Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Down The Memory Lane
When I first came to Portugal and heard FADO, the first thing that came to my mind was the KUNDIMAN. The Kundiman is a genre of traditional Filipino love songs.
I grew up listening to old nostalgic english and filipino musics. So, if there are songs from the 90's that I know until now it is because I got to hear them from public transportation going to and from the school, or I would hear them from my classmates, friends or cousins who would tune to radio stations that plays them. It was very seldom that I would tune to stations that play contemporary music.
So FADO had a different appeal to me. Somehow it alleviated the homesickness, which I didn't think I suffered so much from.
I will feature some FADO musics that I like in my ensuing entries. Today it will be have to be a kundiman. Whenever I have time, I will feature more kundiman songs n this blog.
It is essential to remember our past and patronize our culture and be proud of it.
The feature Kundiman songs for this entry are:
Saan Ka Man Naroroon performed by Pilita Corales
Tanging Diyos Lamang Ang Nakakaalam performed Ric Manrique Jr.
And this immortal love song - Dahil Sa Iyo performed by Diomedes Maturan. I was in an hotel in Algarve few years ago when this Portuguese waiter in the bar started chatting with me asked if I was a Filipina and when I said I am he sang out of the blue this song. He said he worked in an hotel outside of Portugal, I can't remember which country. (I know I digress again, as always)
and this: Maalala Mo Kaya - (I think it very cheesy, couldn't help not to laugh) The audio is a bit funny at the end of the video.
I grew up listening to old nostalgic english and filipino musics. So, if there are songs from the 90's that I know until now it is because I got to hear them from public transportation going to and from the school, or I would hear them from my classmates, friends or cousins who would tune to radio stations that plays them. It was very seldom that I would tune to stations that play contemporary music.
So FADO had a different appeal to me. Somehow it alleviated the homesickness, which I didn't think I suffered so much from.
I will feature some FADO musics that I like in my ensuing entries. Today it will be have to be a kundiman. Whenever I have time, I will feature more kundiman songs n this blog.
It is essential to remember our past and patronize our culture and be proud of it.
The feature Kundiman songs for this entry are:
Saan Ka Man Naroroon performed by Pilita Corales
Tanging Diyos Lamang Ang Nakakaalam performed Ric Manrique Jr.
And this immortal love song - Dahil Sa Iyo performed by Diomedes Maturan. I was in an hotel in Algarve few years ago when this Portuguese waiter in the bar started chatting with me asked if I was a Filipina and when I said I am he sang out of the blue this song. He said he worked in an hotel outside of Portugal, I can't remember which country. (I know I digress again, as always)
and this: Maalala Mo Kaya - (I think it very cheesy, couldn't help not to laugh) The audio is a bit funny at the end of the video.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Green Talk
With all the recent catastrophic calamities that have hit the Philippines and the other Asian countries, super typhoons after super typhoons, experts are attributing these strange weather to climate change.
I believe that all governments, collectively have to to come up with a solutions to address the problem and to implement them as urgently as possible. We are aware that the issue of climate change widely dominates most nation summits such as the G8. However, I feel that there is something more that needs to be done and hastily.
Climate change is a major problem. Thus to solve it, it will require an insurmountable amount of efforts to diminish the destructive effects of it and to delay the imminent absolute destuction of the planet we all live in (this is an exaggeration, I hope).
Each one of us should start to contribute even if we think it is just a very small act. Imagine if we all do something now like recycling whatever we can or conserving energy, in toto, that would really mean a lot.
Philippines has a long way to go in tackling this problem. tsk, tsk, tsk.
Here is a snippet of the movie from Al Gore, An Inconvenient Truth that mainly highlight the devastating effects of global warming.
There is nothing in Youtube that feature the full film in English only in French.
There is also a must-see movie that discusses climate change in a different approach called HOME by a French journalist and photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand. Go to this link (if you have not yet click the link above) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqxENMKaeCU, as it did not allow me to embed the video.
Hope it will have an impact on you as it had on me.
I believe that all governments, collectively have to to come up with a solutions to address the problem and to implement them as urgently as possible. We are aware that the issue of climate change widely dominates most nation summits such as the G8. However, I feel that there is something more that needs to be done and hastily.
