And the new.....

The date: June 9, 2012 (June 10, Philippine Time)

The protagonists: Timothy Bradley and Manny Pacquiao

The event: 12 rounds of  WBO welterweight boxing championship

The Scenario: All 12 rounds consummated. The ring announcer announces the decision. Judge 1 for Pacman. Judge 2 for Bradley.

Another split for Manny? 

The Surprise: Judge 3 scored it for Bradley. The ring announcer then announced,"And the new WBO welterweight champion: Timothy Bradley."( Manny has been unbeaten in his last 15-fights)

The Aftermath: The whole nation is in shock! Majority of those in the MGM grand in Las Vegas are dumbfounded. Violent reactions abound.

In Detail:Judge Jerry Roth scored the bout 115-113 for Pacquiao, while C.J. Ross and Duane Ford both saw it 115-113 for Bradley.

Was it a rob-out? I beg to differ. Sorry. I root for Pacman but let's be objective. Let's see the fight in another perspective. It is not impossible for Bradley to win. He is a fighter of good caliber. Bradley is 28-0 coming into the fight with 11 wins inside the distance. 

A tenacious Bradley challenged Pacquiao tirelessly as he never backed down (as what other opponents of Pacman usually do). This may have been the factor of why the middle rounds swayed in favor of Bradley.

Expectations of the judges can be the culprit of this loss for Pacquiao. He has been somewhat settling for split and unanimous decisions for a while now. The knockouts of De La Hoya and Hatton now seem to be of distant past. And who would ever forget how Margarito and Erik Morales looked like after their fights with Pacquiao. "Bugbog Sarado". 

Pacquaio has too many commitments to be able stamp completely the fierce stature he had on those fights. Showbiz and politics may have marred his mental preparation for the  fight. 

Overconfidence may also have played a part. Having been established himself as the best pound for pound fighter in the world, it seems that Pacman have mellowed a bit in his previous fights. It is all up to the judges how they see it. Split or unanimous. "As long as I win" seems to be his motto lately. The judges expected more of Pacquaio being an 8-division champion. 

I am  sure Pacquaio will have a heck load of contemplating time thinking how to show the Filipinos and the boxing world his usual fight mood fierceness that brought fears to opponents and ultimately resulting into convincing wins.

There is more than just having a reputation. Expectations now abound. Pacman brought this upon to himself and it will require a lot of moving out of his comfort zone to fulfill expectations. 

Museo de McDo: Agoo's Symbol of Respect for Culture and Heritage

Just an opinion

The people of Agoo, La Union is demolishing their museum and library in exchange for a McDonald's branch. Alas! A new word is coined "museo de mcdo."

Someone from Agoo begs to differ in a quite incomprehensible reasoning:

(taken from http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=1435799&page=7)

posted by:hugodiekonig

hey guys, here's a "statement" from a profile/user named Bibong Agooenio from the Proud Agooenios group in Facebook re the Museo de McDo in Agoo. im curious to hear your take on this issue:

Quote:

Gud morning guyz! I have read your recent posts. It seems that there is a rebuttal. For the benefit of the doubt, I wish to clarify things out in the so-called "Museo de McDo." This seems the hottest issue in our group. I conducted my own research, investigated the concerned individuals and agencies and came up with a convincing result. 

TRANSFORMING "SLEEPING" ASSET INTO A MORE USEFUL ENTERPRISE

Our local leaders noticed that there are government-owned assets in Agoo that has been of no use and not fully operational. One of it is the Museo De Iloko. So, the local government unit requested the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) to grant them the authority to manage and operate the said structure to make it useful and functional.

Three (3) years ago, the PTA has bestowed the management and operation of the Museo de Iloko to the Municipal Government of Agoo. A Memorandum of Agreement was signed for said purpose. 

The PTA and the Municipality of Agoo spend more or less than half million every year in the maintenance, operating cost, taxes, salaries and other expenses of the Museo De Iloko. The PTA and local authorities noted that they are spending much without any gain/income. So, the two agencies decided to come up with something worthy to invest in the said edifice. 

That’s actually the story. This would suffice your question “WHY AT MUSEO?”

With sense of deep patriotism and gratitude to our rich cultural heritage, I also worried over the museum’s artifacts. On where to store it. Accordingly, it will remain properly kept in the second floor. It still functions as a museum. Only the first floor will be utilized. Well, that’s good! A picture of antiquated foundation over the modern time.

But where to put the GOLDEN GUY standing in front of the museum? “Crispin… Basilio… SAAN AKO TATAYO?”

