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| ON THE OTHER HAND |
| An Idiot Nation By Antonio C. Abaya Written Feb. 11, 2007 For the Standard Today, February 13 issue A European journalist, who probably personified the bewilderment of other foreigners at this country�s politics, emailed me last week: �How is it possible that Nur Misuari and Gregorio Honasan are allowed to run for governor and senator, respectively, even though they are accused of (serious) crimes? I would like to quote you on this.� My reply: �This is the Philippines where American-style liberalism has created an Idiot Nation that can no longer tell the difference between right and wrong. �You were not here when a congressman (Romeo Jalosjos of Zamboanga del Norte) was accused, tried and convicted of statutory rape of an 11-year old girl, yet was allowed to run for re-election from his jail cell, and actually won!� The European�s concern can be expanded to include Navy Lt. s/g Antonio Trillanes, who has also filed his candidacy to run for the Senate despite the fact that he is also accused of a serious crime: mutiny, for his leadership of the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny. Although he said he was going to run as an independent, like his mentor and kuya Gringo Honasan, he is now part of the senatorial slate of the United Opposition, while Honasan is not. We have here a microcosm of the idiocy of the Philippine electoral system. Strictly speaking, Misuari, Honasan and Trillanes cannot be considered Idiot Candidates since they are all intelligent and articulate on what they want to achieve � unlike the totally clueless Pacquiao and the deliberately uncommunicative FPJ, who depends/depended entirely on their popularity with the squealing masa. But the fact that the Comelec accepted and approved their candidacies at all reveals a yawning moral gap that the Idiot Comelec is not capable of bridging. Aside from not knowing how to count properly, the Idiot Comelec saw and sees no moral contradiction in allowing these unrepentant putschists to run for high public offices in a state that all three of them had tried to violently overthrow. In the case of Honasan, not once, but several times. I have not read the charter of the Comelec, but I am sure there are paragraphs in it that empower the Comelec to disapprove the candidacies of individuals whom it judges to be morally unfit to assume the positions that they aspire for. Yet it allowed the convicted rapist Jalosjos to run for re-election from his jail cell. And it allows three unrepentant putschists to run for even higher offices, even though there are court cases pending against them for the very serious crimes � much more serious than statutory rape - of rebellion, mutiny and coups d�etat. Onli in da istupid Pilipins. By the twisted liberalism of the Idiot Comelec, there would be no legal or constitutional impediment, only his basic unwinnability, that can stop Jose Maria Stalin, founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines � or Satur Ocampo, the most senior of the comrades - from filing his candidacy for president in 2010, despite his efforts since 1966 to overthrow the Philippine state. This travesty of the democratic privilege of suffrage would not be allowed and would not have been allowed in South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand or Suharto�s Indonesia, even though � or is it because - their immersion in, or exposure to, American-style liberal democratic traditions has been much shorter than ours. Not only do we have an Idiot Comelec that does not know how to count votes properly and is not capable of making sound moral judgments on the moral fitness of indicted and convicted individuals to run for high public offices, we also have masses of Idiot Voters who also can no longer tell right from wrong. The electoral victory of convicted rapist Jalosjos is eloquent proof of this. The fact that several million Idiot Voters will vote for Misuari, Honasan and Trillanes, even if none of the three is likely to win, adds to the growing perception that we are truly an Idiot Nation on whom the blessings of American-style liberal democracy have been spectacularly wasted. There should be moral safeguards to exclude convicted and indicted felons from our electoral system, no matter how popular they may be with the squealing masa. I will go into possible details in a future column. I had at first favored the abolition of the Senate through a constitutional convention. But after watching the shameless maneuver of Speaker Jose de Venecia and his trapos in the House to exclude the Senate from their lutong-makaw constitutent assembly, I am now in favor of retaining the Senate, but the members should be elected on a regional, not national, basis. Two for each of the 17 regions plus the National Capital Region and the ARMM. This makes certain that all regions are adequately represented in the Senate. I recall an instance several years ago when the Senate had three senators from Bicol (Tatad, Arroyo and Honasan) but zero from Muslim Mindanao. The senatorial line-ups of both the administration and opposition coalitions for the 2007 elections reflect the political class� dismissive attitude towards the Muslims. The administration line-up does not have a Muslim. The opposition has a blank space reserved for a Muslim, but he/she is likely to be a relative nobody who will not win enough national votes to earn a senatorial seat. However, if senatorial elections were by region, the Muslims would be represented by at least two or three senators, from the regions where they predominate. The situation in the Middle East is coming to a boil in the next few weeks and months as the US and Israel prepare to attack Iran . That means Islamic militancy worldwide will likely explode to new, even bloodier levels of violence than we have ever seen. The systemic absence of Muslim representation in the Senate shows the lack of sensitivity and foresight on the part of the framers of the present Constitution Regional election of senators would also help correct the infirmity that former senator Kit Tatad pointed out so eloquently: the degeneration of the Senate into a Family Club. With the senators elected by region, it is unlikely that Northern Mindanao , for example, would ever be represented by a father-and-son team, like a feudal enclave. Or the over-represented National Capital Region by a cute brother-and-sister act, like an entry into an amateur song-and-dance contest Or the feudal Central Luzon by a nephew-auntie duo in opposite camps, like an episode in the 80s TV show �Family Feud.� Former President Joseph Estrada is to be congratulated, at least, for prevailing on his son JV to desist from joining the senatorial race, and his wife, Sen. Loi from seeking re-election. Erap has shown more class than the Pimentels, the Cayetanos and the Aquinos.. My column last week titled Idiot Candidates drew a flood of reactions from readers, most of them agreeing with my call for a) qualifying exams for all candidates, so that we can exclude the stupid and the ignorant from our politics, no matter how popular they may be with the squealing masa. I invite everyone�s reaction to my two other proposals: b) moral safeguards against indicted and convicted individuals seeking public office; and c) regional election of senators. We have to speak out to prove, if only to ourselves, that we are not an Idiot Nation.**** Reactions to [email protected]. Other articles since 2001 in www.tapatt.org OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Reactions to �An Idiot Nation� Dear Sir, I am an avid reader of your column �On the Other Hand�, and I can�t help but profess my admiration and thankfulness to the One Up There that there are still people like you who wouldn�t mince words in bringing issues of national interest to readers, as candid and straightforward as it should be. I agree with your observation and proposal that the senatorial elections should no longer be held on a national basis. The best way to do it is on a regional basis. Two senators per region. Regions will include NCR, CAR and MAR. Since a senator has a six year term, one senator can be elected every three years, to maintain continuity of representation. This move has a lot of advantages, aside from what you said, like: 1. Less election expenses. 2. They can truly represent their region, just like congressmen who represent their own districts. This can complement GMA�s move to develop super regions. I think even the senators would love this. Thanks a lot and best regards, Bong L. Alba, (by email), Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Sir, Just a rejoiner to my previous e-mail. I think it would be great if we can ask all candidates to articulate their views/positions on matters of vital interest to the country, and have this published in your column, or better, at the MST. Questions can be grouped into categories like national security, public transport, economy, social welfare, etc. Some questions that I would like them to answer are: 1. How do you think would the continued appreciation of the peso against the dollar affect the economy? Would you support its continued appreciation to say, 10-15% better (about P43) by year end? 2. Statistics show that about 5,000 Filipinos leave the country to work abroad everyday. Would you think this is advantageous to the economy? 3. Are you in favor of a uniform National ID? 4. How do you intend to spend your Pork Barrel (about P200M per year)? Can you give us the specific details? 5. If elected, in what Senate Committee would you like to be a member of? Why? 6. If asked by the President to become a Cabinet member, what department would you want to head, and why? 7. What particular infrastructure project would you spearhead? National highways, airports, railroads, seaports, schools, or hospitals? You can then ask the readers to grade the candidates on their answers. Then you can rank these candidates based on the grades. Wouldn�t it be nice to see who among these candidates top the list? Then maybe you can now say that we Filipinos are not an idiot nation (chuckle!!!). I was thinking of asking these in a public forum or debate, but if they can answer this in written form, this can be a basis to gauge their performance once if ever they are elected. Bong L. Alba wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww With respect, why do you blame your country's problems on "American style liberalism"? Americans are sick and tired of people all over the world blaming their problems on us. It's really a very immature point of view. Not to mention the fact that the accusation is completely absurd. It sounds like your problems have more to do with a very weak "American-style" judicial system -- rather than a liberal legislative branch. The Judiciary should have the power to investigate and remove corrupt politicians. You have to have all three branches checking the power of the others to have a functioning democracy. Even at that, corruption and the election of idiots is a constant battle. As Winston Churchill said, "democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others". Brook, (by email), Feb. 13, 2007 MY REPLY. Your concern will be taken up in a future column. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww DEAR TONY, YOU HIT THE NAIL HEAD ON. WITH ALL THE IDIOT CANDIDATES AROUND, HOW IN HEAVEN'S NAME CAN WE PROGRESS. ONLI IN THE PILIPINS. INCIDENTALLY , HOW ABOUT A QUALIFYING EXAM FOR THE IDIOT VOTERS TOO. Manuel Almeda, (by email), Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Good Day Mr. Abaya, This is in reaction to your column in which I strongly support your proposals : b) moral safeguards against indicted and convicted felons seeking public office; and c) regional election of senators. I want to get rid the �Onli in da istupid Pilipins� tag from our identity perhaps in some way through your proposals. As you said we have to speak out to prove, if only to ourselves, that we are not an idiot nation. I am a regular reader of your column (my favorite) with its realistic and unbiased views. Keep writing Mr. Abaya I am looking forward always to your column. Best regards and God Bless! Javier Ailes, (by email), Kazakhstan, Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Sir Abaya, I agree with your idea 100% of giving qualifying exams or even setting up qualifying educational degree for "wanabe" politicians before they are given the chance of leading the nation or a portion of it. I also agree to prevent all convicted felons and those with standing charges against them until they are cleared of all charges, before they can run for public positions. I also agree on senate representation by region, but only if the abolition of the senate will not come to a reality. In my humble opinion, it is still worth trying to push for transition to the parliamentary system to maximize our nations economic gains and bring comfortable life to poor Pinoys faster. I am not saying the end justifies the means, but victory is not attained by throwing the towel the first time you slip. Ador Ramoso, (by email), Atlanta Georgia, Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony, This would make a great Woodwardesque book and probably an international bestseller. I suggest you write it. Frank Jimenez, (by email), West Orange , NJ , Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww SIR, weren't part of your recommendations part of the charter change movement's thrust? The consequences of our failure to reform/change our electoral politics will be evident in this year's elections. Like what you wrote, we will miss the boat again. It would have been a tad easier to kick out these dynastic political families with a parliamentary form of government... Hecky Villanueva, (by email), Tucson , AZ , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. Hi Tony, Right now I'm here in the Idiot Philippines enjoying a bit of my election time vacation.I went to my home province of Masbate, but before that I had jokingly told some acquaintances that I am going to run for a provincial position, not to win but just to berate the voters, the squealing masa as you have said. Imagine to my surprise, a high profile politician wanted me to be drafted in their line-up. And I told them that if this happens, I would not only be berating the voters but the candidates as well. Oh, how I regretted very much that I have already been naturalized. I should have joined those idiots. Anyway, thanks and more power. Let's continue educating these idiots until they finally wonder what hit them. Sincerely, Bert Celera, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Your article was right on the money. No other word can accurately describe the malaise plaguing the Filipino psyche - idiocy. Or, if I was to be kinder, blind reverence. The problem of having an electorally unintelligent and misguided population translates into the continuing tragic saga of the Filipinos. Where are the revivalists? The idealists balanced with pragmatism? Oh yeah, they left. And I don't blame them one bit. Lyra Porras Garzon, (by email), Columbia Univ. , NY , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Right On Mr. Abaya ! Idiot Candidates + Idiot COMELEC + Idiot Voters = IDIOT NATION, and the national buffoonery continues, onli in da pilipins ! Yes I strongly agree that those seeking for national posts should have at least a master�s degree in public governance, economics, sociology, or other allied social sciences. Why should we make it easy for them? (Actually, I was pushing only for qualifying exams, whether or not the candidates have college degrees. ACA) Yes, I strongly agree that criminally indicted individuals have no business running for any post because they have to serve sentence. Criminals are supposed to be banned in the august halls of congress or senate. They don't belong there, they belong in jail Yes, I strongly agree, that each region be represented equally in the senate. KAMAG-ANAK INC. should not be tolerated, they are the pits, in the culture of corruption. Auggie Surtida, (by email), Tigbauan, Iloilo , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Just from scanning the article, this is expectedly an A-1, like "Idiot Candidates"! Thank you for being in the front seat in this sharing. Keep them coming! BTW, your explicit special permission needed again for a reprint of the whole article in www.alburbohol.net Thanks again. Best regards Vera V. Gesite, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi Tony! I agree with your a and b proposals but disagree with c - only because I think we should do ourselves a big favor and abolish both Senate and Congress! We have more than enough laws - we just have to implement them. What's the point of making more laws when we don't implement them properly anyway. And maybe we can go back to a 10% VAT just by saving what we spend for all our useless senators and congressmen who do nothing but enrich themselves. Rina Filart, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww No one has been appointed by the Divine Source to pass judgment on our nation. Our governance and form of government were formed from the very beginning by the big men who colonized us. Those who ascended into power were the big men with monies to preserve and treated our treasury as if it was their private pocketbooks, going on junkets in foreign lands, and building mansions that dwarf other houses in the neighborhoods. These big men hardly represent nor could be considered the entire nation of the Philippines where the little people eke out a living no matter what, go to work and provide for their families and still do it with a smile, resilience, compassion and generosity. Your characterization contains harsh judgment that should be reserved for the likes of the Marcoses who plundered our nation's treasury, suppressed the media, took over private corporations, killed many oppositionists, committed human rights atrocities and even ordered the assassinations of union leaders in Seattle , Washington . He was a very smart man with inappropriate actions and behaviors, who got drunk with power and abused it with wanton, like Idi Amin of Rwanda (You mean Uganda.). Such is the misrule of law that we want to make a part of history and not our future. Marcos hardly represents the majority of the people of the Philippines , and I dare say you are not one of his making! We need to respond to anyone who puts down our nation that they are passing judgment on our people from a lack of information. After all, if 10% of our population are in over 185 countries contributing to its civic infrastructure, we are hardly a nation of idiots, but a nation of world-class citizens dispersed around the world with an ailing national homeland Philippine government that needs to heal with good leaders in charge, who have the moral leadership, who have integrity, who will put the interests of our nation above their own private pocket books. And I pray that we have the cleanest election there is in May 2007 and may we change the course of our history by electing people with the skills, knowledge and integrity to govern our nation the way we deserve as world - class citizens of the world!! Prosy Abarquez-Delacruz, J.D., (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 "History is a chronicle of human struggles to build a better world for all but even as humanity moves in that direction, it will have many deviations. A setback may feel devastating when it happens but it is only a small deviation in the larger movement. There will always be a few who will keep nudging humanity to move toward that vision. That is the role of social justice advocates in every generation. History in the long run is progressive." Daniel Boone Schirmer, Ph.D. "Karma is not something complicated or philosophical. Karma means watching your body, watching your mouth, and watching your mind. Trying to keep these three doors as pure as possible is the practice of karma". Lama Thubten Yeshe "When we all assess what we are, what we want to be, and then commit ourselves to become reflections of our own aspirations, the savior will come. When there is passion and intensity in our dreams, and dedicated efforts to do our share in making them come true, the savior cannot help but come to lead us". Boy Montelibano "Do not strut proudly on account of your good deeds. Do not let pride waylay you. When you deem yourself holier than others, know that you have fallen into grave error because in your pride you believed yourself equal to God." Beliefnet.com wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww As time goes by, it is becoming clear as water that there is really something wrong with our system here in the Philippines . This could have been corrected if only charter change had been done. Now we have to take the bitter part of it and be prepared for it's worst outcomes. What worsens the situation is that Philipine politics is becoming a family business affair, where personal hatred and vendetta are the menu of the day. But why? Because we are all afraid to change. Change the rules of the game....CHANGE THE CONSTITUTION because it does not serve well the people's will! With charter change you will have a chance to overhaul or change your "old machine", that gives all these pollutions in the air. Initiated ideas to correct things you have criticized in the past, and incorporate in the system healing process to cure and prevent re-occurrence of the wounds of the past. Start a new direction, not to compete with each other, but rather face the challenges of the future and reach the height for excellence at par with other nations, which I believe the true essence of UNITY! With charter change, political differences shall be resolved only during the span of a regular elections, and the rest of the term of their office devoted to economic emancipations, with resolute to uplift the conditions of the poorest of the poor. The rich could become richer but with social responsibility exacted by Constitution, not only by way of taxes, but by direct and active participation in alleviating the lives of the Filipino people and preserving nature. If these people you have criticized win this coming election, we will have a very hard time to move for any change...the evils of dynasticism are forthcoming, aggravated with the presence of many immoral politicians within congress. If this happens, congress in the next four yrs will be composed of ... dogs, cats, alligators, rodents and the like! Rodolfo Cada, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww As I read you articles, I realize it is bad in the Philippines . One of the reasons you site are the liberal Americans. Interesting, but don't forget your own Mr./Mrs Marcos who demoralized the office of President by allegedly stealing monies given to the Philippine people by the United States, all the while denying it. Not that money alone solves problems, but did your country ever get it back, all the while coddling one of the perpetrators in your very bosom? Sheilah Hockman, (by email), Feb. 14. 