Climate change is a major problem. Thus to solve it, it will require an insurmountable amount of efforts to diminish the destructive effects of it and to delay the imminent absolute destuction of the planet we all live in (this is an exaggeration, I hope).
Each one of us should start to contribute even if we think it is just a very small act. Imagine if we all do something now like recycling whatever we can or conserving energy, in toto, that would really mean a lot.
Philippines has a long way to go in tackling this problem. tsk, tsk, tsk.
Here is a snippet of the movie from Al Gore, An Inconvenient Truth that mainly highlight the devastating effects of global warming.
There is nothing in Youtube that feature the full film in English only in French.
There is also a must-see movie that discusses climate change in a different approach called HOME by a French journalist and photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand. Go to this link (if you have not yet click the link above) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqxENMKaeCU, as it did not allow me to embed the video.
Hope it will have an impact on you as it had on me.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Ninoy's Letter To His Son
For those of you (pinoys) who haven't read this letter yet, have a read through. I was teary-eyed the first time I read this letter. I found it very touching. sniff* sniff*
This letter was written by Benigno Aquino Jr., husband of the late President Corazon Aquino, while he was behind bars as a political prisoner during the Martial Law.
His assassination in 1983, propelled his widow Corazon Aquino, to the limelight and subsequently to the presidency.
August 25, 1973
Fort Bonifacio
11:30pm
Mr. Benigno S. Aquino III
P E R S O N A L
My dearest Son:
One of these days , when you have completed your studies I am sure you will have the opportunity to visit many countries. And in your travels you will witness a bullfight.
In Spanish bullfighting as you know, a man – the matador – is pitted against an angry bull.
The man goads the bull to extreme anger and madness. Then a moment comes when the bull, maddened, bleeding and covered with darts, feeling his last moment has come, stops rushing about and grimly turns his face on the man with the scarlet “muleta” and sword. The Spaniards call this “the moment of truth.” This is the climax of the bullfight.
This afternoon, I have arrived at my own moment of truth. After a lengthy conference with my lawyers, Senators Jovito R. Salonga and Lorenzo M. Tanada I made a very crucial and vital decision that will surely affect all our lives: mommie’s, your sisters’, yours and all our loved ones as well as mine.
I have decided not to participate in the proceedings of the Military Commission assigned to try the charges filed against me by the army prosecution staff. As you know, I’ve been charged with illegal possession of firearms, violation of RA 1700 otherwise known as the “Anti-Subversion Act” and murder.
You are still too young to grasp the full impact of my decision. Briefly: by not participating in the proceedings, I will not be represented by counsel, the prosecution will present its witnesses without any cross examinations, I will not put up any defense, I will remain passive and quiet through the entire trial and I will merely await the verdict. Inasmuch as it will be a completely one-sided affair, I suppose it is reasonable to expect the maximum penalty will be given to me. I expect to be sentenced to imprisonment the rest of my natural life, or possibly be sent to stand before a firing squad. By adopting the course of action I decided upon this afternoon, I have literally decided to walk into the very jaws of death.
You may ask: why did you do it?
Son, my decision is an act of conscience. It is an act of protest against the structures of injustice that have been imposed upon our hapless countrymen. Futile and puny, as it will surely appear to many, it is my last act of defiance against tyranny and dictatorship.
You are my only son. You carry my name and the name of my father. I have no material wealth to leave you. I never had time to make money while I was in the hire of our people.
For this I am very sorry. I had hopes of building a little nest egg for you. I bought a ranch in Masbate in the hope that after ten or fifteen years, the coconut trees I planted there would be yielding enough to assure you a modest but comfortable existence.
Unfortunately, I had to sell all our properties as I fought battle after political battle as a beleaguered member of the opposition. And after the last battle, I had more obligations than assets.
The only valuable asset I can bequeath to you now is the name you carry. I have tried my best during my years of public service to keep that name untarnished and respected, unmarked by sorry compromises for expediency. I now pass it on to you, as good, I pray, as when my father, your grandfather passed it on to me.
I prepared a statement which I intend to read before the military commission on Monday at the opening of my trial. I hope the commission members will be understanding and kind enough to allow me to read my statement into the record. This may well be my first and only participation in the entire proceedings.
