Misleading illogical political ads.

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This post begs to disagree with the assumptions of the statements for the  political ads:  " Äyusin ang gobyerno aayos ang buhay mo" That is the thesis of every leaders in convincing the population to vote for him/her.    It has not been necessarily true.  In search of such pag ayos the present administration is embroiled in ej, in its drive to purge the country of drugs.   There are always collateral damages and unwanted results.

Now it is the obligation of people to take charge of their families not the government.   Such a utopian society is the socialist dream    The govt can not handle it all.  The govt is only as good as its citizenry.  Thus ask what you can do for the country, not the other way around rings true.  And only a demagogue can say that she he will take care of jobs and/or provide jobs.   

The politicians must present more pragmatic and down to earth picture of their vision.  Not the impossible dream.  Not the trite motherhood statement.   That is why they fall short or we cant judge their success for such unSMART vague statements

That is why politicians have acquired such a bad name among the populace..  So they would rtaher take the money...

Mabuhay ka Wow Willie. 20 ft tall during the Odette tragedy

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Justice from Odette

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This post has been scammed by a residetn of Toledo City for P25,000 for the purchase of a bike equipment. Despite repeated demand the subject did not reply.  This post understands I was not alone.  

A lawsuit, estafa was contemplated but the filing fee alone renders the whole exercise uneconomical  

And now here comes Odette an Angel of the Lord who probably sought justice for us.  This post is sure that the damage to the properties of the subject is more than P25,000.

May this serve as warning for the past, present, and future scammers.   God is watching us and retribution can be fast and exacting.   

The Almighty press and their minions: the anchors and interviewers

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https://hodgespart.com/gong/archives/five-examples-media-interviews-gone-wrong/

Early on as an aspiring campus journalist this post interviewed the President of the University Alumni Association.  As usual, as a journalist this post had slanted questions.  And I was awakened by the comments of the person being interviewed:   " Bok do not put words in my mouth".    That was an awakening and a guidance for me as I watch many interviews.   

You must have read  "Tuesdays with Morrie"  Chris Alboom said that he had to take a semester on listening.   

This afternoon I watched an interview by CNN with DPWH spokesman.  The spokesman, apparently irked by the thesis like interview format of the CNN anchor in Manila, said that their priority was to make the roads passable so that aid and or relief goods can access the cities and municipalities.  This was correct and the right priority.  However the anchor, who was not listening, continued to push through with her idea of the work that must be done for the relief operations.  And so the spokesman reiterated what their priority .  So sad.  It does not give good picture of CNN

We see video clips of Presidents being grilled by reporters.  And the latter being ignored or humbled by the President.  How come reporters appearing superior to the interviewee irrespective of their stature. 

We have watched some senior newshen harass or embarrass their subjects.   At Channel 2 and even Channel 5.   In US the Press is seen as a political power capable of bringing down a politician

Hence some sportsperson boycott post game interviews because of fear of questions of sports reporters 

After the political noise has died down, we find out that Duterte has plenty of achievements

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https://www.manilastandard.net/opinion/columns/virtual-reality-by-tony-lopez/361011/duterte-s-seven-biggest-achievements.html

Before all we hear were the barrage vs. Duterte mostly directed vs. the government response to Covid19, the Pharmaly, and the number of deaths in the drug war.  

As in all discrediting campaign vs a leader, the  protagonist is always pictured as the villain and devil.  The anger of the  other "commissioners"is so rabid that UN and ICC were involved.   How sad.

But Duterte accomplished the following:

1.  Via Tugade and Mark Villar -  long road network, bridges,  train lines, over passes, sky ways.;

2.  He did not bring the country to war on WPS.  Many can talk but its hard to do otherwise if you are dealing with XI who has the largest navy in the world and variety of missile firepower.   How can you dislodge these imperialists if they are all ready well installed by the previous regime

3.  Modernization of the military after beefing up salary.  Now we have more helicopters and transport plane,jet fighters, frigates and patrol boats.  No other administration has done that.  Now China would be more circumspect in bullying our countrymen.  So with our terrosists.   The Cobra attack helicopters has thermograph detectors and men in forest covers cant hide. 

4.  Beefing up of relief and rescue operations.    We have better response although it seemed many underestimated the power of Odette.  

5.  Aggressive betterment of civil servants.   Maybe buildings and facilities were improved.  and decorum of civil servants

6.  Free education

7.  Universal health care.

It is unfortunate that his administration has to face one of the toughtest test of any govt:   the covid19 pandemic.  And the calamities.   

Let us not totally believe what the other trolls print in their social media.   See through the squid ink and find the  truth

Typhoon Odette, a supertyphoon cuts a swath of death and destruction at Visayas and Mindanao

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We did pay little attention to the  typhoon which was just an LPA before.  With winds up to 185 kph Odette left many areas with death and destruction.  Only 12 were reported dead but many more will be reported as they are recovered from bodies of water or recovered from destroyed houses and from debris of land slides  Many times mentioned were Cagayan de Oro City, Siargao (the surfing capital of the Philippines) Surigao City  (Iligan City)  

Philippines which is all ready reeling from Covid19 has yet to face the task of rebuilding these typhoon wrecked areas.  

