tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74695882024-03-14T04:10:07.931+09:00HENYOISMMga iniisip, opinyon at nararamdaman na kontra A.I.D.S. (as if doing something)HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.comBlogger290125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-80217938500206630972009-11-16T07:56:00.002+09:002009-11-16T08:52:17.415+09:00Eh-hum # 289<i><b>I'm baaaaccckkk</b></i>.<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yes, yes, I know it has been three months and unfortunately, I have been busy. Well, if I were more organized I would be updating my blog on a daily basis. But its good I have some free time to share that:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">1) After almost two months of waiting, I finally got my grade for my comprehensive exams: I passed and got an A-. Very contented, since I was praying at least a B. Now, I can move on and start researching for my thesis topic and proposal defense.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">2) Huge changes at work. Not only we have a new boss, the unit to which I belong is sort of "evolving" (I'll just leave it at that). However, some administrative concerns that may not considered as good news for most. Will be praying extra hard for order and fairness (<b><i>Side note</i></b>: Unnecessary drama last month. Funny and annoying how sometimes parents refuse to believe that their children, especially those who are of age, can make their own decisions. Instead, they blame it on other people and the supernatural. <b>Puh-leeze</b>). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">3) Speaking of work, our guests from abroad will be arriving this Saturday. Hence this week is hell week. Good luck to us (our last activity which was held in September was a hit; we are drawing inspiration from that)!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">4) Important lesson: It pays to be humble.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">5) Election fever is here and will not go away until the votes have been tallied. Have not decided my President and VP, etc. I am waiting for a dove to descend from heaven and anoint the most fit to occupy the highest political position in the country (or I could file the whole dove thing under "never" and pray for the best. *sigh*).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">6) Totally a fan of the comedy show <b>"</b><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Big_Bang_Theory"><b>The Big Bang Theory</b></a><b>"</b>. Discover your inner geek! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">7) Finally, <a href="http://sports.inquirer.net/breakingnews/breakingnews/view/20091115-236416/Pacquiao-TKOs-Cotto-makes-history"><b>we congratulate the PACMAN for a stunning win last Saturday (Sunday local time)</b></a>. For a minute there, I was worried. But kudos to my brother (and resident sports analyst) for believing in the <i><b>Pambansang Kamao</b></i> and boldly predicting that he will triumph and get his 7th title. Glad to have witnessed a historic event. (<b><i>Side note</i></b>: But a suggestion to those who gets to choose who sings the Philippine National Anthem: two or three heads are not necessarily better than one. This singing group, whose name escapes me at the moment, were pretty and well dressed, but I was not impressed. Again, I can't believe they overlooked <b>Lea Salonga</b> for this. Well, maybe the trio works for GMA 7? That would've explained a lot. But at least, they got the lyrics right.) </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whew. That pretty much sums it up. Hopefully it won't take me another two or three months to write my next post. Oh well. </div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-11146933654157740732009-08-03T08:24:00.003+09:002009-08-03T11:13:53.107+09:00Eh-hum # 288<b><i>What would Cory do?</i></b><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I join the rest of the country in expressing heartfelt condolences to the Aquino family for their loss. In addition, the country lost an icon of democracy and peace. Her regime was not perfect, it was marred by coup attempts and controversies (Mendiola Massacre, power shortages, etc.). But as we know, the transition from martial rule to civilian authority was not easy for the Filipino people, and she, a simple housewife, took the reins at a truly challenging period for the nation. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=492616&publicationSubCategoryId=64"><b>What is even more sad with the passing of former President Cory Aquino is that there are still remnants of the old martial rule walking about</b></a>. I am talking about them Marcos cronies who were her political rivals. Perhaps there is some truth to that old Filipino saying, "<i>Ang masamang damo ay matagal mamatay</i>".</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Here we go...</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When things couldn't get any worse, we hear Kris Aquino-Yap(ping) <i>thanking</i> the Marcoses and Joseph Estrada for <i>their support</i>. Talking about adding insult to injury. Why am I not surprise? Let me take you back to the days when Ms. Aquino-Yap had a talk show on Channel RPN 9, when she had Bongbong Marcos as guest and her gestured distressed the former President. She also forgot the time when <a href="http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleid=426412"><b>Tita Cory apologized to Estrada and the reaction that got from the civil society</b></a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Aquino family's decision to refuse Malacañang's offer for a state burial was their business and should be respected; hence, I was hoping they wouldn't have to explain why. Well Ms. Aquino-Yap decided to do it anyway, and unfortunately it may further divided the nation (in her logic, one of the reasons was the supposed pull-out of the former President's security details). From what I heard, some of the family members just didn't want to get involved in politics. <i>Naive</i>? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reality check</b>, from the moment politicos like Erap and other so-called Cory "friends" and "supporters" have been visiting her and hosting masses for her recovery then, it has become a vehicle for these folks for media mileage and support from the voters this coming election. Like what <b>Mr. Cito Beltran</b> said in his article (see link above), how ironic it is to see those trapos who have betrayed her in the past and now claim to be close friends with the family. I am not being cynical, just realistic. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If Cory can see all of this happening, what would she do? I am sad that all of these are happening at the expense of the former President's death. So Kris, don't be naive and say that your clan is "small" (compared to the current regime) and helpless and all that. Think again; these trapos and former cronies see the (politcal) potential in expressing their sadness for Tita Cory's passing. In addition, by expressing <b>publicly</b> your appreciation for Erap's and Marcoses' support (<i>brrrr</i>) and Noynoy's disappointment for a possible GMA visit, you have unwittingly made this a political issue. Again, not cynical, but realistic.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With all of this craziness, I am glad that the former President (and <a href="http://www.iamninoy.com"><b>Ninoy</b></a>) are in a better place right now.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Just tie a yellow ribbon on the old oak tree...</i></b> </div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-72555052820255782372009-07-06T11:42:00.002+09:002009-07-06T11:54:14.308+09:00Eh-hum # 287<b>Randomness:</b><div><br /></div><div>1. <i>Darna</i> 2.0 in GMA 7 - an excuse for Marian Rivera to be in a bikini/two piece on a daily basis (really, forget the acting or the storyline).</div><div><br /></div><div>2. <i>Rosalinda</i> also on GMA 7 - basically, the lead actress is Marian Rivera Version 2.0 (YAWN); her legit showbiz pedigree gone to waste.</div><div><br /></div><div>3. Koreanoveles on both ABS-CBN, GMA - our local talents (writing) have lost their knack; Filipino television has been reduced to dubbing imported series and worse, making Filipino versions of said dramas.</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Wala lang.</i> </div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-80551097744072944622009-06-17T10:42:00.007+09:002009-06-26T09:53:54.117+09:00Eh-hum # 286HAPPY, HAPPY <b>5th BIRTHDAY</b> TO THE <i>HENYO</i> BLOG (on 29 June 09)!!!<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">What's a birthday celebration without KARAOKE/VIDEOKE?! So for your (our) enjoyment, please sing along with a moving rendition of that ultimate karaoke number, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_Eclipse_of_the_Heart"><b>Total Eclipse of the Heart</b></a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But wait, THERE'S MORE! This is not just any version of <a href="http://www.bonnietyler.com/"><b>Bonnie Tyler</b></a>'s 80s hit, it's the <b>LITERAL</b> version that went viral just recently. Literal means the song is about the events in the music video. So, turn around bright eyes and get a load of this:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre; font-family:Arial;font-size:10px;"><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/lj-x9ygQEGA&hl=en&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/lj-x9ygQEGA&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></span></div><br /><br />***<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">On a sadder note, <a href="http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1907269,00.html"><b>the undisputed King of Pop died today at age 50</b></a>. While his career was marred by erratic behavior, plastic surgeries and allegations of child abuse, Jackson will remain one of the most influential and talented entertainers of the 20th Century. Without a doubt, he was at his finest when performing his best songs and busting his best moves. And we shall remember him that way.</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPOSf3pip50lOFBLp3m1f8f_7x1JzjeuMTXdrw5oe4ry1sc0zVf5CjU-Gq6FJxttH6zbv7CABv49B_kaoPyhulTcIpXwSDRCSwY035_TmMyFhgvJGw4eyAUgoEZpFYCa8_ilt2ig/s1600-h/Smooth+Criminal.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 234px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPOSf3pip50lOFBLp3m1f8f_7x1JzjeuMTXdrw5oe4ry1sc0zVf5CjU-Gq6FJxttH6zbv7CABv49B_kaoPyhulTcIpXwSDRCSwY035_TmMyFhgvJGw4eyAUgoEZpFYCa8_ilt2ig/s320/Smooth+Criminal.