In this statement, I said: Some people suggested that I beg for mercy from the present powers that be. Son, this I cannot do in conscience. I would rather die on my feet with honor, than live on bended knees in shame.
Your great grandfather, Gen. Servilliano Aquino was twice condemned to death by both the Spaniards and the American colonizers. Fortunately, he survived both by a twist of fate.
Your grandfather, my father was also imprisoned by the Americans because he loved his people more than the Americans who colonized us. He was finally vindicated. Our ancestors have shared the pains, the sorrows and the anguish of Mother Filipinas when she was in bondage.
It is a rare privilege for me to join the Motherland in the dark dungeon where she was led back by one of her own sons whom she lavished with love and glory.
I ended my statement thus: I have chosen to follow my conscience and accept the tyrant’s revenge.
It takes little effort to stop a tyrant. I have no doubt in the ultimate victory of right over wrong, of evil over good, in the awakening of the Filipino.
Forgive me for passing unto your young shoulders the great responsibility for our family. I trust you will love your mother and your sisters and lavish them with the care and protection I would have given them.
I was barely fifteen years old when my father died. His death was my most traumatic experience. I loved and hero-worshipped him so much, I wanted to join him in his grave when he passed away. But as in all sorrows, eventually they are washed away by the rains of time.
In the coming years, I hope you will study very hard so that you will have a solid foundation on which to build your future. I may no longer be around to give you my fatherly advice. I have asked many of your uncles to help you along should the need arise and I pray you will have the humility to drink from their fountain of experiences.
Look after your two younger sisters with understanding and affection. Viel and Krissy will need your umbrella of protection for a long time. Krissy is still very young and fate has been most unkind to both of us. Our parting came too soon. Please make up for me. Take care of her as I would have taken care of her with patience and warm affection.
Finally, stand by your mother as she stood beside me through the buffeting winds of crisis and uncertainties firm and resolute and uncowed. I pray to God, you inherit her indomitable spirit and her rare brand of silent courage.
I had hopes of introducing you to my friends, showing you the world and guide you through the maze of survival. I am afraid, you will now have to go it alone without your guide.
The only advice I can give you: Live with honor and follow your conscience.
There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength.
Son, the ball is now in your hands.
Lovingly,
Dad
This letter was written by Benigno Aquino Jr., husband of the late President Corazon Aquino, while he was behind bars as a political prisoner during the Martial Law.
His assassination in 1983, propelled his widow Corazon Aquino, to the limelight and subsequently to the presidency.
August 25, 1973
Fort Bonifacio
11:30pm
Mr. Benigno S. Aquino III
P E R S O N A L
My dearest Son:
One of these days , when you have completed your studies I am sure you will have the opportunity to visit many countries. And in your travels you will witness a bullfight.
In Spanish bullfighting as you know, a man – the matador – is pitted against an angry bull.
The man goads the bull to extreme anger and madness. Then a moment comes when the bull, maddened, bleeding and covered with darts, feeling his last moment has come, stops rushing about and grimly turns his face on the man with the scarlet “muleta” and sword. The Spaniards call this “the moment of truth.” This is the climax of the bullfight.
This afternoon, I have arrived at my own moment of truth. After a lengthy conference with my lawyers, Senators Jovito R. Salonga and Lorenzo M. Tanada I made a very crucial and vital decision that will surely affect all our lives: mommie’s, your sisters’, yours and all our loved ones as well as mine.
I have decided not to participate in the proceedings of the Military Commission assigned to try the charges filed against me by the army prosecution staff. As you know, I’ve been charged with illegal possession of firearms, violation of RA 1700 otherwise known as the “Anti-Subversion Act” and murder.
You are still too young to grasp the full impact of my decision. Briefly: by not participating in the proceedings, I will not be represented by counsel, the prosecution will present its witnesses without any cross examinations, I will not put up any defense, I will remain passive and quiet through the entire trial and I will merely await the verdict. Inasmuch as it will be a completely one-sided affair, I suppose it is reasonable to expect the maximum penalty will be given to me. I expect to be sentenced to imprisonment the rest of my natural life, or possibly be sent to stand before a firing squad. By adopting the course of action I decided upon this afternoon, I have literally decided to walk into the very jaws of death.
You may ask: why did you do it?