 Destruction:

1.  Many roads are not passable due to  fallen trees;

2.  No electricity

3.  No telco cignal

4.  Many tourist attraction destroyed.   

https://www.benarnews.org/english/news/philippine/storm-follow-12172021134459.html

Presidential aspirants promise many freebies - where do we get the funds?

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One of the criticisms to the  DU30 administration is the huge deficit and external debt being incurred by the current govt.  That is expected given the ayudas and the free vaccines being imported.

And now here comes the new batch of future successors promising plenty of freebies for the people.  It is understandble that these are being done to woo the voters.

But the bigger problem is where do you get all the money.   Many of our leaders do not get the system princple.  To have an ouput you need input.

You face a weak economy and declining revenues.   How could the govt afford all of these?

The feudal outlook of the govt must be stopped ie that it is the feudal lord that provides all needs of its populace.  

Gone are the days when the citizenry asks wrhat it can do for the country.  Now it is what can the politicians do for the populace.   All with palm outstretched to the  govt?  No taxpayers? 

Who seems to be leading the race?

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From the looks of it, the BBM SDC seems to be leading in surveys and attendance to caravans.  We could be wrong, but it seems to be the trend.  Despite all the commentaries and blogs against BBM.  The young image, the youthful look which seem to be an indication of trapo departure seem to be their main advantage.  But really did they spend millions for the caravans.   Was the payola of P3,000 per vehicle true. 

With Isko, Ping, Pacquiao far very far far behind in the survey, will they have a close fight.   It takes more than courage and demagoguery I think to become a President.  

Roque endorses BBM Sarah Team.  Mark Villar joins the  BBM team.  Now their team is strong again.   They appeared to be weak when Bato and Go withdrew

We have yet to see if the platforms and vision of govt of others are solid and clear.   Even BBM and Sarah do not seem to have one.

Can a majority opinion change the results of scientific data or govt regulations?

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This post frowns upon the practice of TV networks interviewing the common man about his opinion on certain matters like regulations/protocols on covid.  It is nice to know how a common man thinks (which is sometimes wrong, or contrary to science.)

Such opinion while welcome to hear can not change the science behind the  regulations/protocol nor can it change the  truth.    What the govt says for instance in this covid is it.    So are the various conflicting rules by the petty tyrants, at the lgu, and even individual level.     Furthering chaos and confusion

Just brief respite from the Pandemic; here comes Omicron variant

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With the reports of emergence of covid19 omicron variants, it is very likely that we will soon see re-imposition of strict quarantine rules.  The expected growth of the country's economy will soon come to a halt.

We will see again the Duterte govt which is a strong govt (the  police and  the military having been placated by higher salaries and benefits ) will flex again its powers.  The sub alterns, the  force multiplier will also flex their powers, make their own rules and implementation on the ground.  They are not responsible for the economic recovery and will not realize the damage they might have caused to the rest of the country.   

Perhaps more explanation. is needed.  Its the disease we are fighting.  Not our country men.  Let us give some leeway for  our country to recover.

This post experience (twice all ready) saw 1.  different interpretation on the  ground of the SPass rules

2.  In another island province  they are not part of the SPass system and their LGU have their own interpretation which is very strict makes it difficult for travelers to visit their place.  With tourism and fishing as their viable source of revenues, one can foresee extreme difficulties in recovery.   

Maawa kayo sa bayan ninyo

Is corruption in the Duterte govt? Duterte strongly denies, Money Pack says there is

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One  of the reasons behind the split behind the Mindanao politicians is the issue of corruption.   While Pres. Duterte made corruption as one of the linchpin of his campaign one doubts his sincerity.  He has lawyered for Pharmaly in the Senate and one wonders why.  He has strongly denied the existence of corruption in the current govt.   

But in my conversation with somebody who deals with the govt agency with the highest budget, it was alleged:

.    1.  The heads get as much as 30% cut off the project; the  suppliers, get only 60% on their cost;

     2.   This Christmas season, their loot bag can amount to as much as __millions per department head;

     3.   One  wonders their costs after analyzing their lowest bid price for slope protection

Just to think that the poor taxpayer has to shoulder the padded cost or the substandard construction.

Of course  the businessman from the mainland are used to such a system,, and  we have to tolerate this from the  imperial governemtn from Davao

Corruption perception index in the Philippines

China tells RP to remove RPS Sierra Madre at Ayungin Shoal

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Are we going to war with China?

Immediately after China told that the ships at Ayungin shoal will leave the area, our country was told to remove the WW2 vessel, outpost of Philippines RPS Sierra Madre

Earlier, Pres. Duterte lambasted China for blocking and water cannon treatment for the supply ship going to the said ship   Ayungin shoal incident does not speak well of RP China relations

We should be fully aware of the imperialistic goal of China.  China wants to be No.1 in the world. 