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351429554502769346" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.michaeljackson.com/"><b>Michael Jackson</b></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>(1958-2009)</b></div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-76220326163491351362009-06-17T09:09:00.005+09:002009-06-17T10:58:29.043+09:00Eh-hum # 285<div style="text-align: justify;">On the way to work today, I heared the radio ads by three Senators: <b>Manny Villar</b>, <b>Mar Roxas</b> and <b>Loren Legarda</b>. Among the three, Villar's had the most airtime (it was the longest). <i>*Sigh*</i> In the Philippines, it is never too early to start campaigning for the next national elections in 2010. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">***</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Methinks the most controversial issue to date is House Resolution 1109, or resolution passed at the Lower House calling for the convening of a constituent assembly (CON-ASS) to propose amendments to the Constitution without the Senate. According to the national dailies,<b> </b><a href="http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090617-210872/Con-ass-petitions-junked"><b>the Supreme Court junked a petition submitted yesterday by "taxpayers" against the said resolution</b>.</a> The high-court called the petition premature and stating that proponents of the resolutions have yet to "perfom a positive act" (read: do anything substantial vis-a-vis CON-ASS) that would merit an intervention from the SC. True; it has been a waiting game of sorts since HR 1109 was approved. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For me, I have not seen anything concrete; perhaps that is why the rallies last week were not so popular (especially to annoyed Makati employees who had a hard time communiting), its more on noise rather than substance. Most of the time, we are left to speculate of what will the House solons (PGMA allies) will do next. According to the Speaker, they will convene after PGMA delivers her SONA next month. Personally, I am not as informed as the others on this whole CON-ASS issue; perhaps this is a good time for me (and most of the Filipinos) to study the moves of key politicians and read the dailies. As the SC ruling said, <a href="http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=478360&publicationSubCategoryId=63"><b>"It is not an open invitation for the ignorant and ignoble to file petitions that prove nothing but their cerebral deficit"</b></a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hence, if we want our voices to be heard and our vigilance not wasted, our actions should be based on credible information and a good understanding of the issue at hand.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">***</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was feeling under the weather last Sunday and yesterday. Because I went to <a href="http://www.ateneo.edu/"><b>school</b></a> last Saturday, the first thing that came to mind was <a href="http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/"><b>H1N1</b></a>. I have the sniffles and am coughing a bit, but thank goodness I didn't have a fever. I am now on the road to recovery, thanks to countless glasses of pineapple juice and certain medications. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">H1N1 can be fatal, but let us not forget that other equally (perhaps even more) dangerous disease, <a href="http://www.who.int/topics/dengue/en/"><b>Dengue</b></a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">***</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Good riddance to the circus that is the Hayden-Katrina Senate hearing (Great, another in-aid-of-legislation hearing gone to waste; <i>did it help at all?</i>). Please, let us forget about these two and tackle the issue of pronography/cybercrimes/cybersex rationally without the unnecessary drama. Moreover, please let a more credible politician handle this issue, rather than <a href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20090531-208062/The-morality-of-Sen-Bong-Revilla"><b>a notorious womanizer and sexist</b></a>. <i>Eh-hum</i>. </div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-57960572819149896972009-06-01T16:37:00.007+09:002009-06-02T08:32:13.783+09:00Eh-hum # 284Yesterday, <a href="http://and-mysticism.livejournal.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">my sister</span></a> and I decided to spend time at the <a href="http://www.ayalaland.com.ph/article/ayala_malls_trinoma"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">mall</span></a>, by eating out, shopping and watching a movie. For the last item, we watched <a href="http://www.sonypictures.net/movies/terminatorsalvation/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Terminator Salvation</span></a>.<div><br /></div><div>As you may have read, <a href="http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1899997,00.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">critics are divided with the movie</span></a>. Moreover, many fans of the franchise did not like it because it lacked the triumvirate: <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Cameron"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">James Cameron</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linda_Hamilton"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Linda Hamilton</span></a> (and her uber-cool one hand shotgun pump in T2) and the original Terminator, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arnold_Schwarzenegger"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">California's Governator</span></a>. Well, Schwarzenegger, made a "cameo", but it wasn't really him, just his likeness. In addition, that <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">was</span> Hamilton in the tapes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, for the record, I enjoyed it (for what it is). Though <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1899698,00.html">beautiful as he is</a>, this is not <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Bale"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Christian Bale</span></a>'s best performance. Thus, I give credit to Australian actor <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sam_Worthington"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Sam Worthington</span></a> (below) for giving the movie "heart". </div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcIQ-kmrxkItrsT-TBUTnAdsxrUBI3bGxVMo7q730skAyS2Ze-aNAzn6jFRu83WGfz6gX9sog7SDzGW8Wgy1-b65IMYvgIHwb6s6fD-0-Vo8Puaj91H_dQS6_nbvzr_39GkASLVQ/s1600-h/sam_worthington.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcIQ-kmrxkItrsT-TBUTnAdsxrUBI3bGxVMo7q730skAyS2Ze-aNAzn6jFRu83WGfz6gX9sog7SDzGW8Wgy1-b65IMYvgIHwb6s6fD-0-Vo8Puaj91H_dQS6_nbvzr_39GkASLVQ/s320/sam_worthington.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342276050873929506" border="0" /></a><br />After watching the film, I understood why Cameron handpicked him to be in T4 (he's the lead in Cameron's <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGs3_1qKl34">Avatar</a>). Well, I don't know about you ladies, but I certainly don't mind seeing more of Sam in the future...hopefully mine. <span style="font-style: italic;">Eh-hum.</span>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-85328368824650376792009-05-25T10:24:00.007+09:002009-05-26T10:23:39.036+09:00Eh-hum # 283<div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Two pieces of Pinoy news:</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"></span></div><div>Good news for all bookworms! PGMA ordered the Department of Finance to lift the taxes imposed on imported books and reading materials. </div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>According to (Malacañang) Palace officials, the directive was prompted by <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=471074&publicationSubCategoryId=63">"a torrent of criticism on the move of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), which is under the supervision of the finance department, to impose the duties."</a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; "></span></span></div><div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We can now visit our friendly neighborhood bookshops for those hard-to-get titles without the fear of unnecessary overpricing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">***</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I doubt if anyone in this country (and other Pinoys abroad) has not heard of the latest showbiz scandal to rock the nation: The Halili-Kho Sex(ploitation) Video. Well, might as well join the bandwagon and share my thoughts on this brouhaha.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Well, I give credit to Katrina Halili for admitting, amidst tears, that she was indeed the unlucky lady getting screwed (no pun intended) by the not-so-good doctor, Hayden Kho. Prior to that, It took a lot of guts for her to admit that she and Kho were lovers, while the latter was with Ms. Vicky Belo. When this issue first surfaced, I knew that a number of snide and sexist remarks would be thrown at the starlet. I am definitely not a fan, but the lady deserves justice, since she has been wronged. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nonetheless, let us not immediately condemn Kho to death. As of now, I sense that he is indeed guilty of capturing his (s)excapades on video without the knowledge of the other party (and statutory rape as well with another sex video that leaked). But distributing the video to pirates, somebody else <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">could be</span> liable for that. It is possible that he made these videos for his personal use only. But again, it is truly <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">unacceptable</span> that he recorded the whole thing without Katrina et. al. knowing it. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I agree with the idea that what people do within the confines of their bedroom is their business. If they decided to share their, uh, "intimate moments" with the rest of the world and earn from it, then that's pornography. I agree with <a href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Mr. Condrad De Quiros of the Inquirer</span></a>, <a href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20090524-206897/Naked-truths"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">the recording isn't the issue, it's the distribution</span></a>. If the Halili-Kho video, among others, were not leaked, then there is no issue because it's a private affair.