37th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Awards Night Winners

 Listed below are the official winners of the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival Awards:

Best Picture:
Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story (Scenema Concepts Int’l, Viva Films)

Second Best Picture:
Enteng Ng Ina Mo (Star Cinema, M-Zet Films)

Third Best Picture:
Shake, Rattle, and Roll 13 (Regal Films)

Best Director:
Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story
 
Best Actor:
Dingdong Dantes (“Segunda Mano”)

Best Actress:
Maricel Soriano (“Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”)

Best Supporting Actor:
John Regala (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Supporting Actress:
Eugene Domingo (“My Househusband: Ikaw Na!”)

Best Child Performer:
Bugoy Carino (“Shake, Rattle, and Roll 13”)

Best Screenplay:
Roi Iglesias and Rey Ventura (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Story:
Chris Martinez and Marlon Rivera (“Shake, Rattle, and Roll 13”)

Gatpuno Villegas Cultural Award:
Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story

Gender Sensitivity Award:
My Househusband: Ikaw Na!

Best Cinematography:
Carlo Mendoza (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Original Theme Song:
“La Paloma” by Ely Buendia (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Musical Score:
Jerry Lazaten (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Sound Recording:
Mike Idioma (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Editing:
Jason Canapay and Ryan Orduna (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Production Design:
Fritz Siloria, Mona Soriano, and Ronaldo Cadapan (“Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story”)

Best Visual Effects:
Riot Inc. (“Ang Panday 2”)

Best Make-up:
Florencia Penero, Niccolo Medina, and Jayvee Flores (“Enteng Ng Ina Mo”)

Best Float:
Ang Panday 2

Best Full-Length Independent Film:
Pintakasi

Best New Wave Actor:
JM de Guzman (“Pintakasi”)

Best New Wave Actress:
Iza Calzado (“H.I.V.”)

New Wave Gender Sensitivity Award:
H.I.V. (full-length) and Speechless from Miriam College (student film)

Best Student Film:
Payaso from De La Salle-Lipa and MATe from Colegio San Juan de Letran

Special Jury Prize:
Biyahe Ni Barbie from De La Salle-College of St. Benilde

Top 30 Famous Filipino One-Liners of 2011

2011 has been a year of outlandish yet cool slang words the media has set out. So, I created my list of the top 30 famous one-liners which I have heard and seen everywhere, online, on air, and even in teleseryes. This list is inspired by a top 20 one-liners list released by Marc Logan in the Kapamilya program Bandila just a few hours ago.

30. kapal!

29. whatever

28. wagi!! (or winner)

27. yesss!

26. ankabogabol

25. adik!

24. huwaw!

23. o ha?

22. wew!

21. ganda mo teh!

20. wasakkk!

19. ayos!

18. potekk!

17. wagas!

16. weh, di nga?

15. lol

14.luvet!

13. taray!

12. boom!

11. achieve!

10. kalurkey

9. kuha mo?

8. ikaw na!

7. epal!

6. pasok sa banga!

5. nomon!

4. ansave? (in a lot of variations)

3. tamuh! (in a lot of variations)

2. wehh?

1. you already!

Have I missed anything? Just comment down below. Thanks!

37th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Box Office Tally, Possible Sabotage Unfoiled

As of 10:00 in the evening yesterday (December 25), the Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entries have earned close to Php 125 million. With hopes high, the seven different films are continuously raking in millions of pesos and higher volumes of viewership.

Official MMFF Box Office Results (as of December 25)

1. Enteng Ng Ina Mo - Php 38.5M

2. Ang Panday 2 - Php 20M

3. Segunda Mano - Php 18.2M

4. My Househusband - Php 17.33M

5. Shake Rattle & Roll 13 - Php 15.9M

6. Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow - Php 10.1M

7. Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story - Php 3M

Meanwhile, Jobert Sucaldito of DZMM TeleRadyo program Mismo revealed hours earlier that there has been a sabotage in the movie prints for the MMFF entry Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story. He divulges that only 17 of the supposedly 51 number of prints for theater showing nationwide were released by its contractor SQ Laboratories, owned by a certain Angelo Santos.

He further lashed on a few MMFF entries' producers, with an emphasized exclusion of Star Cinema thus narrowing down the hit list, which had more movie prints than expected, leading to an inappropriate occupancy of slots alloted for the Manila Kingpin in cinema houses nationwide.

Sucaldito also said that during the first hours of movie release yesterday, the Manila Kingpin landed 3rd in gross earnings, even if it was only played in 17 theaters. Also, he delightedly announced that Manila Kingpin has been garnering really good and positive reviews from movie critics and local viewers.

Recent reports support Sucaldito's claim. Laguna governor E.R. Ejercito said, the movie “grossed Php 3M in 17 theaters. We could have earned P20-M on the first day kung kumpleto ang prints. Kung patas ang laban.”

Maylyn Enriquez, the supervising producer of Scenema Concept International, producer of the Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story later unveiled a public statement.

“We contracted SQ Laboratories to be the supplier for the prints. We both agreed to have the prints ready by December 23 in time for logistics of the materials for the December 25, 2011, which is the first day of MMFF screening. However, due to their load with other 4 more festival entries, we were the least priority and last to be printed. To my dismay, the laboratory misinformed us about the completion of the prints, and the last minute transfer of laboratory was necessary to produce as many prints as possible. Unfortunately, despite the delivery of the prints to the theaters, the cinemas have already replaced our theater with another movie. This is already beyond our control.”

Was there really a sabotage in the 37th Metro Manila Film Festival? Let us wait and see in the coming days.

With supporting reports from Yahoo! Philippines OMG!

Para kay Santa: Isang Pang-matagalang Ninalyn Uy Please

SMP. Samahan ng mg malalamig ang Pasko. Ang koponang tradisyonal na nabubuo sa tuwing sumasapit ang buwan ng Disyembre.  Isa ako sa mga kasapi nito, for four years! Me already!

Baka isipin mong sa buong buhay ko hindi pa nahuhulog loob ko sayo, este, sa iba. Alam mo, marami na akong minahal na babae. Bawat taon ata, walong taon ang nakakaraan, may na-lilink sa akin. Noong mga taong iyon, beasty hippo pa ako, kaya naiirita sila kung bakit kailangan pa nilang mainsulto sa ganung biruan.

But, sa pagdaan ng panahon, unti-unting nagbago ang hulma ng kapalaran. Ang dating beasty hippo, nagbago ng anyo, without artificial interference. From beasty hippo to charming snow leopard. It's in the genes, sabi nila. Ang dating kinaaayawan at pinagtatanggihan ng mga babae, naging katanggap-tanggap na.

Pero, sa kabila ng mga pagbabago, ako pa rin ang nahirapan. Bilanggo ng SMP. Dahil bawat babaeng dumadaan sa buhay ko ay pawang isang napakagandang tanawin lamang. Isang abot-tingin lang, kinatatakutan kong akyatan. Kaibigan.

Natakot akong masaktan. Yun yon eh.

Magtatapang-tapangan na ako. Santa, hinahamon kita. Isang wish lang ang hinihiling kong matupad. Isang pang-matagalang Ninalyn Uy po, please. Isang tulad niya, na kailangan ng maraming kalalakihan ngayon. Isang tulad niya, na lunas sa pagkatorpe. Isang tulad niya, na kayang sutsutin ang batas ng pagmamahal.

Asahan mong hindi ko siya sasaktan, hindi tulad nang nangyari sa akin way back. Asahan mong, kahit halos lahat ng laman ng regalong hinahatid mo sa akin noon ay mga laruan, hinding-hindi ko siya paglalaruan.  Asahan mong hindi siya magsisi sa ginawa niyang pananawagan.

Asahan mong, sa mundo niya, hindi na siya mag-iisa.

P.S. May nalalabing 13.5 hours ka pa para maihanda ang regalo ko. Salamat. Mas gugustuhin ko pang matulog sa kakahintay, kesa sa magising sa katotohanan. Sana'y pakinggan mo ako.

Hindi Mo Lang Alam

Hindi Mo Lang Alam

Mahigit apat na taon na tayong magkakilala.