(China's wealth grew from 7  trillion in 2010 to  120 trillion.in 2020  US wealth stands at 90 trillion  The total world wealth grew from $150 trillion to $516)

 Economically and perhaps militarily.  It wants to get resources  for its people and its growth.

The book Unrestricted warfare tells of the plans of China for US and the world to achieve dominance

Philippines now ranks 48th in global firepower; still not enough to ward off Chinese interlopers

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The Philippines ranks 48th among 140 countries surveyed in terms of firepower.   

Global firepower

Some stats:

     1.  Manpower  -   315,000

               Active   -                 125.000

               Reserve                   130,000

               Paramilitary              60,000

    2.  Aircraft            Total    179

            Helicopters                100

            Transport                     21

            Dedicated attack          29

    3.   Naval                         103

           Frigates                       2

           Corvettes                     4

            Patrol                         55

  It has been reported that PN plans to acquire 50 naval assets to beef up its patrol capabilities

From Onenews PH - PH plans 50 ship maritime force

PHL has comparable firepower of Belarus, Chile and Peru  Take note that Vietnam and Myanmar are ahead of the Philippines in ranking.   

The Philippines has a budget of about P600 billion in its modernization program divided into three horizons.   Some of this have not been accomplished.  Some of this includes the acquisition of Black Hawk helicopters (recently finished)  Tocano close air support, missile  frigates  Antonio Luna and Jose Rizal.  

Philippine firepower acquisition supported by Pres Du30

It is hoped that PHL will acquire more naval and air assets to make it a force to be reckoned with.   No more corruption to deter the AFP modernization program.   Here we are affected by our lack of desire to modernize the Armed Forces.  Minimal armaments.  

Dont be a victim ; of build a culture of dependency mendicancy, and entitlement

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Last Saturday, as I was eating an 8 to 10 year old approached me to beg.  May be I was mean with the  child beggar.  But I asked if he had a father;  why not ask his father for his food and his needs.  He said he has a father.

Why should we encourage mendicancy and dependency in our country.  I too was born into a poor family but my parents showed that we have to work hard for our meals, avoid begging even from relatives.   Learn to depend on yourself.   

The govt 4ps and the TV programs of get rich quick and lotto juetend do not help much.  

Sara Duterte files COC for VP, what is going to happen

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We cant guess the scenario when Sarah Duterte withdrew her candidacy for Mayor of Davao City and filed COC for VP.   

Philstar - BBM Sarah Tandem

What are the possibilities?

1.  A BBM Sarah Duterte tandem;

2.  A Bato Sarah Duterte combination

3.  A Bong Go (puwede pa ba)  Sarah Duterte combination

All ready people are asking questions  Did Pres Duterte file for VP or filing COC for senator  Will there be a Duterte Duterte fight for VP  (The PFP announced yesterday Marcos’ move, after another story broke out earlier that Duterte had slid to being a vice presidential aspirant, replacing Lyle Uy, a placeholder of the Lakas-CMD for the VP slot. - Philstar)

Bong Go and Bato withdrew their certificates of candidacy

PFP (Partido Federal ng Pilipinas  quickly adopted SD as their VP candidate.   

PFP resolution

The Nov. 13 PFP resolution read in part: “Vice presidential candidate Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio of the Lakas-CMD is hereby adopted by the Partido Federal ng Pilipinas as its candidate for vice president, and hereby endorses her candidacy as the running mate of the PFP’s official candidate for president of the Philippines, Sen. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in the 9 May 2022 national elections.”

Read more: https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1514524/bbm-sara-taking-shape-rody-wants-to-be-vp-too#ixzz7CH2GzM8I
Follow us: @inquirerdotnet on Twitter | inquirerdotnet on Facebook

Some people speculate how Sarah Duterte will perpetuate the DU30 dynasty

1.  BBM and Duterte join as a tandem.  BBM becomes Pres.  With finality  BBM will be disqualified due to the tax case,     Sarah becomes Pres.

2.  Bong Go and/or  Bato  pairs with Sarah.   Bong Go and or Bato win, they resign, Sarah becomes President.

3.  Term sharing?  (A bad idea, undemocratic)

Why do this only?  They seem to be the  formidable tandem in the election as per survey.    Surveys do count during a hotly contested election.   Politicians recognize that most the outcome of surveys can be correct.   

But definitely horse trading compromises are going to be part of negotiation.  Immunity from lawsuite (on the part of DDM) or on the part of Marcos.   

What do we think?  Will they do it?

Was PNP law created to have police to be civilian in nature; why are its personnel wearing Battle Dress Attire

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The PNP created by RA 6975 and as amended by RA 8551 provided for a police force that is civilian in nature, and under the supervision of DILG. RA 8551

  Section 2. Declaration of Policy and Principles. – It is hereby declared the policy of the State to establish a highly efficient and competent police force which is national in scope and civilian in character administered and controlled by a national police commission

And yet we see police men dressed in Battle Dress Attire (not much different from the Armed Forces military) and them using excessive force in treating civilians.  We overhear them saying "civilians"  With the spate of police being seen killing civilians (of course they are few and isolated) some are led to conclude that police is not civilian in nature.   DILG is one of the Departments having highest budget, the bulk going to salaries of policemen.  