Well, Dr. Jose Rizal is already erected in front of the Municipal Hall Building. No one can disturb him now in his blissful state. 

Thanks everyone and join me to see the clown RONALD soon!

My opinion: 

Let's take a look at the pictured McDonald's in the tarpaulin. As I understand, it is the one intended to be erected on the lot.

Take a look at it closely. It does not seem to point out a second floor as a museum. It looks like an entirely new McDonald edifice will be on hand soon. Saang banda na museum ang second floor? (Where the heck is the museum on the second floor?) 

And if McDonald's will just occupy the ground floor, should it only take an obscure position and let the museum be highlighted? I think the local tourism authorities are mistaken on their take on what is patriotism and heritage preservation. Also, it is a disgrace and grave abuse of the "adaptive re-use" concept employed at Calle Crisologo in Ilocos and at Intramuros in Manila.

This intended "tie-up" or "agreement" or "purchase" with McDonald's is disrespectful of our culture and seems to be higly intended only for profit/income for the local government more than anything else.

Think before you click

"Think before you click."

This is GMA Network's famous tagline for their social networking responsibility campaign. Now, it can also be used for having a proper picture taking etiquette. Senseless ignorant "cam whores" should consciously and actively put this in mind everytime they want a photo taken of themselves in some pose or anything.

I did not see anything wrong with the "planking" idea. However, i do agree that in "planking", there's a "do it at your own risk" catchphrase. So it is necessary to not over-exaggerate any "planking" concepts. I did "plank" in some pictures. But I never done it atop a building or a construction site. The most dangerous I had is in Bohol, in the road surrounded by tall mahogany trees, the so-called "Mahogany Man Made Forest". Well, it is not that dangerous since there is not much vehicles passing by at that particular time. But then again, I did it "at my own risk." An aunt even had a exasperated reaction upon seeing the picture. If it was a busy road, I would have not done it.

Enough of being particularly defensive of my planking in Bohol! Hahaha.... It's time now to have a serious opinion on the "cam clicking" addiction of some people.

The "cam clicking" addiction of some people recently had gone literally crazy, "moret", "baliw". Sira-ulo. Brains suddenly malfunctioned.

Case 1: "Click" atop a whale shark (butanding)

I do not know what was in this girl's thoughts. Stepping atop a whale shark? Yes, it's more fun in the Philippines. Nothing wrong with having fun. But this is a bit overboard. Crazy indeed!

The whale shark is a living thing. It is not mere plywood or scrap floating in the sea.

I am amazed at how the guides "assisted" the girl to have the deed done. Bravo! The girl was not hurt! Gentleman sina manong!

I do not know what actions the authorities had undertaken to avoid having this incident happen again. Hmmm....Come to think of it...May ginawa ba sila? Did they do anything? The girl and the guides already asked for forgiveness. Good! Then what? Forgive and forget? The end? All that hype for nothing?

Case 2: "Click" on a cross

Well, this is a particularly insulting concept of having fun. Authorities should do something to avoid these acts from happening again. Holy week is not merely a yearly themed celebration for the country. It is our way of remembering the sufferings of Jesus Christ for mankind's salvation.

Be thankful and pay respect. Holy week festivities are not merely for photo opportunities. Look at the pictures. These are shameful acts showcasing disrespect and complete disregard of the very essence of Catholicism and Christianity - Jesus Christ. His sufferings are not absurd acts. No one has the right to create a mockery out of Him.

So it will be a very righteous act that you THINK before you CLICK on that camera of yours! Pictures you take can reflect who you are. Would you like to be treated like a living surfboard? Or would you like someone special to you be treated absurdly?

THINK before you CLICK .

Concerns about the Impeachment

Disclaimer: I am only a concerned citizen stating my opinion. I DO NOT claim expertise or whatsoever with what has been presented and heard in the impeachment trial. All is done – or shall I say written - in good faith.

Verdict: Acquittal.

This is the likely scenario the Filipino people will witness at the end of the impeachment trial. This is NOT a bold prediction. I am NOT also saying the SC CJ is in fact not guilty as charged. He MAY be guilty but the burden of proof is proving to be too much of a cudgel for the prosecution to carry.

Why do I think so?

So far, the prosecution has been only showing the public a mere fishing expedition. This is all because of ill-prepared articles of impeachment. If one has been listening to the news about the arguments presented and put some time analyzing things, it can be safely said that the trial is not just going to technicalities but rather exposing the lack of specificity of the charges. Too vague, too broad. Structure-wise in the choice of words, there is no clear pinpointed charge.