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I fully agree with you when you described the Philippines as an Idiot Nation. If we Filipinos find it good enough to have an Erap Estrada as President, then I'm almost sure that it wouldn't mind having the likes of the Lapids, the Pacquiaos, the Gomezes, et al in lower positions like governors and senators. Indeed, onli in da istupid Pilipins! We Filipinos deserve the government that we choose. We find it good enough to choose totally clueless leaders, what good government are we then talking about? Boy Mariazeta, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Excellent and timely article Everything is correct in describing the current political situation in the Philippines . Please write more .Am a concerned Balikbayan and, like you, am so appalled at the political decadence of this country. Bert and Tita Eugenio, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, Regionalizing the senate elections is not an option right now because it needs a constitutional change, but researching the Comelec rules on the eligibility of candidates can be done now. Action can be taken through the courts if there are eligibility rules in the Comelec books that can bar the so-called "idiot candidates". Roger Pena, (by email), Montebello , California , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, The ordinary Filipino citizen is caught between a rock and a hard place. Most want change, but some quarters keep on harping against GMA for trying to propose a constitutional change. (I assume that you would say that GMA is proposing a change in the constitution fora different reason. Fair enough.) The silent majority wants to change the constitution, but they are kept mum by the media's concentration on the opinion of those who does not want a charter change. Most urban poor people want to change their plight, but they are also the ones who fill the "hakot" trucks of both contending parties. The Church wants to eradicate immoral or evil politicians, but why is it allowing its followers to "get the money, but vote on the dictates of conscience." How can that anti-dynasty bill pass in Congress if most members are from the Family Club that you say in your column? (The framers of the 1987 Constitution should have made that provision to be self-executing or imperative and without Congress' intervention.) When the court convicted that lone rapist from Subic rape case, the silent majority were contented that at least one was pronounced guilty. Immediately after Smith, the convict, was taken to the Makati jail, he was depicted by some nearby tindera(?) as "mukhang mabait at maamo si Smith," courtesy of the media, of course. This pervading dilemma has been with us for some time now but no one, including the media, seems to have sensed that. Or the media has sensed that, but...? Ano ba talaga? Jerome Cubelo, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww What a shame, and all because of idiot politicos. Leadership really counts a lot in steering this nation into possible revival. Idiot nation: we send most of our good guys abroad to earn money, yet we don't spend these money wisely. We should have utilized the money for rural industrialization, those that translate to economic activities, those that propel the distribution of goods and services. We convert our agricultural lands to real estates which only dollar earners could afford. Idiot nation: Why don't we make a law that would definitely prevent people like Honasan and Trillanes from running for office? What are our senators and congressmen for? Waiting sheds and artesian wells? Eduardo Davalan, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww It is really a strange country. Sometimes I find it difficult to explain to Europeans what is going on. Regards. Fabio Scarpello, (by email), Bali , Indonesia , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww YOU ARE REALLY DOING A GREAT JOB SPECIALLY THIS ELECTION TIME. I AGREE WITH YOU. . WHAT I CAN SAY IS THAT, PHILIPINES-STYLE OF DEMOCRACY IS BEING MISUSED, ABUSED, CORRUPTED & RAPED BY NO LESS THAN MOST OF THE SELF-SERVING/IDIOT POLITICIANS WITH THE CONSENT OF IDIOT COMELEC AND SADLY OF THE IDIOT VOTERS (MOST OF THEM). FOR THIS I'M PRAYING FOR A PARLAIAMENTARY FORM OF GOVERNMENT, WITH VERY STRICK LAWS AGAINST TURNCOATISM (OF IDIOT POLITICIANS) WHEREIN, AS YOU SUGGEST, HAVE REGIONAL SENATORS, AND A WELL DISCIPLINED & PROGRAM-ORIENTED POLITICAL PARTIES. THUS, A BRIGTHER HOPE TO OUR IDIOT BUT GOOD NATION. I BELIEVE THE PHILIPPINES WILL RISE UP ABOVE ITS PRESENT CONDITION WITH A FEW GOOD MEN & WOMEN OR CITIZENS SOWING THE GOOD SEEDS. (PS: Are you the present Secretary of Finance? I'm a Filipino-Australian citizen writing to you from Australia ). (I wouldn�t be writing what I write against the GMA government if I were part of it, least of all if I were SOF. ACA) My own reactions: On moral safeguards against indicted...(b): Is there approved law/Bill prohibiting indicted and convicted individuals seeking public office? If there is, the authorities like the police and Comelec should just implement it. If there is no law/s on this, a related-legislation should be advocated and passed in the next Congress which, I believe, will have a tough sailing among criminal lawmakers.... On the regional election of senators (c): I fully agree with this. Regionally elected senators,I i think, will be more responsible as they will be elected by more enlightened & responsible voters. They will be more qualified, elected according to their own integrity, honesty and competence, instead of popularity. There will be less idiot senators. If i am a voter in my own region, I will not vote for an idiot one to be a shame for my region in the senate, but for the one I can be proud of, seeing him intellegintly discussing and debating issues of national interest in the hall of the Senate Congress. For this, i will be a responsible voter, not an idiot one. Thus, making my own share or contribution for the good of the Philippines , my beloved country. But my question: HOW DO YOU SEE DUAL-CITIZENSHIP VOTERS IN THIS CASE? IS THERE ALSO A POSSIBILITY THAT A SENATOR REPRESENTING FILIPINOS IN (regions of) OCEANIA , or U.S. , or THE MIDDLE, or EUROPE ...? THE TRUTH IS, THERE IS NO SENSE OF ASKING FILIPINO MIGRANTS (especially those enticed by the Philippines government for dual citizenship) AND OFWs IN OVERSEAS TO VOTE WITHOUT ANYONE REPRESENTING THEM, ONE WHO KNOWS THEIR PROBLEMS, NEEDS, SENTIMENTS.... PARTY LISTS IN CONGRESS LIKE THE MIGRANTES, ETC. ARE MOSTLY LEFT-LEANING AND HAVE DONE NOTHING IN CONGRESS FOR THE OVERSEAS. Gabby Balliwing, (by email), Australia , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I read this forward from a friend of mine in LA...I applaud you for such dynamic writing.. It is very good of you to voice out this message because honestly a lot of us who had not resided in the Philippines for the last so many years had become so ignorant of present idiotic actions. True we heard of some of them and we think it�s ridiculous and funny, but sad to say it�s such a helpless situation since our government officials are so corrupt, as we know it starts from the top and it all boils down to money that stems from power . How do we speak out? Will it help? Joe, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi Tony. My reaction to the lineup of both sides is this: "The difference is the same." Rejects and retreads mostly; and many more wanting to get in with the same difference. We have a sham democracy and we, the people, are part of the problem for allowing this state of idiocy to rise and take root all these years. The "idiots" in power are a hybrid - numbskulls in the field of good government but clever as money-makers... for themselves. Apart from the dairy and laundry business where they excel, they are for all intents and purposes magicians as well, particularly good in illusion, hypnotism and escape. That makes society today, unlike many of those who figured in Edsa I and II, a bunch of "uto-uto." How do we get out of this fix? This is the eternal question. As for the answer, it must come from the people in the form of a consensus. It will take time but it will come. Raffy Alunan III, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony, Again, thank you for sending me copies of your columns which I read from top to bottom and sometimes, go back to savor the message. I agree with you that there must be something wrong with our government in general and the Comelec in particular to allow Honasan, Misuari and Trillanes to run when they are accused of overthrowing government. And what is more pathetic is that there will be "idiots" who will vote for them! I pledge to campaign this elections - not for any candidate but for the enlightenment of voters especially those who are still guided by popularity or hero worships. These are our drivers, messengers, household help, my sukis in the wet market, etc. Keep on writing! Best regards. Ming Jacinto, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony, Thank you for that beautiful piece of a write-up that you mailed me. I have been reading most of your articles at Tapatt.org and what can I say except you continue doing it. However it pains me that you seem be alone in this crusade, I mean as a journalist. May God continue to give you the graces that you need in your crusade. Mabalos... Noli Almeda, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, The idiot nation spawned the idiot candidates. It deserves them. It is the squealing masa who will choose the leaders of the nation. That is obvious. It is useless now for the educated ones to participate in elections. The ignorant masa is growing more and faster by the day. American-style of democracy cannot work in a set- up where the majority are uneducated. I am sending all my children away to the states for the reason that you have simply and eloquently stated; this nation has lost its understanding of what is right and what is wrong. Thanks for your enlightening articles which I always look forward to reading. Manuel Espaldon, (by email), Ayala Alabang, Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww You wrote: "This is the Philippines where American-style liberalism has created an Idiot Nation that can no longer tell the difference between right and wrong. I wonder if this comment about us being "IDIOTS" will do us more good than bad, especially since you chose to air this highly subjective comment to the foreign press. I'm pretty sure this will only help in confirming stereotypes about us. Unlike Thailand and Malaysia , please realize that for now, the Philippines cannot afford the airtime to advertise our good points in travel segments on CNN and BBC. Sadly, for now we are just stuck with whatever press (mostly negative) is decided by the international news editors. Oddly enough, most negative press is actually coming out of the mouths of the Philippine press themselves. It all just becomes self-fulfilling, you know. Please be careful about the way you speak about "all of us" and in behalf of all of us despite your frustrations, Mr. Abaya. Some of us are trying to improve the country WITHOUT having to dwell on and accentuate the negative. Jeez. Write something cheery for once. Or at least something inspiring. Reading your articles really depresses me. I can't even go beyond the first paragraph sometimes. How about the Battle of Manila . That's a nice topic that we need to be reminded about. Better than reminding us that we�re "idiots". Carlos Celdran, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr.Abaya, Good day. I would like to give my opinion about your three very important proposals.. I definitely agree and would also push for the qualifying exams of would be candidates. Why? How can somebody who does not know the simplest law rule? Is he going to get the so called "political advisers"? It is not only expensive but more dangerous! I am 200% sure that the less educated people or the "nagmamalasakit" will be mad at me, but we have to wake up and be honest to ourselves. Can mere popularity give us jobs? Can the less educated person who has all kinds devils beside him think and stand for his belief? What does history tells us about those advisers... they are all excess baggages! Honestly, Manny Pacquiao is one of my idols.. in the boxing arena. But for him to run as a public servant?!?!?! I fear for his name and his legacy. Since I can see that he is a God loving and fearing person, I pray that God enlighten him before he buries himself six feet under. About the convicts, my common sense is telling me this, those who voted for them and would be voting for them are, just like what you said, IDIOTS!!! How can a criminal serve the public if he himself violates or has violated the law? Is he Judge Dredd who said that "I never break the law, I am the law!". Hello?!?!? This is real life, this is not the movies my beloved countrymen. Well, I guess that's what you get for having too many showbiz personalities as politicians (don't get me wrong, for every rule there is always an exception, you know who you are). Last but definitely not the least, I think it is a reat idea to have a regional senatorial elections. ith that, our Muslim brothers will always voice in he senate. Also, the word equality will be felt cross the nation and the circus could be put to a top. God bless the Philippines ! Rommel Sanchez, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Mr. Abaya, My words and feelings exactly! Your proposal of Senators voted for as representative of regions would be the best way to correct many of these 'stupid' things. Dan Francia, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww TONY: THESE SUPPORT THE BELIEF AND FEAR OF MANY THAT OUR FILIPINO PEOPLE AND COUNTRY ARE HOPELESS. BECAUSE WE DO NOT EVEN HAVE THE COMMON SENSE TO RECOGNIZE, SOLVE AND STOP THESE FLAGRANT SERIOUS NATIONAL PROBLEMS. WHO IS THE MESSIAH THAT WE FILIPINOS WILL HEAR AND RALLY TO? OUR COUNTRY AND PEOPLE HAVE GONE THROUGH ALL THE CRISES OF NATIONAL SUFFERING, AND WE STILL HAVE NOT ATTAINED THE LEVEL OF IQ FOR EFFECTIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING. WILL IT BE LEFT TO A REVOLUTION TO SOLVE OUR NATIONAL PROBLEMS? REMEMBER WHAT HAPPENED TO CHIANG KAI SHEK? WE HAVE TO LOOK UP TO JAPAN , SINGAPORE , KOREA AND TAIWAN STYLES OF DEMOCRACY. AMERICAN STYLE DEMOCRACY DOES NOT WORK FOR THE THIRD WORLD WHERE THE INTELLIGENT VOTERS ARE A SMALL MINORITY, THE NATIONAL ECONOMY POOR, AND THE CHECKS AND BALANCES AGAINST GRAFT, CORRUPTION AND ABUSES OF POLITICIANS ARE NON-EXISTENT, TO THE GREATER DETRIMENT OF THE DEPRIVED POOR MASSES IN THE CITIES AND COUNTRY SIDE, WHO ARE SEETHING IN HATRED, GETTING DESPERATE, AND BECOMING VIOLENT. IN OUR PRESENT SITUATION, OUR PEOPLE AND COUNTRY ARE OPEN TO EXPLOITATION. FROM WITHIN AND WITHOUT. WAKE UP! CARABAO! THAT WE ARE! Rod Gabuya, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi Tony, Idiots are free to run, but worse than idiots are those who vote for them. Cesar M. de los Reyes, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww What's the point of qualifying exams? They would just buy the answers. Albest, Robin Moyer, on assignment in Idiot Nation II ( Thailand ), (by email), Thailand , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww This is in reaction to your piece in today's Manila Standard headed "An Idiot Nation." Several paragraphs in, you say: "I have not read the charter of the Comelec, but I am sure there are paragraphs in it that empower the Comelec to disapprove the candidacies of individuals whom it judges to be morally unfit to assume the positions that they aspire for." I am always bemused by the argumentative technique which runs: "I have not read [whatever] but I am sure that it says [whatever the writer thinks that it ought to say]." Qualification requirements for the office of Senator are set by Article VI, Section 3 of the RP constitution, which reads: "No person shall be a Senator unless he is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines and, on the day of the election, is at least thirty-five years of age, able to read and write, a registered voter, and a resident of the Philippines for not less than two years immediately preceding the day of the election." Qualification requirements for the office of Governor are set by Section 39 of RA7160, the Local government Code, which reads, in part: "Qualifications. - (a) An elective local official must be a citizen of the Philippines; a registered voter in the barangay, municipality, city, or province or, in the case of a member of the sangguniang panlalawigan, sangguniang panlungsod, or sanggunian bayan, the district where he intends to be elected; a resident therein for at least one (1) year immediately preceding the day of the election; and able to read and write Filipino or any other local language or dialect. (b) Candidates for the position of governor, vice- governor or member of the sangguniang panlalawigan, or Mayor, vice-mayor or member of the sangguniang panlungsod of highly urbanized cities must be at least twenty-three (23) years of age on election day." Bill Mitchell, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 MY REPLY. Thanks, but those are the requirements of the Constitution and the Local Government Code. What I was interested in, as stated in the article, were the additional no-nos from Comelec. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, I agree with your comments but wish to add the following: 1. Comelec - it should act as a screening committee to weed out unqualified candidates based, not only on legality, but also morality and even common sense; as you said, how can somebody who is charged with rebellion be allowed to run for a position in a system that he wishes to overthrow? Of course, lawyers will contend that there is as yet no conviction but I think that this is where moral values and common sense would disqualify such candidates. However, it is clear that it is political will that is an issue and obviously this particular Comelec group does not have it! 2. Regional voting - I agree with this approach so that all of us feel involved in/have ownership of the process/system. Thus, the Muslims will indeed feel that they are participating/contributing to the growth of the nation and do not feel marginalized. I think Sen. Dick Gordon has also been advocating regional voting for senators. Ruy Moreno , (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony, I fully agree with the idea of giving qualifying exams to candidates. The questions can be drafted with joint efforts of Universities giving courses in Public Administration. (only heaven knows how we can prevent leakages). Regional representation in the Senate would be most ideal, too. In the case of Pacquiao, we can see that he already has wealth and popularity. So he must be after power. He should realize that his most effective power is in his left hook. He might as well focus in using this because he can not punch his way in and out in City Hall. He will be moving towards a position of incompetence at the cost of throwing away a good future, (although short lived), in boxing. He is being prodded by his "alalays" who want the political spoils if he wins. I also believe that the COMELEC composition should be elective. This way, they will not be beholden to anyone but the people. The case of Honosan, Trillano, et al is commendable but shows entirely their stupidity. They should have done this before they thought of an armed uprising. But since that has already happened, they must be penalized according to the law - which brings us back to our defective justice system. This brings us back to square one, the vicious cycle of corruption. Tony, it seems to be Quixotic but so be it. I am glad that there are people like you who keeps throwing back the crabs one by one from the beach to the sea. Regards. Dodi Canete, (by email), Davao City , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Yes, Manny Pacquiao is very popular .. pero ang BOTANTE AY HINDI ISTUPIDO NA PIPILI NANG KANDIDATO NA BOKSING LANG ANG ALAM AT MANOK.. He cannot do all things together... he�s becoming greedy... and self centered.. PA IMPORTANTE, nag commit sa ibat ibang party pag during na nang proclamation.. uurong urong na HILO !!!! ... NAHIHILO NA SI PAKYAW... AT YAN ANG KAKAIN SA KANYA, I believe tinetest ng Diyos ang contentment sa kanya,, baka MAGSISISI SIYA... if he'll wake up in the morning nothing left na sa kanya.. Arsenio S. Villaluz Jr., (by email), Lianga, Surigao del Sur, Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, I have long emphatically said that our people have been so IDIOTIZED by our so-called �free-wheeling� media and entertainment industry. That is why the despicable likes of the names you mentioned are able to control the power levers in our country. Come to think of it, De Venecia have been so tarred for moving towards the abolition of the Senate through charter change, but it can also be viewed as an exercise of political will to sweep aside a counter-productive institution that is very much in an advanced state of moral decomposition. One problem is we have been so engulfed with prejudice and suspicion that we are frozen in fear and unable to make enlightened and bold decisions. We now have another expensive circus of an election where the losers will shout to high heavens that they have been cheated and then spend all their time to sabotage the efforts of those who will win. The words of John Kenneth Galbraith ring true. �Democracy is held hostage by the great number of idiots in our country.� Que lastima! E.J. T.Tirona, (by email), Paranaque City, Feb. 14, 2007 PS. On the other hand, how come nobody had the guts to question if Honasan really won? Have we forgotten who formulated the �Dagdag-bawas� scheme whose first prominent victims were Biazon and Pimentel (who sadly turned out to be trapos too)? Are you wondering why this Trillanes has the gall to join the game? Nobody seems to remember the destructive antics of former Commissioner Tancangco and how she effectively thwarted the efforts of the former COMELEC Chair to effect measures against fraud and other reforms. Think about it. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Anthony, I congratulate you on your series of "idiot nation" columns. Both were highly insightful and bold. I admire your uncompromising take on the current state of Philippine politics. Although I do agree with your observations, it does not stop me from believing in the moral and political efficacy of the democratic process. I can only add here that it is my own view that what the Philippines so badly requires for democracy to work properly, is an institutional and popularly based adherence to the rule of law. Yours truly, Jim Rice, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 Professor of Philosophy, Lingnam University , Hong Kong wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Save your breath, Tony, I know how it feels. What do you think made us leave the country to settle here in Canada -we want to keep our sanity. Hopefully, just like all things, good and bad, such collective Filipino idiocy will all pass. All in due time my friend, all in due time. More power. Vernon Dula, (by email), Canada , Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi, Tony. I agree with you that candidates should be academically and morally qualified before they can run. However I don't agree in retaining the Senate. I still prefer to have a uni-cameral parliament. In a developing country, we need to have the executive and legislative powers infused into one body running the government in the same manner that the board of directors and the President run a corporation. This is really more efficient and more effective. I believe that when the members of the parliament realizes that the fate and destiny of the nation lie in their hands, because they now have both the executive and legislative powers, they will rise to the occasion and become more responsible and mature politicians. I also believe that the voting public too, realizing that it is only through responsible voting of their representatives and supporting the party with the better platform that they can have the kind of leader they want, will also become politically mature. We do not need a bi-cameral form of government for the purpose of having a check and balance. The voters themselves will serve as the check and balance. If the ruling party fails to lead and govern the nation effectively, the voters will shift to the opposition party. On the other hand, if the prime minister fails to rule effectively, he can be changed by the parliament. Cheers! Bobby Tordesillas, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww You are right. We have a lot of idiot candidates who are not qualified to win even a single vote . We have a classic opportunist/ a classic balimbing /a classic thief Thanks a lot. Kevin J, (by email), California, Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, This writer not only agrees with your proposal to 1. Legislate "moral safeguards against indicted and convicted individuals seeking public office,� but proposes that these individuals be permanently barred from seeking public office, elected, appointed or employed. 2. That senators shall be elected by regions, two from each, to effect a wider representation of the whole nation in the Senate. This would also greatly diminish the election expenses of each senatorial candidate as the scope of their campaign is narrowed. The only danger I see in this is that in the long run the senators may go down the level of those insatiably greedy representatives in the lower house of Congress. 3. Additional proposal Since Congress will never pass laws that would negatively affect their own personal and other vested interests I propose that the Supreme Court be allowed to enfocre laws for the common good as against the aforementioned interests. Ramon Mayuga, (by email), Essen, Germany, Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony: There are just too many idiots here. My proposition is that anyone who files a candidacy for any position be immediately executed so that we can minimize Idiocy more quickly. As a matter of fact, perhaps young AFP officers could do us all a favor and execute all candidates now, confiscate their cash and assets and then give these back to the Filipino idiots not yet killed. Maybe this proposal can be made by Senate President Villar when he addresses the PMA cadets this weekend. But I also suggest to Villar that he step down as a Senate candidate before he airs the proposal, if only to prove that he isn't an Idiot! Tito Osias, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, Ultimately, the winning candidates (unless they cheated which is also a reality of Philippine elections e.g. 1985, 2004) reflect the quality of the majority of the population. So, you're probably right. If despite the past, Filipinos still go for the likes of the ignorant (but popular), corrupt (but popular or generous), cheating - lying - stealing � tolerating (but monied and powerful), elitist (despite our being poor ourselves), and any other candidate with neither the sincerity nor competence to truly govern, then we all are in for a frustrating life in this nevertheless beloved country of ours. I also dare say however that the privileged in this country have much to be responsible for how things have turned out � they have probably made the majority istupid Filipinos the way they are! Lt. Col. Dennis Acop, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I disagree Mr. Abaya, we are not an "idiot nation". We are a "corrupted nation". Our leaders, including many in the mass media, are so corrupt that many of us have no way out but be like them. I agree with your proposals, though, but I do not agree that they would be heard. Who would we have to work on your proposals..., are they not the same corrupt people who would be hindered by the change? Many wel-meaning Pinoys have tried and failed to propose similar changes. What makes you any different? If we have mainstream media with us, then change is inevitable. But as earlier said, our media is corrupt. Without mainstream media, we cannot change our politicians... the leaders in our government. To change our media SHOULD BE THE FIRST ORDER of the day. How, I have some proposals (www.alternation101.blogspot.com), but I welcome all proposals, too. BR Sef, Good Dude, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 MY REPLY. You could start by attaching your full and real name to your opinions. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww "This is the Philippines where American-style liberalism has created an Idiot Nation that can no longer tell the difference between right and wrong." - Antonio C. Abaya article That is right! Blame the Spaniards and the Americans for all of your society's ills so you don't have to do anything about it. It is your equivalent of saying, "the devil made me do it!" You get off scot-free with a clean conscience and you can keep repeating the same actions that you know in your hearts are unacceptable in a mature and responsible society. It has been 60 years (2 generations) since the Americans packed up and left in 1946 and it has been 108 years (3-1/2 generations) since the Spaniards were driven away in 1898 and yet there you are still -- a nation of idiots who believe that your generation and your forefather's generation possess no capability and responsibility to change your society's problems. Why bother to change when it is much easier to blame someone else. and remember, a place noun like nation can never be an idiot, only the people who live in that nation can be. Imagine a young infant who had been adopted by an American or a Spaniard and taken to America or Spain . Would that infant now grown into an adult in another country raised by alien parents still be an idiot like the infants-turned-adults who stayed behind? If not, what made the difference? Is it the parenting? Is it the culture? You tell me! In his book, 'Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas', Dr. Antonio de Morga described the island natives in 1609: "There were no kings or lords throughout these islands who ruled over them as in the manner of our kingdoms and provinces; but in every island, and in each province of it, many chiefs were recognized by the natives themselves. Some were more powerful than others, and each one had his followers and subjects, by districts and families; and these obeyed and respected the chief. Some chiefs had friendship and communication with others, and at times wars and quarrels." "These principalities and lordships were inherited in the male line and by succession of father and son and their descendants. If these were lacking, then their brothers and collateral relatives succeeded. Their duty was to rule and govern their subjects and followers, and to assist them in their interests and necessities." "The superiority of these chiefs over those of their barangai was so great that they held the latter as subjects; they treated these well or ill, and disposed of their persons, their children, and their possessions, at will, without any resistance, or rendering account to anyone. For very slight annoyances and for slight occasions, they were wont to kill and wound them*, and to enslave them." Now wouldn't that be exactly how any foreigner would describe the political system of your country today? Why blame the Americans and the Spaniards for your pre-Hispanic culture? They had nothing to do with it. It was already working that way for many centuries before they arrived. They tried to change it but they failed miserably. Cheers, Bobby Manasan, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 * "...they were wont to kill and wound them..." Isn't that still what your present rulers do to many social activists and journalists who annoy them slightly? So you see that nothing has changed in all these past centuries. Now stop being idiots playing your blame game and reinvent yourselves into what you wish to be. You can do it. MY REPLY. Your concern will be taken up in a future column. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww (Unedited) You should also add d) Qualified voters must be at least a high-school graduate with no criminal record and/or convicted by the nation's court that constitute unbecoming a Filipino, and must be a tax-paying citizen (disqualified are those who are excepted from paying income tax since they only receive the standard or below salary grade). It may sound a little elitist, but at least you eliminate the squealing masa altogether that has no effort nor are qualified for any available jobs except for the occasional paid rally by punchist and militants, and also minimizes if not eliminate the pay-for-a-vote system since tax-paying citizens have no need for "alms" VINZ, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww. Dear Mr. Abaya, It's nearing election time... Sadly, the Philippines will be at it's lowest state of nationhood again. The poor and stupid squealing masa will be manipulated again by the greedy rich and intelligently evil candidates pretending to be our nation's savior, redeemer, healer, answer... all but stupid promises and pronouncements. I don't believe anymore in the elections here in the Philippines . In the last election I only exercised my right of suffrage because some relatives were candidates. But now I'm thinking not to vote. Why? Even my relatives who are running this election know me only when it�s election time. Another reason why I don't want to vote, the ballots here in our country are counted fairly only at the precinct level, but after the ballots leave the precincts, they become "mystique" ... full of mystery, magic and inscrutability. I can only pray and hope that GOD intervene and cast away all these evils. Please give my suggestion to our kababayans, don't mind the elections... mind your own selves. Montalbo Artem, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, Don't you think that before we get embroiled with the electoral system, let us first and foremost cleanse the system and the people running these idiot institutions? Societal transformation is a sine qua non. Cesar Sarino, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony If we accept the proposition that the Philippines is a nation of idiots, it follows logically that your two other proposals would be exercises in futility. Solely for the purpose of discussing them in the abstract, however, this is my opinion on each one: a) The Congress could try passing legislation disqualifying individuals convicted of felonious crimes from seeking public office. (In a Congress peopled by idiots, however, I have very serious doubts if such a propsoed legislation could ever even be considered by the relevant committees of the Senate and the House. I am that skeptical, forgive me.) b) There is no harm trying your idea of electing senators on a regional basis. Again, in the abstract, your idea could very well work. But there are two very serious obstacles I can think of: 1) This will require an amendment to the Constitution--which, under the present circumstances, amounts to wishful thinking; and 2) In a nation of idiots, regional voters may themselves elect regional senators who, like them, will very likely turn out to be idiots. So, where are we? Mariano Patalinjug, (email), Yonkers, NY, Feb. 14, 207 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Sir, You have no idea how good it feels to me - a foreigner since 18 years in this country and on the brink of going insane - to hear once in a while the voice of reason through the usual cacophony of moronic noise. I too wholeheartedly agree with your proposal to exclude obvious misfits by default from the right to be elected. Unfortunately, the problem is an old one. We have a proverb in German that says: "vox populi - vox Rindvieh", meaning the voice of the people is the voice of a bovine. So much for democracy. Regards Ulrich Bosse, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Sir: I think Philippines is not an idiot nation. There may be a lot of idiots in our country but we also have a lot of smart people who just happen to be indifferent. If apathy is likewise idiotic, then indeed, you are right in your judgment. If that is the case, we need leaders who are: (a) morally upright (b) brilliant (c) and who are imbued with the determination (and the political will) to make a difference. If the above leadership qualities are in place, then, the same leaders will be able to transform the culture of (A) corruption (B) idiocy; and (C) apathy. Ergo, we need transformational leaders! Norman Tilos, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 MY REPLY. But suppose the majority of the squealing masa prefer celebrities who can get them singing, dancing and laughing? wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Antonio C. Abaya wrote: >By the twisted liberalism of the Idiot Comelec, there would be no legal or constitutional impediment, only his basic unwinnability, that can stop *Jose Maria Stalin,* founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines - or Satur Ocampo, the most senior of the comrades - from filing his candidacy for president in 2010, despite his efforts since 1966 to overthrow the Philippine state. > > > This, I presume, is a Freudian slip. Kelsey Hartigan Go, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 MY REPLY: Jose Maria Stalin? Not at all, that was intentional. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww This is good...but how to change the provisions of our election law? Jose Chiquito Malayo, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 MY REPLY. By amending the Constitution through a constitutional convention. Or through a revolutionary government.. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Just want to say "you are so courageous and bold enough to write the truth about the dirty politics in the Philippines". I salute you!!! Phebe E. Gipitulan, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Idiot candidates in an idiot nation-- all because of idiot voters. Of course one can always say- RP is the paragon of EGALITE--one person, one vote-- vote of an idiot has the same weight as the vote of a wise person. Unfortunately in the Philippines there seems to be more idiot voters than wise voters. Alexander Po, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww (Unedited) "I invite everyone�s reaction to my two other proposals: b) moral safeguards against indicted and convicted individuals seeking public office; and c) regional election of senators. We have to speak out to prove, if only to ourselves, that we are not an Idiot Nation." Regarding your other proposals I have these to say: b) That would be a good Idea if such a proposal will be entrenched as a provision in the Constitution itself, because otherwise if passed as statutory law, it is subject to court challenges against any provision in the constitution that so many "smarts" legal minds in the country could find. One good example I will cite is our Guidelines for qualifications for elected Public office which were codified into law, which Disqualify convicted Felons for running for any Elected Office while serving a sentence of More than Two Years. On the same time there is a provision in our Charter of Rights and Freedoms that states: "Every individual is equal before and under the law and has the right to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination and, in particular, without discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, sex, age or mental or physical disability." It took a little while, but a challenge to that particular prohibition was successfully launched and that was declared Unconstitutional. Now anyone in detention can vote and at the same time can run for any elected office. But that was offset by the maturity of the voters, that once a very popular MP (Svend Robinson) who was never defeated in his riding, but has to resigned his post after being charged and later pleaded guilty of a criminal offense (property crime) and when he attempted a return, the voters who supported him in the past, soundly rejected him this time around. Overall it is an excellent proposal, but knowing the kind of justice system the country has (we can call it an Idiot Judiciary) any prospective candidates (the trapos, the elites and the Oligarch) can always manage to have their names smell like roses even if they have Horns protruding in every nooks and crannies of their persons. c) I have no arguments on this one. It should have been done long, long time ago. In this case a person running for Senator representing the whole country can win the slate even with a block voting in his native province or region. Take this for example, there is a certain number of senators to be declared winners and voters are to vote for a complete slate, but a voter may vote only for a single candidate in which is already a lead among the rest. Now another comparison... We have in our Federal Governments 308 Members of Parliaments, representing 308 Riding across the country. Voters have only to vote one Member to represent him or her to the House. A very simple process, yet so effective and less subject to Idiocracies. Lastly in a site of Postigo Luna�s Comelec Ako, there is subsection aptly titled Botante Kami in which upon the encouragement of the site owner, I posted a short summary of Election as we do it here in this part of the world. It�s simple, very transparent, a level playing field where Idiots may participates, but Idiots they will remain. If your care to take a glance at the said site here is the URL: http://botantekami.wetpaint.com/page/Vic%27s%20Elections%20Canada%20notes%20page thanks for the oppurtunity and wish you and all Filipinos a better future.. Victor Sanoy, (by email), Scarborough, Ont., Canada, Feb 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi Tony! Another great article! You got it! Bull's eye! These economic killers and law-breakers should be banned from applying for any public office. I don't know what laws Comelec has. I think, Comelec got them from Peter Pan or Harry Potter books. It's very sensible to ban them forever from running for any public office. They should not only be banned but be locked up forever for the crimes and countless rebellion they committed. Comelec is a sorry institution!!! They need to review and overhaul their laws and regulations. Pathetic!!! We can't afford failures anymore!!! Even if we try to open and ease/prepare our mindset for changing a government by force. but the same thing.. those who we hailed as heroes since the first People Power did the same mistakes and corruptions, etc. Cory didn't do much economically but let 26,000 NPA flood like OFW applicants. She's too weak!!!!!!!!! Then came Fidel RAM. this American puppet didn't do much in improving the military and the whole nation but linked to bigtime contract anomalies and adulterous acts. Erap? Had no clue to run a nation but busy sleeping with his girlfriendsssss and party with his fellow baboysss. His anting-anting wristband didn't do much of saving him from shame. Also a corrupt and adulterous stud!!! Honasan? The same thing. and this Ramos'/Enrile's ultimate pone/puppet even caught with his pants down at his mistress' house. And lecturing the government with upright and moral values??? Please!!! Jalosjos? A rapist and child molester and won re-election while in jail? Pilipin klasik. . Our nation's foolish trademark and weak/shameful/sorry nickname has to change!!! Tony Meloto gives Philippines hope and we do support this humble cause. And we all should as Filipinos!!! It's even a slap in the face as Filipinos when a foreigner, Dylan Wilk teaches us to reach out, install back our hope, positive visions, future and Bayanihan. I find it shameful for a Filipino who does nothing!!! So, in response to that. I sweat and sacrifice to be a part of these visions of help, hope, peace, love and nation-building. Dreams are still dreams if we only sleep. We must work, sweat and help out to achieve those dreams. Filipinos, lean forward to "Bayanihan" mentality than "crab mentality". Let's install back the values of our forefathers. One way to exercise such is. to elect the rightful, best and smart candidates than popular morons who rely heavily on gazillions of smart advisers. Back to the issue, yes, I totally agree with you,Tony. a) Qualifying exams (tough, hard issues and problem-solving, for we need thinkers and achievers) b) Moral safeguards against indicted and convicted felons seeking public office - It should have been done a long time ago. but hurting any of the "web of corruption" and "utang na loob" let this option/idea be ditched. c) Regional election of senators - provided we have automated election process (because even the Baranggay captains and councilors buy votes and also corrupt). The Comelec's "thumbs down" on automation is lame. We have a lot jobless IT graduates and "on-on-job-training" students who can help out. Here's my additional proposal: d) Limit absences in sessions and be sure that these wise guys can really make laws and ordinances than sit and do nothing. (national and local governments) e) Exclude relatives in politics to wipe out political dynasties - e.g. If PGMA runs, her relatives, families and with the same surname are banned from running for any public office. Without this, Philippine government forever works like privately-owned company or corporation. With your legitimate proposals, the Philippines will climb or fly high economically as well as morally. With those ideas, the Philippines can get rid of a lot of garbage or moron officials. Let the brains remain! Thanks, idol! Ciao! LF, (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Everybody is confounded why government has failed for the past many years to check the unrest in many parts of the country. The media, print and broadcast, the men on the street, the surveys and polls � everybody has varying degrees of knowledge about what is the root cause of the social unrest that birthed the insurgencies of various colors today. We, the people, have knowledge about it, but because of self-interest or some other reason, we tolerated it. Traditional politics explains the reluctance of the national leadership to take the bull by the horns, so to speak, considering all the laws and appropriate offices created for the purpose. Yet, they, the national leadership, did not have the qualms to readily use the soldiers to sacrifice their lives in resolving the national ills that government had failed to resolve for the past half of a century. The communists had long taken advantage of the unrest and had blown it to insurgency proportions. We have declared total war against them since several decades, and they are still there confronting our forces and manifesting strength in several areas of the country. The same is true with the muslim rebels who rose in rebellion against government to call the attention of Manila to the depressed plight of their people and their perceived grievances. Here, we again declared total war against them who were taking the cudgels of their disadvantaged people. As it is now, the Bangsamoro problem is taking the same course as the decades-old communist insurgency, a big thorn in the neck of every administration that comes one after another. Truth to tell, this social unrest that spurred the insurgencies of the communists, the military rightists and the secessionists, is a reflection of the need for wide-ranging and radical reforms to war against the poverty that has remained a fact of life among a great mass of our people. People were made to believe that the leadership they raised to the national pedestal would war against poverty as its centerpiece program. Looking back, the past intellectually led administrations barely scratched the surface of the problem. Then we raised a new leadership, though not intellectually gifted but hopefully down-to-earth and full of common sense with the same centerpiece program �para sa mahirap�. The hopes of the people rose to high expectation but again the program fizzled out and brought about a lingering pain of anxiety and unfulfilled expectations among our people. Undoubtedly, the politics of self-interest continued to rear its ugly head interfering in the business of responsible governance. Our kind of politics simply refuses to identify itself with good government. Surely, government knows what ails the nation. It only has to gather the courage and the will to set aside traditional politics in the interest of the nation and do away with corruption as the root of all political evils. The political spoils system, instead of ameliorating poverty and producing well-meaning leaders of the nation, spoiled our politicians and nurtured graft and corruption as a national culture. For more than five decades of government, no administration has substantially dented and stemmed the tide of corruption that continues to pervade many sectors of our society. At this stage of our development and knowing the psychology of our people, there is a need for national discipline, not by imposing martial rule, nor by the dictates nor the whims and caprices of the ruler but by the authoritative implementation of the laws of the land equitably for all the governing and the governed regardless of one�s economic, social, religious and political stature. The essence of freedom and democracy is felt when the people are responsibly bonded to the law. MGen. Fortunato U. Abat, AFP (ret), (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Good day sir! I agree that there should be moral safeguards against indicted and convicted individuals seeking public office because they are our future leaders, law makers. How can we trust them if they are convicted of crimes, How can they pass laws if they are indicted. Tama po yata kayo na ONLI IN DA ISTUPID PILIPINS mayroon ganyan kaya tayo nababansagan na IDIOT NATION. I think there�s something wrong about our electoral systems/reforms. The Comelec should not entertain those running for public office who are indictedfor and convicted of any crime. For the regional election of senators, di po ba bawal ang magkakamag-anak sa iisang departamento ang nagtatrabaho sa government? Nepotism po yata yun. I still agree that there should be regional election of senators para mabantayan nila ng tama ang kanilang mga constituents kung ano ang pangangailangan nila. kailangan nilang gumawa ng batas na makakatulong sa kanilang respective areas. Orlando Davalos, (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony, This is in response to your invitation for reaction on your proposal of a regional election for senators. I think this is a great idea of ensuring wider representation but would it be an effective filter of idiot or unqualified candidates? I am afraid not, it would be easier for these idiot candidates to get the necessary number of votes from the regions where they are popular. Of course regions like Metro-Manila would be an exception, with a lot of aspiring qualified senatorial candidates, and with only 2 available positions, it's almost sure that the candidate chosen will be a qualified one. Rey Abella, (by email), Tarlac, Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, Good afternoon. Please count me in. Yes I agree with your two proposals, i.e., qualifying exam to all candidates and the regional representation to the senate. Mr.Paquiao is indeed a example of an idiot candidate being prodded by idiot handlers. What is scary about him, and I am truly scared for the people of GenSan or South Cotabato, is the gullibility of Manny. Do I really want someone, supposedly by representing my welfare and interest, who cannot even make up his mind where to run or for which office to run? He was interviewed on radio this morning and it was so glaring that he does not even know what he is going to do as a congressman. Mayor Atienza even revealed this morning, in another interview, that Paquio was about to be sworn in as KAMPI party member but that he was able to talk to him in the nick of time and, voila, Paquiao signed up with the Liberal party that same day. It is mind boggling why Mr.Paquiao allows himself to be treated this way and be made a laughing stock in this country. As a result, he may even lose support as a boxer. Yours truly, Veronica Mendoza, (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww (Unedited) That was really a good idea, but there are still lots of questions If you cannot ensure a clean nursing licensure exams, bar exams or whatever that maybe no political influnce? If you can not ensure clean election result??? (and many more...) how can you ensure that a "Manny Pacquiao" will not pass the qualifying exam? A "Ferdinand Marcos " can do everything he want to acquire and steal, which a "Manny Pacquiao" could hardly do. A "Gloria Arroyo" can kept Top secrets and corruption conspiracy which a "Manny Pacquiao" could hardly do. Which is which I DON'T KNOW! what i believe is, MIRACLE and wonder WORKS of Heavenly powers can only give some bright future to Philippine politics. Without that, its hopeless.. .I still have hope, if you ask then. For myself! that is why I stay and invest here abroad. Yes, I am a Filipino. Ask a "Ferdinand MArcos" or a "Gloria Arroyo" if they are. Ruben Villas, (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, I read your article with great interest and most of what you wrote were right on the money. Your article sums up the reasons why I have never gone back to visit the Philippines since I emigrated to the USA in Nov. 1974. These supposedly elected officials do not live for politics, instead they live off politics and taxpayers money. This is so pathetic. Well, keep up the good work and fight the good fight. Sincerely, Delfin Isles, (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Our nation has a lots of idiot politicians in the public service elected by by our voters, so it only reflects that our nation has lot too of IDIOT VOTERS, like those who voted for Erap, Jalosjos and those criminal politicians, if they voted for Honasan, Trillianes etc. They're considered too as Idiot voters...We hope that this coming election...let�s not be like those IDIOT VOTERS! Best wishes for our nation! Tony Dalagan, (by email), Fairfax, Virginia, Feb. 156, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi! This is in support of your call to rid our country of IDIOT CANDIDATES, IDIOT VOTERS and also IDIOT SUPPORTERS OF IDIOT CANDIDATES. On second thought, the last might not be idiots at all because they created the IDIOT CANDIDATES for their own good. Carlos de Leon, (by email), Feb. 16, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, The election of senators by region may require Changes in the Consitution. I am not sure if this can be done through simple legislation by Congress. So if there is a need to amend or change the charter, so why not go parliamentary in the near future in spite of Speaker JDV tried to do with his Charter Change (Cha-cha) Initiative. With regards to the moral qualifications of candidates, it would be better to enact a new law or include it in the Charter Change than to rely on the commissioners of the COMELEC to do it based on their own charter. That way, COMELEC will have NO choice but to Implement the law. The basic problem in our country's judicial system is that NOTHING is final until the Supreme Court decides on the case. So this explains why convicted criminals can still run for public office - and WIN! Of course, nothing beats what happened to then Cong. Imelda R. Marcos and the Supreme Court. The High Tribunal decided that Imelda was GUILTY of the charges filed against her by the Philippine government, only to REVERSE itself upon appeal on a Motion for Reconsideration. If memory serves, there were no new arguments presented by Imelda's lawyers and she still was exonerated. In the final analysis, I go back to my advocacy that Filipinos have no choice but to get involved in the affairs of our country. We are NOT an Idiotic Nation. First, we are NOT a Nation. Second, we are NOT Idiotic, but "only" Iidifferent or apathetic! It is a question of how to mobilize Filipinos who love the Philippines into a critical mass and make the difference! Best Regards. Rick Ramos, (by email), Feb. 16, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I agree with your proposed changes. Magdaleno B. Albarracin, (by email), Feb. 16, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Regarding your proposals: a) qualifying exams for all candidates, so that we can exclude the stupid and the ignorant from our politics, no matter how popular they may be with the squealing masa Not exams. Look what�s become of exams for driver�s license! I would rather go for more relevant criteria than the basic requirement of age, being a Filipino citizen, etc. Additional qualifying criteria to include 1) graduate of a 4-yr college degree; 2) leadership qualities (can be attested by school records, work experience, membership in cause-oriented organizations, professional clubs; 3) moral uprightness; 4) no criminal record and not facing any grave court case at the time of candidacy filing. b) moral