Is it because of the backing by the President to the police force?  That he will send in the lawyers and pardon them in case they get cases for doing their job in the drug war.  

There are some criticism over the  complete control of the military of public health standards, whereas the health workers should be more capable of overseeing the tasks.   All ready there are accusation of weaponisation by the police vs Covid 19

    1.  Arrests were made for violation of curfew

    2.   Military punishments were meted out;

    

Despite the military measures, cases continued to rise and many policemen were infected.   It should be that the police will be called only if health workers orders can not be enforced.   

The police must be civilian in nature, to serve and protect and leave its military garb behind.   

Travel rules for tourist destination

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From Rappler - relaxed travel requiriements for vaccinated individuals

All of a sudden, travel rules have been relaxed:  More leeway is given to fully vaccinated adults

 

Destination               S Pass             Vax Card             Tests                              Others

1.  Baguio                  xx                  Yes                  For unvaccinated                Tourists pre register at 

                                                                                RT PCR                                    Baguio website

2.  Cebu                    xx                   Yes                  xxxx                                    xxxx

3.  Iloilo                    Yes                 Yes                  xxxxx                                   xxxx

4  Bohol                    Yes                 Yes                   xxxxx                                 xxxx

                                                                                from VaxCertPh

5.  Bacolod                Yes                 Yes                   xxxx                                  health certification form

                                                                                                                            Bacolod bactrac system

6  Clark Freeport       xxx                 Yes                   xxxx                                  xxxx

7.  Subic                     xxx                 Yes                  xxx                                    xxx

Only Baguio, Clark and Subic are fully liberated from strict travel requirements.     

Sino panalong tandem? Manila Times survey shows; papayag ba si Sarah na VP, madidisqualify ba si BBM

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Times Survey

While this post does not want people to believe a in surveys, a form of inductive reasoning, from particular to universal (the anecdotes, the small sample does not represent the whole)   there is some indication to think about the forthcoming trend.  This post does not favor any particular candidate.  

This despite mudslinging all ready being waged vs. BBM

This may swing support for the winning pair.  

The survey shows the  BBM SD tandem to be leading with more than 50% favoring the pair.  (55.7%)  The announcement now makes the administration candidate worthy of the fight with the opposition which drew unprecedented support.  

We have to see how the survey will fare.  

Is it unconstitutional for donors or givers or aid to require testing prior to disbursements?

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Golden Rule

We have been used to bring out the constitution to disobey health protocols;   individual rights vs the protection of the public at large 

So in US this was carried to extreme where such orders as face mask, testing etc were violated and disobeyed because they violated  human rights.   Common sense dictates that the public good prevails over individual rights,   In this case we are in abnormal times and in a pandemic, and yet civil libertarians, constitutionalists lawyers continue to mouth this.

So it is now bad for govt to require recipients of 4ps to be vaccinated.  It is for their own good;  it does not give any gain for the govt to do this;   public health does,  Public good gains more traction.

It is hoped that everybody understands and cooperates and not use this issue to win sympathy from the poor and the masses.   (However the  4ps law does not provide for restrictions and must be followed according to DSWD. However Section 11 of the law RA 11310 provides for health measures for children 

There is such thing as Golden Rule.   -  he who has the gold is obeyed.  

In a hurry to recover? Is the danger from Covid 19 over

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DOTR news - DOTR omnibus guidelines on public transportation

Yesterday this post  observed public transportation plying their routes.  They were back in usual numbers in their smoke belching speeding ways.  There were no more plastic dividers; were back to their usual load and with ever standing sabit passengers.

Are they following the DOTR guidelines on public transportation

Is it all ready safe?   Are we overzealous to return to normal when it is still abnormal

Sarah Duterte withdraws COC for Mayor of Davao City, Sen Bong Go tallks of changing plans

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Incumbent Mayor Sarah Duterte Carpio withdraws her COC for Mayor of Davao City to be replaced by her brother Baste currently Vice Mayor of Davao City.  Sen Bong Go meanwhile talks of change of plans as announced in the TV radio programs today early morning.   Mayor Duterte's withdrawal was carried by major dailies yesterday.

This now fuels speculation that SDC will run either for President or VP, in a BBM SDC tandem or SDC BBM tandem.  (BBM Duterte tandem tops survey

This confirms guesses long time ago that there will be last minutes sub,   This is the old tactic made by her President father when he subbed for Dino.    Well as politician you are supposed to be smart.  If you campaign early, the opponents will sling mud at you.  Better observe first how the trend go and surprise  everyone.  