Sa mga araw na nagdaan, nakita ko kung paano tayo lumaki karamay ang isa't isa. Naaalala mo ba yung mga araw na kumakanta ako kahit wala sa tono, kahit na nakakahiya sa harap nang maraming tao? Malakas lang talaga loob ko noon. Hindi naman kita bestfriend, pero gabundok talaga ang tiwala ko na kapag kasama kita, kaya kong maging Red Horse. Extra strong.

Magkaibigan lang tayo noon. Wala pang makukulay na mga ngiti. Wala pang hawak sa kamay. Wala pang dahilan para magkahiyaan. Wala pang kahulugan sa bawat galaw na tumatatak sa mga araw na nabibilang.

Sayang lang at hindi mo alam to.

Malapit nang matapos ang buhay Isko natin. Sana tayo na. Tanungin mo na ako, 'di na uso na lalaki ang nagtatanong e.

Help Sendong Victims. Volunteer. Donate.

There are a lot of ways we can help our fellow countrymen, the people of Iligan City, Cagayan de Oro City, Dumaguete City, and all areas hit by Typhoon Sendong.

Let the Bayanihan spirit give them the strength to move on and recover. Spread happiness.

Donate now. Become a volunteer.

WHAT: Relief goods drop-off

WHERE: My Place Residence Hall Katipunan (near KFC)

WHEN: Ongoing until Monday night, Dec. 19

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: Sendong Relief Operations/Reynald Reyes (09167262483)

HOW: Donate relief goods: blankets, clothing, food, etc.

WHAT: Cash assistance for relief and recovery efforts

WHERE: n/a

WHEN: Ongoing

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: Philippine National Red Cross

HOW: Text REDAMOUNT to 2899 (Globe) or 4143 (Smart) or make a donation at any Cebuana Lhuillier Pawnshop nationwide

WHAT: Relief goods drop-off for Cagayan de Oro Victims

WHERE: Enderun Colleges, McKinley Hill, Taguig City

WHEN: Ongoing

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: The Enderun Community Drive

HOW: Donate off bottled water, ready to eat food (i.e. crackers, biscuits, cookies, packaged buns/cakes), juices, milk, canned goods, medicines at the drop-off point.

WHAT: Relief goods drop-off

WHERE: Mercato Centrale Tent (The Fort) and Suderno (beside makati med)

WHEN: Ongoing until 3AM Dec. 18, or 7am-2pm the following day Dec. 19

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: Mercato Centrale

HOW: Donate relief goods at the drop-off points.

WHAT: Surgical support for calamity victims

WHERE: ECs in calamity affected areas

WHEN: Ongoing

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: Philippine College of Surgeons- Northern Mindanao Chapter/Klarizza Simbulan (09173045037)

HOW: If you know of anyone who has surgical needs due to the calamity, contact Klarizza.

WHAT: Cash donations

WHERE: n/a

WHEN: Ongoing

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: Iligan City Government

HOW: Deposit monetary donations at DBP Iligan City Account Name: City Treasurer's Office Iligan City, Trust Fund # 0820-016201-030

WHAT: Cash donations for Iligan City victims

WHERE: n/a

WHEN: Ongoing

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: Rei Lena Maranda (09052665014)

HOW: Deposit cash donations at

Account name: Association of IIT Alumni Foundation Inc.

Bank: BDO - Iligan Quezon Avenue Branch

Account No: 003120169026

WHAT: Relief goods drop-off/Relief goods repacking/Monetary donations

WHERE: Sagip Kapamilya, ABS-CBN Foundation, Mo. Ignacia cor. Eugenio Lopez St., Quezon City or ABS-CBN Cagayan de Oro, Barangay Bulua, Cagayan de Oro City or ABS-CBN Davao, Shrine Hills, Matina, Davao City

WHEN: Ongoing

ORG/CONTACT PERSON: Sagip Kapamilya, ABS-CBN Foundation/Faizza Tanggol (09175323249)

HOW: (1) Volunteer; (2) Donating relief goods (clothing, blankets, food, etc.); (3) Donate cash thru the ff:

(a) BDO Peso Account

Account name: ABS-CBN Foundation Inc.-Sagip Kapamilya

Account Number: 39301-14199

Swift Code: BNORPHMM

SPOTTED: Breaking Dawn (Funny Edition)

Recently, a very creative photo emerged in social networking sites of what actually looked like a humorous, comical translation of the fourth and final novel in the Twilight Saga, Breaking Dawn. Haha. It took me more than ten minutes to realize what meaning the picture really wanted to express.

It seriously hyped up the good vibes I've been trying to feel the past few days. Good thing Filipinos have that mix of wittiness and humor that's worth sharing and remembering.

To whoever brought about this picturesque parody, keep it up dude! The "sharing" craze is now on.

Tugon: Sana Akin Ka na Lang

"Oo". Nakarating sakin ang akda mo.

Pero nililinaw ko lang na hindi ako yung taong hinahanap mo. Hindi ako yung taong naghahanap ng Ate o masasandalan. Hindi ako yung taong sadyang dahilan ng pag-shoshopping mo sa ukay-ukay. Hindi ako yung taong kumakalabit sayo't pinag-mumumura.

Hindi ako ang pamantayan mo sa paghahanap ng karelasyon. Hindi ako siya.

Ako lang naman ang taong sulyap nang sulyap sayo habang nakabaling naman ang titig mo sa iba. Kung gaano man kalalim ang titig mo sa kanya ay siya ding lalim ng inggit na nararamdaman, ngayon alam mo na.

Kagaya mo, mahilig din ako sa Asianovela. Mahilig din akong magbasa ng mga bali-balita, kaya huwag ka sanang mabibigla na nabasa mo ito ngayon. Ngayon alam mo na.

Siguro kung nasambit ko lang sa 'yo mga interests ko (ikaw lang naman kasi yun), maliliwanagan kang mas nababagay tayo. Ay, hindi nga pala tayo nag-uusap noon. Yun lang.

May kagwapuhan din naman ako kahit papaano, hindi din ako celebrity. At sabi din ng mga kaibigan ko, kung naitanong mo lang din sa kanila, sobrang bait ko daw.

Hinanap din kita online, biruin mo. Tiningnan ko lahat ng results sa Google para lang mabatid kung may malalaman pa ako tungkol sa 'yo, pero kaunti lang ang alam ng buong mundo kaya nasayangan ako sa binayad ko sa internet cafe. Kasalanan mo.

Kasalanan mo kung bakit di ako nakapasok sa 7am class ko dati. Gumawa kasi ako ng isang bagay na ibibigay ko dapat sa 'yo sa pagtatapos ng klase, kaya lang di na kita naabutan noon. Kasalanan mo din kung bakit binabasa nila ito ngayon, hindi naman ako manunulat. Parang facebook post lang ito na kakalat sa mga feed updates (ticker) ng mga kaibigan mo, kaibigan ng kaibigan mo, at mga di natin kakilala.

Ang inaabangan ko lang, sana makarating ito sa 'yo.

Hindi ko alam kung bakit sa tuwing nakikita kitang tinitingnan mo siya, napapangiti na din ako. Masaya ako dahil kahit papaano'y may mga pagkakataon akong matingnan kang pawi ng lungkot, at babad sa sigla. Abot-langit ang aking pagkakagalak na makasama ka sa klaseng iyon, kung saan mas natutunan ko pang mahalin ka kesa ang subject na iyon.

Ang masakit nga lang, INC nakuha kong grado. Ikaw daw ang kulang. Makumpleto ko pa kaya?

Maswerte siya na wala kang pinagdaramutan. Sa sinulat mo sa iyong akda, parang swerteng bank error lang ang nangyari at may maibibigay ka pang "oo" sa kanya, kahit wala naman siyang dineposit sa tanang buhay niya.

Gusto din sana kitang makausap, ngunit di naman ako yung taong hinahanap mo.