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Unfortunately, and expectedly, handling this issue has become a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">circus</span>, with <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">politicos</span> left and right giving their professional opinion on the matter. Well, am sure Sen. Bong Revilla really wants to help Katrina, but what I am hoping is some consistency on the part of our lawmakers. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Why only now to mobilize and put a stop to cybercrimes? I remembered Sen. Madrigal was involved in cases against cybersex dens a few years back, what ever happened to that? Moreover, am sure Katrina Halili is NOT the only victim of a similar crime; what about the others who are victims of more heinous sex-related crimes like rape? Should our "honorable" senators be prioritizing those who do not have Katrina's resources to attain justice. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">We should really stop treating issues as if they are happening for the first time when in fact they are NOT. Also, stop the unnecessary drama and get on with it.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And for the cynical at heart (which I have the tendency to be), <a href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20090524-206896/Talk-of-the-town"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">why is this all happening two years <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">after</span> the video was recorded?</span></a> Since I have to get back to work (hwehe), kindly place your theory in the space provided:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-49559496185346001712009-05-18T14:43:00.008+09:002009-05-19T15:22:51.198+09:00Eh-hum # 282<div style="text-align: justify;">Geeez, I hope I won't get persecuted for this. But this post was inspired by an article from an <a href="http://http//jessicarulestheuniverse.com/2009/05/15/amazing-race-rome/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">alpha blog</span></a> and <a href="http://www.time.com/time/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">TIME.com</span></a>.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many women have expressed that they "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">love a man in uniform</span>". I wonder if "uniform" also includes a priest's habit. The answer would be, more or less, a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">YES</span></span>, especially if the said priest looks a lot like <a href="http://ewanmcgregor.net/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Ewan McGregor</span></a>:</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyFlV5IPSiGadtNsPdOLuse904CdH_MEutfye6i-AWTNasDOFmAtuYHhi-_0hGgCYqiAhHwLTwKcRCvObRaEfzRF0gWbyWaFxsJE7_wvORowKR6A8VQuo-yzZ-C5HBFRxwliCoA/s1600-h/Ewan_McGregor+Angels+and+Demons.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZyFlV5IPSiGadtNsPdOLuse904CdH_MEutfye6i-AWTNasDOFmAtuYHhi-_0hGgCYqiAhHwLTwKcRCvObRaEfzRF0gWbyWaFxsJE7_wvORowKR6A8VQuo-yzZ-C5HBFRxwliCoA/s320/Ewan_McGregor+Angels+and+Demons.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337401593263618482" /></a><br />(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Picture is a cropped version of an <a href="http://www.angelsanddemons.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Angels and Demons</span></a> wallpaper.</span>)</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If the answer to that question is also a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">YES</span></span>, then we would have a difficult time concentrating in mass (or, we have now more reasons why we should attend mass). Not bad, eh? Well, these priests in their dapper habits (preferably <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">McGregor</span>) would not only inspire the faithful to wholeheartedly celebrate mass, it is possible for them to provide inspiration to a fashion collection. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Silly, you say? Well, it already happened, courtesy of the "<a href="http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1728239,00.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Heartthrob of the Vatican</span></a>", <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Georg_G%C3%A4nswein"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Monsignor George Gaenswein</span></a>, who reportedly inspired <a href="http://www.versace.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Donatella Versace's</span></a> Spring 2007 collection. And what does Ms. Versace say about her, uh, muse? Well, she confessed (eh-hum) that she found Father Gaenswein's "austerity very elegant". FYI, Father Gaenswein is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pope_Benedict_XVI"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Pope Benedict XVI's</span></a> personal secretary. And as such, he gets to decide the Pope's activity for the day, accompany him in his travels, organize the Pope's schedule, etc.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to his tall, athletic frame and dirty-blond hair (and his clerical black uniform), the monsignor has attracted the attention of the Italian public, which includes the paparazzi. Not bad, eh? Of course, he prefers the life behind the scenes. Well, with a nickname like "Bel Giorgo", that would be quite tricky.</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb82eFdYJ1tkb3dt5-CkaydyTrdMiuVwVtgRYMk3Srgb5c_LNZqyGWRM83HbOqZD_kYWnQf7Er5DN5EzJnlVmCetumdEtoJpUF1LdYYiU1AdgYvAsOuLFAQZEQbr1JD2argH3ThQ/s1600-h/pope's+secretary.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb82eFdYJ1tkb3dt5-CkaydyTrdMiuVwVtgRYMk3Srgb5c_LNZqyGWRM83HbOqZD_kYWnQf7Er5DN5EzJnlVmCetumdEtoJpUF1LdYYiU1AdgYvAsOuLFAQZEQbr1JD2argH3ThQ/s320/pope's+secretary.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337410004794251138" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7bku_wgmZGkFsmpBRmfVetzYeFwpZ947E6Zy_KfyhkK7gUhNfA0Nu33jYEjwJJ1rgwCe5gkXXsHdGAOveI8qZ70VckuIrhgWlMJn5TKSCWnYRY-VdWkjPRiKLDxAxje3AYql5w/s1600-h/georg_gaenswein_0403.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 209px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy7bku_wgmZGkFsmpBRmfVetzYeFwpZ947E6Zy_KfyhkK7gUhNfA0Nu33jYEjwJJ1rgwCe5gkXXsHdGAOveI8qZ70VckuIrhgWlMJn5TKSCWnYRY-VdWkjPRiKLDxAxje3AYql5w/s320/georg_gaenswein_0403.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337413003388528338" /></a><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">*pictures from <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Time.com</span></span></div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-14535749137493730922009-05-06T09:14:00.005+09:002009-05-11T09:42:23.213+09:00Eh-hum # 281<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Just two things:</span><div><br /></div><div>1. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">CONGRATULATIONS</span> to the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Pambansang Kamao</span> (National Fist) <a href="http://www.mannypacquiao.ph/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Manny Pacquaio</span></a> for knocking out British Boxer (or brawler) Ricky Hatton on the 2nd Round. Read TIME article on PACMAN <a href="http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1895741,00.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">here</span></a>. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">So who's the "joke coach" now, Floyd Sr?</span></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJvI3uVxoEPBoEkxcAMvNnhv0SY1HspAaeaeyfP54o-Er803tIOz3XN0rTDy6SHCGNZ3zObiNuBe2xhjX6_AeM0yFFIfZluPvUPbXfYib35ribGbkuCy4Av41J1Mx59fmmQKbLw/s1600-h/Pacman.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><br /></span><img style="text-decoration: underline;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 220px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAJvI3uVxoEPBoEkxcAMvNnhv0SY1HspAaeaeyfP54o-Er803tIOz3XN0rTDy6SHCGNZ3zObiNuBe2xhjX6_AeM0yFFIfZluPvUPbXfYib35ribGbkuCy4Av41J1Mx59fmmQKbLw/s320/Pacman.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5332500769812914306" /></a><br /><div>And on a more personal note;<div><br />2. R.I.P. to our <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Perdie</span></span>, many thanks for your much appreciated doggy antics.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZncY90hxTtEu8EXKwc-y3pyvCDhoVY6-HqJkrkfpO_SCwEcWA91dI5FcE_LP2dMHgtrocyv2EH2WqYWVxCV-DIGLvMSotmBP5OLHOsfhCVKN86DS7yFr_yMRMJNpPBnPCQ7CwQ/s1600-h/07-24-08_1600.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZncY90hxTtEu8EXKwc-y3pyvCDhoVY6-HqJkrkfpO_SCwEcWA91dI5FcE_LP2dMHgtrocyv2EH2WqYWVxCV-DIGLvMSotmBP5OLHOsfhCVKN86DS7yFr_yMRMJNpPBnPCQ7CwQ/s320/07-24-08_1600.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334360074996915042" /></a></div></div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-30729462090441703202009-04-15T10:41:00.006+09:002009-04-17T10:59:00.133+09:00Eh-hum # 280<div align="justify">An opinion article from the <a href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/"><strong>Inquirer</strong></a> asked this question: <strong><em><a href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20090415-199396/What-if-Estrada-becomes-president-again">What if Estrada becomes president again?</a> <p></p></em></strong></div><div align="justify"><strong><em></em></strong></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">"Perish the thought!", says me who joined People Power II ousting Estrada. What makes the ousted and <strong>convicted</strong> ex-President think that he is qualified to run this country? He's no better than the current regime.<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">There are two major things that caught my attention in his artice: (1) his list of senatorial candidates for the opposition and (2) his answer on how he will solve the situation in Mindanao. I did not include the debate of whether he can indeed run again (his <em>civil rights</em> have been restored due to the pardon), since I have no legal background.<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">His senatorial lists consists of the following: Reelectionist Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Jinggoy Estrada, former Sen. Sergio Osmeña III, Parañaque Rep. Roilo Golez and Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teodoro Casiño (oh really now), United Opposition spokesman Adel Tamano, Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, broadcast journalist Ted Failon, <em>Grace Poe, daughter of bosom friend Fernando Poe Jr.