On Ressa's awards on defending press freedom in the country

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From Yahoo news

Manila Times Tiglao - we should be worried about Ressa's Nobel Prize

From Manila Times - Ressa continues to spit on PHL laws

The Nobel prize for Ressa on alleged defense of press freedom is both a source of pride and wonder for many press practitioner.   That she as Filipinos as an awardee is a source of freedome (although some claims she has dual citizenship)

But as to the claim that there is no press freedom is debatable.   No one can question the Nobel prize committee of Nobel prize, and certainly it must have erred andor depended on spurious data.  

Let the awardees rejoice and let this earth search for the truth.   The journalists cant.  

Past President from SL ordered hits on his officials and its people?

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That the former first President of first republic ordered the hits on  Andres Bonifacio and General Luna, and that the latest ordered the killing of drug pushers and users (probably thousands of them) is saddening.  The President must first and foremost honor the right to live of its people.

The current President is alleged to have ordered hits on drug suspects.    With higher number reported by the Nobel Prize winner soc media.  

Only 2,400 lives (vs a Nobel Prize newspaper claim of higher number

EA orders hit on Gen Luna  (also on Bonifacio?)

Top level assassinations

Is it all ready the campaign period? Not yet. But look at the blooming highway with ads of candidate

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If you travel to provinces, you will see a bloom of tarpaulin of the faces of candidates.  While there are no messages soliciting vote, this is clearly a drive for awareness and a campaign to have the faces and names put forth before the electorate

When is the start of the campaign period.    It starts on March 25 until May 7, 2022

Are these postings considered prohibited acts.?  Definitely a palusot.  All the prohibited acts according to the Comelec are only applicable during the campaign period.

Prohibited acts during the campaign period

Travelers, tourists, bikers be wary of requirements for travel to restricted areas

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It is very expensive because you are required to submit an RT PCR tests taken within the last 24 hours if you are not vaccinated   And take note, you can not go on a home stay, because DOT required a hotel booking one  week before (how can you do that if you are not sure of an RT PCR test results

Beware of the siren song of ads, and travel agency pitch because you may be in for a big surprise.   Wait for the restricted classification to be removed. 

The website post regarding a travel destination projects an atmosphere of relaxed requirements:

    1.  Spass

    2.  RT pcr not required, the LGU may provide the free antigen tests

    

But on the ground:

   1.  Spass required with RT pcr for the last 24 hours (P3,500 worth)

   2.  Confirmed hotel bookings

   

    Thus the tourists were turned back after travelling 50 km.  Had the checkpoint installed 50 km away, no wastage and no anger and  frustration would have been built up.  And better still.  the hotel bookings should have been mentioned in the tourist destination webiste.  

Stay safe, stay at home.   (We found it the hard way)  Dont waste your time and money

Dont believe the post  because the men on the ground have other ideas.

Would you rather have one dictator than having many little tyrants

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This post had a brief stint to pass through certain checkpoints enforcing Spass implementation.  While this measure agrees are designed to stem spread of the  virus, it does not agree to the confused and conflicting ways , and in many way tyrannical way to throw their way around.

There were several security guard who issue parroted orders that were not in conformity with reality.  That despite the presentation of spass, they still require the undersigned to secure spass.

In a certain resort while the guests had their spass, and vaccine card, they still required a separate spass and required booking. with the hotel.

And we expect the hotel guests and tourists to come flocking to newly opened resorts.?    Really the recovery will take a looooong time  And its because of these measures  Why confront and be pressured by these difficulties when you can stay at home and be with your hard earned php

A candidate who made a comment selling votes is in a fix

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While a Presidential candidate would seem to be the epitome of virtue,  she made a boboo on her comments about vote selling and buying which is patently illegal.   That priest said it, does not justify that it is right  

It is an electoral offense, a prohibited act under RA 6646

The good candidate a lawyer, forgot her laws.   What do we expect?   A bond paper clean new government.   Or practicality  will rule, just like in any other govt.  ?

Mabago na sana

ELECTION OFFENSES

---

Sec. 261. Prohibited Acts. - The following shall be guilty of an election offense:

1. Vote-buying and vote-selling.
   1. Any person who gives, offers or promises money or anything of value, gives or promises any office or employment, franchise or grant, public or private, or makes or offers to make an expenditure, directly or indirectly, or cause an expenditure to be made to any person, association, corporation, entity, or community in order to induce anyone or the public in general to vote for or against any candidate or withhold his vote in the election, or to vote for or against any aspirant for the nomination or choice of a candidate in a convention or similar selection process of a political party.
   2. Any person, association, corporation, group or community who solicits or receives, directly or indirectly, any expenditure or promise of any office or employment, public or private, for any of the foregoing considerations

Danger of groupthink or double think in organization; having debates and devil's advocate is health

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Beware of groupthink and double think

Group think

Organizations  as the military of the church cant afford to have unquestioned decisions that are based on weak assumptions or one man's conclusion.  The best example is the defeat of the Japans Imperial Navy at the battle of Midway -  ie  Japan drawing  baiting Americans to fight battle at Midway and Japan destroying its fleet.  The reverse happened

In critical thinking, it wise to question the  hypothesis for the decision.   The church appoints a devil's advocate to question the decision find weaknesses in the flow so that the final decision should be strong and free from failures.   Such did not exist for the Japanese Navy bowing and deferring to Admiral Yamamotos influence..  But individual vision and decision can be flawed  Let us be aware of that   That is why advisory councils, the Board are useful structures in organization

Issues about getting the jabs

It is more fun criticizing

This is based on experience and anecdotal

I and my office mate were fully vaccinated   But we got infected  Both of us went on quarantine.  But she struggled because she had to be on oxygen

I learned from a friend that an acquaintance who had been vaccinated succumbed to the virus.  Another friend was infected twice.