Sakaling mabasa mo ito, nandito lang ako umaasang di ka niya papag-aalalahanin. Kung tila sa pag-daan ng panahon, wala nang bumalik sa nakaipon mong "oo", baka pwedeng ako na lang ang mag-withdraw. Kagaya nga ng sinabi mo, aanhin mo naman 'yun.

Hindi Mo Lang Alam

Para kay Santa: Isang Pang-matagalang Ninalyn Uy Please

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, UE Pep Squad Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: jason02ej

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, DLSU Animo Squad Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: jandeejandee09

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: fotomacder

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, UP Pep Squad Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: fotomacder

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, FEU Cheering Squad Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: fotomacder

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, NU Pep Squad Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: jason02ej

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, Ateneo Blue Battle Batallion Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: jason02ej

2011 Samsung UAAP Cheerdance Competition REPLAY, Adamson Pep Squad Cheerdance

Video Courtesy: riverblueph

2011 UAAP Cheerdance Competition Predictions

I firmly believe that these three (or four) schools (Cheering Squads) will make it to the Top 3 in the 2011 UAAP Cheerdance Competition.

For having its uniqueness, creativity and crowd-stunning appeal, the UP Pep Squad will make it again into the top three places in the 2011 UAAP Cheerdance Competition. This defender will surely establish a new standard in history of Philippine Cheerdancing.

I also have a hunch that the UST Salinggawi  Dance Troupe will land on the 2nd place in the 2011 UAAP Cheerdance Competition. This I attribute to the team's urge to bring home the bacon for its 400th foundation anniversary, the longest in Philippine tertiary level education.

Both crowd pleasers, the FEU Cheering Squad and the DLSU Animo Squad will tug the rope for 3rd place in this year's UAAP CDC. Both squads have launched highly arduous trainings in preparation for the cheerdance battle.

I really think that all schools will wow us. The question that lies is at which squad will the judges be amazed most? Will it be the UP Pep Squad again? Or, will another squad grab hold of it? We'll see.

Manila Water makes it to the top 16 green firms in the developing world

16 companies from across the developing world were seen best showing how to grow profits at the same time as actively tackling civic and environmental challenges, a study by the World Economic Forum (WEF) reveals.

The WEF said it showed that global "green" businesses were not the only ones with sustainability credentials.

From over 1,000 companies positioned as candidates for the most environmentally aware firms, Manila Water makes it to the list.

Co-authored by management consultants Boston Consulting Group (BCG), the study said the findings were doubly interesting "given the challenges faced by emerging market companies which often have to deal with multiple problems".

It said these local difficulties ranged from substandard infrastructure and weak environmental regulatory regimes, to acute talent shortages and underdeveloped governance practices.

Manila Water, a Philippine utility company, included community partnerships, watershed management, and flexible payment options to boost access to clean water.

The table above enlists the top 16 New Sustainability Champions of this year, as the World Economic Forum commences in Dalian, China.

UAAP Cheerdance Competition 2011 Results and Recap - UP Pep Squad (1st Place), DLSU Animo Squad (2nd Place), FEU Cheering Squad (3rd Place)

And the 2011 UAAP Season 74 Cheerdance Competition winners are:

2011 Samsung UAAP CDC Winners:
Champion - UP Pep Squad, 340,000 Php + Samsung phones + trophies and individual medals
1st Runner-up - DLSU Animo Squad, 200,000 Php + individual medals
2nd Runner-up - FEU Cheering Squad, 140,000 Php + individual medals

Special Awards:
Stunner of the Crowd:
Nesza Salvador of UP Pep Squad, Samsung ST700 Digital Camera with Dual-LCD Screen

Group Stunts Exhibition Winners:
Champion - UP Pep Squad
!st Runner-up - FEU Cheering Squad
2nd Runner-up - NU Cheering Squad

2011 UAAP Cheerdance Final Rankings:
1. UP
2. DLSU
3. FEU
4. UST
5. Adamson
6. NU
7. ADMU
8. UE

 For UAAP Cheerdance Competition 2011 video replays, here are the links:

Adamson Pep Squad

Ateneo Blue Babble Battalion

NU Pep Squad

DLSU Animo Squad

UP Pep Squad

FEU Cheering Squad

UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe

UE Pep Squad

Everyone's hyped up for the highly anticipated 2011 University Athletic Association of the Philippines Cheerdance Competition (UAAP CDC) which will commence on September 17 (Saturday, 3PM) at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

 Photo Courtesy: UP Website

Will UP defend their title? Or will UST celebrate its 400th year of existence with a loud cheer? Will FEU get its 3rd win?Want to know my predictions of the top 3 placers for this year's UAAP Cheerdance Competition 2011? Proceed by clicking 2011 UAAP CDC Predictions.

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Express your views! Shout out the name of your school! Vote in this poll, which school will bring home the most-coveted crown in Philippine cheerdancing's history.

Order of performances:

Adamson Pep Squad

Ateneo Blue Babble Battalion

NU Pep Squad

DLSU Animo Squad

UP Pep Squad

FEU Cheering Squad

UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe

UE Pep Squad

UAAP Cheerdance tickets are now available in U-belt schools.

Tickets can be purchased at Araneta’s Ticketnet located at the Yellow Gate. Aside from Ticketnet, students can also buy tickets from Sports/Athletics offices in their schools. Gates open 12 NN.

Ticket Prices:

Patron (Reserved Seating) — P 300

Lower Box (Reserved Seating) — P 250

Upper Box A (Free Seating) — P 170

Upper Box B (Free Seating) — P 95

General Admission (Free Seating) — P 60

2010 UAAP CDC Winners:

1st - UP Pep Squad

2nd - FEU Cheering Squad

3rd - UST Salinggawi Dance Troupe

Miss Universe 2011 Winners

And the Miss Universe winners are:

Miss Universe 2011: Miss Angola
1st Runner-up: Miss Ukraine
2nd Runner-up: Miss Brazil
3rd Runner-up: Miss Philippines
4th Runner-up: Miss China

Miss Congeniality: Miss Montenegro
Miss Photogenic: Miss Sweden
Best National Costume: Miss Panama

Ferdinand Marcos, EDSA Revolution, and What the Media Didn't Tell Us

This video is not Marcos propaganda, read the title, its all about what media is not telling us. After 25 years, it is now obvious that Cory administration is more violent with more journalist dead in her 6 year term compared to Marcos' 20 years. She also suffered 8 coup attempts which is a reflection of her administrations rampant corruption.

The MASS MEDIA, especially AbsCbn and Inquirer, is doing their best to cover up the incompetencies of the new Aquino president. Pretty much the same with what they did to Cory's presidency. This video will show FACTS that mass media is trying to silence through the years.

This video is a RE-UPLOAD since the powers that be hacked and removed it recently from Youtube. Proof that someone or some group is trying to HIDE the truth. Please spread the message: Marcos is the least suspect in the Ninoy assassination and that only 2% of the 1986 philippine population attended EDSA People Power. Lets end filipino ignorance, it ends NOW.

Any copyrighted material that may appear herein are properties of their respective owners. Copyright infringement not intended. We invoke U.S. copyright law of FAIR USE. For educational and information dissemination purpose only. Not intended for any commercial purposes

Visit http://antipinoy.com/ and http://www.getrealphilippines.com/ for further discussions :)

This Filipino Visual artpiece is created, authored and directed by a conservative Filipino citizen, residing in the Philippines. The director/author/owner of the video does not intend to offend, insult, humiliate or intimidate his fellow Filipinos or any particular Filipino individual. We are not promoting hatred, violence and discrimination towards our own race. Nor do we promote stereotyping and denigration against any Filipino Individual.

The objective of the director/author/owner of the video is to promote an intelligent and civilized discussion about rectifying the flawed provisions of the Philippine's 1987 Constitution. Provisions that promote a protectionist government where only a few number of rich families benefit while the entire populace of the Philippines is mired in POVERTY, MEDIOCRITY and constant SUFFERING.