</em> (WTF?!?), and incarcerated Brig. Gen. Danny Lim. Meanwhile, former Sen. Agapito “Butz” Aquino and Makati Mayor Jejomar “Jojo” Binay were listed as "reserves".<br /><br /></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify">I am not going to elaborate, but this pretty much shows how f*cked up Pinoy politics is, which is run by political dynasties, serial <em>balimbings</em>, <em>trapos</em>, and people who have NO experience in Public Administration, Public Policy whatsoever.<br /><br />So, how will the "Kumpare King" solve the crisis in Mindanao?<br /><br /><strong>"<em>Di ba almost solved na yon when I was ousted?” he said. “Camp Abubakar had been captured by the AFP. Now Gloria has given it back to the MILF.”</em></strong><br /><br />Yep, <em><strong>all-out war</strong></em>. Nothing has changed.</div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-41647376113137791412009-04-15T09:29:00.005+09:002009-04-15T10:39:43.807+09:00Eh-hum # 279<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">AAARRRRR</span><br /><br />Being a daughter of a Master Mariner (Captain), who is currently overseas, learning that your dad's ship will pass the coast of <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Somalia">Somalia</a> is like a death sentence. You would rather encourage him to prematurely finish his contract and come home; miles away from the pirates of the East African coast (thankfully, he won't; so does my uncle, a licensed Master). Last Sunday's dramatic rescue of Richard Phillips, the American captain held hostage since April 8 by defiant Somali pirates, gave the impression that we are well on our way in putting a stop to this transnational and costly crime. However, it is just one of out the many incidents of piracy in the high seas and all efforts appear to be floundering in the face of a relentless, quick-to-adapt, resurgent enemy.<br /><br />European countries, particularly the <span style="font-weight: bold;">United Kingdom</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">France</span>, have sponsored <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.un.org/">United Nations</a> resolutions authorizing military action to combat the pirates. Hence, naval ships from the US and European nations were deployed to curb piracy off the Horn of Africa. However, as an article from <span style="font-weight: bold;">TIME</span> states, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1890925,00.html">these operations have yet to yield favorable response.</a> Phillips' rescue, after all, was simply an effort to play "catch-up". A day before his rescue, the pirates have captured another vessel, an Italian tugboat in the Gulf of Aden, which brings the total of high-seas abductions this year to 65, compared with 164 for all of 2008 and 2009. In addition, the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gB7YMEDuCwwY9ncDOtPAkEI4-H2wD97ICSGO4">Associated Press reports that Somali pirates captured four ships and took more than 60 crew</a>, one of which is a Greek-managed bulk carrier, Irene E.M. This "brazen hijacking spree" was said to be caused by the death of three Somali pirates during the rescue operation of Phillips.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">US Defense Secretary Robert Gates reports that the four pirates who attacked t<span style="font-weight: bold;">he Maersk Alabama</span>, were between 17 and 19 years old, or "untrained teenagers with heavy weapons". If that is the case, how come these pirates are able to dodge these well-armed, highly trained and high-tech navies? Experts on maritime security expressed that the <span style="font-weight: bold;">United States</span>, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.nato.int/">NATO</a> and <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://europa.eu/">EU</a> should straighten out organization issues, as well as defining their goals in the Gulf of Aden: to end piracy or to win top honors for their respective military strength. Moreover, there is the issue of poverty, which most likely drives these Somalis to piracy. In this regard, the government of Somali should take a stand. These incidents has apparently exposed "the impotency of Somalia's transitional government". But their leaders, led by the newly installed Somali President Sheik Sharif Sheik Ahmed, hopes to curb this problem, which can contribute to efforts in ending the country's 18-year stint as a failed state.<br /><br />Shipping plays a significant role in world trade. More importantly, Filipinos are a major stakeholder of the maritime/shipping industry, and due to earnings, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.inquirer.net/specialfeatures/seapiracy/view.php?db=1&article=20090414-199217">Filipino sailors are unfazed by threats of piracy</a>. About 40 percent of 800,000 seafarers around the world are Filipinos. And of nearly 250 sailors being held by the pirates, almost 100 are from the Philippines. Hence, it is only natural that we should be supportive of international endeavors to curb piracy in the high seas, whether in Africa or in Asia (in particular, the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piracy_in_the_Strait_of_Malacca">Malacca strait</a>). <br /></div></div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-67584636346842194192009-03-24T08:31:00.002+09:002009-04-05T12:18:30.007+09:00Eh-hum # 278Sorry, am on vacation mode right now, so nothing much to share.<br /><br />Except for this, which is really funny.<br /><br />When worlds collide: comic <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.rickygervais.com/">Ricky Gervais</a> and one of the greatest actors on stage and film, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.mckellen.com/">Sir Ian McKellen</a>, in a brilliant scene from the series <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.hbo.com/extras/">Extras</a>. Sir Ian shares his acting secrets, using his role as <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gandalf">Gandalf</a> in <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.lordoftherings.net/">LOTR</a> as an example. Enjoy!<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/43sbtkQM6zc&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/43sbtkQM6zc&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-32307391408894929262009-03-24T08:18:00.002+09:002009-03-24T08:31:32.997+09:00Eh-hum # 277<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-style: italic;">When worlds collide, part 2 series of 2009</span>. <br /><br />Yes, I thought it would be cool to feature videos (or pictures) of two or more personalities who you don't normally see together but when they do come together, the outcome would be extremely funny, entertaining and interesting.<br /><br />Here, its UK comic hero <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://rickygervais.com/">Ricky Gervais</a> and cute <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.sesameworkshop.org/home">Sesame Street</a> residence <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elmo">Elmo</a>. Enjoy!<br /></div><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Kr9_5uZn6ds&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Kr9_5uZn6ds&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-85802182360487524182009-03-19T13:47:00.002+09:002009-03-19T13:51:34.958+09:00Eh-hum # 276<span style="font-weight: bold;">WHUT?</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">So, it has come to pass: Nicole, or Suzette S. Nicolas in real life, recanted her claims in 2005 that a US serviceman raped her. She submitted an affidavit yesterday and has terminated the services of her lawyer. In addition, Nicole accepted money from the said servicemen and has left for the United States with her American boyfriend. According to her mother, she will be staying in the US for good. In short, Nicole chose to move on.<br /><br />When this sudden “change of heart” on Nicole’s part was published in the national dailies, I expected every Filipino, or anyone who cares, would give his or her two cents worth on the incident. After all, Smith was found guilty by the Makati City Court using evidence that does not suggest consensual sex. So why leave the country? Those who sympathize with her will say the Philippine justice system has failed her; hence, she would rather get the money and the opportunity to leave the country and start a new life. Unfortunately for Nicole, there are people who are not very kind and have already judged her from the very beginning.<br /><br />Her decision to submit her affidavit and leave the case, she will be labeled as any or a combination of the following: a liar, an opportunist, a whore. Back in 2005, people have raised questions about Nicole’s profession in Subic, her priorities and her decision to accompany Smith’s group that fateful night. If she was indeed raped, it was because she deserved it. Moreover, given her questionable lifestyle, should we expect anything less? I admit; I have my doubts at the beginning. I believed that when we make choices, we should also be prepared for the consequences. That night, as an adult, Nicole made her choice, and therefore should know what’s coming next. However, I also learned that a woman (a child, even a man), no matter how shady her profession is or desperate the situation she is in, does not deserve to be physically, sexually or emotionally abused. <br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090318-194696/Nicole-recants-clears-Smith">In yesterday’s Philippine Daily Inquirer</a>, this snippet from her sworn statement struck me: “<span style="font-style: italic;">My conscience continues to bother me realizing that I may have in fact been so friendly and intimate with Daniel Smith at the Neptune Club that he was led to believe that I was amenable to having sex or that we simply just got carried away</span>.” I don’t know if this makes sense, but in my opinion, being friendly or intimate should never be confused with wanting to have sex. She will decide if she wants to sleep with someone or not. No actually means no.<br /><br />We will never truly know if she was indeed a victim of sexual assault. The courts said she was, but her affidavit could challenge the earlier conviction. Nonetheless, she was, as one PDI columnist pointed out, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20090319-194917/Victim-of-circumstance">a victim of circumstance</a>. Apart from the slow justice system we have, were people who rallied behind her really and genuinely concerned about her cause, or did they just used her for their own anti-VFA sentiments? <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.inquirer.net/specialfeatures/subicrapecase/view.php?db=1&article=20090319-194933">Would Nicole be liable for perjury and false testimony in court?