safeguards against indicted and convicted individuals seeking public office This should be one of the top criteria for a candidate to qualify to run! c) regional election of senators A BIG YES to this. Also, there should be serious, continuing programs on educating the people on conscientious voting, its moral significance, and national gains. More power to you, ACA! I am praying for your perseverance in �beating the gong� to awake a sleepy people. Ma. Nenita Jumao-as, (by email), Cebu City, Feb. 16, 2007 Wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hello Tony! I don't agree that we are an idiot nation. I prefer to look at the Philippines in a positive light and what I see reinforces my notion that we are not doing bad at all. Our economic growth is showing signs of sustainability and our fundamentals are sound. We are finally going somewhere! Sure, there's lots of room for improvement and that's the challenge facing all of us. We really need to revise, alter, change or whatever, our Constitution. Our present one, drafted during the euphoric period following EDSA 1, is simply inadequate in addressing current concerns. As you suggested, we need to create a new criteria for candidates running for public offices as well as guidelines for the Idiot Comelec,as you say, but before this new criteria is enacted, the likes of Pacquiao and FPJ are eligible to run. Read our Constitution! Personally, I'll vote for Pacquiao if I were a resident of South Cotabato. In our present system, it is very difficult for a "commoner" to break the stranglehold of political dynasties in a contested area. It will take a personality like Pacquiao's to do so. My vote will therefore be for more democracy. Will Pacquiao be a capable congressman? I'll answer this with a question: "Have the political dynasties governed our country competently?" Pacquiao may not be as literate as Custodio but he certainly has more heart, determination and a "school-of -hard-knocks" experience which will be valuable in addressing the needs of his constituents should he win. He knows how to survive in the rough-and-tumble world of boxing; he'll know how to deal with the equally shady characters in Congress. Of course there are idiot boxers, just as there are idiot politicians, but Manny I believe is not one of them. Another reason I'm voting for him is that very few Filipinos have given our country honors internationally. When was the last time a politician brought honors to this country? Certainly not the one who is now in the Guinness Book of World Records for being one of the Top Ten Most Corrupt Leaders of the World; the one you are proposing to be congratulated for asking his son JV not to join the senatorial race. Anyway, Pacquiao brought us honors and for this reason he should at least be accorded a right to run for a public office without any of the ruckus now being made against it. Idiot Nation? This is the only country that I have and am proposing to have. I don't propose to call its citizens idiots. Herminigildo Guetierrez, (by email), Feb. 16, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I am tired of reading another article about how bad our country is. I don't care if Americans, Spaniards or any colonizers are to be blamed. I don't care if the Marcos money is yet to be returned to our country. That is all in the past. It does not matter anymore. To those who so much as complain about the state of our nation, I have two options for you -- either you leave the country or do something right for a change. Yours, Evita K. Tan, (by email), Feb. 17, 2007 MY REPLY. The article you are reacting to offered three proposals to make things better: a) qualifying exams for all candidates for public office; b) moral safeguards against indicted and convicted individuals running for public office; c) regional election for senators. What is your reaction? Judging from the responses above, I am �doing something right for a change.� wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww BUT YOU ARE SO RIGHT, AS USUAL. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO ASK THE SAME QUESTION: HOW CAN THE LIKES OF HONASAN AND TRILLANES, ON ONE HAND, AND PACQUIAO, ON THE OTHER, OR THE FAMILY TANDEMS OF AQUINO, CAYETANO AND PIMENTEL BE ALLOWED TO RUN? TALAGA PO NAMAN.........ANG ATING BANSA, NAWALA NA ANG DELIKADESA......PERO, WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT, WHEN THE PRESIDENCY WAS STOLEN BY THE SITTING PRESIDENT? WHAT WILL IT TAKE FOR OUR COUNTRY TO BE MORE RESPECTABLE? WHAT HAS HAPPENED TO US, MR ABAYA? PARANG PAGALINGAN NALANG NG PAGNANAKAW ANG NAKIKITA NATIN! Ed Valenciano, (by email), Feb. 17, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Well-written thoughts, Mr. Abaya! I too feel the same way. I fail to understand why the Comelec allows candidates who are detained, jailed, and on trial for crimes against the nation and people, to run for public office. Only in the Philippines do we see an election commission so bereft of common sense. Apparently, common sense is not so common anymore. The American-style liberal democracy actually can benefit our country, but only if certain amendments to the constitution are made. Yes, I agree that those seeking to run for public office should take a qualifying test, those with family members already in office should not be allowed to run, and having a criminal record, and/or those detained and have pending trials in court be automatically disqualified from filing their candidacy. It is also a good suggestion that we have allotted representatives per region. The Muslim population in our country cannot remain voiceless on this matter. Thank you for such a thought provoking read, Mr. Abaya. Looking forward to reading more. Freda Veluz, (by email), Feb. 18, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya: When can we have a Leader with moral ascendancy when we as a country nurture a culture of corruption, cheating and vested self-interest? Defeating communist insurgency, poverty, increasing population, etc. like solving any other problem of this country requires a lot of political will. What we can see in other countries that prosper is discipline, which is absent even in our leaders. The lack of discipline can be seen in the streets, in public markets, comfort rooms and even in congress. Do I have to mention more? Rodrigo Matabaran, (by email), Feb. 18, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony, Re: your request for reaction on your two proposals: 1. moral safeguards -- who will judge what is moral? 2. regional election of senators I am for a unicameral parliamentary system. Members of Parliament will be composed of representatives from (a) Provincial Regions, NCR ARRM, 2 each 28 (b) Party List (3 highest, 2 each) 6 (c) Past Presidents (depending on who will be impeached ) 2 - 4 ---- 36-38 Rationale: a. minimize situations where parties elected because of exposure (media, actors, etc.)are not qualified to do legislative and/or executive work. b. 200 plus representatives plus 24 senators in two houses -- just to many and messy to have meningful discussion on affairs of the state. c. benefit of experience of past presidents (Past Pres. may not be elected Prime Minister unless elected as representative of region, NCR or ARRM d. representing marginalized sectors including muslims. Fritz Maramba , (by email), Feb 18, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I had read a book on political philosphy written by a philosopher (I forgot the name) that there is a mismatch between intelligent voters and " idiot voters" in a republican democracy.. He said an intelligent voter should vote twice or thrice, or more, while an idiot voter should vote once, for us to get the validity that those who will run the polity will be those intelligent elected leaders. This is not likely to happen here since we don't have the format on how to do this system. But if one will glance at progressive countries like Singapore, Malaysia, (and Mainland China�a monopoly of the communist Party),and South Korea during the 60's,and 70's, one can surmise that those who were responsible for the �government by the few� were those few individuals (Like Lee, Mahathir, Deng, and Park) who were responsible for restraining the unintelligent and acrimonious hoi polloi. to call the shot of who will lead the government. Mortz Otigoza, (by email), Dagupan City, Feb. 18, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Amen to qualifying exams. As far as idiots are concerned, idiotic candidates sprout from an idiotic electorate. Rafael Alunan III,.(by email), Feb. 11, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Mr. Abaya, I agree and support all of what you wrote. Still, the challenge remains that of reaching the "idiot voters", those "willing slaves". How do we qualify the voters as well? How do we lessen the "idiocy quotient"? Education can do it, I surmise. A long and protracted process, but well worth it. Hope your article can be disseminated beyond cyberspace all the way to the grassroots level where the root of the problem is traceable to. Thanks and may "our" tribe thrive.... Manny Guillermo , (by email), Feb 12, 2007 MY REPLY. A credible and charismatic leader � which we don�t have � can accelerate the learning process. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I salute you for your article! Pacquiao is a guy who always thirst for the limelight since he got this lavishly from our press and rating-hungry TV stations when he became a world boxing champion. But I choose the best statement: "There are no idiot candidates where there are no idiot voters." Sad to say, more than half of our voters become idiots every election because of money, greed and poverty, the last being the systematic, strategic ground of politicians, especially the ones in Malaca�ang. Make the people poor forever and you control them endlessly. I would like to pick Singson also as one. He accused Estrada of the tobacco excise tax scam after bringing personally the money to the deposed President. Now, how come Estrada knew about this source of illegal wealth if it were not for Singson? He surely taught Estrada this, that's why, but he came up clean and laughing, courtesy of our idiot, grandstanding politicians in the Senate, Lower House and the Executive Branch. If he were not idiot, where did he get all those oodles and oodles of money to finance his lavish, luxurious life-style? Now this idiot is running for the Senate? The idiot voters encouraged him to do so even if they knew of his idiocy. A person without any delicadeza is also an idiot. James Tanaka, (by email), Feb 12, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww WELL SAID, BUT WILL IT BE POSSIBLE? WE HAVE TO CHANGE THE CONSTITUTION AGAIN AND GO BACK TO SQUARE ONE. Amadeo D. Chavez, (by email), Saudi Arabia, Feb. 11, 2007 MY REPLY. No pain, no gain. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya: Yes, I agree with you 100% on providing qualifying exams for would- be politicians. This is the opportune time to raise the bar of quality for public service that would ultimately benefit the people. The media, academe and the Church of various beliefs must unite and do their stuff to influence the environment by demanding this inherent right of the public to choose pre-screened candidates by institutionalizing your bright idea. Neil Narca, (by email), Feb. 12, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I certainly agree regarding your Idea on the issue of �Idiot Candidates�. Richard A. Rala, (by email), Feb. 12, 2007 Al Tazaj Fakieh Finance Services, Saudi Arabia wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya Have with great interest taken part of your article concerning �electing idiots�. I believe this is unfortunately a flaw in all 100% democratic systems, that there is a certain risk that the wrong type of people become elected as mayors, parliament members, senators etc. I believe that the standard of education among the general population plays an important part of this, the better educated and enlightened the general population is, the lesser the risk for them to elect people who are clearly not capable to assume the office they are elected for. Such unsuitable persons are as we know often (but not always) found among move stars, celebrities, athletes and similar. But they could also be true criminals like drug lords, gambling lords and illegal logging operators. The latter kind is even more harmful as they use their position of power only to protect their illegal activities and they have no interest whatsoever to serve their country and its people. But this is not only a Philippine problem. Look east over the Pacific at the only remaining super power where the population elected and re-elected a president who is likely to go down in history as the most incompetent and stupid person ever to hold that office. Watching that man on TV, it�s enough to listen to him for five minutes and it�s crystal clear that he is stupid���. and yet they elected and re elected him. I agree with you that this is a very serious problem. But if not even the mighty United States can avoid electing an obviously incompetent person to their highest office, how can the Philippines and other countries with less resources manage that problem? Yours sincerely, Kjell Sundberg, (by email), Feb 12, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I fully agree that all who are aspiring for political office should be college-educated, at least, and take qualifying exams. It must be the least requirement for those who intend to manage the welfare of the country and its citizens and represent the same internationally. Unless of course, we do not have anymore drive to make the country better and alleviate the lives of our poor brothers and sisters who have been suffering long enough, to at least satisfy their basic human needs. Sad to say, public service always ends up to be self-service. A painful truth about the lone Catholic country in the Far East . Dinna Pamintuan, (by email), Feb. 12, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww There are other idiot candidates aside from Manny Pacquiao. And some are already in office. How did they get there? Thanks, idiot voters! Dominador de Leon, (by email), Feb 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I agree with you in your argument, which as of today is unconstitutional, but why not? Let us take for example, the case of the engineers, who took five years (including review for board exams) just to build and construct roads and bridges so that they will be safe for use by the public. Architects also take that many years just to design and build and make houses more sturdy and comfortable. Doctors and priests devote almost or more than 10yrs of their lives to research and study, just to save the body and soul of every human being. But here comes just ANYBODY WHO HAS THE MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS BUT (you are right) POPULAR, taking the most critical position in government, running the lives, not just of a few, but all of the Filipino citizenry! THE FRAMERS OF OUR CONSTITUTION MUST BE FOOLS.. Even when you apply as an ordinary employee or worker doing office work or handling a simple machine needs at least a high school diploma (even if it is sourced at CM Recto). You are right, Tony, there must be a change, but we missed the chance. Rodolfo Cada, (by email), Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Another type of these "idiot" candidates, to borrow your term, are the movie stars whose only claim to the position they aspire for is their good looks and perhaps, their popularity as well. Take the case of this Richard Gomez who has foisted himself before us, the electorate. What does he know about crafting laws? If, heaven forbids, he makes it to the Senate, he'll just be another of those movie star-senators who'll be in the Committee on Silence making goo-goo eyes to the gallery who still find it worthwhile to attend and watch how their elected officials go about their work at the Senate. Will somebody please tell our honorable lawmakers that there oughta be a law against these "idiot" candidates! Boy Mariazeta, (by email), Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I read your articles posted in some blog site and I found it interesting that quite a few or I would say a lot would like to see some kind of qualifying tests or exams for candidates for elected office. I beg to differ on this issue, because this will defeat the idea of Democracy and further diminish the spirit of Equality which in Mature Democracy is held by its subjects more than the all the rights.. The Idea that in elections the voters will determine who they believe are the best persons or individuals to represent their interest in the Congress, in the Municipal Hall or in Parliament or whatever hall the kind of governments do their business. I'll cite our case, where to practice medicine or be a judge, a person has to qualify and be accepted to the professional bodies, but for elected public office, the only qualifications required are a candidate must be of voting age at election day and a legal citizen. Then the party process of nominating candidates will eventually eliminate the so-called not capable persons and the eventual judgment to that are the Voters. If you take a good look at the past and present political leaders the Philippines had, you can see that there were and there are leaders that have all the necessary qualifications and experiences, but did it make any difference? Marcos was said to be a genius. History tells us that he was in reality a brilliant man, but did it matter in his manner of Governance? The current crops in the Congress are top notch lawyers and outstanding graduates of the country's premier universities, had they apply their qualifications to their job? And why is the Philippines is still among the ill-governed countries in Asia , when most and majority of its public officials, public servants are "qualified"? Victor Sanoy, (by email), Scarborough , Ont. , Canada , Feb. 13, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony� When I was considered by Malaca�ang to be one of the members of the Constitutional Commission in 2005 (representing the retired military sector�the Chairman of AGFO, the capable and highly respected retired army BG Jose C Bello Jr and cousin of yours [not my cousin. ACA] was selected), this issue of eligibility and a few other important issues were foremost in my mind. We did assist the Commission by appearing before it in their headquarters in Diliman during the course of their work, more on defense matters, and inviting them to a forum at NDCP on August 8, 2006 for a more open discussion of many relevant issues on Constitutional change, together with the Strategic Studies Group. The Commission on Elections has to be reformed but we also know that many things it should do are undoable without constitutional change, including this issue of eligibility and strengthening its accreditation process. Soldiers and civil servants often cite that they could NEVER enter the military or civil service without graduating from high school, so why must the President and other political candidates likewise be pre-qualified? The IPD Primer distributed during the campaign of the Commission showed the following on �Political reform�: Among the political reforms being pushed in the current constitutional change campaign are: (1) the form of government � changing the present presidential to a parliamentary system; (2) central-local relations � changing the present unitary system to a federal system; (3) electoral system � changing the present single-member district (first- past-the-post system) to a system of proportional representation. The pre-qualifying of candidates, which is constitutionally not provided, must be included as much as the automatic application of the dynasty provision, which is already in the 1987 Constitution, which prescribes the need for law. The most un-trapolike members of Congress could not get to first base on that one. This two � and especially a pre-qual provision -- are crucial to the inclusion of �Idiot� as well as nuisance candidates. A pre-qual provision is perhaps unnecessary (but still nice to have) when we have a society mature and free from poverty (and all the advantages that general poverty of their constituencies give to the rich, the opportunists and the powerful). I think though that we should have a Convention of any sort authorized currently by the Constitution -- to address just one change, and that is to allow amendments during national elections by proposition the way they do it in the US Federal and State Constitutions. In the state of Virginia, where I lived for 3 years while assigned at the Philippine Embassy in DC I recall seeing several provisions amended that way. Such an effort, which does not favor any interest group, could have a fighting chance of getting the general consensus. Please carry on the good work. Chuck Agustin, (by email), Feb. 