The opinion of the director/author/owner of the video is similar to the opinion of a growing number of disillusioned Educated and Enlightened Filipinos who simply wants to elevate their quality of life and get rid of poverty in our country once and for all by freeing up the economy and attracting foreign direct investments that brings job opportunities to the people. The 1987 constitution is responsible for restricting progress in the Philippines for 25 years. The 1987 Constitution must be rectified. This rectification movement must be supported by the people. But first, the people must be informed. Hence the very PURPOSE OF THIS VIDEO.

This is not Hate Speech. This is not Racial Vilification. We appeal to Youtube administration to understand the political and economic situation of our country the Philippines and the benefit we will get by informing the public.

Video courtesy: PinoyMonkeyPride

Wikileaks: US backed MILF for an independent resource-rich Mindanao

Purported secret US Embassy files released by the whistle-blowing WikiLeaks showed that Washington had a direct hand in the ill-fated deal to create a Bangsamoro Juridical Entity in 2008 that critics warned could lead to a dismemberment of the Philippines.

Former Bayan Muna Representative Satur Ocampo said that this “disturbing pattern” of American intervention in the Philippines was apparently triggered by a letter sent by then Moro rebel chief Hashim Salamat to US President George W. Bush on Jan. 20, 2003.

Salamat’s letter, coursed through then US Ambassador Frank Riccardione in Manila, sought assistance in hammering out an agreement between the Philippine government and the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on the creation of a Moro homeland.

Ocampo said that that US interest was clearly seen from the terms of the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD), which was declared by the Supreme Court as unconstitutional in 2008, where the funding for socioeconomic projects in Mindanao would be handed over to the World Bank and the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

MOA-AD leaked

Ocampo said the Arroyo administration’s peace negotiators apparently were not too keen on the US involvement that they leaked the MOA-AD a few days before it was supposed to be signed in Kuala Lumpur in August 2008 in the presence of then US Ambassador Kristie Kenney.

The chief Philippine negotiator, General Hermogenes Esperon, apparently gave the document to then North Cotabato Governor Manny Piñol because the Arroyo administration felt the United States would be getting too much economic power under the deal, said Ocampo. Piñol later went to the Supreme Court to contest the agreement.

“We are therefore appealing to the basic principle of American fairness and sense of justice to use your good offices in rectifying the error that continues to negate and derogate the Bangsamoro People’s fundamental right to seek decolonization under the United Nations General Assembly Resolution No. 1514 (XV) of 1960. For this purpose, we are amenable to inviting and giving you the opportunity to assist in resolving this predicament of the Bangsamoro People,” Salamat wrote to Bush.

Ocampo said that it was no coincidence that two years after Salamat’s plea, the United States held its first official meeting with MILF chairman Murad Ebrahim (as detailed in WikiLeaks 07MANILA3676 cable titled: Muslim Insurgent chairman, Malaysian Facilitator) which was held a year after they met with MILF Vice Chairman for Political Affairs Ghadzali Jafaar (WikiLeaks 06MANILA1747 cable titled: MILF welcomes regular dialogue with US Embassy). Both documents were classified as secret.

US officials have declined comment on the substance or authenticity of the WikiLeaks papers.

Salamat died in 2003 and was replaced by Murad as MILF chief.

Different political interest

“Hashim Salamat’s letter for George Bush to intervene led initially to the USIP’s (US Institute for Peace) interest in Mindanao and then the US Embassy’s direct intervention a few years later as exposed in the WikiLeaks reports. We knew that the US was getting involved in the peace process and we told them (MILF) to be careful because the US had a different political interest. Nobody had proof then but the WikiLeaks reports confirmed the US hand,” Ocampo said in a phone interview.

First official meeting

Ocampo said Salamat’s letter set the tone for the peace agreement as a way for the United States to rectify its “sins” when it ceded Bangsamoro land in Mindanao to its then Philippine colony.

Based on the 07MANILA3676 cable classified as secret, “the first ever official US government meeting with the leader of the Muslim insurgent organization engaged in peace talks with the government” was held in November 2007 inside Camp Darapanan, near Cotabato City.

Gov’t resistance

In her report, Kenney stated: “Our direct engagement is clearly welcomed by all parties and can help pull the complex peace process toward concrete progress, possibly including step-by-step eradication of terrorists from Mindanao.”

Murad, who was described as “friendly, confident and well-versed” and spoke excellent English, “suggested during the meeting that the US sign a protocol supporting the peace agreement along with other countries because he feared that Congress would not give its approval to the deal without international support,” Kenney said.

The WikiLeaks documents showed persistent questions on the constitutionality of the MOA-AD and resistance from “conservative forces” in the Arroyo Cabinet and Congress.

Kenney reported that the government peace panel secretariat director, Ryan Sullivan [name sounds American but he’s Filipino], reported that the government and the MILF panels were divided on governance (MILF wanted specific terms while the government wanted it kept in general terms), political status (MILF wanted to use freedom in the Bangsamoro which the government objected to), and natural resources (MILF wanted to have a firm hand in the exploitation of its petroleum and natural gas reserves).

“The US apparently believes that it can do what it wants with Mindanao’s natural resources by dealing with the MILF in the Bangsamoro rather than with the national government,” Ocampo said. “The US is eyeing with interest the potential of Mindanao for oil and gas.”

Jurisdiction

“Since both parties have different concepts of the meaning of ‘ownership,’ this term was excluded from the draft territorial agreement. In place of ‘ownership,’ the MILF wants to use the phrase ‘jurisdiction and control,’ while the Cabinet wants to limit the language in the text to the word “control.” The phrase “jurisdiction and control” implies greater authority and a recognized right to control strategic resources within the territorial boundaries of a new Muslim political entity,” Kenney said.

“By limiting the language to the term “control,” Sullivan said the government would grant authority to the new Moro political entity to develop and exploit strategic resources, though such authority could be taken away under certain circumstances, such as a national emergency. The MILF is apparently concerned that the government could use a calamity or other event as a pretext to take over strategic resources indefinitely, according to Sullivan.”

Aside from getting the details of the MOA-AD, the US Embassy was also advised about a “two-tier advocacy and public relations campaign to prepare for the congressional action/plebiscite required after a territorial agreement is signed.”

Complex issues

“To ensure that the parties stay focused and push the process forward, Mission officials continue to engage the parties at the most senior levels … making clear that the US strongly supports a peace agreement that will help bring prosperity to Mindanao and remove safe havens for terrorists,” the report said.

In her commentary, Kenney said: “The slow, sometimes halting negotiation process reflects the complexity of the issues with which the parties are grappling, as well as the complex politics surrounding them. Our contacts continue to report that government and MILF negotiators are working diligently to craft a territorial agreement that not only meets with Cabinet and MILF approval, but passes constitutional muster.

“We continue to press both sides to come to agreement soon on the significant set of governance, territory, and natural resource issues currently under negotiation. Such an agreement would be a significant milestone and open the field for advocacy and increased attention to security issues in the next stage of negotiations.”

Source: Inquirer.net, Wikileaks.org

Charice and David Foster to part ways

Charice is moving up another level, making one big step; she is now ready to grow on her own, straying away from the direction of her mentor-turned-Godfather, David Foster.

Three year have already passed, since Charice hit the international stage with the aid of David Foster who treated her like a daughter.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDI) revealed that this year’s David Foster and Friends concert series in the United States and Asia, will be the last one where Charice will appear as guest. Foster further said that Charice should focus on her target market, the younger audience.

One more reason for the end of Charice-David tandem is because Foster will be taking over the Verve label of Universal Music; he will be leaving Charice's label, Reprise/143 of Warner Music. He will now deal his efforts in polishing Verve's genre from jazz to adult contemporary.

Meanwhile, Charice will be with Warner Music as she gets ready her upcoming sophie album due next year.

Still, the possibility for a comeback of the partnership is still at high; Charice just needs to make the ends meet. Let's just wait till she buds, and conquers the international music industry.

Facts and Figures: Economy of the Philippines

Economy of the Philippines:

GDP (purchasing power parity):
$351.4 billion (2010 est.) country rank: 34
$327.4 billion (2009 est.)
$323.9 billion (2008 est.)

GDP (official exchange rate):

$188.7 billion (2010 est.)