</a> How will this affect the other cases of rape in the country? Even though she has left for the US, Nicole has not entirely left the issue behind.<br /></div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-8843879755289092912009-03-18T10:13:00.003+09:002009-03-18T19:30:37.613+09:00Eh-hum # 275HULLO! It's March already, can you believe it?<span style="font-style: italic;"> Eh-hum.</span><br /><br />Before I write anything from everyday life to Philippine politics, I just want to share this:<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/a5TGFOpJsf0&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/a5TGFOpJsf0&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />When worlds collide, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://journal.neilgaiman.com/">Neil Gaiman</a> as guest in <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.colbertnation.com/">the Colbert Report</a>. <span style="font-weight: bold;">ASTIG.<br /><br /></span><span><span style="font-style: italic;">Enjoy!</span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-30319715414029159842009-02-13T10:00:00.003+09:002009-02-13T11:09:17.235+09:00Eh-hum # 274<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHUT?!</span><br /><br />Based on today's papers, the Senate yesterday felt that one way to stop corruption and bid rigging contractors, public works officials and pork barrel holders (ehem) is by calling the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.worldbank.org/ph">World Bank</a> to the stands. Yes, the same institution that submitted an investigative/referral report (<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">waaaayyy</span>) back in November 2007 on certain companies and individuals involved in the alleged collusion. These referral reports, as required by the WB's sanctions procedures, are meant to help government act on allegations of misuse of the Bank's funds. It's logical, really, that an institution like the World Bank wants to make sure that its funds and development aid does not find its way in the hands of private, greedy individuals.<br /><br />I could not help but also <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20090213-189015/Rigging-of-bids-is-an-open-secret">find this Senate investigation unneccesary, as expressed by Neal Cruz of the Inquirer</a>. Bid-rigging and other similiar unlawful activities are an open secret. The Senate, and the rest of the Government, should have worked on this problem <span style="font-style: italic;">A LONG TIME AGO</span>, even <span style="font-weight: bold;">before</span> the WB submitted its referral report in 2007 (two years ago...hello). I find it embarrassing that an organization outside the Philippine government should TELL US that WE have a problem to solve.<br /><br />Our good Senators and the lady Ombudsman went all emotional and patriotic yesterday by calling the World Bank a <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090213-189029/At-Senate-hearing-World-Bank-on-trial">"squatter in Philippine territory"</a>. <span style="font-style: italic;">Ah, okay</span>. Let's not resolve to name-calling. It's a referral report people (available <span style="font-weight: bold;">BACK IN 2007</span>), they are not dictating anything. Am sure our dear leaders can speak with WB representatives on the issue at hand (yes, yes, let's stick to the issue, please) and determine the best practices that would prevent any anomalies vis-a-vis the development funds. I don't think the Bank makes these reports just for the heck of it, their integrity as an organizaton is on the line. If their representatives on the ground heard any allegations of corruption, it is understandable they would want to scrutinize it further.<br /><br />I think the matter is serious enough to merit an investigation on our part (which we should have started, oh, I don't know, <span style="font-weight: bold;">BACK IN 2007!!!</span>). If our dear Senators want to be patriotic, they should've made sure the Filipino taxpayers are getting their money's worth with all of these "in-aid-of-legislation" investigation of theirs.<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Haaay buhaaayy...<br /></span>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-44318436377860329502009-02-04T13:53:00.002+09:002009-02-04T14:06:55.650+09:00Eh-hum # 273This is a tad late, but it is such wonderful news that I just had to share it:<br /><br /><a href="http://journal.neilgaiman.com/"><strong>NEIL GAIMAN</strong></a> WINS THE <a href="http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/alsc/awardsgrants/bookmedia/newberymedal/newberymedal.cfm"><strong>NEWBERY MEDAL</strong></a> FOR HIS LATEST WORK, "THE GRAVEYARD BOOK".<br /><br />There, I shouted it out for the rest of the world to hear.<br /><br />An online article from Publisher's Weekly:<br /><br /><em><strong><span style="color:#006600;">Neil Gaiman Wins Newbery Medal for "The Graveyard Book"</span></strong></em><br /><em><span style="color:#006600;">By Donna Freitas -- Publishers Weekly, 1/29/2009</span></em><br /><span style="color:#006600;"></span><br /><em><span style="color:#006600;">Last fall PW caught up with Neil Gaiman to talk about his newest children’s book, The Graveyard Book, which at the time was hot off the press. This week, Gaiman is recovering from some very exciting news regarding his novel: waking up during the wee hours of Monday morning to a chorus of 14 children’s librarians shouting on speakerphone that his book had won the Newbery Medal.</span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#006600;"></span></em><br /><em><span style="color:#006600;">“I was on so little sleep and had not expected or even dreamed that I would win,” Gaiman said about the 5:30 a.m. call to his cell phone—he was in Los Angeles doing a press junket for the film based on Coraline, which is set for release February 6. “The only thing going through my head was: ‘Don’t swear. It’s wrong. They’re librarians.’ And then I was informed I couldn’t say anything for another hour until it was announced. So I just sat there and wrote a blog entry, made myself some tea, and phoned my agent who was over the moon, and my editor, Elise Howard, who was crying she was so excited.”</span></em><br /><br />Read the rest of the article <a href="http://www.publishersweekly.com/article/CA6633308.html?nid=2788"><strong>here</strong></a>.<br /><br />Congratulations, Mr Gaiman, you deserve it!<br /><br />***<br /><br />In other book-related news, <a href="http://www.stephenking.com/"><strong>Stephen King</strong> </a>has something to say about <a href="http://www.stepheniemeyer.com/"><strong>Stephenie Meyer</strong></a>: <a href="http://omg.yahoo.com/news/stephen-king-on-twilight-author-stephenie-meyer-can-t-write-worth-a-darn/18406?nc"><strong>"...can't write worth a darn. She's not very good".</strong></a> <br /><br />Eh-hum.HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-45766983643259367422009-02-01T19:19:00.002+09:002009-02-01T19:26:52.039+09:00Eh-hum # 272Another side to <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alan_Rickman">Alan Rickman</a>, when not terrorizing certain students at <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harry_Potter">Hogwarts</a>. Plus, its a really lovely song from the UK band, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.texas.uk.com/">Texas</a>. Enjoy!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/X4-gNN8WRHo&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/X4-gNN8WRHo&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-76381987319749756652009-01-27T14:48:00.004+09:002009-01-27T15:09:18.172+09:00Eh-hum # 271<em><strong>Cougars on the prowl and the last of the Spurmo(s)</strong><br /></em><br />Once you give a certain phenomenon a name, it becomes acceptable or at least less of a taboo to most people. One of which is the concept of a “<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cougar_(slang)#Slang_terms"><strong>cougar</strong></a>”. Of course, am not talking of the large exotic feline also referred to as a Mountain Lion, but close: women in their mid-30s (and beyond) who date younger men (10 years their junior usually).<br /><br />Cougars, I mean, these ladies are literally on the prowl for, ehem, fresh meat. Well, I am not saying its wrong; women can date whoever they wish, as long they are of majority age (statutory rape should work both ways). But I find it all too confusing. I mean, why would an independent, successful and smart lady would date some eye candy whose mentality has not gone beyond college, bank account is virtually non-existent and foresight still under construction? Wouldn’t they be a liability rather than an asset? Could this be all about sex and not feeling one’s age? Isn’t it creepy that you and your teenage daughter have the same taste in guys?<br /><br />Because how they are portrayed in the media, especially in the US’ entertainment industry, cougars are here to stay. I am sure they are couples out there who have the same set-up, but since they are not involved in the circus that is Hollywood, they are able to work out their differences without all that drama. Several weeks ago, my sister and I were figuring out who among the Philippine showbiz personalities fit the typical cougar category. “Kris Aquino?” I suggested. She made a face, “She has to have sex appeal”. Oh. Right. Sorry, Kris.<br /><br />***<br /><br />All this talk about feisty females brings me to another topic: Spurmo (what in God’s name are we doing to the English language?). Hmm. Without looking at the spelling, one could think we are talking about a man’s, uh, “boys” having the capacity to swim up the stream to meet their, uh, “date” and thus procreate. Wink, wink, nudge, nudge.<br /><br />Yes and No, it is actually an acronym: <a href="http://www.spurmo.com/"><strong>“Straight, proud, unmarried male over 30”</strong></a> (well, it should’ve been called SPURMO 30, like a questionable household appliance). Characteristics of the archetypal Spurmo are as follows:<br /><br />1. Checking out a woman means checking out if she has a wedding ring;<br />2. Your ex-girlfriends have “real” children to take care of (not men pretending to be boys);<br />3. You avoid the hot ladies in their early twenties because they tend to call you “tito”, “kuya”, or worse, “sir”;<br />4. Most of your earnings go to handsome sports car, car accessories, high-tech gadgets and other similar merchandise;<br />5. In your opinion, Cindy Crawford is still the best looking supermodel that ever lived;<br />6. In pop culture, Hannah Montana is still a child. Thus, you relate to her one-hit-wonder of a father; and<br />7. Recession has nothing to do with the economy, but with your hair.