Article II charges SC CJ Corona of supposedly culpabable violation of the constitution and/or betrayal of public trust because of non disclosure of his SALN (Statement of assets, liabilities, and Net Worth) but this has been subject to debate on the first days it was presented. Why? Because as per the words, there is no clear specific citing that would tie up the CJ to those stated into the law as violation of the constitution – treason, graft and corruption, other high crimes. What is only a bit clear is that the CJ MAY have committed perjury. But can it be considered as a high crime so as to have it as an impeachable offense? The prosecution can tie up perjury to graft and corruption but can they show convincingly that sources of CJ’s money is from corruption? Did he use public funds? No solid proof has ever been presented. The constitution also offers no clear definition of betrayal of public trust. How about the ill gotten wealth? Maybe a good angle but this can no longer be pursued by the prosecution. Why? This is all because of an ill-prepared complaint showcasing too vague, too broad, disorganized, unstructured statements of charges. (So much so that this angle was seen as merely based on suspicion rather than on facts.)

The present administration SEEMS to be too much in a hurry of running after the former president and her so-called “allies”. Too bad for the public, the impeachment trial is SEEMINGLY being reduced to a practice court, wasting away the public’s time and money. I do have enough common sense to understand that the impeachment complaint lacks structure and organization as to its format and verification. IF CJ Corona is indeed guilty, he may likely get away because the prosecution has been disorganized - in the construction and verification of the complaint and so far, in the presentation of arguments and facts. What is clear to me is that the only significant good thing that will come out of this trial is the clarification of the law because of the many legal memorandum being asked to be submitted. Others worth mentioning: witnessing the senator-jurors’ impartiality and being introduced to the pretty and witty spokesperson for the defense Atty. Karen Jimeno. Not too bad afterall, isn’t it? To end, I am making it clear that I DO NOT claim to be an expert in law. I am not a lawyer. I am just a concerned citizen. I am NOT taking sides. It is not bad to search for the truth but would it be easier if it is done in an organized manner?

PPUR: New 7 Wonders of Nature, “Fun” in the Philippines

Perhaps, one of the best news that hit the country by storm is the official declaration of the Puerto Princesa Underground River into the list of the New7Wonders of Nature. Yes, it may be true that this can be the direct result of the presence of Filipinos in almost all imaginable locations around the world. But let us look into this in a more positive way. PPUR truly deserves to be included in the list. A simple and uncomplicated person can show its appreciation of its beauty and marvel at its charm. It also reflects the unity among all Filipinos, backing up undeniably one of their country’s prime wonders. This also stresses a point, that protecting and preserving nature’s beauty is not impossible. If it can be done in Palawan with the PPUR, why not in other places? This raises awareness that environmental protection paints a better image of a country and its people. Protecting the environment means paying respect to the things created for man by God.

If all of Philippines’ beauties of nature would be preserved and protected like the PPUR, we can truly say “It’s more fun in the Philippines!” Much hype was generated by this tourism slogan. It had gone viral almost immediately after it was launched. But amidst the spoof, we should not make fun of the country’s woes and problems showcasing it as being “fun” in the Philippines. Urinating in walls? Floods? Humour is good but when it is not necessarily needed in such a campaign intended to showcase the good side of the Philippines. Let us promote the good sides of the Philippines and help turn the bad ones into good. Let us do our share. I hope this campaign ad’s hype will not just be superficial. I hope it can be sustained and yield positive results. (Who knows? Even surpassing the feat of Wow Philippines?!) Good luck!

Side Comments Galore: SC CJ Corona impeached by the House and Midas’ “Soft” Golden Touch (Yes, I know…. this is still a quite overdue comment)

I am not a “balimbing” person or one that takes sides on issues of the country. I am also not an “expert” in law. But my common sense dictates that the impeachment complaint filed against SC Corona had been railroaded. The complaint was drafted in an apparently record time and more so the verification process. 188 congressmen signed in without really reading the complaint as per the nature and structuring of words. Well, I must admit my analogy can be an exaggeration of sorts. But isn’t it that the impeachment complaint approved and signed by 188 congressmen too fast? In a too short span of time? Can they read that many pages in that span of time? Well, this only shows the too tiring redundant cycle of politics in the Philippines – the past versus the present administration. There is nothing wrong with having the CJ answer for his wrongs if proven guilty. But isn’t it more righteous and more adhering to “daang matuwid” if it is done the proper way?