GDP - real growth rate:
7.3% (2010 est.) country rank: 31
1.1% (2009 est.)
3.7% (2008 est.)

GDP - per capita (PPP):

$3,500 (2010 est.) country rank: 162
$3,300 (2009 est.)
$3,400 (2008 est.)

GDP - composition by sector:

agriculture: 13.9%
industry: 31.3%
services: 54.8% (2010 est.)

Labor force:

38.9 million (2010 est.) country rank: 15

Labor force - by occupation:

agriculture: 33%
industry: 15%
services: 52% (2010 est.)

Unemployment rate:

7.3% (2010 est.) country rank: 76
7.5% (2009 est.)

Population below poverty line:

32.9% (2006 est.)

Household income or consumption by percentage share:

lowest 10%: 2.4%
highest 10%: 31.2% (2006)

Distribution of family income - Gini index:

45.8 (2006) country rank: 36
46.6 (2003)

Investment (gross fixed):

15.7% of GDP (2010 est.) country rank: 131

Budget:

revenues: $26.84 billion
expenditures: $33.75 billion (2010 est.)

Taxes and other revenues:

14.2% of GDP (2010 est.) country rank: 190

Budget surplus (+) or deficit (-):

-3.7% of GDP (2010 est.) country rank: 112

Public debt:

55.4% of GDP (2010 est.) country rank: 44
57.3% of GDP (2009 est.)

Inflation rate (consumer prices):

3.8% (2010 est.) country rank: 125
3.2% (2009 est.)

Central bank discount rate:

4% (31 December 2010) country rank: 105
3.5% (31 December 2009)

Commercial bank prime lending rate:

7.7% (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 120
8.566% (31 December 2009 est.)

Stock of narrow money:

$29.08 billion (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 58
$24.86 billion (31 December 2009 est.)

Stock of broad money:

$97.35 billion (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 52
$83.3 billion (31 December 2009 est.)

Stock of domestic credit:

$98.22 billion (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 52
$85.54 billion (31 December 2009 est.)

Market value of publicly traded shares:

$202.3 billion (31 December 2010) country rank: 33
$130.5 billion (31 December 2009)
$85.63 billion (31 December 2008)

Agriculture - products:

sugarcane, coconuts, rice, corn, bananas, cassavas, pineapples, mangoes; pork, eggs, beef; fish

Industries:

electronics assembly, garments, footwear, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, wood products, food processing, petroleum refining, fishing

Industrial production growth rate:

12.1% (2010 est.) country rank: 17

Electricity - production:

61.93 billion kWh (2009 est.) country rank: 42

Electricity - consumption:

54.4 billion kWh (2009 est.) country rank: 43

Electricity - exports:
0 kWh (2009 est.)

Electricity - imports:

0 kWh (2009 est.)

Oil - production:

9,671 bbl/day (July 2010 est.) country rank: 86

Oil - consumption:

307,200 bbl/day (September 2010 est.) country rank: 42

Oil - exports:

28,900 bbl/day (September 2010 est.) country rank: 86

Oil - imports:

338,400 bbl/day (September 2010 est.) country rank: 30

Oil - proved reserves:

168 million bbl (1 January 2010 est.) country rank: 64

Natural gas - production:

2.94 billion cu m (2008 est.) country rank: 55

Natural gas - consumption:

2.94 billion cu m (2008 est.) country rank: 75

Natural gas - exports:

0 cu m (2008 est.) country rank: 163

Natural gas - imports:

0 cu m (2008 est.) country rank: 110

Natural gas - proved reserves:

108.7 billion cu m (1 January 2011 est.) country rank: 52

Current account balance:

$9.51 billion (2010 est.) country rank: 26
$8.788 billion (2009 est.)

Exports:

$50.72 billion (2010 est.) country rank: 54
$37.6 billion (2009 est.)

Exports - commodities:

semiconductors and electronic products, transport equipment, garments, copper products, petroleum products, coconut oil, fruits

Exports - partners:
US 17.7%, Japan 16.3%, Netherlands 9.5%, Hong Kong 8.4%, China 7.6%, Singapore 6.7%, Germany 6.6%, South Korea 4.7% (2009)

Imports:
$61.07 billion (2010 est.) country rank: 42
$46.39 billion (2009 est.)

Imports - commodities:

electronic products, mineral fuels, machinery and transport equipment, iron and steel, textile fabrics, grains, chemicals, plastic

Imports - partners:

Japan 12.6%, US 12%, China 8.9%, Singapore 8.6%, South Korea 6.9%, Thailand 5.7%, Indonesia 4.2% (2009)

Reserves of foreign exchange and gold:

$62.37 billion (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 28
$44.24 billion (31 December 2009 est.)

Debt - external:

$63.75 billion (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 49
$63.1 billion (31 December 2009 est.)

Stock of direct foreign investment - at home:

$24.44 billion (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 64
$22.44 billion (31 December 2009 est.)

Stock of direct foreign investment - abroad:

$6.591 billion (31 December 2010 est.) country rank: 56
$6.191 billion (31 December 2009 est.)

Exchange rates:

Philippine pesos (PHP) per US dollar -
45.11 (2010)
47.68 (2009)
44.439 (2008)
46.148 (2007)
51.246 (2006)

Source: Central Intelligence Agency

Philippines population surpasses 100-million mark

The population of the Philippines has now reached 100 million, with an actual number of 101,833,938 as of July 2011, the website of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) reveals.

The democratic nation places itself at 12th place, behind Mexico, in the ranks of the highly populated nations of the world.

The controversial RH (Reproductive Health) Bill, which for one tackles and addresses the rising incidences of premarital sex among teenagers, must now be carefully overhauled by the government, weighing out options either siding with the Roman Catholic faith or with the control of the population's imminent boom.

The inaction of the government against curbing population inflation will definitely have an impact on the economy. Furthermore, poverty is pending on the rise.

Reposted: Philippines oil-rich Benham Rise

Manila (Philippine Daily Inquirer/ANN) - The Philippines will gain 13 million hectares in additional territory, an area slightly smaller than Luzon, should the United Nations approve next year the government's claim on a region off the coast of Isabela and Aurora, Environment Secretary Ramon Jesus Paje said.

Paje said the undersea region, called Benham Rise, could turn the Philippines into a natural gas exporter because of the area's huge methane deposits.

Studies conducted by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the past five years indicate large deposits of methane in solid form, Paje said after a Senate budget hearing.

The government is only awaiting a formal declaration from the UN Convention of the Law of the Sea (Unclos) that Benham Rise is on the country's continental shelf and therefore part of its territory, Paje said.

Legal basis

Once the Unclos establishes that Benham Rise is part of the Philippines, "we would have legal basis to enter into exploration agreements with private companies to explore...(the area's) resources," said Sen. Franklin Drilon, chair of the chamber's finance committee.

Drilon said a favorable Unclos declaration would mean "increasing our territory from present 30 million hectares to possibly 43 million" with the inclusion of Benham Rise.

Discussion over Benham Rise generated excitement especially after Paje said that Philippine representatives were just awaiting one more meeting "to answer questions" before a special Unclos committee.

Only claimant

Paje said there was no reason for the Unclos committee not to issue a decision favorable to the country "since we are the only claimant, unlike in the western side (where the Spratly Islands are)."

"We have submitted a claim under (Unclos) sometime in late 2008. We got a reply from the UN lately (asking us) to answer some questions. They intend to pass a resolution sometime in mid-2012 to approve our claim (that it is) part of the Philippine continental shelf," Paje told reporters after the hearing.

Records showed that the Philippines officially submitted a claim with the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf in New York on April 8, 2009.

Davide submission

Hilario Davide, then Philippine ambassador to the United Nations, filed the country's partial submission with the commission.

The United Nations says the continental shelf is "the seabed and subsoil of the submarine areas that extend beyond its territorial sea" up to 370 km (200 nautical miles) from the archipelagic baseline. An extended continental shelf goes farther than 370 km.

The Philippines claims that Benham Rise is an extension of its continental shelf.

Paje said Benham Rise was within the country's 370-km exclusive economic zone.