Conclusion:

1.  Do not be complacent that you are 100% safe after getting your jab  You can get sick again or even pass away 

2.  I overheard an interview:    "You will be safe from the  serious side effect of the virus.  Yes.  But will you cure yourself of the disease.  Answer -  No.

3.  In the  local and international travel is having a vaz card enough guarantee that you will not spread the disease

How's that?

So many scammers, thieves these days?

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Avoiding dating scams.  Professing love early on.   Very few posts and pictures,   Lady military personnel

Despite the huge number of PNP force, and more laws,  we still see plenty of crimes being committed:

   1.  Scammers

   2.  Bike thieves

   3.  Motor vehicles scams

   4.  Investment scams

What could be the  cause:

1.  Higher standards of living,  causing people to seek more get rich scheme

2.  Growing poverty

3.  Higher  sophistication  of perpetrators

4.  Perception that it is acceptable -  not many gets caught, and  many leaders setting bad example

What ever the cause is, these occurrences must stop.   Perhaps we lack value formation.  Perhaps the  church and the parents have failed into moulding children to be good.   And avoid get rich quick scheme

Early campaigning mudslinging - do they comply with community standards. ?

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                                                      Uncalled for; early anti campaigning

After several of my pages were taken down on alleged violation of community standards, this post has been keenly aware of what is allowed and not allowed to be posted.

However some virulent posts attacking candidates have been appearing and this post wonders if the  watchmen of the platform are going to take down the posts.   Maybe they can campaign for their candidates but to attack the personality of certain candidates without conviction from the courts is out of line and goes beyond ethics of publication and may be even a crime/illegal

About this division of people due to politics or our own candidates,-  this is temporary.  After the election we go back to normal lives.   Our lives will not be altered by whoever wins the election.  It will remain the same if we do not change our attitudes, mindset and the way we behave.  Many nations have progressed inspite of the so "called leaders"  We carve our own destiny, not the so "called leaders" These prophets can be of doom and as Joker Arroyo has put it, it simply a battle among"\ Commissioners"  Kasi to the victor

belongs the spoils

The virus will control the outcome of our health problems; not the new leaders.  So let us save our anger and energy hitting hurting our friends and relatives about the election.  

People move nations not politicians

Logistics problem in vaccine: supply and utilization.

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Gavi - Vaccine roll out

Vaccine roll out in the Philippines

We all agree to eradicate threat from Covid in the Philippines.  And the only sure way is via vaccinations

An entrepreneurship cabinet secretary took out expensive TV ads to emphasize this truism  that our war against covid and poverty brought about by the same is via vaccination

Many are proposing activites to be allowed only if there is vaccination:   1.  by resto workers, 2.  other workers.  3.  teachers in face to face classes.

However the following are suspect regarding vaccines

    1.  We do not seem to have sufficient supply of vaccines

    2.  It distribution and roll out is suspect because there are about 400,000 doses of Moderna vaccines that are about to expire

    What is that:   lack of supply and about to expire inventories    Management problem here

Should be solved by the best and brightest.  

Challenging economic recovery ahead of us

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The post just made a travel to the north.. Despite stringent travel restrictions and requirements, he was able to patiently get these.   But looking at the indicators around, the road may be tight ahead.  After registering 9.5% decline in the economy, the recovery will be hard:

    1.  No provincial buses were seen;  they were all confined in the garages.  H

         1.  How many drivers, conductors inpspectors and other bus company employees lost their 

              jobs

         2.  How did this affect the movement of goods and people?

         3.  How many vendors and other people making money out of bus travel lost their revenues:

             restos, bus vendors, gasoline stations

    2.  How about the express way operators:  NLEX, SCTEX, TIPLEX?

    3.  In general, the economic activity look tepid.  Couple that with the floods and other calamities

All ready we see declaration of bankruptcy  a Philippine flag carrier 

We see many companies closing their doors forever to business.  Millions are out of job

Is there such thing as absolute freedom?

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Notwithstanding the assertion by philosopher Jean Paul Sarte on absolute freedom, this post believes and agrees with some some thoughts of others.

Jean Paul Sarte - Erudit

Freedom is not a being; it is the being of man-i.e. his nothingness of being. If we start by conceiving of man as a plenum, it is absurd to try and find in him afterwards moments or psychic regions in which he would be free. As weil look for emptiness in a container which one has filled beforehand up to the brim! Man can not be sometimes slave and sometimes free; he is wholly and forever free or he is not free at ail. Jean-Paul SARTRE.!

