise of the movie was not exactly realistic (which makes perfect sense since this is a movie), the film's humour was appreciated by the audience and the fight and action scenes where really good. Meanwhile, if Pitt and Jolie have something serious going on, one should not be surprised...unless you're blind and couldn't understand why. Nonetheless, I am against extr-amarital affairs; but considering this is Hollywood, these things happen...unfortunately. Besides, in my opinion, I doubt there's any man that can resist the appeal of Mrs. Smith.

source: eonline.com

Eh-hum # 64

Before the more serious stuff(s), here's one of them quizzes.

Beatlemania...groovy. Not a super fan, but I like some of their songs. Thanks to jenny for this quiz.

What Beatle are you? Ringo You love to laugh & be around others. Very laid back & generous. A tad quirky though.

Click Here to Take This Quiz Brought to you by YouThink.com quizzes and personality tests.

Eh-hum # 63

Before anything else, I was surprised by the passing of veteran columnist Teodoro Benigno Jr. Aside from Max Soliven, I like reading Benigno's column in the Philippine Star. He was always insightful and his words always make sense. Its amazing to think that someone as truthful actually served in the government. I hope more journalists and politicians would make him their role model. Definitely one of the country's finest.

***

Dioskopow! I have only one freakin' post for the month of MAY...this will not do at all. So many things to share, so little blogging time. To make it simple, what took most of my time for the past few weeks (aside from WORK, of course) was my MA term paper for summer. While I did cram it (very, very bad habit but can really shake it off), I am really thankful that I got a high for my summer class (also thankful that its only 3 units).

Yep, summer classes. Just a recap, it started late April and ended last May 26, 2005 (at least, for my class). Apart from the discussions at school, we had no exam (AMEN!!!) but we attended this 3-day seminar at Richmonde Hotel. Not complaining because I learned A LOT from the lectures on different topics. Overall, the seminar was very good: we had professors and MA students from the National University of Singapore, all the lecturers knew a great deal and shared some valuable insights, the venue was conducive because it was not too big and was well-ventilated (like sub-zero), we had participants from both the private and public sector, and more importantly, the food was GREAT. YUM! It was cool learning new things out of the classroom. Aside from the lectures, I just realized that I need to study my Nihonggo again. Though I passed yonkyu and sankyu, I was not able to further develop my conversational Japanese. Aayusin ko iyon, pramis.

Technically speaking, my summer vacation from class only lasted for two weeks because today, I registered for the first semester of SY 2005-2006. Classes, methinks, will begin on 14 June 2005 (after Philippine Independence Day). For this coming sem, I'll be taking 6 units. Here we go.

The CONTENDER

I am not a major boxing fan, but I liked watching this reality show from Mark Burnett. Generally speaking, we have here is a show where in several unknown boxers (not really amateurs, but they do not have the popularity of say Muhammad Ali, Lenox Lewis and Manny Pacquiao) battle it out in the ring for $1 million and the title of the Contender. Like Burnett's other reality shows, these boxers were divided into two teams (East and West) that are pitted against each other. Of course, the winning team calls the shots of who will fight who and this entails some strategy (you know, make sure your teammates always win to increase your chance of winning the cash). Losers are automatically eliminated from the Contender Gym and when eight boxers are left, the division becomes non-existent ("merge"). These guys will be fighting for themselves. What made the show even more interesting was its hosts: "Rocky" star Sylvester Stallone and the legendary Sugar Ray Leonard. Plus, since it was set in L.A., you would find some celebrities in the audience during fights. I remember seeing James Caan (the Godfather) a couple of times.

The final episode was last week and I am pleased with the results. Before I get to that, let me say that I liked this kid. However, he became too manipulative and somehow lost his friend's confidence. Good thing that in his final fight, he was able to redeem himself by admitting it is better to get beaten then choose the easy way out. He really showed a lot of heart and courage when faced with a more experienced fighter. I'd say this guy's quite lucky that he has a life beyond boxing (he's a lawyer) unlike the other guys. However, I knew that his chances of winning was slim because he still lacks the experience.

But this guy had it in him to be the winner. I like him for two good reasons: he bears my late grandfather's name and he is amazingly down to earth. Though he did not attend formal schooling, he has the initiative to learn more (ehem, make it three) by reading books. Furthermore, he not only boxes hard, he boxes smart too (fine, fine...four reasons). These qualities made him the champion that night. Though the comeback kid was strong, it was not enough. Plus, his stage dad/trainer was really getting on my nerves. Thank goodness the Latin Snake won or else the show will leave a bad taste in the mouth (well, at least for me; it might be another AR 6).

For me, what made this show addictive was the lives of these boxers. Most of them are family men: doting dads, loving husbands. A few of them are single, but would either be the breadwinner of his family or an admirable son. Also, some of them came from humble beginnings; making them a little naive and all the more charming (example: Sergio shopping for a suit FOR THE FIRST TIME). Lots of emotions here people and I sometimes find myself getting teary-eyed in a couple of epidsodes (example: a surprise visit from Joey's dad, a U.S. marine detailed in Afghanistan). Its even more heartbreaking to see what seems to be a nice guy losing to a more experience fighter. Emotions and more emotions in a supposed tough sport. By the way, its also entertainment; aside from winning a coveted title or the belt, you have to give the audience a good fight, never mind the cuts, the bruising and the concussions. That's boxing for you: rewards are high but the risks are real.

Oh yeah, here's a picture of that momentous the Contender Finale:

Sergio "the Latin Snake" Mora