American geologist

The environment secretary said an American geologist surnamed Benham discovered the area that was between 40 and 2,000 meters below the waterline in 1933.

"But we are able to define categorically that it is attached to our continental shelf only recently. We have proven (to) Unclos that it is attached. So now the UN is considering it for decision sometime in 2012," Paje said.

He said gas deposits in the area would enable the country to achieve energy sufficiency.

"Benham Rise is very relevant because of its gas deposits (which has been) confirmed particularly by (the) National Mapping Resource Information Agency. It has given us the data that (the area) contains solid methane. We have not explored it but we have found nodules of methane in the surface and this is very important to us," he said.

Kalayaan, Scarborough

The Kalayaan Island Group, which is part of the disputed Spratly Islands and Scarborough Shoal, both located in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) and claimed by the Philippines, are also believed to contain oil and natural gas.

Paje said there was the possibility that the country could export gas in the future.

The secretary added that there would be a demand for gas deposits in Benham Rise "because it's much cleaner than (other) fossil fuels."

The DENR formally submitted its proposed P16.99-billion (US$40 million) budget for 2012 to the Senate finance committee.

Source: Inquirer.net

August 29-30, 2011 declared as non-working holidays

Malacañang declared that August 29, Monday, and August 30, Tuesday, are non-working holidays in celebration of National Heroes Day and Eid’l Fitr or the end of Ramadan of our Muslim brothers and sisters. 

Have a long weekend friends!

Cat Mario, or Syobon action, the hardest game ever!

Watch the hardest game ever, similar to Super Mario but way, way above the difficult level! It's funny, and at the same time, challenging. Play Cat Mario (Neko Mario or Syobon action).

Paris Hilton now in Manila

Hotel heiress and media pop star Paris Hilton arrived on a rainy Sunday night aboard an Emirates Airlines flight from Dubai. She was greeted by a teem of international and local press.

She is on a five-day visit to Manila, where she is scheduled to meet with executives of real-estate firm Century Properties inviting her to design its upcoming “urban resort” named Azure in Parañaque City.

On August 18, the heiress of the Hilton hotel empire, will also be opening her luxury store at SM Megamal.

Malacañang has yet to confirm if Hilton would meet President Pnoy. Earlier reports suggested a meet-and-greet might take place.

Source: Inquirer.net

Tourism Chief Alberto Lim resigns

MANILA, Philippines— DOT Secretary Alberto Lim has resigned, Malacanang announced today.

Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said President Benigno Aquino III accepted his resignation, effective Aug. 31, 2011.

Source: Inquirer.net

UPCAT 2011 Stories

Some of you may have already experienced the ferocity of the UP College Admission Test (UPCAT). Was it hard? Tricky? An easy exam? Share your stories here, UPCAT takers! :)

American heiress Paris Hilton to visit Manila on August 13

Paris Hilton, the great-granddaughter of Hilton Hotels founder, Conrad Hilton, will be coming to the Philippines for her collaboration with the local real estate company Century Properties.

She will be meeting with the company's creative team for the design of Beach Club of Azure Urban Resort Residences.

Spotted: Talented Street Kid in Puregold Clark

I saw this video of a very talented Filipino kid who sang in front of a group of people in a car parked at Puregold Clark. His name is Arjohn Gilbert. He sells flutes for a living, at the grounds of Puregold Clark.Well, what can I say? WOW!

Video Courtesy: ryaneski

Spotted: Aling Suming Needs Help

Consuelo Agapito, 73, a retired employee of the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication (UP CMC), suffered a massive stroke on Tuesday and was taken to Philippine General Hospital where she remains confined in the intensive care unit.

Fondly called “Aling Suming” or “Mommy Suming” by generations of students, Agapito served the university for many years until her retirement in 2003. The UP CMC Alumni Association has launched a fund drive to help with Agapito’s hospital bills.

Donations may be sent to the CMCAA office, 2nd floor, CMC Main Building at UP Diliman, Quezon City, or deposited in the UP CMC Foundation Inc.’s peso account with Philippine National Bank (account number 39-3251300010) or dollar account (account number 2757013749). To make it easier to monitor the donations, please text Katkat at 0927-2495820 or call 9818500 local 2678 after making a deposit.

Source: Inquirer.net

Pottermore Site Traffic Overload

These (views) have to stop. I've been trying to access JK Rowling's Harry Potter portal lately, Pottermore.com, but it seems that there's an overload of viewers entering the site. And what seems to show up as a consoling message that appears to any viewer's screen, who has not been able to register to Pottermore.com, really irritates me 'cause I've been trying hard to find the Magical Quill, but I don't know how or where I could find it. Can someone please help me get inside Pottermore?

The message goes like this:

I just want to enter this site, dam nit. Anyone who has successfully registered and entered the new to-look-after buzz-making site?

As of the moment, Pottermore has been earning huge amounts of traffic volume. Wow, practically explains all the figures you see below. JK is fantastic!

It's in Pottermore where Harry Potter fans rule. Thanks JK! If there's only a very special kind of spell so that I could hack Pottermore, and be one with the Potter fans, lol, just kidding.

Senator Migz Zubiri's Resignation Letter

Mr. President, My Distinguished Colleagues in this August Chamber, Mga Minamahal kong Kababayan:

On several occasions, I rose in this August Chamber, in defense of the environment and other issues affecting our country and our countrymen.

Today, I rise on a personal privilege in defense of my and my family’s honor, integrity and dignity.

And I address this speech to reach our people to whom I owe my present position.

Nais kong marating ang lahat ng ating mga kababayan sa sandaling ito sapagkat sa kanila nagmula o nanggaling ang katungkulan ko bilang isang Senador ng ating bansa.

My election as Senator:

In the May 2007 elections, I was elected and duly proclaimed as Senator of the Republic with more than 11 million votes. My proclamation was affirmed by the Supreme Court without prejudice to filing any case with the Senate Electoral Tribunal.

This chamber and our people may take judicial notice that my proclamation was assailed through the filing of an election protest before the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) alleging fraud and irregularities in some areas covered by the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao.

It was his right to do so just as the law and the rules on election gave me all the rights to file a counter protest in areas where I also believe I was also a victim of similar circumstances which also affected the actual number of votes I obtained in the said election.

Since the said election was conducted manually, and as experience will tell us, the manual count and re-appreciation of the millions of manually prepared ballots from the various protested and counter protested precincts would take a long process and time to be resolved. And that is the reason why, since 2007 up to the present, the revision and the recounting of the manually prepared ballots are still proceeding at the Senate Electoral Tribunal.

While the esteemed protestant claimed that he had recovered substantial number of votes from the areas he protested, the records of the Senate Electoral Tribunal will also reveal that an equally substantial number of votes were recovered in my favor in the areas which I counter protested.

And as a result, the Senate Electoral Tribunal, in its July and August 2010 Resolutions, directed the completion of the 100% revision of all the ballots from the precincts I contested.

Present Controversies Affecting My Position:

While my counter-protest is still pending before the Senate Electoral Tribunal and the revision and recounting of the ballots are going on smoothly to find out the truth on the parties’ allegations, a number of highly suspect “personalities” suddenly cropped up recently, claiming that they were allegedly “witnesses” to the alleged frauds and irregularities during the 2007 elections.

Armed merely with their vocal chords and without any supporting documents to prove their allegations, these alleged witnesses are now shouting out loud and, as if with full orchestration, that my election was marred with irregularities.

My rival took advantage of this political situation. He and his supporters are now asking for my resignation as a duly elected Senator, despite the pendency of his election protest at the Senate Electoral Tribunal.

My political detractors began calling me ugly names and dragging the name of my family in entirety.

In other words, Mr. President, the trial by publicity has begun. The trial at the Senate Electoral Tribunal where this issue could have been properly ventilated and resolved has been practically set aside.

Sa harap ng Diyos at sa harap ng tao ay nais kong pagtibayin na hindi ako nandaya At wala akong kinausap upang mandaya para sa akin sa halalan. Ang lahat ng akusasyon laban sa akin ay pawang walang katotohanan.