I have encountered several cases where men have wanted to be absolutely free:

    1.   Defiance of many citizens in USA to observe health protocols, and object to vaccine

    2.   Several lot buyers objecting to restrictions for construction on the plot, claiming that their

          ownership is absolute.

Nothing can be farther from the truth

We have the freedom to make  choice in life.  God gave us that right

But our actions are limited by the environment, the govt around us, the legalities.  As we have freedom, this involves the recognition have the same freedom and rights as we do.  

The Presidential Race Who is ahead?

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All of a sudden the administration candidate looked puny Bato and Go -  Bato Go  Its not winnablel

and Leni took off just like that.   Isko is viewed upon as hilaw pa.

But dont be surprised by surprises.   Expect Sara and BBM to pull in a surprise in which case the race will be tight.  There are signs that that may happen, what with meeting of Gwen Garcia, Sara and BBM at Ce bu.  The supporters at Luzon Visayas and Mindanao especially from vote rich areas will be awesome

Sarah BBM GG in closed door meeting in Cebu yesterday

Expect more surprises. 

The big fuss over the övepriced PPE and other supplies

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At the start of pandemic, this office ordered face mask at P220 a box; if I recall we ordered 20 boxes.

Hindsight now, the face mask can be bought for P5@ or P50.00 a box, or even at P40.00 at Lazada

I was being kidded for overpricing.   

There were no available supplies then and if there were, the prices were really high.  Now that supplies have increased, the demand tapered off, local manufacturers are now available,, prices have nose dived.

Disposable PPE used to cost P700.00 each.  It can be had for P135.00 now.    

And so dear Senators, since most of you have political ambitions and politics is thick in the air, the line of inquiry indeed is suspect

Shall I file my COC for President or Senator

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I can file my COC why not?  For senator or even as President. Tomorrow is the deadline

Looking at the qualifications of some of those who filed their COC, I can see that I am ahead with my qualifications and academic ability.  In terms of integrity, I can be ahead.  I am winnable without the current realities of Philippine politics

However I lack the PHP and the machiner to do this.  Only those who have nationwide machinery to run the campaign, ,man the precincts will make it.  This leaves the game to the candidates who are loaded, with political machinery.  

Out with my wish and my dreams

It is expected of the President to defend all the President's man

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I am no lawyer for Pres. Duterte.  But it is expected for a leader like him to defend his men.  And it is expected that he would be competitive and fight all aspersions to put him down and his men.  He does not want to be a lameduck President

That he resorted to personal attacks vs Gordon is sad.  But as they said, those who are clean cast the  first stone....

The evidence presented by CoA are not  enough to stop the inquiry - that there was no wrongdoing. - overpricing or ghost delivery.   (It was my experience that PPE at that time was ridiculously high) 

Clearly it is a case of witchhunt and increasing media exposure.  With PTV behind the administration, who would win.   

Men has to know their limitations

The man who would be President

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When I was very young (in high school)  I was sick and my Lelong (from my mother's side)  remarked that I should be careful with my health.  because he foresaw that I could be President.  I laughed the comment aside because it was very far from the truth

But now reviewing the list of candidates who have announced their candidacy

    1.  Emmanuel Pacquiao

    2.  Ping Lacson

    3.  BBM

    4.  Isko Moreno

I can say my Lelong was right.   I possess the intellect and the determination, and the academic qualifications to lead the nation.  I do not have issues in the likes of Pacquiao (lack of academic qualification - I have an MBA;  I took my college for 4 full years)      nor the suspicion on the association with the criminal groups or being accused in the Orbito case, nor the aspersion of Martial Law for BBM, nor the NPA alleged link with Isko.

I do not however have the political machinery nor the billions of PHP to launch my Presidency.  And so what my Lelong said was a self serving statement.  But I am almost there.  

Blue Ribbon committee resumes hearing on Pharmaly

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The Blue Ribbon committee resumes its hearing on the alleged anomalous purchase of overpriced PPE from an undercapitalized company, with fictitious addresses of incorporators.

It is an interesting event to watch and  maybe it is the start of Presidential campaign  -  the Lacson Sotto tandem throwing its wares vs  the administration Or even Gordon who harbors Presidential ambition.  At this point in time, selfish issues ie running for position vs DU30 can't continue.    There is a conflict of interest

That RC objects to being audited by COA is also interesting legal or not legal.  But an audit of govt funds given to the organization may be allowed.   (And PDU30 knows his laws) 

At the same time we can not just shrug our shoulders on these controversies/issues

Conflicting information on the vax

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The major soc media prohibits contrary views to the  vaccine.   Some are against the vax because of news that the new vax contain microchips to control society,  (and worse they could be zombies)

I took the vaccine because this post agreed that it is the best bet vs the  disease come infection time,   And that only those with vaccine card can go around with ease to malls, and other areas: It is the passport for air travel and to other areas of the  Philippines

But we see these information:

1.  The efficacy of thee vaccines is short:   6 mos to 1 year  (that is why it called vaccination not                       immunization 

2.  You can still be infected or infect others if you have vaccine but it will not be fatal.

3.   That there are anecdotes that those who were vaccinated got ill. 

Some speculate that the recent surge were due to vaccination (partly due  to complacency and relaxation of health protocols) and partly due to 3.