Son, my decision is an act of conscience. It is an act of protest against the structures of injustice that have been imposed upon our hapless countrymen. Futile and puny, as it will surely appear to many, it is my last act of defiance against tyranny and dictatorship.
You are my only son. You carry my name and the name of my father. I have no material wealth to leave you. I never had time to make money while I was in the hire of our people.
For this I am very sorry. I had hopes of building a little nest egg for you. I bought a ranch in Masbate in the hope that after ten or fifteen years, the coconut trees I planted there would be yielding enough to assure you a modest but comfortable existence.
Unfortunately, I had to sell all our properties as I fought battle after political battle as a beleaguered member of the opposition. And after the last battle, I had more obligations than assets.
The only valuable asset I can bequeath to you now is the name you carry. I have tried my best during my years of public service to keep that name untarnished and respected, unmarked by sorry compromises for expediency. I now pass it on to you, as good, I pray, as when my father, your grandfather passed it on to me.
I prepared a statement which I intend to read before the military commission on Monday at the opening of my trial. I hope the commission members will be understanding and kind enough to allow me to read my statement into the record. This may well be my first and only participation in the entire proceedings.
In this statement, I said: Some people suggested that I beg for mercy from the present powers that be. Son, this I cannot do in conscience. I would rather die on my feet with honor, than live on bended knees in shame.
Your great grandfather, Gen. Servilliano Aquino was twice condemned to death by both the Spaniards and the American colonizers. Fortunately, he survived both by a twist of fate.
Your grandfather, my father was also imprisoned by the Americans because he loved his people more than the Americans who colonized us. He was finally vindicated. Our ancestors have shared the pains, the sorrows and the anguish of Mother Filipinas when she was in bondage.
It is a rare privilege for me to join the Motherland in the dark dungeon where she was led back by one of her own sons whom she lavished with love and glory.
I ended my statement thus: I have chosen to follow my conscience and accept the tyrant’s revenge.
It takes little effort to stop a tyrant. I have no doubt in the ultimate victory of right over wrong, of evil over good, in the awakening of the Filipino.
Forgive me for passing unto your young shoulders the great responsibility for our family. I trust you will love your mother and your sisters and lavish them with the care and protection I would have given them.
I was barely fifteen years old when my father died. His death was my most traumatic experience. I loved and hero-worshipped him so much, I wanted to join him in his grave when he passed away. But as in all sorrows, eventually they are washed away by the rains of time.
In the coming years, I hope you will study very hard so that you will have a solid foundation on which to build your future. I may no longer be around to give you my fatherly advice. I have asked many of your uncles to help you along should the need arise and I pray you will have the humility to drink from their fountain of experiences.
Look after your two younger sisters with understanding and affection. Viel and Krissy will need your umbrella of protection for a long time. Krissy is still very young and fate has been most unkind to both of us. Our parting came too soon. Please make up for me. Take care of her as I would have taken care of her with patience and warm affection.
Finally, stand by your mother as she stood beside me through the buffeting winds of crisis and uncertainties firm and resolute and uncowed. I pray to God, you inherit her indomitable spirit and her rare brand of silent courage.
I had hopes of introducing you to my friends, showing you the world and guide you through the maze of survival. I am afraid, you will now have to go it alone without your guide.
The only advice I can give you: Live with honor and follow your conscience.
There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength.
Son, the ball is now in your hands.
Lovingly,
Dad
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Manny Pacquiao
Once again, Manny Pacquiao, made all Filipinos proud. He defeated Miguel Cotto in 12th round by TKO and took from the latter the Welterwight championship. Pacquiao sets up another record by winning seven belts in seven classes.
If you want to watch the full game, copy this link http://watchpinoytv.blogspot.com/2009/11/pacman-vs-cotto-live-stream.html.
If you want to watch the full game, copy this link http://watchpinoytv.blogspot.com/2009/11/pacman-vs-cotto-live-stream.html.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Jollibee Flash Dance
Napanood ninyo na ito?
For non-Filipinos who will chance upon this blog, Jollibee is a local fast-food restaurant chain based in the Philippines. It has also several stores now operating outside of Philippines.
For non-Filipinos who will chance upon this blog, Jollibee is a local fast-food restaurant chain based in the Philippines. It has also several stores now operating outside of Philippines.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Noynoy Aquino's Campaign Ads
Ano sa tingin nyo sa video?