I DID NOT CHEAT NOR ASK ANYONE TO CHEAT FOR ME AND MY FAMILY. WE WOULD NEVER TOLERATE ANY FORM OF ELECTORAL FRAUD.

In my family’s almost thirty (30) years of public service in Bukidnon, not once has our name been dragged in any election controversy, not once has an election protest ever been filed against us. This you can ask the people of Bukidnon.

I am not the only one who feels the hurt because of the personal attacks against me and my family. I could feel how my wife has had sleepless nights, my father, my mother, who has undergone two (2) major brain operations and is now constantly suffering physically and emotionally, together with my siblings who have been hurt and affected by such unfounded and baseless accusations.

Kung ako lamang ang naka-darama ng masasakit na batikos at akusasyon, ay maaring makayanan ko pang dalhin.

Ngunit sa sandaling nakikita ko ang aking asawa, ang aking nagmamahal na magulang, at ang aking mga kapatid, kaibigan at mga kapanalig…damang dama ko rin ang kanilang pagdaramdam. Ang hapdi at pait na kanilang dinaranas dahilan sa mga walang basehang paratang laban sa aking pagkatao at bilang isang halal na Senador.

Mahal ko ang aking tungkulin bilang isang Senador at isang lingkod bayan o public servant. Ito ang dahilan kung bakit sa loob ng mahigit sa apat na taon kong paglilingkod dito sa Senado, ay aking maipagma-malaki ang mga nagawa ko upang tumbasan ang tiwala at pagkakataong ibinigay ng taong bayan sa akin upang ako ay makapag-lingkod sa ating bansa.

Isang paglilingkod na aking maipagma-malaki na walang bahid dungis. Hindi ako umabuso o nagpayaman sa aking katungkulan. Hindi ako nagkaroon ng maraming bodyguard o “back up” o gumamit ng anumang ‘wang wang’ kahit noong ako ay Kongresista pa lamang. Sa madaling salita, hindi pa man sinabi ng Pangulong Aquino ang sikat na salitang “Walang Wang-Wang”- iyan ay bahagi na ng aking panuntunan bilang isang lingkod bayan sa ating bansa.

List of Accomplishments

Mr. President, modesty aside and without being too repetitive, let me cite our legislative accomplishment in the last four years. In the 14th Congress, the Senate had passed 651 laws, of which around 90 are of national significance and 561 laws of local application. It was a record breaking performance for the Senate, surpassing the record of the chamber in the last three or four Congresses combined, especially in passing local bills which our colleagues in the House of Representatives had long been clamoring for.

The Senate did that in the 14th Congress under the able leadership of the incumbent Senate President who was also the Senate President then and more importantly with the support and active participation of our colleagues in the 14th Congress.

Of those laws of national significance, this representation has sponsored, principally authored, co-sponsored and/or authored around 32 laws. Some of which are the:

RA 9520 – Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008 (Sponsor and Author)

RA 9513 – Renewable Energy Act of 2008 (Co-Sponsor and Author)

RA 10068 – Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 (Sponsor and Author)

RA 9679 – Home Development Mutual Fund Act of 2009 (Principal Author and Co-sponsor)

RA 9653 – Rent Control Act of 2009 (Principal Author and Co-sponsor)

RA 9507 – Socialized and Low-Cost Housing Loan Condonation Act

(Sponsor and Author)

RA 9997 – the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos Act of 2009

(Sponsor and Author)

RA 9996 – the Mindanao Development Authority Act of 2010 (Principal Author and Co-sponsor)

RA 9904 – the Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners’ Associations (Sponsor and Author)

RA 9903 – Condonation of Penalties on Delinquent Social Security Contributions (Principal Author and Co-sponsor)

RA 9507 – the Socialized and Low-Cost Housing Loan Condonation Program (Sponsor and Author)

RA 9850 – Declaring Arnis as the National Martial Art and Sport (Sponsor and Author)

RA 10121 – Philippine Disaster Risk Management Act (Co-sponsor and Author)

RA 10143 – Establishing the Philippine Tax Academy (Sponsor)

RA 10026 – Granting Income tax Exemption to Local Water Districts (Co-Sponsor and Co-Author)

RA 10072 – New Charter of the Philippine Red Cross (Co-sponsor and Author)

RA 10073 – New Charter of the Girl Scouts of the Philippines (Author)

RA 9645 – Declaring July 27 of Every Year as Araw ng Iglesia Ni Cristo and as Special Working Holiday (Co-sponsor and Author)

RA 9849 – Declaring Eidul Adha as a National Holiday (Co-sponsor and Author)

RA 10023 – Free Patents Act (Author)

RA 9851 – International Humanitarian Law (Author)

RA 9500 – UP Charter Amendments (Author)

RA 10122 – Strengthening the Literacy Coordinating Council (Co-sponsor)

RA 9505 – Personal Equity and Retirement Account (PERA) Act of 2008 (Author)

RA 9504 – Individual Income Tax Rate Exemption Law (Author)

RA 9502 – Cheaper Medicines Act (Author)

As Majority Leader then, to expedite the passage of pending local bills, I willingly took the cudgels for some of our colleagues, who were chairpersons of the concerned committees, whenever they requested me to sponsor or defend in the plenary their committee reports as some of them were on official business or had other pressing commitments.

That had resulted in the passage into laws of around 560 local bills.

To improve the quality of tertiary education, we passed 20 laws creating new state universities namely:

RA 10085 – North Luzon Philippines State College in Candon, Ilocos Sur

RA 9998 – Surigao Del Sur State University in Surigao del Sur

RA 9966 – Sultan Kudarat State University in Tacurong City, Sultan Kudarat

RA 9860 – Bicol University – Gubat Campus in Gubat, Sorsogon

RA 9854 – Caraga State University in Butuan City

RA 9852 – Jose Rizal Memorial State University in Dapitan City, Zamboanga Del Norte

RA 9832 – Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University in Bacolor, Pampanga

RA 9798 – Pangasinan Technological Institute in Pangasinan

RA 9744 – Cebu Technological University in Cebu City

RA 9747 – Occidental Mindoro State College in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro

RA 9746 – University of Antique in Sibalom, Antique

RA 9722 – Central Visayas State University in Tagbilaran City, Bohol

RA 9721 – Romblon State University in Odiongan, Romblon

RA 9720 – Ifugao State University in Lamut, Ifugao

RA 9719 – Tiburcio Tancinco State University in Calbayog City, Western Samar

RA 9718 – Naval State University in Naval, Biliran

RA 9717 – Central Bicol State University in Pili, Camarines Sur

RA 9647 – Philippine Normal University as the National Center for Teacher Education

RA 9519 – Mindanao University of Science and Technology in Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental

RA 9500 – University of the Philippines as the National University

We also created or converted 407 national high schools all over the country with the end in view of improving the quality of education in the secondary level and providing enough teachers and classroom equipment.

In order to improve the delivery of health services to the poor in several provinces, we passed 6 laws which established new hospitals or increased the bed capacity of existing hospitals.

To de-clog the local courts and further improve the administration and dispensation of justice, we created 30 additional branches of Regional Trial Courts and Metropolitan Trial Courts.

We also declared 2 new Protected Areas which would help in the protection and conservation of the environment and biodiversity. To enhance the delivery of services and infrastructure in the countryside, we passed 75 laws converting local roads into national roads and the creation of new engineering districts. We also converted 3 new cities but there was no question as to their qualifications as we observed the requirements provided in the Local Government Code.

Of these local laws, around 400 had been sponsored and/or co-sponsored and some were even authored by this representation.

In this 15th Congress, we continued to advocate for the environment and the cooperative sector. As Chairman of the Environment and Natural Resources Committee, we have finalized the Committee Report on the National Land Use Act after long and tedious committee hearings and technical working group meetings, as well as the Committee Report on the Forest Protection and Sustainable Management Act. We are now ready to route these reports for signature of the members of the Committee. We had also conducted several investigations on alleged violations of our environmental laws and degradation of the environment such as the FPIC leak in Makati which has resulted in the filing of SB No. 2788 or the Oil and Gas Pipeline Regulation Bill, and the hearing on illegal poaching of coral and marine resources, which resulted to the issuance of warrant of arrests to the perpetrators.