<br /><br />The Spurmo is a single, successful fellow who does whatever he wants because he can pretty much support himself. Of course, there are some disadvantages, like being labeled as a “stud muffin”, being constantly set-up by your friends’ wives’ single girl friends, and dwindling number of serious drinking buddies since most of them are now family men. But do not fret; with dedication and hard work, you might end up being the local version of Hollywood’s alpha male and super spurmo, George Clooney. I said might.<br /><br />(The topic on “spurmo” is taken from a local men’s magazine, <a href="http://www.manualmag.com/aboutus.php"><strong>MANUAL</strong></a>. This is what happens when your friendly neighborhood Starbucks ran out of more sensible reading material. But it was entertaining nonetheless).HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-28098364340708578472009-01-17T12:15:00.005+09:002009-01-17T15:55:53.938+09:00Eh-hum # 270<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Subject to change without prior notice</span>.<br /><br />Yep, I am working again. Let's just say they made me an offer I can't refuse; the compensation is (way) better than my previous job and the office is within walking distance from the train station. More importantly, I will doing some REAL research work, thus there is room for professional growth.<br /> <br />Higher salary means more responsibilities. While I'll be able to save more, balancing work and school will be challenging. But what's life without any? I just hope to finish my MA by 2010.<br /><br />***<br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20090112-182759/QC-govt-spending-for-national-roads">An opinion article online</a> caught my attention the other day. It reminded me of a conversation I had with a Navy officer last year, regarding the very confusing role of Representatives (or Congressmen/women) in local governance. Here an excerpt of the article I am referring to:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 51, 0);">"On the other side of the spectrum is the Quezon City government under Mayor Feliciano Belmonte. The city has been spending for the maintenance, improvement and construction of new roads although they are national roads that ought to be funded by the national government through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), according to Mayor Belmonte in a private interview. But because the DPWH is not provided enough funds by Congress (most of taxpayers’ money go to the legislators in the form of pork barrel funds and kickbacks), it cannot keep up with its responsibilities. So the QC government, the richest city in the Philippines (P3 billion in the bank), through a combination of high taxes, efficient tax collection and judicious spending, has to tide over the DPWH with loans in order to finish road projects.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 51, 0);">For example, the QC government has paid private landowners for the right of way for the long-delayed Congressional Avenue that will connect Edsa to Luzon Avenue that, in turn, connects to Commonwealth Avenue. Congressional now connects to Tandang Sora and will soon be connected to Visayas Avenue in the west and to Luzon Avenue in the east. The whole stretch will be completed, according to the DPWH, in the first half of 2009 after the relocation of squatters who have flocked to the road right-of-way.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 51, 0);">Meanwhile, the QC government has also bought the right-of-way to connect Commonwealth Avenue to Quirino Avenue in Novaliches. From there, the road will connect to NLEX. Thus, travelers can proceed smoothly from southern Luzon through C-5, through Commonwealth and Quirino avenues to NLEX and northern Luzon. That would reduce travel time from north to south and cut the shipping costs of goods.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 51, 0);">Some QC residents have expressed the wish, though, that the good mayor spend some of city hall’s abundant money to rid the city of squatters that give it problems in peace and order, health and sanitation and give the city the title of “squatter capital of the Philippines.”</span><br /><br />So, if the Office of the Mayor is spending for all the projects in his or her city (plus money coming from certain Departments, like the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.dpwh.gov.ph/">DPWH</a>), then<span style="font-weight: bold;"> why do our lawmakers need so much pork?</span> More importantly, how do they spend all that money (making laws couldn't be <span style="font-style: italic;">that</span> expensive) ? If both the local government and our dear Representatives have funds for infrastructure projects and other basic needs, why are many cities/municipalities, especially in the provinces, still underdeveloped? <br /><br />Or am I missing something here...<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">eh-hum</span>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-90889315104756177382009-01-01T15:35:00.006+09:002009-01-01T18:01:37.812+09:00Eh-hum # 269<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 102);">Happy New Year</span>, Folks (and hope you all had a very <span style="color: rgb(0, 102, 0);">Merry Christmas</span>)!</span><br /><br />Hopefully 2009 will bring more (from a good friend's text message) "<span style="font-style: italic;">Peace in your Heart, Health in your Body, Wealth in your Life, and Joy in your Home</span>". We remember the good, the bad, and the very ugly of 2008; we only do so because we can learn from our mistakes and be inspired by our successes.<br /><br />Life is not supposed to be easy. Where's the fun in that? But for all of last year's challenges that made us stronger, failures that made us wiser, and the people we know and loved (and still do) and just met, life with all of its imperfections is a journey to be enjoyed as well.<br /><br />***<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK8QLaKoBPmbsrRaaWfdFWP7TptDB7QdFGB-SWltU1ebZJBebRtVAnyZYH3nQg4b8RWEgil25FFbLIeduXxzkQVzwkDgP2LVIYhdSX5zIg2bYviubLuf06jZMl1BsOyCrWC43cCQ/s1600-h/Monkey.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK8QLaKoBPmbsrRaaWfdFWP7TptDB7QdFGB-SWltU1ebZJBebRtVAnyZYH3nQg4b8RWEgil25FFbLIeduXxzkQVzwkDgP2LVIYhdSX5zIg2bYviubLuf06jZMl1BsOyCrWC43cCQ/s320/Monkey.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286240328567514306" border="0" /></a><br />A post-New Year post (eh-hum) would not be complete without a little 2009 fortune predictions. I am not one to believe, but it wouldn't hurt to know (after all, we <span style="font-style: italic;">do</span> live in a mysterious world). For those born in the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monkey_%28zodiac%29">year of the Monkey</a> (our <span style="font-style: italic;">kanji</span> above), here's what to expect in the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ox_%28zodiac%29">year of the Ox</a>:<br /><p style="font-style: italic;">Monkey people didn't have any significant performance in 2008, the Year of the Rat. They felt that someone or something blocked their luck all the time. In the year of 2009, there are many <b>Lucky Stars</b> coming to Monkey people. So they have complete new luck and they can expect good news from career, money, reputation, love or happiness area. However, some tiny <b>Unlucky Stars</b> hiding beside the <b>Lucky Stars</b> in 2009. That means Monkey people shouldn't show too complacent and too conceited, because their enemies are still around. If Monkey people make any mistake, then they might lose their reputation, power or wealth.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Career:</span> There are three major <b>Lucky Career Stars</b> appearing in 2009. Those signs indicate you will have an extraordinary and outstanding achievement in your job performance or business development. It's time that you show people about your talent, wisdom, skill. Many people will accept your idea and proposal. Your plan or project will show significant progress and impressive results. You have good chance to gain more responsibilities, own higher power and even win a job promotion. When you have better performance or hold a higher position, then many people become jealous to you. Someone might try to look for your shortcoming or mistake in order to impede your working progress and to damage your reputation. Fortunately, since your keen perception and quick response, you are able to a plan to protect yourself. Also, your supporters will help your to remove the hamper.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Money:</span> There is a <b>Lucky Money Star</b> showing in this year. Since you have a good career luck, your salary fixed income will be satisfactory. If you work for someone, you might earn an extra bonus. If you own your business, then the company sales will have a significant growth. However, the Money Star is not a Windfall Star. The money won't come from gambling, heritage, gift or lottery. It's required your hardworking and time to earn all your income. Another sign show that you have a chance to lose your personal property and no way to recover it. Or an unexpected accident causes your money loss. Therefore, it's safer that do show off your wealth in 2009.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Love:</span> One very <b>Auspicious Star</b> and a <b>Happy Star</b> are gathering in love area. That is the sign of success, happiness, joyfulness, smooth or marriage. If you are single, then you have opportunity to find your dream companion and enjoy the happy love life. If you are already in love, the relationship with your lover will become much closer. If both of you are ready, then you can consider the marriage. If you are married, you and your spouse have a endless love. A new born baby might come into your family. However, if you are a male Monkey guy, you have the chance to meet opposite sex outside. If you don't give in to temptation, you will get lots of argument with your spouse. </p> <p style="font-style: italic;"> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Health:</span> Although you have many <b>Lucky Stars</b> coming in your astrological cycle. There also are some <b>Unlucky Stars </b>around you this year. This brings up the health issue. The career will make you busy in 2009. You will feel tired very often. If you have too much nightlife and too less exercise, then you will get sick easily. As long as understanding the health might become the problem, then you should limit unnecessary social life, keep healthy eating habit, maintain good sleeping quality and exercise routinely, then you will have a healthy life in the year of Cow.