Sa totoo lang ako natakot sa apoy baka magkaroon ng forest fire.
Hindi ako gaanong kumbinsido sa patalastas na ito, pero isa siya sa bet ko. Siya o si Gilbert Teodoro. Pero para namang makaka boto ako.
Dapat nag parehistro ako.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
What is the big deal
Let me explain why I am so thrilled of selling Filipino products. It is because we do not have a store here that sells them. Most chinsese stores sell one or two but that´s all. I stayed in Monaco and people there have access to many Filipino products.
I visited Denmark last year and I was so amazed when I went to this store in Copenhagen. The store comprise of varieties of Filipino products.
I would love to have a (physical) store one day (it is actually on the process, how long, hmmmh soon I hope). You see difference why most European countries have Filipino stores, is the number. Portugal is where a the least number of Filipinos inhabiting.
But we are starting to grow :)
I visited Denmark last year and I was so amazed when I went to this store in Copenhagen. The store comprise of varieties of Filipino products.
I would love to have a (physical) store one day (it is actually on the process, how long, hmmmh soon I hope). You see difference why most European countries have Filipino stores, is the number. Portugal is where a the least number of Filipinos inhabiting.
But we are starting to grow :)
My parcel arrived today.
So here are the products that I will be selling for now:
KSK Boy bawang - Garlic Flavor
Sunflower - Strawberry Cream Sandwich Crackers 190gr
MY San - Sky Flakes Crackers original
W.L. - Cornbits chicken flavor 70gr
Philippine Brand - Dried Mango Tamarind
Lucky me - Pancit canton hot chili flavor 65gr
Lucky me - Pancit canton kalamansi flavor 65gr
Lucky me - Instant Noodles Chicken Flavor 55gr
Lucky me - Instant Noodles Beef Flavor 55gr
Creamsilk - Conditioner Standout Straight 200ml
Efficascent oil - Extra strength 50ml
Eskinol - Classic facial cleanser 225ml
Lady's Choice - Sandwhich spread
Lily's - Peanut Butter 364gr
Monika - Matamis na bao 340gr
Mama Sita - Tocino Marinating Mix 75gr
Mama Sita - Stew Base Mix - Pang Kare Kare 50gr
Jam's - Kasubha (10g)
Monika - Bagoong Alamang 340gr
Monika - Alamang Guisado 340gr
Monika - Atchara papaya pickles 340gr
Monika - Langka 340gr
White King - Bibingka Rice Cake Mix 500gr
White King - Classic Hotcake & Waffle Mix 500gr
Please contact me either by email or phone. They are also available at Norie´s place or after the mass on Sunday in case any one feels like dropping by in the weekend.
There will be more happenings to come so please check my blog.
So here are the products that I will be selling for now:
KSK Boy bawang - Garlic Flavor
Sunflower - Strawberry Cream Sandwich Crackers 190gr
MY San - Sky Flakes Crackers original
W.L. - Cornbits chicken flavor 70gr
Philippine Brand - Dried Mango Tamarind
Lucky me - Pancit canton hot chili flavor 65gr
Lucky me - Pancit canton kalamansi flavor 65gr
Lucky me - Instant Noodles Chicken Flavor 55gr
Lucky me - Instant Noodles Beef Flavor 55gr
Creamsilk - Conditioner Standout Straight 200ml
Efficascent oil - Extra strength 50ml
Eskinol - Classic facial cleanser 225ml
Lady's Choice - Sandwhich spread
Lily's - Peanut Butter 364gr
Monika - Matamis na bao 340gr
Mama Sita - Tocino Marinating Mix 75gr
Mama Sita - Stew Base Mix - Pang Kare Kare 50gr
Jam's - Kasubha (10g)
Monika - Bagoong Alamang 340gr
Monika - Alamang Guisado 340gr
Monika - Atchara papaya pickles 340gr
Monika - Langka 340gr
White King - Bibingka Rice Cake Mix 500gr
White King - Classic Hotcake & Waffle Mix 500gr
Please contact me either by email or phone. They are also available at Norie´s place or after the mass on Sunday in case any one feels like dropping by in the weekend.
There will be more happenings to come so please check my blog.
Sang-ayon ba kayo dito?