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I, FOR ONE, TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU. YOU HAVE THE SAME SENTIMENTS ON FILIPINO VOTERS AS I DO. I HOPE THESE PEOPLE WOULD STOP ELECTING AND/OR VOTING FOR PEOPLE WHO DON'T KNOW ANYTHING. THEY HAVE NO BUSINESS RUNNING A COUNTRY. Thelma Z. Altiveros, (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, I couldn't agree with your observations more. There is just one thing that might need to be mentioned here. While it's true that Pacquiao's idiotic handlers are to be blamed, you should not forget that the Mike Arroyo and company of vultures are also to be blamed, if not more. Now that Manny has officially decided to run for Congress, it's all the more clear that PGMA is going to do all that she can to make sure that the likes of the admirable Congresswoman Custodio, who was in the frontlines of opposing PGMA's attempts to be an "unofficial" dictator, be prevented from ever opposing her (PGMA's) unholy desires in the halls of the "Lower" House Keep up your admirable work, Sir Tony! Manny Buenaventura , (by email), Feb. 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Am really glad that you have hammered the right head of the nail, Mr. Abaya. Congratulations! If only our fellow Filipinos of voting age were informed about this, and understand the meaning of suffrage, and their right to vote, I do believe that we Filipinos could still have a better future in our country. I just hope that your voice will echo throughout all categories of voters. But still, in order to be able to screen qualified candidates for government positions, our lawmakers have to amend many provisions of our Constitution, in addition to local governments provisions. With our present lawmakers, we do not find the indications for better changes in our obsolescent laws. I guess, with the two million pesos per month allotment for senators, and one million pesos or so for our congressmen, in addition to their pork barrels, without COA audits, it could be idiotic on their part not to cling steadfastly to their positions. And as a matter of course, no one among our lawmakers is interested in passing an Anti-Dynasty Law! And as a matter of fact, all of these so called "honorable" men justify to high heavens the candidacies of their closest of kins; as some recent newspapers divulge the names of Aquinos, Pimentels, Cayetanos, Estradas, Marcoses, etc... And the emergence of the party-list candidates add more expense to the Filipino people!! Perhaps it is high time for us to have a parliamentary system of government. Anyway, this is just my wishful thinking kasi sawa na ako sa mga lawmakers na walang ginagawa at pinaggagastosan natin ng malaki.... at ginagatasan nila ang bawat proyekto sa pork barrel. Kung may lawmakers pa rin, sana hindi sila idiot..K kasi pati tayo nagiging idiot na nahohothot!!!! More power to you, Mr.Abaya! Best regards to your family, and God bless! Avelino Lagman Jr., (by email), Feb. 16, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, One doesn't have to be an inexperienced public official or political neophyte or an academically starved person in order to be an idiotic candidate / politician. One could graduate from top schools and have years of public service experience but still be an idiotic candidate or politician...you have many in mind , I'm sure. You're barking on the wrong tree. Manny is a Champion and the best in his field, FPJ is outstanding success in his chosen field, and one of the most respected.. Erap was also tops as an actor...so are several other celebrities...top actors, basketball players, singers, etc. These top celebrities were simply duped or practically conned by experienced overstaying idiotic politicians....lets call them " trapos." Instead of castigating the likes of Manny and FPJ, let's pity them instead. Their popularity will be used, their money syphoned, their name tarnished and their true calling ruined. The real idiots are the current salivating politicians who cannot wait to ride on the popularity of these guileless souls, use their money and suck them dry....I could say a lot more but just thinking about our kind of politicians sucks my spirit dry...I think I've just ruined my day. Thanks . More power to you. Andy P. Pages, (by email), Feb. 18, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I read your article regarding the Philippines as an idiot nation. Yes, I agree with you but what can we do? Even the qualified elected officials in the land are acting like idiots, instead of doing their s and utilizing their knowledge for the good of the state, what do they do? They join the merry party-like fiesta. The Philippines Banana Republic is hopeless. Any future young leader who enters politics and joins the merry party will surely be like a fish ."Kung nasaan ang marami, sunod na lang ng sunod." THE BEST SOLUTION IN THIS HOPELESS CASE IS TO THINK CRAZY AND SOLVE THIS PROBLEM BY GATHERING ALL THE POLITIKOS IN LUNETA AND FIRING-SQUAD THEM AND LET THE COMMON TAO RUN THE STATE. BAKA DITO UMUNLAD PA ANG PILIPINAS! FILIPINOS ARE TIRED OF POLITICS, TIRED OF THINKING NAKAKAHIYA NA ANG PILIPINAS! GHOST OF JOSE RIZAL Nestor Ilano, (by email), Feb. 19, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww It seems that you have wonderful ideas. I admire you a lot, how I wish I could have a little of your talent and guts. With your examples, you can be the modern day Jose Rizal.. Your articles, brilliant ideas and thoughts can awaken the senses of those asleep and warm the soul of the oppressed. If I were a member of the NPA, I would say I am right in what I'm fighting for. I would be high spirited and continue in my cause. Talking about creative minds, in fairness to those presently in politics, they have all that. I would say President Arroyo would not be in her position without that. I recall the movie "The Princess Diaries". When you admit you don't know and can't do everything by your own self, you will give a chance and listen to voices around you, and together you will soar high and higher. Ruben Villas, (by email), Feb.19, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hello Mr. Tony, I agree with you 100.%. These two criteria, (a) qualifying exams for candidates vying for high public office (b) regional representation in the Senate, among others should and must be included in an amended constitution. I've been sounding out my thoughts about these two aforementioned items with my friends here in Saudi Arabia , long before the clamour for constitutional change. I am not a lawyer but I could not understand why convicted felons could run (and Comelec accepted their candidacy?) for public office. Doesn't our present constitution say that a convicted felon is not a free man? A convicted felon, being NOT A FREEMAN, could not possibly enjoy the rights of a free man. Best regards, Napoleon P. Serrano, (by email), Ras Tanura , Saudi Arabia , Feb 19, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi Tony, Stupidity should be made a heinous crime. Imagine what it could accomplish for population control, the environment, governance, the economy, law and order, etc etc. Our motherland needs a break Rafael Alunan III, (by email), Feb. 19, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Many Filipino voters would go for the guy that they can identify with. The masa is spectacularly famous for this. But is this type of voting a product of an idiotic mind? I doubt it. Is this a proof that these voters have lost their sense of right and wrong? I doubt it. Ogie Reyes, (by email), Feb. 19, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi Tony, I'm sorry that I was late in reading what you send me because I didn't come to work. I was very sick for eight days. All the premise of our existing Idiot Society that you mentioned are all true. What can we do, Tony? We can't do it by force. I think the best way and only way is to educate our people. In your case, by writing articles in the newspaper, as what you are doing now. I started doing my part with my family members who are still in the Philippines. I told them not to be swayed by hollow political promises. Do not sell your votes, vote wisely. Ask around if this or that candidate whether local, provincial or national level is worthy of you vote. I salute the people like you, Tony, who will stand at all odds for the sake of our country. Thank you. And best regards, Agustin Bacalso, (by email), Feb. 20, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony, When will you write about our incredible OFWs? I am personally amazed, inspired, and astounded by the extent of the improvement to the country that they have collectively caused. $14 billion dollars per year remitted to the country! That would have to be the equivalent of putting up P___ million worth of export oriented industries - you can probably backward-compute that into an impressive amount. That is only the most immediate and visible benefit to the country. Look at the resulting additional benefits! A prepayment of our national debt in the amount of $______. Additional savings in interest expense on the remaining balance of our national debt of a reported P41 billion/year. A substantial reduction in our inflation rate. An observed reduction in our NLEX fees, in our telephone charges, in our transportation fuel. A consequential reduction in our fuel importation expenses. How much is this worth? Increased foreign investment arising from greater trust in the country's perceived ability to manage its finances. ALL WITHOUT THE HELP OF GLORIA! Let her not take the credit for improving the country's economy! The OFWs, collectively, have done it all, DESPITE the government's best efforts! Let us express our thanks for the work of the OFWs! Rene Valdes, (by email), Baguio City , Feb. 20, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww What Will Make Me Leave the Philippines Dear Fellow Filipino, Good day to all of you! Before I begin my letter... just a disclaimer, for people who know me they know that I love the Philippines very much and I am not really one who rants and complaints to high heavens about what is happening to our country and does nothing about it, in fact, I feel that at my relatively young age of 27, I have done much service to the Philippines by setting up Pathways to Higher Education which has sent more than 500 poor but deserving students to college and AHON Foundation which has already built two public elementary school libraries that have benefited more than 3,500 students. Yet, after seeing how events in our nation have transpired the past few weeks and talking with some friends, I feel the urge to share with you my own thoughts and feelings. Over the weekend, we saw the completion of two major political alliances for this coming Senate Elections that has just began here in the Philippines . Now we have two political forces with familiar faces nonetheless on opposite sides of the fences. On one end, you have Tito Sotto and Tessie Aquino-Oreta who were two major stalwarts of the opposition and the FPJ Campaign in 2004 hobnobbing with the woman (Pres. GMA) whom they claimed to have cheated FPJ in the last Presidential Elections.On the other side of the fence, you see Manny Villar, the former house speaker who was actually responsible for impeaching Erap now part of the United Opposition who is led by no less than... Erap himself. Now if you don't see anything wrong with this picture then you must be one of the many Filipinos who have accepted this very sad reality that there is indeed no permanent ideals that our government leaders stand up for but rather they just go where there self-interests can best be served. It is this kind of politics why I no longer wonder why good people like Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Mayor Jesse Robredo of Naga City or outstanding Bulacan Governor Josie Dela Cruz will find it hard or worse, never be elected to national positions. It is with these in mind that I'd like to share with you what are events this coming May elections that will make me consider leaving the Philippines: 1.) If former COMELEC Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano of Hello Garci fame wins in his bid to become Congressman of Bukidnon...seeking to replace a good man no less in incumbent Cong. Neric Acosta... We would really be the laughing stock of the whole world if we allow a man with the reputation of Garci to be one of our so called "Honorable Gentlemen". 2.) If Dancing Queen Tessie Aquino Oreta reclaims her seat at the Senate... I hope that all of us would still remember that dance that she did during the 2001 impeachment hearings after they voted to overrule the decision of then Chief Justice Davide... let us make sure that people like her never make it to the Senate again. 3.) If Richard Gomez becomes a senator... what does he know about making laws? We already have the likes of Bong Revilla and Lito Lapid in the Senate and their performance or lack of it would be reason enough not to elect another actor who has no prior experience in government to the distinguished halls of the Senate. 4.) If Gringo Honasan wins again.... have we not learned our lesson? I cannot believe that just because someone is charismatic then we will just elect him to become one of our senators despite the fact that he has time and again caused so much instability in our country... if we want a military junta similar to that of Thailand ... then lets all vote for this guy.... 5.) If Manny Pacquiao becomes Congressman of General Santos City... everybody loves Manny the Boxing Champ but Manny the Lawmaker? Lets be realistic here, Manny is our Hero alright but I think it takes more than just great boxing skills and a desire to serve to be able to make appropriate laws that would help uplift the lives of the many Filipinos who live in Poverty. 6.) If Lito Lapid wins for Mayor of Makati City... I don't like Jojo Binay as well but Lito Lapid as city mayor of the country's finance and business center?!?! And do you really think he is from Makati and has good plans for the city? The Arroyos asking someone like him to run just goes to show you how much love and concern this government has for our country. 7.) If Chavit Singson becomes a Senator, Illegal Gambling = Chavit... enough said. Now if all of these 7 things happen during this coming elections then don't be surprised if I decide to leave this country that I love dearly. Like I said during the first part of my letter, I feel that I have done much for this country but I think its time that Filipinos become more vigilant and critical in selecting our leaders for the sake of our future and the generations that will go beyond us. So I appeal to every Filipino who asks what can I actually do for my country... Choose and vote for the right people this coming elections, huwag na tayong magpaloko sa mga kandidatong maganda lang ang jingle o gwapo lang sa mga poster. Let us choose leaders who have a good track record for service and who are genuinely committed towards serving our country. Manindigan naman tayong lahat para sa ating Kinabukasan at para sa Kapakanan ng ating Bayan! Thank you very much for your time in reading this letter. Sincerely, Harvey S. Keh, (by email), Feb.14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Create your own form of government okay! Ever heard of democracy?! I passed the CPA board exam, and I well enough know my country's history but then again that doesn't make me apt for a public office. It takes more than that. It takes more than "education as you view it" to care for your people and to know what's good for them. Review your history. The most crooked of the crooks were the educated and the intelligent. What is being idiot anyway? And what is stupidity? Does it make our people idiot if they can relate themselves to those you tagged as "idiot"? Is the mass stupid for clinging to those you call "stupid", if they believe they will and can bring them better days? If the people prefer entertainment/amusement away from the sickening reality, rather than voting those who have constantly promised and failed-- only good enough with their gibberish.. I didnt vote for FPJ. and surely I will never elect Pacquiao. People like you make this side of the world a bit deranged. Masyado kayong sarado. masyadong de-kahon. that's why the mass, that you well know is the majority which seems you don�t belong, our misguided many -- retaliates! Kase ang yabang nyo. puro paninira't satsat! You don�t recommend cure. Do you think you're helping? Do you think you're part of the remedy? Or just part of this country's ill? (In the article you are reacting to, I recommended three proposals: qualifying exams for all candidates; disqualification of convicted felons; regional election of senators. And you say I �don�t recommend cure?