</p> <p style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fortune:</span> Monkey people have excellent career luck in 2009. They will work very skillfully and proficiently on their daily job. Their wealth will increase because of good job performance. However, there still is a potential unlucky event coming. Monkey people still need to pay attention on words and deeds. If you can spend more time in helping others, then you will win the good reputation, which could bring you more money in. The feeling of wealth, power, happiness and satisfaction will all come to you.</p><p>If you want to know the fortunes of the other Chinese zodiac signs, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.chinesefortunecalendar.com/2009/2009Zodiac.htm">click here</a>.</p><p>***</p><p>Are in the mood for some reminiscing? If yes, may I suggest you visit <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/">Time Magazine</a>'s <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/time/specials/2008/top10/">The Top Ten of Everything in 2008</a> list online. The top ten lists are organized by subject matter: (1) news and science, (2) arts and entertainment, (3) business, technology and sports, and (4) pop culture. Very informative and enjoyable.<br /></p><p>The last list I viewed was <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/time/specials/2008/top10/article/0,30583,1855948_1855957,00.html">2008's Top Ten Editorial Cartoons</a>. If I had to choose my favorite, it would be this one:</p><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zE0N4ojA5CuyTTK6dBOMw8ausDPv1lgNMx3GDXVLUg0T9nGE_yCdbSLPAve4rsDA6JUBReaVv_oZokRjmWaqy6uEHeW3lUyvsYyS303lAdvNiEfhtEv39UT7h3NvueJufyGxBQ/s1600-h/cartoons_10.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 209px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3zE0N4ojA5CuyTTK6dBOMw8ausDPv1lgNMx3GDXVLUg0T9nGE_yCdbSLPAve4rsDA6JUBReaVv_oZokRjmWaqy6uEHeW3lUyvsYyS303lAdvNiEfhtEv39UT7h3NvueJufyGxBQ/s320/cartoons_10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286246939586274978" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Eh-hum, need I say more?</span>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-56505420759155065162008-12-20T10:27:00.005+09:002008-12-20T11:40:11.666+09:00Eh-hum # 268<span style="font-weight: bold;">"No shoes beyond this point"</span><br /><br />This post is a bit late, but the whole incident still worth talking about as it pretty much sums up how Iraqis regard outgoing P.U.S.A. (President of the United States of America) <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.georgewbush.org/">George "Dubya" Bush</a>. He shrugged off the shoe throwing fiasco by saying (as quoted by <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/">Time</a>), that "<span style="font-style: italic;">All I can report is it is a size 10</span>" and "<span style="font-style: italic;">So what if the guy threw his shoe at me?</span>". Well, unfortunately for the President, if he knew what the shoe assault really meant, he would have perhaps wished it was an assassination attempt instead.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvrmr8yIt9OqP9tlKON9N3n_zdEbcgMcCVEeTnsjr_hJOpTWGgFvW-R3AdgSgJiGQuFeEMKQGQu_Mn_QeKA7z7FvaB8XVvMcAQMsFtTtGirSqPMJsBOZQOG71tY0gpFGgEpii4TQ/s1600-h/bush_shoe_new.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvrmr8yIt9OqP9tlKON9N3n_zdEbcgMcCVEeTnsjr_hJOpTWGgFvW-R3AdgSgJiGQuFeEMKQGQu_Mn_QeKA7z7FvaB8XVvMcAQMsFtTtGirSqPMJsBOZQOG71tY0gpFGgEpii4TQ/s320/bush_shoe_new.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281694709471261538" border="0" /></a><br />For the the Arabs, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1866356,00.html">throwing your shoes at someone is an act of severe disrespect</a>. Moreover, to liken someone to a shoe or feet means that the person or object is of no importance and is beneath you. Before Iraqi TV journalist Muntazer al-Zaidi hurled the first shoe to the President, he shouted, "<span style="font-style: italic;">This is a gift from the Iraqis; this is the farewell kiss, you dog</span>." Of course, al-Zaidi is now in custody and <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1867458,00.html">punishing him has now become a real test to Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki</a> (the journalist has gained massive support from anti-US clerics and the public). To set him free or to make him spend at most 7 years in prison, that is the question.<br /><br />When this news was first released or broadcasted, my mother (pro-<a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.barackobama.com/">Obama</a>) can't help but feel sorry for Bush. What a way to go in his last days as for the leader of the free world. As for me, I would like to know how/why the journalist was still able to throw his <span style="font-style: italic;">other</span> shoe. Are the P.U.S.A.'s secret service NOT TRAINED to handle flying shoes? If this wasn't so sad, it would be extremely funny (imagine the other journalists following suit). This will go down in history as one of the most awkward moments in 2008.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjUPq7jww1Ul9-rYgc4NbRGiBl-TQX_jGJGTAMOGUmRUS7hppRtBIOqtZTyA5Zb4IzIqqF9rPszMOFzq3fI0exhT6f9pw1Cxkr83DgwFQlkzfTYwbdEoCeHUpSs_6UuxisMZ7rUQ/s1600-h/cartoons_01.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 211px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjUPq7jww1Ul9-rYgc4NbRGiBl-TQX_jGJGTAMOGUmRUS7hppRtBIOqtZTyA5Zb4IzIqqF9rPszMOFzq3fI0exhT6f9pw1Cxkr83DgwFQlkzfTYwbdEoCeHUpSs_6UuxisMZ7rUQ/s320/cartoons_01.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281694890666811154" border="0" /></a><br />***<br /><br />Can somebody please do something about this rather <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Mugabe">delusional individual</a>? <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.time.com/time/world/article/0,8599,1867645,00.html">His people are dying of hunger (and recently, of cholera) and he proceeds to hold a feast</a>? <span style="font-weight: bold;">WTF?!?</span> <br /><br />This is like the time when <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/while-the-people-plead-for-food-the-junta-is-handing-out-tv-sets-824570.html">the military junta in Burma gave away television sets and DVD players (instead of providing food, shelter and access to water and electricity) to those affected by the devastating cyclone last May 2008</a>, only <span style="font-weight: bold;">WORST</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Dear Lord...</span>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-85598615674751720902008-12-09T12:19:00.010+09:002008-12-10T09:31:25.376+09:00Eh-hum # 267No doubt, I am a <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://pythonline.com/">Monty Python</a> fan (maybe not as intense as most, but a fan nonetheless). To be more specific, I am a believer of the word according to <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://palinstravels.co.uk/">Michael Palin</a> (see earlier post). So, as a supportive fan, I ordered Palin's <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.amazon.com/Diaries-1969-1979-Python-Michael-Palin/dp/0312369352">Diaries, 1969 to 1979: The Python Years</a> for my reading pleasure.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmGma6fKw6ik1CKrLCua5zM3vj9kakbUm9Y4nQXaFc2AqEv6W3XY5TVmTXl8C-XjRd2MW0fudYm4t_C4XNwfloUKv3BjHtaTJx3s2aTnjlLEkxAdHRU17WnR6g5C1X3p_zzhzEQ/s1600-h/Diaries1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwmGma6fKw6ik1CKrLCua5zM3vj9kakbUm9Y4nQXaFc2AqEv6W3XY5TVmTXl8C-XjRd2MW0fudYm4t_C4XNwfloUKv3BjHtaTJx3s2aTnjlLEkxAdHRU17WnR6g5C1X3p_zzhzEQ/s320/Diaries1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5277640161570929170" border="0" /></a><br />Though I have finished reading all 650++ pages a month ago, it is only now that I decided to share my thoughts on it my way (obviously, I am no literary critic). So, my thoughts <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">goes as follows and begins now</span>: if you are looking for a funny book, then don't buy this one. Let me elaborate.<br /><br />The book is not a memoir but rather contains excerpts from Palin's diary, which he started keeping in April 1969. It is organized by year and each passage is headed by when and where it was written. So instead of a long, continuous narrative divided by chapters, the book is essentially a compilation of Palin's diary entries for one decade. Many of the entries extend more than one page, while others are no more than five sentences and are read like simple lists of events and errands.<br /><br />Would compiled and organized day-to-day journal accounts be considered an interesting read? Well, most definitely, since we are talking about Palin, one of six men who created (wrote and performed in) one of the most enduring comedy series in television. And as I found out after reading <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://palinstravels.co.uk/static-206">New Europe</a>, Palin is an engaging and astute writer.<br /><br />Palin provides insights into the Python’s group dynamics during the years that catapulted them to international acclaim. He described candidly the individuality (strengths, pet peeves and all) of the other five silly yet brilliant people that make up the group. Monty Python have been a genuine and frank collaboration from the beginning and have remained so even as its members drifted their separate ways. But the stories are not always pleasant; there were the occasional group conflicts and arguments. Aside from <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://pythonline.com/plugs/chapman/">Graham Chapman</a>'s alcoholism (which he eventually overcame), the biggest source of tension was when <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.thejohncleese.com/">John Cleese</a> decided to leave the group after Flying Circus’ third series. It’s very difficult to imagine Python without the prominent Cleese; however, it would be grossly unfair to delegate the group’s success to one person only.