10 reasons why there is genuine hope for RP
05/04/09
By Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan
Mula sa Inquirer.net Blogs
1. We are strategically located at the heart of East Asia.
Northeast Asia (Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong) and Southeast Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos) combined makes East Asia. We are only at most four hours away from every major city in East Asia. If the Philippines were a real estate venture in a commercial area, ours is a location to die for. We can be the shipping and air transport hub of East Asia. We can be the top tourist destination of the region. We can be the cultural center of the region for performing arts.
2. We are No. 1 in aquamarine resources worldwide.
“We have the most diverse aquamarine ecosystem in the entire world which, if managed properly, will feed not only our hungry people but will be a source of huge revenue coming from a world in dire need of aquamarine resources such as fish, seaweed, and other similar products. We can be the seafood basket and aquamarine resource center of the world, the aquamarine resource powerhouse of the world.
3. We have a huge tourism industry potential.
Our people are by nature extremely friendly and hospitable. We only have some 3 million tourist visits every year, while our neighbors are doing 4 or 5 times more with 12 to 15 million tourist visits annually. It has been said that other countries in the ASEAN are doing so much more with so little in terms of natural wonders and beautiful sites while we are doing so little with so much. With the right infrastructure such as highways and airports and seaports in place, we can be the number one tourist destination in ASEAN if not Asia.
4. We are now No. 2 in the BPO industry worldwide and can become No. 1.
We are, I am told, currently second to India in the business process outsourcing industry. I am told as well that this industry expects 30 percent growth this year despite the worldwide recession as foreign companies look aggressively to lowering costs of doing business and therefore look to business outsourcing.
5. We are extremely creative and artistic people.
We have been called the songbirds of Asia. Our reputation as performers is legendary throughout the world (although we have never been boastful about it). We can be the center of performing arts in Asia wherein millions would visit the country annually to marvel at our cultural performances and our artistic productions.
6. We have the emergence of a new generation of progressive and results-oriented public sector leaders.
Since the restoration of democracy in 1986 and the passage of the Local Government Code in 1991 (or some 20 years now), public officials have began to work with new resources (40 percent of national taxes are now plowed back to local government units compared to less than 10 percent in 1986) made available by decentralization. Today a new generation of public sector leaders is emerging, one that is empowered, that is vision driven and results-oriented. This explains why we have successful local government initiatives in Marikina, Makati, Naga City, Davao City, Iloilo City, Cebu City, Calbayog City, and General Santos City, among others. Hence from a generation of public sector leaders that by and large was corrupt, lacking in vision, creativity, and innovation, we now have the emergence of a new generation of public sector leaders with integrity, with proactive leadership, and with a commitment to reform and genuine change. New governance models and templates that are solving age-old problems in the field are being forged, being tempered as we speak. A new brand of political leadership is emerging focused on solving age old problems in governance. The old, failed methods utilized by the trapos will soon be crushed and defeated.
7. Information and communication technology advancement is enhancing our sense of nationhood.
Rather than a country of many languages and many islands, we are fast becoming one nation, connected by information and communication technology. The ethno-linguistic barriers that used to keep us divided are being shattered by the interconnectivity of information technology. Today an entire generation of Filipinos fully understands, and can connect with, the Filipino language because of two decades of television news in Filipino (all TV news used to be English until 1986). The three elements of nationhood are: common language, common territory and common economy. We are now becoming a nation because information technology is breaking the barriers that have prevented us from becoming united as a people. It is also now reconnecting some 10 million Filipinos overseas to the motherland. We are becoming one nation and one people.
8. We have a re-emerging middle class mindset.
After over three decades of the OFW boom, we now have a new generation of citizens steeped with modern ideas coming from the highly successful host nations like Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United Sates. Europe too has become host to hundreds of thousands of OFWs. The OFWs who have experienced life in these highly developed nations can now compare and contrast these experiences with the experiences in the motherland. In highly developed nations there is, to a greater extent, a greater sense of accountability and a greater sense of justice and fair play. Our OFWs bring all that back home and having been enlightened by the experience will demand greater of their leaders back home. People are beginning to say enough is enough and are actually doing something about it.
9. We are a young nation.
Close to 30 million of our 45 million voters are 18 to 35 years old. Very young. If harnessed effectively, these young voters can usher in the political and electoral change that we need to happen for genuine political and economic reforms to take place.