Okay now! I go to the lighter side of issues in the country or should I say “softer” side?! This is in reaction to the “microphone bluffing” incident of Supreme Court Spokesperson Midas Marquez in front of local and international media which had inadvertently labelled him as “gay”. Let us believe him. He already explained that it happened for he wanted to make the moment light and more at ease. On the other hand, there is nothing really wrong if he is indeed gay. So what’s wrong with that? I don’t see anything wrong with having a family man, lawyer and SC spokesperson being gay. I am not saying SC Spokesperson Marquez is gay nor I am a gay rights advocate. All I am saying that we should throw away discriminating and stereotyping attitude on our dealings with people. This is one of things that are hampering us from improving as a nation. Let us accept people for who they are. Work with them. Accept their ways as long as it is not in bad faith. On second thought, lawyers should be “hard” and real males! Ha! Ha! Seriously, discrimination and stereotyping is not helpful in the nation’s productivity in general.

Overdue Sentiment on the SC TRO

Well, i do not know what's bugging me lately. I am not even sure what is making me feel bothered. I am not in my usual self for sometime now. Maybe, there are some things in my life are not just what I wanted them to be. Okay, enough of this being too emotional. I am returning for a "record" hiatus in blogging. Most of the time, lately, I am not in the mood or of "sound mind" to write and react about things. It takes concentration and inspiration to write. Yes, even on topics concerning the country! Otherwise, what you write may seemingly be worthless, lifeless, and nonconstructive. Oh what the heck, just write! Well, the topic I am writing on right now is quite overdue. But as a Filipino citizen, I am compelled to write on what I think about it. So here goes…

Issue at Hand: SC decision on letting GMA leave the country

Probably, the most famous term enshrined into everyone’s mind during the last two months of the year 2011 is “constitutional crisis”. The term was the product of former president GMA’s (Gloria Macapagal Arroyo) “botched” attempt to leave the country in a seemingly “urgent” fashion last November 15, 2011. This attempt to leave the country eventually created headlines of defiance almost immediately. (“Despite SC TRO, govt stops Arroyo from leaving PHL”) In an instant, the seemingly “benign” clash between two separate, co-equal branches of government – the legislative and the judiciary - rose to great heights.

I am not the one who you may say “intellectually inclined” with matters dealing with the law. But every Filipino with enough common sense to analyze things can conclude that the Supreme Court’s decision is indeed flawed. First, the SC issued the TRO beyond or near the end of office hours which gives the DOJ no or very little time to react.

Second, there are conditions that are needed to be met first for the TRO be effective. One of the conditions was not met - the appointment of a legal representative. (“ The petitioners shall appoint a legal representative common to both of them who will receive subpoena, orders and other legal processes on their behalf during their absence. The petitioners shall submit the name of the legal representative, also within five (5) days from notice hereof.”) On November 18, 2011, the SC by a vote of 7-6, found there was no sufficient compliance with the second condition of TRO. But the SC overruled its own set of conditions via a vote of 7-6 ruling that the TRO was not suspended pending compliance with the second condition.

Lastly, the dissenting opinions seemingly have more sense to the truth. GMA claims that she is ailed by a life threatening disease. Probably, the most compelling one is that of Justice Sereno. But I will only quote the honorable justice on some basic arguments. On her dissenting opinion, Sereno argued that “(GMA’s) own attachments belie the immediate threat to life she claims as one of. First, her own attending physician, Dr. Juliet Gopez-Cervantes, certified that petitioner should fully recover from her spine surgery in six to eight months, barring any complications.” In this sense, her condition will eventually get better (“fully” recover) and therefore is not life threatening. Also, in her itinerary, there are questionable countries of destination. As Justice Sereno pointed out: “If there is indeed some medical urgency and necessity for petitioner to travel abroad, these should logically be limited only to locations where she seeks medical advice from known experts in the field. Why then should there be other countries of destinations that are included in her travel authority but not specifically mentioned for purposes of medical consultations? What is the non-medical purpose of her visit to these other countries?” More surprisingly, GMA had intentions to participate in two conferences abroad during her medical tour. Will the conferences cure her of the said “life threatening” disease?

It is obvious in this case that GMA is in a hurry to leave the country for no apparent or clear reason – even her condition being life threatening is not clear enough! Her seemingly “staged act” to leave the country in a “dramatic” entrance to the airport does not have a convincing “telenovela” effect to win the sympathy of the Filipino people. I am not saying that she is guilty of the charges against her. But why leave the country in such a hurry? Face your charges. If you are not guilty of these charges, prove them in court. Be brave as you are when you were leading the country even if you were haunted by issues of legitimacy.