<br /><br />Palin was at times hesitant with Python’s fate after the series, but has been very supportive whenever they reunite for post-Flying Circus projects and resilient in defending the group’s legal rights (e.g. censorship, etc.). But of course, he was keen on making it on his own. One that figures prominently was the production of <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/rippingyarns/">Ripping Yarns</a>, a comedy series that parodied certain aspects of British culture as well as the pre-WWII schoolboy genre. While Palin co-wrote Ripping Yarns with fellow Python <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.terry-jones.net/">Terry Jones</a>, the show notably features Palin as the lead on and off-camera. Palin relishes this newly found independence, but initially felt apprehensive in expressing this to Jones, his longtime friend and writing partner in Python. We also witness Palin taking the lead role in <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.terrygilliam.com/">Terry Gilliam</a>’s film, <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jabberwocky_%28film%29">Jabberwocky</a> and his hosting stints at <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.nbc.com/Saturday_Night_Live/">Saturday Night Live</a> (as encouraged by <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.eric-idle.com/">Eric Idle</a>).<br /><br />Palin is also generous in sharing stories of his life off-camera. Indeed, interesting and poignant anecdotes on Palin’s parents, wife, and his three children are featured significantly in the book. His busy schedule does not prevent him from being a responsible son, loving husband and affectionate father, which I find truly admirable. His family and non-showbiz friends kept his feet firmly on the ground as Python becomes increasingly popular. We know that fame could either break or make a person, and with all the opportunities coming his way, Palin remains mind-bogglingly level-headed. Honorable mentions are his friendships with other comedians and actors, not to mention <span style="font-style: italic;">the</span> <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://georgeharrison.com/">George Harrison</a>.<br /><br />What I find interesting about Palin is his work ethics. Despite what most people think, comedy is serious business. Palin makes sure that every time he sits down in his working room at his Gospel Oak home in London; he has produced workable materials for his shows or completed a chapter for his novel (which I am not sure if he was able to publish). This is very encouraging for someone like me, who has a tendency to procrastinate. Whenever my mind wanders, I always remind myself that at 28, Palin is already reaping the rewards of his comedic career (he was 26 when Python was formed).<br /><br />In most of the Python sketches, Palin takes the role of the greasy compere or host, the ineffective applicant to Cleese’ aggressive bureaucrat, the befuddled accountant, and the unaccommodating shop owner. Thanks to this book, the character he portrays on stage and screen is definitely not the kind of person he really is. Palin is often referred to as the “nicest Python”, and for good reason. Whether he realized it or not, his diaries confirm that he really is a nice guy, not to mention intelligent, witty, sharp and straight-thinking (well, except in comedy, where he gets to be hysterical and absurd).<br /><br />And good news, there will be second volume to be published next year. And I can assure you that I will be ordering my copy once it comes out. I end this post with a video of Palin reading excerpts on shooting <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monty_Python_and_the_Holy_Grail">Monty Python and the Holy Grail</a> (this and accounts on the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Life_of_brian">Life of Brian</a> were real page turners). Enjoy!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/vUQFhFVw0W4&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/vUQFhFVw0W4&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-56090455765469788042008-12-03T10:53:00.003+09:002008-12-03T12:55:24.850+09:00Eh-hum # 266<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Oh dear...twenty-two more days and its Christmas!</span> <br /><br />Blinking and colorful lights/decors, exchange gifts and other presents, pre-Christmas dinners with friends, Christmas parties, holiday ham, school/work holidays, bargains and sales, gift wrappers, Filipino and English carols, cash donations from your "friendly" neighborhood garbage collectors/mailmen and newly printed P100, P50 and P20 notes from the Central Bank.<br /><br />Whether we like it or not, whether or not our budget/savings can accommodate the demands of this holiday season, us Pinoys will always be looking forward to the "most wonderful time of the year". That's good, I think.<br /></div><br />***<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Normally, I wouldn't bother to take a look or partake in the sales and other events held at Trinoma's Activity Center. But yesterday's happening was pretty interesting because it was the first day of the <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.quezoncity.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=385&Itemid=1">Quezon City Invasion: Philippines vs the World Grand Billiards showdown</a> (the event is until tomorrow, 04 December 08). Yep, caught a glimpse of some Pinoy billiards heroes: Efren "Bata" Reyes, Alex Pagulayan, Francisco "Django" Bustamante, Dennis Orcollo and Roberto Gomez. They, and others, represented the Philippine team in this friendly competition. Meanwhile, the World team is composed of players from the United States, Europe and Asia.<br /><br />I stayed for a bit to watch both teams try to sink all the shots and analyze their next move. I enjoyed the audience's reaction whenever a member of the Philippine team missed a shot, a lot of "Aaawwww" and "Sayang!". <a style="font-weight: bold;" href="http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=420693&publicationSubCategoryId=69">Here's an article on the results of yesterday's game</a>.<br /><br />Aside from quality entertainment, I realized the event also gave the politicians involved (as sponsors) good media mileage. Like the five or so banners/tarpaulin with the words <span style="font-weight: bold;">"Villards"</span> printed on them. <span style="font-style: italic;">Wink, wink, nudge, nudge</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Haaaayyy</span>, 2010 here we come.</div>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7469588.post-27078166650205301482008-11-19T11:50:00.003+09:002008-11-19T13:39:43.806+09:00Eh-hum # 265After the US elections, I haven't really been interested in watching the news. So imagine my surprise when I found out yesterday that <a href="http://philstar.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=416396&publicationSubCategoryId=63"><strong>Presidentiable and Senator Manny Villar is no longer the Senate President. He was replaced by 84-year old Senator Juan Ponce Enrile</strong></a>.<br /><br />This is all too bizaare to me since last time I heard, Villar and his supposed allies outnumbered those belonging to the administration. Fourteen senators, both from the minority and majority voted for Villar's ouster and supported Enrile's election to the Senate presidency. Meanwhile, six of them abstained from voting (Aquino, Arroyo, Cayetano siblings, Pimentel and Pangilinan). This most recent development in the Senate proves, without a doubt, that there are no permanent friends, only permanent interests. <a href="http://philstar.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=416660&publicationSubCategoryId=64"><strong>It's strictly politics, as one journalist in the Philippine Star opinion section said</strong></a>.<br /><br />Villar's involvement in the C-5 controversy (hence, Senators Lacson and Madrigal voted "Aye") were said to be one of the main reasons for his ouster. Another is his bid for the Presidency in 2010; some say that he could use his position as Senate President to allocate Senate funds to his campaign (<strong><em>hmmm, now where have I heard THAT</em> <em>before?</em></strong>). In addition, the Inquirer reported that deposed President Erap Estrada <a href="http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20081119-173005/Estrada-hand-in-coup-seen"><strong>"helped oust Manuel Villar as Senate president because he wants the latter out of the way of the opposition ticket in the 2010 presidential election".</strong></a> Of course, Estrada denied this. Similarly, Malcanang denied any involvement in Villar's ouster.<br /><br />His resignation could work for Villar. One journalist said that <a href="http://philstar.com/Article.aspx?ArticleId=416658&publicationSubCategoryId=64"><strong>"Villar can now cultivate an image of independence from both the administration and the mainstream opposition"</strong></a>. He can also take advantage of Enrile's reputation as, excuse me, a serial "balimbing". Enrile was one of the enforcers of Martial Law (remember the assassination attempt that started it all), then became a "hero" of 1986 People Power revolution, and then was implicated in a series of coup attempts against the Aquino government staged by his former military aide and now Senator Honasan. Moreover, Enrile is part of the administration bloc but is still affiliated with the <em>Pwersa ng Masang Pilipino</em>, an opposition party. This is not funny anymore.<br /><br />Of course, this is not to say that Villar has not switched sides (A Pinoy politician not switching sides is truly rare, or endangered), remember Estrada's impeachment and his current political affiliation. We shall see how long Enrile can stay in power; if he's not careful or if he fails to "please" the divas in the Senate, he could end up like another <em>trapo,</em> Representative Jose De Venecia. Moreover, can he salvage the reputation of the Senate from an "inquisitorial institution" (CONFESS YOU SINNERS!!! CONFESS!!! CONFESS!!!) to an establishment founded on justice, integrity and honor. Can he also effectively make the Senators (about a quarter of them already preoccupied with running for higher office), you know, WORK. <em>Haaaay</em>, indeed, <a href="http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20081119-172997/Where-is-the-Senate-going"><strong>where is the Senate going?</strong></a> More importantly, where is the country headed?<br /><br /><em>Dear Lord...</em>HENYOhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00009554679243665876noreply@blogger.com0