10. We are a people who love to laugh, who love our families.
We are a resilient people. We can draw unimaginable strength and fortitude in times of difficulty in order to move ahead. We know how to survive despite so much pain and suffering. We know how to cope. We are willing to sacrifice so much of ourselves in order to provide for our family, our loved ones. This strength will not only bring us out of the mess we are in but will ensure that we are able to reach greater heights in our collective desire as a people to have a better life for those we truly care for, for those who mean the world to us. Our resilience in the long run will not only make us survive but will also ensure that we will triumph in the end.
We have enough reason to hope. We have, as a people, enough reason to act on these hopes and when we do, the genuine change we all seek will finally see the light of day and yes, by all means, in our lifetime.
05/04/09
By Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan
Mula sa Inquirer.net Blogs
1. We are strategically located at the heart of East Asia.
Northeast Asia (Japan, China, Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong) and Southeast Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Brunei, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos) combined makes East Asia. We are only at most four hours away from every major city in East Asia. If the Philippines were a real estate venture in a commercial area, ours is a location to die for. We can be the shipping and air transport hub of East Asia. We can be the top tourist destination of the region. We can be the cultural center of the region for performing arts.
2. We are No. 1 in aquamarine resources worldwide.
“We have the most diverse aquamarine ecosystem in the entire world which, if managed properly, will feed not only our hungry people but will be a source of huge revenue coming from a world in dire need of aquamarine resources such as fish, seaweed, and other similar products. We can be the seafood basket and aquamarine resource center of the world, the aquamarine resource powerhouse of the world.
3. We have a huge tourism industry potential.
Our people are by nature extremely friendly and hospitable. We only have some 3 million tourist visits every year, while our neighbors are doing 4 or 5 times more with 12 to 15 million tourist visits annually. It has been said that other countries in the ASEAN are doing so much more with so little in terms of natural wonders and beautiful sites while we are doing so little with so much. With the right infrastructure such as highways and airports and seaports in place, we can be the number one tourist destination in ASEAN if not Asia.
4. We are now No. 2 in the BPO industry worldwide and can become No. 1.
We are, I am told, currently second to India in the business process outsourcing industry. I am told as well that this industry expects 30 percent growth this year despite the worldwide recession as foreign companies look aggressively to lowering costs of doing business and therefore look to business outsourcing.
5. We are extremely creative and artistic people.
We have been called the songbirds of Asia. Our reputation as performers is legendary throughout the world (although we have never been boastful about it). We can be the center of performing arts in Asia wherein millions would visit the country annually to marvel at our cultural performances and our artistic productions.
6. We have the emergence of a new generation of progressive and results-oriented public sector leaders.
Since the restoration of democracy in 1986 and the passage of the Local Government Code in 1991 (or some 20 years now), public officials have began to work with new resources (40 percent of national taxes are now plowed back to local government units compared to less than 10 percent in 1986) made available by decentralization. Today a new generation of public sector leaders is emerging, one that is empowered, that is vision driven and results-oriented. This explains why we have successful local government initiatives in Marikina, Makati, Naga City, Davao City, Iloilo City, Cebu City, Calbayog City, and General Santos City, among others. Hence from a generation of public sector leaders that by and large was corrupt, lacking in vision, creativity, and innovation, we now have the emergence of a new generation of public sector leaders with integrity, with proactive leadership, and with a commitment to reform and genuine change. New governance models and templates that are solving age-old problems in the field are being forged, being tempered as we speak. A new brand of political leadership is emerging focused on solving age old problems in governance. The old, failed methods utilized by the trapos will soon be crushed and defeated.
7. Information and communication technology advancement is enhancing our sense of nationhood.
Rather than a country of many languages and many islands, we are fast becoming one nation, connected by information and communication technology. The ethno-linguistic barriers that used to keep us divided are being shattered by the interconnectivity of information technology. Today an entire generation of Filipinos fully understands, and can connect with, the Filipino language because of two decades of television news in Filipino (all TV news used to be English until 1986). The three elements of nationhood are: common language, common territory and common economy. We are now becoming a nation because information technology is breaking the barriers that have prevented us from becoming united as a people. It is also now reconnecting some 10 million Filipinos overseas to the motherland. We are becoming one nation and one people.