In relation to this representation’s advocacy in improving the delivery and quality of health services for all Filipinos, I had also filed SB No. 58 which amends the PhilHealth law for a mandatory universal healthcare coverage for all Filipinos. I understand that a consolidated bill is now under floor deliberations.

In relation to the delivery of social services and essential infrastructure projects to our constituencies, ang aking Priority Development Assistance Fund at iba pang inisyatiba sa nakaraang apat na taon ay inilaan po natin sa aking programang “Isang Bayan, Isang Proyekto” o “Every Town One Project” program.

At present we had allocated projects to seventy three (73) out of the (80) provinces in the country resulting to a ninety one percent 91% coverage and this is distributed to 83 out of the 135 cities and 871 of the 1,497 municipalities as beneficiaries or recipients of the “ Isang Bayan Isang Proyekto” ni Migz Zubiri.

In some regions, in the Visayas and Mindanao we have allocated projects to all their cities and municipalities, at nagsimula na rin kami ngayon sa mga bayan at lalawigan ng Luzon.

Sa pangkalahatan ang mga proyekto pong ito ay nagnanais na mapagkalooban ng mga basic infrastructure, serbisyong pangkalusugan, mga sasakyan at equipment para sa pagsasaayos ng peace and order at livelihood assistance sa mga nabanggit na lugar upang magresulta sa pag-angat ng kalidad ng pamumuhay.

Specifically, these projects are:

Construction of multi-purpose buildings, barangay halls, day care centers, public markets, covered courts and core shelters, a total of 846 projects;

Construction or school buildings, classrooms, local libraries and repair of school buildings, a total of 250 projects;

Construction of health centers and provision of mobile hospitals, total of 39 projects;

Provision of multi cabs as barangay patrols or service vehicles, ambulances, dump trucks, patrol cars, and fire trucks – total of 101 projects;

Construction of farm-to-market roads, bridges and water systems – total of 92 projects; and Livelihood assistance to cooperatives – 6 projects.

Lahat ng ito, sa paniniwala ng inyong likod na ma-empower ang mga LGU’s, ay direktang binigay at inimpliment ng mga local government units.

On top of these Mr. President, we also infused funds for the following projects:

construction of the Rural Economic Development and Renewable Energy Center (REDREC) at UP Los Baños (P28.5M) to further advance the research and studies for the development of renewable energy;

construction of a Pediatric Ward Building at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu (P30M);

construction of Dormitory at UP Tacloban Campus (P10M);

construction of a Cancer Center at the Cotabato City Hospital (P15M);

construction of a New Hospital building and Pediatric Ward at the Bukidnon Provincial Hospital (P25M); and

construction and repair of classrooms and school buildings at the Mindanao State University.

Sa Metro Manila naman po, nagsagawa tayo ng mga social services programs and projects lalung-lalu na sa mga depressed communities at mga biktima ng mga kalamidad.

We had conducted a total of 32 medical and dental missions, outreach programs to fire victims, relief operations to flood and calamity victims, nutrition and feeding programs, and distribution of sports equipment, particularly in Metro Manila, which benefitted around 9,600 families and another 22,100 individuals.

We had also provided scholarships and educational assistance to hundreds of college students.

Add to these projects our medical and financial assistance to indigent individuals and families which benefitted a total of 9,769 patients and individuals nationwide.

Mr. President, I beg the indulgence of our colleagues for romanticizing the past. I just wanted to emphasize that in the last four years, this representation had participated and contributed in the best way I could, and labored diligently and persistently in the legislative mill resulting to my PERFECT ATTENDANCE in Congress since 1998 as a legislator.

I fulfilled my job responsibly with honesty, integrity and dignity, and I could proudly look in the eyes of every Filipino who put me in this position, that the trust and confidence they had given me were not put to naught.

Baseless Accusations Compel Me to Leave:

Ngunit ang lahat ng ito, ang lahat ng aking ginawa at nais pa sanang gawin para sa ating taong bayan ay hindi ko na makakayanan pang gampanan.

Lubha na akong nasaktan, kasama ang sakit at hapding nadarama ng aking pamilya. At dahil dito, ang aking tungkulin bilang isang Senador ay lubha nang nadaramay at para bang nawawalang saysay.

I would be doing an injustice to my fellowmen and to this great and honored Institution if I continue working half-heartedly and without full concentration and devotion.

For this reason, I have directed my lawyers to make proper and immediate representation before the Senate Electoral Tribunal and convey my actuations today, with the end in view of expediting the proceedings and with the prayer that the Tribunal come up with a decision at the soonest possible time.

And in this August Chamber, without admitting any fault and with my vehement denial of the alleged electoral fraud hurled against me, I am submitting my RESIGNATION as a duly elected Senator of the Republic of the Philippines in the election for which I am FALSELY accused without mercy and compassion.

I am resigning, not because I am exhausted from the demands of my calling as a legislator. Hindi po ako napagod sa paglilingkod sa inyo.

I am resigning, not because I wish to evade the decision of the Senate Electoral Tribunal. Handa ko pong tanggapin ang anumang hatol mula sa nasabing hukuman.

Rather, I am resigning because of these unfounded accusations against me and these issues has systematically divided our nation and has casted doubts in our electoral system which has affected not only myself, this Institution but the public as well.

And as a legislator, who is being referred to in the Senate as “Your Honor”, I believe that my honor is something that should never be subject to taint.

NO AMOUNT OF POWER, POSITION OR WEALTH IS WORTH SACRIFICING ONE’S HONOR AND INTEGRITY.

Sa bandang huli, ang legasiya ng isang tao ay hindi nasusukat kung gaano kataas ang posisyon ang kanyang narating o ang dami ng kanyang yaman na naipon, kungdi ito ay nasusukat sa kanyang pagpanatiling malinis at walang bahid dungis ang kanyang sariling dignidad at integridad.

The life of a public servant is, to say the least, hardly rosy and sweet. For we, as public officers, are always subject to public scrutiny.

I have always taken it upon myself, not to give-in to intrigues against my person and honor – to always keep on maintaining my focus on performing my duties well.

All these, I rehearsed. I was prepared. I was conditioned. During the past few days, however, God reminded me that no matter how much I insist on exclusively carrying the burden of my oath and duties, the truth is that I have a family that suffers with me together with the Senate as an Institution, whether I like it or not.

I have seen and felt the suffering of my family, and from the burrows of my conscience, I could not allow this to happen, let alone be tolerated.

They do not deserve to suffer the consequences of my position.

After all, I am a husband first before a Senator; and I am a father first before a legislator.

I believe that membership in the Senate and serving our people is the highest form of service that a citizen could give back to his country.

Having said this, I, thus, express my honest gratitude to the people and to the Senate and the secretariat and my staff for allowing me to experience the magnanimity of public service through my duties as a Senator.

My highest respect always remains in this Institution and to the men and women who serve it.

My career in this August Chamber had been a fabled journey that is certainly not wanting of memories. However, as much as I wish to remain in the service of my country, I will not do so, at the expense of my honor and integrity.

My Alma Mater’s, the University of the Philippines, dictum of “HONOR AND EXCELLENCE” is a principle that I have upheld and imbibed in all of my daily undertakings.

I now go to live in happiness and peace with my family. I will leave the Senate with my head held up high, knowing that despite all endeavors that came my way, I was able to survive and perform, and I did so with the support of those who believed in me and my advocacies.

But let me just emphasize to my detractors, as I paraphrase a quote from General Douglas Macarthur that: I am not actually retreating; I am merely advancing in another direction.

And as I now pronounce my joining the civil society, it is my humble prayer that this Institution allow me to RESIGN WITH HONOR AND DIGNITY.

Marami pong Salamat…Pagpalain tayo ng Poong Maykapal…lalong lalo na ang ating Bansa at ang ating mga Kababayan.

Source: Inquirer.net