Let us pray so that the good Lord will end  due to HIS blessings and grace, aand through the human efforts

Confusion on implementation of community quarantine

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MM is supposed to be GCQ starting today with granular lockdown ,  And yet the number of covid cases peaked at 22,000 when the results sof the extended ECQ at MM was , and yesterday, it was still at 18,000.   

So the authorities back back pedaled and had the MECQ instead.

This post notes that we have one of the most extended lockdown and expanded lockdown in the world.  It is noteworthy that while we were ahead of  many in terms of many cases, many including European countries see it fit to have lockdowns.    

I think the  DOH and the rest of leadership did its best, (but it was not good enough) to fight the pandemic and put up many facilities.  But the gods may not be smiling at us, the virus is really virulent that is why cases are still rising   This may be partly to the  1.  hard headed ness of the people  and 2.  the military way the covid was handled, via PNP and the barangay who all of a sudden became epidimologist, scientists, lawyers.   The disease is spread via social contact in enclosed spaces but we had plenty of this:    1.  distribution of bakuna, 2.  checkpoints,   3.  gathering of arrested individuals. 

4.  a semi rally when VIPs visit the provinces.     

There is a lot of confusion:      (and it reflects my hobby)     DOTR says its ok to bike in the street;   LGU says no and arrests are made;    DOH says we can exercise, LGU says no.   

It is weird and crazy to prevent passersby in the highway especially for bikers and the orders relevance in the spread of the disease.   You have to show proof that bikers spread disease.   

Who are most likely to be elected winners in 2022 Pres election

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Before the October deadline for the  filing of COC, a lot of names have come out as Pres VP tandem:

     1.   Duterte Duterte

     2.   Pacquiao Robredo

     3.   BBM  Duterte

     4.   Ping Vic

     5.   Go Duterte   x

     6.   ____Isko Moreno

 

Is Dick Gordon running too.

Early on mud is thrown in various directions:     Du vs Isko;   Du vs.   Pacquiao,   Opposition vs Go and Du.

Today I am watching on TV the launch of Ping Vic tandem.  All ready I see repeat of demagoguery - of speeches with very vague words:    "pagbabago",  liwanag vs dilim, pag asa.   How we wish leaders can be more specific.   Most posturing are anti.  We cant go forward with anti, or backward vision.   

How we wish we can see many changes - real changes.   

But if you are not connected with the administration, you stand a slim chance of winning.  They have consolidated their foothold with the grass roots  with the barangay with the ayuda.   They shared power and php with their officials by having them handle most of the work during the  pandemic.    The senatoriables of the administration have an edge with the  use of govt media.   Those who stand to benefit are the senatoriables.   

Good luck to those  who do not have these advantages.

Most likely BBM and Du would win.     Ping, Vic, Robredo Pacquiao,, Moreno are not going to make it This is my fearless forcast.  

Adroit handling of press conference

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We admire the demeanor of the Pres Spox.  It takes a lot of guts answering a lot of difficult questions day in and day out from inquisitive reporters who sometimes crosses the boundaries.   

The answers range from vague to one that goes in circles or ones that do not answer the question

Or one that skirts the issue.  "Am just a spokesman"am not privy to....

This also applies to various departments spox.    And sometimes we think that it is a waste off time watching these press con"

One such confusion is discussion of the vaccine:

1.  Vaccine is not 100% effective;

2.  Vaccinated  people can still get it and infect others;

3.  Vaccines are  not effective for a long/infinite time.   

That is why many dont want to be vaccinated.   

No need to downgrade our efforts in fight vs covid19

It is more fun criticizing

8.27.2021

Many have been crying for the dismissal resignation of a cabinet secretary for alleged failure to contain covid 19

But not so quick.  We should congratulate him and the team for the following:

1.  Testing

2.  Wearing of face mask; observance of health protocols

3.  Containing the spread an number of deaths.

4.  Increase of health facilities:    quarantine and isolation facilities.

There are rough edges but we are not entirely laggards in fight vs covid19

Philippines used  to have the highest number of cases.

Other countries which boasted on few cases are facing surges, 2nd or third wave:   Taiwan, Vietnam, Japan, Korea. 

Display of inhumanity, savagery towards one another shown in Afghanistan

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8.27.2021

How could human beings be so inhuman and be savage towards one another.

Exampleas re suicide bombings near the Kabul airport, and others are summary execution of may be pro American Afghans.   

And that comes from a religion professing peace.   (Is it?)

Have our rights activists and our justices changed their views regarding anti terrorist law

What if ISIS succeeded in Marawi and over run Philippines

Horrific Taliban atrocities