8. We have a re-emerging middle class mindset.
After over three decades of the OFW boom, we now have a new generation of citizens steeped with modern ideas coming from the highly successful host nations like Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the United Sates. Europe too has become host to hundreds of thousands of OFWs. The OFWs who have experienced life in these highly developed nations can now compare and contrast these experiences with the experiences in the motherland. In highly developed nations there is, to a greater extent, a greater sense of accountability and a greater sense of justice and fair play. Our OFWs bring all that back home and having been enlightened by the experience will demand greater of their leaders back home. People are beginning to say enough is enough and are actually doing something about it.
9. We are a young nation.
Close to 30 million of our 45 million voters are 18 to 35 years old. Very young. If harnessed effectively, these young voters can usher in the political and electoral change that we need to happen for genuine political and economic reforms to take place.
10. We are a people who love to laugh, who love our families.
We are a resilient people. We can draw unimaginable strength and fortitude in times of difficulty in order to move ahead. We know how to survive despite so much pain and suffering. We know how to cope. We are willing to sacrifice so much of ourselves in order to provide for our family, our loved ones. This strength will not only bring us out of the mess we are in but will ensure that we are able to reach greater heights in our collective desire as a people to have a better life for those we truly care for, for those who mean the world to us. Our resilience in the long run will not only make us survive but will also ensure that we will triumph in the end.
We have enough reason to hope. We have, as a people, enough reason to act on these hopes and when we do, the genuine change we all seek will finally see the light of day and yes, by all means, in our lifetime.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Super-duper exhausted
I took two days off this week so that I could do some paper stuffs in Finanças (equivalent of BIR) and in SEF (Serviços de Estrangeiros e Fronteiras). I am glad that despite of long queues and waiting hours before your turn I did almost everything I intended to do. To get something done here can really be a nightmare.
I´m back to work tomorrow but instead of feeling recharged I feel so exhausted. I have been sleeping very little. I was always sleeping at 2 or 3 am.
Anyway, please vote for Efren Penaflorida.
To know more of his good deed and to vote please click here.
I´m back to work tomorrow but instead of feeling recharged I feel so exhausted. I have been sleeping very little. I was always sleeping at 2 or 3 am.
Anyway, please vote for Efren Penaflorida.
To know more of his good deed and to vote please click here.
WHAT IS THIS BLOG ABOUT
The idea to create this blog started when we were searching for a place to rent for a store. We looked for places but the prices are too high and with a limited budget we just couldn´t afford it.
We thought of getting a website but even that we don´t want to take chance. This is our first venture into business so we prefer to have a lower risk until we get to know well the market.
This blog is where we will market our products, we will provide contact details so that anyone interested to buy anything or join any events can contact us.
The exhange of culture between Portugues and Filipinos (living here and outside of Portugal) will also be the highlights in some of our entries in this blog.
We also encourage everyone to share us their day-to-day stories, talents (e.g nice fotos, poems, essays, drawings, videos of you singing or dancing) etc. You can send us anything by email and we will post them here in our blog. Those who wish to remain anonymous let me know so that we will not ID you when we post your work here.
If it is a drawing or a photo you can have your signature on it. It is probably a good idea to have your signature somewhere in the photo in case some people uses them without your permission.
As this being a blog, and everyone has access with this site, everyone from everywhere is feel free to lurk on this blog :).
We thought of getting a website but even that we don´t want to take chance. This is our first venture into business so we prefer to have a lower risk until we get to know well the market.
This blog is where we will market our products, we will provide contact details so that anyone interested to buy anything or join any events can contact us.
The exhange of culture between Portugues and Filipinos (living here and outside of Portugal) will also be the highlights in some of our entries in this blog.
We also encourage everyone to share us their day-to-day stories, talents (e.g nice fotos, poems, essays, drawings, videos of you singing or dancing) etc. You can send us anything by email and we will post them here in our blog. Those who wish to remain anonymous let me know so that we will not ID you when we post your work here.
If it is a drawing or a photo you can have your signature on it. It is probably a good idea to have your signature somewhere in the photo in case some people uses them without your permission.
As this being a blog, and everyone has access with this site, everyone from everywhere is feel free to lurk on this blog :).
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