� ACA.) At least the mass is united.. They just have to be guided.. I guess by those who know better.. Do you? R. Serrano, (by email), Deb. 20, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Sir, Magandang araw po. Kami dito sa North America ay talagang banas na banas na sa pulitika diyan sa atin sa Pinas pero halos karamihan dito sa amin ay laging nakatunganga na lang kasi sa isip namin ay wala talaga kaming magagawa maliban sa payuhan ang mga natitira pa naming kamg anak na huwag bumoto sa mga hindi karapatdapat iboto. Subalit kung iisipin ninyo nga naman e sino nga ba ang karapatdapat at hindi, mahirap po talaga ang sitwasyon pero babalik na naman ako sa tanong ko, ano ang aming magagawa. Nagtataka po kami bakit pinagaagawan pa ang pamumuno e sa tingin sa daily news dito parang sobra ng hirap ng bansa at ang mga tao walang ginagawa kundi mar rally, mag demostrate. Wala ho bang maisip ang gobyerno na maging abala ang mga tao. Dito po sa amin halos walang tamad kasi ang daming trabaho dito ang kulang ang katawan. Susulat pa po ako sa susunod kung nabasa ninyo po ito to keep abreast of out situation here in Western Canada . Mike de Grano, (by email), Canada, Feb. 21, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww . That is precisely the reason why I preferred a parliamentary form of government. I among many would have been spared agonizing over the candidates who have only to bank on their popularity in order to win a senate seat. Take Cayetano for example, his talkativeness is wearisome but the popularity he gained through that will make him win in Manila . and if he makes it to the Senate, I can just imagine the performance of the Senate with all the debate and badgering that's going to take place. Iin the case of Pacquaio, if ever he wins then the "idiocy" of it all would be to his constituents� shame alone. It is lamentable that Filipinos who know right from wrong are outnumbered by those who think that governance is a popularity contest. Ironically government offices require graduate degrees for promotion to higher position, but for elective government positions the requirements are so basic. If the rationale behind is more about looking for people who can lead, charisma alone would not be sufficient. Look at what we did with Erap. What sound knowledge can do is evident in La Gloria. Despite her lack of "it", still the country is able to perform better economically. The problem today in this country, is issues are lumped together. Gloria is smeared black and blue by the cheating issue and the good things she can do are disregarded. Obviously, the opposition has a very well-oiled propaganda machinery and even Filipinos who know what is right and wrong are emotionally manipulated. Gloria will receive her due for whatever wrong she may have done, but meanwhile Filipinos must rise above the issue and close ranks. That's why count me in in your proposals because it hurts when Filipinos are made a laughing stock among democratic nations. Angie Diaz, (by email), Feb. 21, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww (Forwarded by Rene Valdes of Baguio City,) Pinoys abroad plead for platform-based polls Feb 21, 2007 Filipinos abroad are circulating a petition letter asking their fellowmen in the Philippine voters to base their choices for the May mid-term polls on the candidates' platforms of government and not on personalities. "We, the overseas Filipinos worldwide, urge each and everyone in the coming May electoral contest to implore all political parties, emerging parties and their respective candidates to bring forth a platform-based campaign so that the electorate can choose credible persons who are worthy to lead the nation," the petition said. The letter was signed by Leila Rispens-Noel and Doris Alfafara who in the Netherlands; Basco Fernandez, Joy Puyat, Filipino-Americans Ren Arrieta, Johnny Pecayo and Cesar Torres; Dennis Yaun based in Luxembourg; and former expatriates Idelfonso Bagasao and James Zamora who are now in Manila. The proponents of the petition said: "The proposed platform-based campaign is envisioned to change this bad practice [of having] a personality and patronage-based electoral contest." "We are encouraging everyone to endorse this manifesto by signing it. We have to be involved in the coming election and we feel this is the way � if not the only way - we can show our concerns and exercise our right as overseas Filipinos to participate in the decision-making process," Noel said on behalf of the group. The group said it is calling for robust, transparent, internally democratic and accountable political parties in order to develop a stronger democratic culture in the Philippines . It also dared those who want to become legitimate servants and leaders to articulate a concrete and doable developmental plan aimed at the Filipino migrant workers around the world. "We pledge to support legitimate servants of the people running for any public position that aggressively promote the interest of our sector," the group said. These are issues revolving around electoral reforms as contained in the Oversease Absente Voting Act, the creation of an office with a Cabinet status such as the ministry of migration and development that will truly work for the interests of migrant workers, among other proposals. Julie Javella-Santos, abs-cbnNEWS.com wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I have read one of your articles, it is regarding with your call for a) qualifying exams for all candidates, so that we can exclude the stupid and the ignorant from our politics, no matter how popular they may be with the squealing masa. b) moral safeguards against indicted and convicted individuals seeking public office; and c) regional election of senators Since I was in college, I have heard enough about our government. But because I am just a nobody, I cannot do anything about it. Sometimes I thought of joining some ralliest or Groups like AKBAYAN, BAYAN MUNA�etc. but these people are being funded by politics also. I thought of joining the NPA, but they too don't have that desire to live in an orderly and very good government. With regards to your call for qualifying exams� I don't think it would be possible, who would you put in the position to take care of the exam that cannot be paid. And if that person is very dedicated to the job assigned, with the kind of people dwelling in our government the might as well end up in the cemetery , just like other newscasters who expose some politicians. With regards to your call for b), I guess it is in our hands. We should choose congressmen who would assure the Philippine people that they will pass a law like this. I am really glad that someone like you is keeping an eye on the government. And lastly, regional elections of senators is very nice idea. I salute for your ideas. Actually I have already closed my eyes regarding this issue since our corrupt government had raised the tax for ordinary people like me. If you think I can do something for you, I would appreciate it if you will e-mail me. Thanks and have a nice day! Edwin Enriquez, (by email), Feb. 21, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, I strongly agree with your proposals - 1. qualifying exams for candidates - do away with candidates like Pacquiao, movie stars and their "kamag-anak inc. stupidity". 2. moral safeguards against indicted/convicted candidates - bar them from running for elections - Romeo Jalosjos is a big joke! 3. regional senatorial elections - very sound and logical. Will it be possible for you to send all the reactions you receive to the Idiot Comelec, the Idiot President, and to all concerned Idiots? What use will it be for the educated few to go to the polls when the majority of the voters come from the illiterate sector? There is a need to talk some sense into them. Or perhaps the Idiot Candidates prefer to have them remain as illiterate as possible - to ensure a landslide win? Even my household help wanted to puke when she saw the campaign ads of some of our senators. Does calling someone "Tol" qualify him to lead" What does he take us for? Idiots?! Nancy Marie de Castro, (by email), Paranaque City, Feb. 22, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Greetings from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia , Mr. Abaya! I believe your article is absolutely the answer to our aged and dilapidated belief that being famous and maka-masa, is the passport to being elected to any government post. It has been my vision disseminating this kind of article and information to our Filipino voters for their total understanding. I do concur with you and candidates should at least have an education and able enough to converse in English, to be able to qualify to run as a public servant. I wish that our wannabe public servants could be able to read this article of yours as well as the Filipino voters! It�s high time for us to modify our traditional way of selecting public servant and let us put aside or even disregard the �maka-masa sya, para sa mahirap, sikat sya, artista sya, mabait sya kasi, way of voting. WAKE-UP Filipinos! Welll done! Gilbert Meneses, (by email), Saudi Arabia , Feb. 21, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Is it also possible to qualify voters as: 1) in national elections, to include only those who pay their taxes and 2) in local elections, include the rest of the qualified voters. Thank you and more power to you, sir! C. P. Payawal, (by email), Feb. 21 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww There is Hope for you yet! I read, somewhat bemused, Tony's essay on the upcoming elections and how Manny Pacuiao is running for office. Well, do not despair, Pinoys! My asawa, educated at Calape National High School , Daanbantayan, Cebu is no Rhodes Scholar. Nevertheless even she was in an uproar when she heard the announcement on ABS-CBN Australia that the Pugilist was heading for Parliament. Or wherever. If even she can be outraged at the absurdity of a boxer (and as a former boxer myself I resent the stereotypying we often suffer, but in this case....) carrying out the role of a Senator, there is hope yet. Personally I wonder how he could do a worse job than the entrenched Trapos already there, swapping the plum regional roles around between family members, generation after generation. I was living in Cebu during the 2004 elections and I have a photo of the "How To Vote" note that was included in the bribe, I mean, attendance fee, my wife was paid at the time. I wanted her to vote for the man whose election claim to fame was that he was the discoverer of a treatment for chancres. I kid you not! Charming! He dressed like JR Ewing of " Dallas ", cowboy hat included. Maybe he'll run again this time? I liked the way officials saved the electorate vast sums by having people with the same surnames in office decade after decade. Only having to re-paint the initials of their first names on their office doors must save a bundle. I wondered how they sorted it out. "Lets see, Dad was governor last, so now Sis will be governor, Dad is now a Senator, Cousin Boy will be mayor and Mom can handle congress again". That way we keep the reins of power firmly in our hands, along with the kick backs, permits and fees and the police etc........ So really why not a boxer? FPJ was an actor, Erap was someone who appeared in movies (can;t call it acting), Cory had the sympathy vote and so on. Anyway, rest assured not all the masa are fools or fooled. My Asawa is an average Pinay and even she can see the farcical nature of this election. Of course, after 18 months out of the Philippines she sees a lot of things very differently now. The good thing is, though, she still eats her buwad and camote leaves with her fingers because she prefers it that way. Makes her feel more com-fort-able, with the emphasis on the "fort"! Sigue na! Perry Gamsby, (by email), Australia , Feb. 21, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Excellent article, eloquently stated. I wish that you would have it published in GenSan's native language and circulated in their hometowns. Can we email this article to all these idiots? Mc Mac, (by email), Feb. 22, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, I very much agree with you that all candidates for all public positions should undergo qualifying exams, whether he or she is a college graduate or not. I hope an amendment of this sort can be included when they do the Cha-Cha. God help the Philippines if many idiot candidates win in the coming election! If that happens, we have no one to blame but ourselves. We deserve the kind of government we have elected. Dina Cerrada, (by email), Feb. 22, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I agree with you on both counts - there should be regional representation in the senate and there must be a law that will inhibit criminals from running for public office for life. Thank you, Lennie de la Rosa, (by email), Feb. 23, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Sir, I strongly agree on your proposals on electoral reforms particularly on the nuisance, undeserving and idiot candidates as well as on the election of senators on a regional basis. I would like also to propose that the electorate should compose of only tax payers. The tax payers who are the source of money that the greedy aspiring government leaders are craving for should be the one who will select the right leader. Thank you and more power Allan Buyayo, (by email), Feb. 23, 2007 Ju-Young Philippines Inc. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi Mr Abaya, This is Aloven, I�m a Filipino but now I�m here in the US ... but still my heart is still a Filipino....I have a question.... why do you think that the people who made our constitution and also the US constitution made only three qualifications to run for president a) natural born Filipino (b) able to read and write (c) and age limit...... this is the only qualification to run for president.... now tell me,,,,, are the people who made the Philippine and US constitutions stupids or idiots? In a democratic country PEOPLE are the BOSS... majority WINS..POPULARITY Wins...Thats what it is....so what, if those people run for office, just don�t vote for them.... now if they win, it means the people like them. Ruben Aloven, (by email), Feb. 23, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Idiot candidates exists because of idiot voters. What follows: Corrupt office holders. Poorer nation. Please keep writing. Frank, (by email), Portsmouth , Virginia , Feb. 24, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I agree with you 100% on what needs to be addressed when fielding candidates. You mentioned three qualifications, to wit; (1) a candidate must pass a qualifying exams to determine his/her capabilities/abilities, whatever; (2) people convicted or indicted must not be allowed to run for any public office; (3) senators must be elected on a regional basis for equal representation. 1. They already found a way to go around this suggestion. In an Idiot Nation, like ours, can you imagine Manny Pacquiao passing the whole four (4) years of high school in six (6) hours, claiming it was harder than boxing. Of course, it was! The people behind this equivalency tests wanted us to believe that Pacquiao made a knock out of his study. Remember he has no other training in school or a job that may give him the opportunity to learn. No review? Wow! I can even challenge you that you cannot pass the new high school exams in Math and Science, how much more of Pacquiao. Even me, I do not know if my English would pass the scrutiny of my high school English teacher. Oh, maybe in Math, the Hon. Jesli Lapus, instructed the developer of the exams package to give him the elementary version of 1 + !. He must possess an IQ way above the other intellectuals that made him pass the tests. Even in the United States , the equivalency diploma is given to the passers but it�s a tedious process. The examinees are assessed, trained and reviewed before taking the exams, but Pacquiao, after boxing and hard labor? Oh, maybe he was hit in the head that gave him an IQ above everybody�s. Naalog, naging henyo. I thought I heard he took the test last December, 2006 and the result was only released this month. Why that long? Pacquiao must be truthful (to himself and to the people). Talk, so the people would really find him a hero. So, you see! Qualifying exams in this Idiot Nation of ours. I would not be surprised if elementary school graduates would just go ahead and take the high school equivalency exams by finding a sponsor in government. The second and third issues. No comment. Agreed! You must have some comments, too, about Pacquiao passing the equivalency. Thanks!!! Rene Santos, (by email), Feb. 24, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww MY REACTION TO YOUR "IDIOT NATION" God's World of Balance ONCE upon a time in the kingdom of Heaven , God was missing for six days. Eventually, Michael the Archangel found him, resting on the seventh day. He inquired of God, "Where have You been?" God sighed a deep sigh of satisfaction and proudly pointed downwards through the clouds, "Look, Michael. Look what I've made." Archangel Michael looked puzzled and said, "What is it?" "It's a planet," replied God, "and I've put Life on it. I'm going to call it Earth and it's going to be a great place of balance." "Balance?" inquired Michael, still confused. God explained, pointing to different parts of earth. "For example, northern Europe will be a place of great opportunity and wealth, but cold and harsh while southern Europe is going to be poor but sunny and pleasant." "I have made some lands abundant in water and other lands parched deserts." "This one will be extremely hot, while this one will be very cold and covered in ice." The Archangel , impressed by God's work, then pointed to a group of islands and said, "What are those?" "Ah," said God. "That's the Philippines , the most glorious place on earth. There are beautiful beaches, rivers, mountains and forests. The people from the Philippines are going to be handsome, modest, intelligent and humorous and they are going to be found travelling the world. "They will be extremely sociable, hardworking and high achieving, and they will be known throughout the world as carriers of peace and love." Michael gasped in wonder and admiration but then proclaimed, "What about the balance, God? You said there would be a balance." God replied wisely, "Wait until you see the idiots running their government." Raul Sebastian Luna, (by email), Feb. 24, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I believe that your proposals will be good for our country. Can you email me your "Idiot Candidates" article? Thanks, Anel Batausa, (by email), Feb. 24, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I have chosen to be out of country than working in our country for almost 30 years, because of these attitudes wherein our government officials are only thinking for themselves. The root causes of all of these problems were those who colonized us like the Spaniards and the US . Because if we had only been colonized by the Japanese, in my personal point of view. the Philippines might be in better shape. Yes, I do agree ni kateting wala ng ka delikadesa ngayon ang mga nasa gobyerno natin. I pity those Filipino people who have been fooled by these greedy mayors like Atienza, Belmonte, Eusebio , JV and others who have been protectors of these many squatters, for example, within their jurisdiction because they need it during election day. Two kilos of rice and 2-5 cans of sardnes are enough for a vote for them. I idolized Manny Paquiao for being a living legend of Filipino boxin, but not to govern somewhere. I do believe what my father says when I was about to enter priesthood when I was a child due to financial difficulties �Romy, there are so many ways to kill chicken, likewise in serving God. And Manny P. can serve more if he stayed focused on his boxing career, being a survivor who has the determination to succeed. In the case of Honasan, Tito Sotto, Oreta (the dancing lady), Trillanes, Sison, Ocampo and the rest , wala man lang sila kadelidilikadesa. They are a hindrance to the country's progress. They never contributed anything to the Filipino people. Hindi man sila mahiya sa sweldo na galing sa mga Pilipino taxpayers. Si Jose Maria Sison na nasa Switzerland na nagpapakasarap ng buhay at ito naman mga alipores niya na di ko alam kung nag-iisip pa sila at tama ka hindi na nila alam ang tama o mali. We have too much democracy which I think is the biggest problem. Anyway thanks sa oras for my comments. Best regards, Romy Lacasandile, (by email), Abu-Dhabi, UAE, Feb. 24, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww At least the Filipinos are not alone. The Californians kicked out an incumbent governor from office and elected a Joseph Estrada-ish governor. I'm still trying hard to come to grips with how this happened and have tried theorizing it as the product or unintended by-product of the democratic system. However, the reality seems to be that the people who have the financial capability to influence, control and manipulate people and processes have continued to wield political power. Isn't this true at the global level as well? Manny Pacquiao should concentrate on what he does best and not be victimized by his own political handlers. I believe Mom knows best in this case. I would dread the day if and when he becomes another lost boxer-son of Gen San if he does not heed contrary advice. Shane V. Flores, (by email), Sacramento , CA , Feb. 24, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I have read your wonderful work, Mr. Abaya, and I deeply appreciate your concrete points of views and concern about our fellowmen in the Philippines . I do not live in the Philippines , but I am greatly affected by what is going on there. My only doubt for now about your recent actions, is that, for whatever reform, there would always be people who are so corrupt and are willing to bend laws in their favor, which make all the efforts turn to be useless. What would be best to make so that laws would be implemented? Anyhow, I want to say and congratulate you for your heart and hope and pray for the betterment of our fellowmen, maybe in the next 50 years, realistically speaking. But there should be a start somewhere. Sincerely, Nona Enriquez-Schanowski, (by email), Sasbach , Germany , Feb. 24, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww You are correct, but how do we make our so-called leaders listen to us when they only think of what is good for their own vested interest...never what is good for the country We are indeed in a such a pathetic situation. Pilar Oringo, (by email), Feb. 25, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Sir, How does one distinguish the work of a Senator from that of a Representative? Hope you tackle this, considering that representation by region makes a lot of sense. As it stands, I see so many heads in Congress with very little done. In reality, we have more laws we cannot execute that those we can. Maybe we do a reversal: Ask our congressmen to delete those we don't need (anymore) and keep only those we need. That's how we keep our house/home in order. Di ba? All the best. Rey Fuentes, (by email), Feb. 25, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Gud am! Somewhat I gave you my comments about your proposals which I have to agree 110% or maybe more. Although I did not see my comments printed in the following observations, I felt somewhat relaxed since the emails of your readers reflected the essence of my comments. However, I still would like to explore the number one proposal of your column as to the qualifying exams to be taken by the would-be candidates. It won't work in this Idiot Nation. Look at the way they did to Pacquiao! Do you think, in your honest opinion, Pacquiao would pass the tests for an equivalency high school diploma? If you honestly believe, let us all call for the abolition of the high school program and do the same process they did and made for Pacquiao. Imagine the money the people will save. I have no problem about giving the equivalency tests for experienced people or at least for those with some high school credits, but for Pacquiao without any known experience other than boxing, I would be an idiot not to think about non-transparency. Maybe in Math alone, he was taught how to count from 1 to12, at the most to 15. Have you seen the new high school math? Don't tell me he was exempted from taking this new concept! And in Science, the test on how to swing and the other parts of the tests "kami na bahala". They want to make as believe that he passed the tests. Maybe the opposition can explore this another attempt to fool the Filipino people. This maybe a slap in the face at least for those who have to labor to obtain their college, masters and/or PhDs. Thank you. Rene Santos, (by email), Los Angeles CA , Feb. 26, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, I agree completely with your views on this article except the one on Pacquiao. No, Pacquiao is not clueless; he is in fact very intelligent to know that there's no easy way to earn a living than getting a seat in the stupid congress and enrich himself in the process. Sitting there for three years even without doing anything (as most of them have done) - with all the perks, privileges, and "bonuses" - is a lot better than boxing where one has to suffer body harm and survive boxing syndicates. Incompetent incumbent officials, especially in congress, continue to show all of us that you need not sweat to earn. You need only be shrewd. And Pacquiao and many others have learned the lessons well. Roy Tordecilla, (by email), Feb. 26, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Thanks Tony, I see you have gotten quite a response. Were you selective in the response %? Are you going to let us know how may of the response % was favorable to what you wrote, as well as how many disagreed with your article and/or part of it? Would be so kind as to let us know whether your subject choice of 'Idot Nation' refers to the squealing masa, as pointed out in your desertation. Sincerely, Jaime Calero, (by email), Sydney , Australia , Feb. 26, 2007 MY REPLY. Response was more than 90% favorable. What you see is what I got. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I like your idea of the exams, IF it can be administered properly. As things are, mysterious things will happen, like the famous national exams for nurses, or there will be a "putok" that will facilitate passing of these exams, then we are again back to square one. Trust the ingenuity of these people to go around these "obstacles". Arturo Buenaventura, (by email), Feb. 26, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hello Tony, You have taken a very admirable stand in expressing what you think about our nation, its candidates, its voters. We know that newspapers "inform" the reading public. What the newspapers pander, facts, events, people, editorials are what gets into our national consciousness. If there are more of your kind in the art of news journalism, there would be a stronger surge towards "rebuilding" or reconstituting our concept of public service, primarily, reforming our voters' evaluation of what our problems are and who to vote for to help solve those problems. Who should be bearing the responsibility to inform the reading public of what our nation needs and how to best handle our problems - the news editors. Editors who are not partisan, editors who are loyal to the truth first, and loyal to the people second. The broadcast journalists bear the same responsibilities as news journalists. Our radio and television networks can also survive from paid advertisements just as well as newspapers do. This more powerful branch of the media should realize that their influence on the public is tremendous, it reaches almost everyone of our population. It should be the strongest means to re-educate our people in general, and our voters in particular. Giving so much prominence to entertainment stars because of the networks' focus on revenues is the cost of so much public ignorance. It will be wise, Tony, to recruit your fellow journalists to "OUR" cause. Telecasting the gatherings of the so called political heavyweights at an indicted ex-president's house may tell the public who are not worthy, or wrongly, if unintentionally tell the nation how these people are appreciated. If that picture, or telecast was not given exposure, each of the candidates must go to the ramparts on their own. That bit of news is not newsworthy. The media should give intelligent exposure to achievements, should give unbiased and fair reports on wrongdoings, should express strongly its stand for uprightness. While elections provide media so much more income during the campaign season, media should not be afraid to lose revenues It will always have advertisers for we are a big market. But media must choose its marketing methods to serve the country and our people better. Please put one out for Manny Pacquiao. If he really professes his heartfelt desire to serve, just think of the money he will have to shell out to his sponsor-politicos and for his own campaign expenses. If he just builds a school house in each barrio of GenSan, he would have served his people better. Have a tangible proof of his service, a tangible proof of the priorities he holds for his townmates, and a feeling of greatest satisfaction. Perhaps, he would even spend less this way. Thanks, Tony, let's move on. Edmundo Ledesma, (by email), Feb. 26, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Disgusting indeed is the state of political affairs in MY country. Unbelievable but true - we should be in the Guinness Book of World Records! Sa totoo lang nakakahiya...nakakasuka! Alice , (by email), Feb. 27, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, I sincerely believe in all your arguments however, it is not the candidates nor the voters are idiots but on how people are brought up not only from the family as a social institution but also the way on how they believe in God and on how they follow God's Words and Teachings in the Bible that caused them to be idiots. I don't know what is your religion or belief or have you ever read the Bible and fully understood Its contents??? I have tried for years to study and observe on how misdeeds (graft and corruptions) are carried out and being practice in the Philippines not only in th government but also in the private sectors. I have read several if not many of the articles regarding lives of good people in the past and their principles where do they based from that made their countries great and powerful. You know what I found out all of them based their beliefs and principles from the Bible that are being strictly followed that makes them great. Alfredo Tuvera, (by email), Feb. 27, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Your opinion deserves the loudest applause. Now the next thing to do is to make it a law or executive order for politicians to undergo examination. Lobby the congress for that matter. Or make a resolution. How about the constitution? Should we change the presidential qualification as well? I support in whole all your ideas? Ernie Dellosa, (by email), March 03, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Still More Reactions to �Idiots� More Reactions to �Our American Heritage� More Reactions to �Casualties of War� We have to rate the voters... We have to rate the candidates... Is there in the line-up of the candidates that advocate industrialization? If you don't see one... putang aso... sa impiyerno pa rin tayo! Jose Leonidas, (by email), March 04, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Maybe we should start a real People's Initiative to amend the constitution by inserting a provision on a pre-qualifying exam process for candidates, as well as mandating the education of students on how to vote and on the election process so everyone will know how to stop cheating. For example, there is too much emphasis on guarding the individual ballot, rather than on the counting process all the way to proclamation where massive cheating happens. People don�t even know the names of those in charge of filling up the Certificates of Canvass ! These people remain incognito to do whatever they are wont to do under cover of darkness! Nonoy Yulo, (by email), March 04, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, In addition to my previous "reaction" to Idiot Nation, that you recruit more of your kind, news reporters, columnists, news editors, and telecasters to join OUR cause. I would like to add that you can also recruit the attentions of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), the Iglesia ni Kristo (INK), all the Protestant churches to begin postulating to their congregations about the seriousness of the right to vote. There are many more Sundays when they can use the pulpit to educate their congregation.. Educating the voters is NOT telling them who to vote for, but WHAT to do, to know HOW to make good choices. We must recognize the tremendous reach of our religious. 83% Catholics, 11 % Protestants. Imagine, 94% of our population can hear what we have to do to have a better government. Edmundo Ledesma, (by email), March 04, 2007 MY REPLY. My small group met with nine bishops of the CBCP, including its president Jaro Bishop Angel Lagdameo, last December, to get them interested in a proposal on how to allow new leaders to emerge, in place of the trapos. The bishops were not interested. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Who says Filipinos are "idiot voters" of an "idiot nation"? They can't be more wrong. Filipinos are actually among the most intelligent voters in the world. In a country where the social and eco-political system is all wrong, it doesn't matter who gets elected. Filipinos know their votes will not in the least lessen the shameless greed of a totally corrupt government. Therefore, they will continue to vote for movie actors, socialites, celebrities, and sports kingpins for their entertainment value. Knowing that the system will never allow them a better life than one of poverty and deprivation, they vote for candidates who can give them some sort of entertainment that just might liven up their dreary and pathetic lives. What little intelligence Filipino voters have tells them that elections only change the dramatis personae in Congress. They sell their votes because they know elections don't mean anything. Elections in the Philippines are multi-million roadshow productions; nothing more, nothing less. There were times when the ordinary Pinoy believed that they can change things, create a just and democratic government. The first was in 1896 by the katipuneros of Bonifacio; then in 1986 by the poor, duluded "people power". In both cases, they were sorely disappointed. The latest was about two years ago when the scandal of the "Garci Tapes" erupted. Despite overwhelming evidence, Arroyo is still going strong, maybe because there isn't anybody more clever at manipulation. Do Filipinos know this? You bet they do. Are they going to do something about it? Sure they will; but certainly not through elections. Rosalinda N. Olsen, (by email), Norway , March 04, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww TONY, TIME FOR US TO FOCUS ON ACTION AND THE REBIRTH OF OUR NATION, LESS OF BLAME AND RECRIMINATION, AND MOVE FORWARD. I PRESENT TO YOU WHAT I HAVE DONE: 03 August 2005 17 Hidden Valley Road Rolling Hills Estates CA 90274, USA Her Excellency Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Republic of the Philippines Malacanang, Manila Dear Madam President Arroyo: I am aware of your campaign to change the Charter of the Philippine Government to a Parliamentary System of Democratic Government. This has been long overdue because of the fact that the election of our Head of State, if elected directly by the democratic popular vote under a one-man-one-vote system does not work. This is anathema to the third world countries where the economy is poor and majority of the voters are minimally or not educated, poor, desperate and willing to sell their votes even for one meal. They have little understanding of national issues and the mechanisms of government. They can be easily exploited by unprincipled self-serving politicians, who once elected into office, amass flagrant dishonest personal wealth, and live above the Law. It is no surprise that graft and corruption cause a chain reaction that extends from national leaders down to the lowest government officials. No wonder ordinary citizens harbor hatred against these national leader and bureaucrats, who flout the checks and balances of government, the laws and justice of the country, to the detriment of our ordinary citizens. Our third world economy cannot afford gross graft and corruption. Our masses are kept poor, suffering in want and misery. Boiling with hatred, they become desperate and then resort to crime, lawlessness, violence and terrorism. Our nation has been altogether in retrogression for so long, not real manifest solid progression. Our neighboring countries look at our country not in the glitter and opulence of Manila (much of these from foreign capital investments), but in the masses of the people living in the city slums and countryside. Often they have unsavory negatives to recite about our government, country and people. They see us as among the least progressive of new nations. We have intellectuals who can be good, competent, true national leaders, with good moral personal values and collective national values, but they are an outnumbered few. And if ever elected in office under the conditions of our present system, they are surrounded and overwhelmed by so many unprincipled self-serving political colleagues. Oftentimes, they fail to get their support and are disabled in their patriotic mission. It is the Framework and System of Government that we have to change to get us out of our quagmire of economic, political and moral crises. In the Parliamentry System, the Prime Minister is the Head of State and is elected by a select group of Ministers who best represent the Districts of the Country. The Ministers are a more informed and knowledgeable group of deciding voters than our multitude of bakya and movie-loving voters. They are the ones who really know the most qualified among them to be elected Prime Minister and Head of State, to lead our country and our people to a bright future. The Checks and Balances in the Parliamentary Government against abuses, corruption, and incompetence of officials are better and more effective. Our neighboring countries such as Singapore , Taiwan , Thailand and Malaysia have a Parliamentary System of Democratic Government. Their Governments are more stable, dynamic, progressive, and technologically advanced than ours. Their people enjoy a better quality of life. The leading democratic governments of the world- England , France , Germany , Japan , Korea -are Parliamentary. (Actually, France , Taiwan and South Korea use the presidential system of government. Thailand uses the parliamentary, but they have had 19 coups d�etat since the 1930s, the last one being last September 2006 which still remains in force. ACA) The United States President is not elected by the popular vote, but by the electoral votes of the Federated States, which is equivalent to a Parliamentary System, with effective Checks and Balances carried out. With our present state of endemic and deplorable economic, national and moral crises, we have no other good alternative but to go for it and rally for Charter Change. This will be the turning point of our country to move ahead into a bright future, where the potential creative genius of our people can be cultivated and made to flourish within the borders of our country, and work to keep abreast with the progressive modern democratic nations. Our Senators and Congressmen should support for the Parliamentary System of Democratic Government, not partisan self-serving obstructionists, for the collective good of our country. Making the regions of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao into a Federation in our country is a brilliant creative change. It will equalize the economic and technological development of our country that is presently more concentrated in Luzon . Eventually, will promote a better quality of life for all our people, and consequently, good citizenship. Your Excellency, I am expressing the reasons of my support for the Parliamentary System so that others may hear, and think, and act also. My wife and I are giving One Million Pesos to help fund this campaign. I am sending the money to the Account of the President, Philippine National Bank, Malacanang Branch. Under your enlightened vision, guidance, leadership, and with the growing response of many of our people, we will not fail our country. NOW IS THE CRUCIAL TIME FOR ALL TO ACT! Very respectfully yours, Signed: Rodrigo L. Gabuya, M.D. Aurora P. Gabuya, M.A. MY REPLY. Congratulations for your generosity. I hope you get to see the concrete results of your donation. Next time you think of giving away another one million pesos, think Gawad Kalinga, where your donation will be directed to a specific community of beneficiaries of your choice, who are formerly homeless and jobless people, without fear that some of your largesse will be stolen or wasted by corrupt politicians and bureaucrats. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww With regards to Manny Pacquiao's candidacy, let me just repeat what I've heard before-- There are those who are willing but may not be able...and there are those able but are not willing. So let's see what he can do. Fred Vidal, (by email), March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Sir, From the looks of the reactions of our readers, everyone agrees that no �idiot� candidates should be elected, or allowed to run. However, with the absence of laws regarding this, there is the fear that such �idiot� candidates will be elected. The candidate might be an idiot, but it doesn�t take a genius to know that with proper packaging, the idiot voters will go for him (ever heard of the proverb, birds of the same feather, flock together?) Maybe it�s about time that you people in the media take a strong hand on this, instead of getting our collective reactions and doing nothing about it. What I am proposing is this: Draft a list of specific questions or issues and send this to all candidates for national positions (let�s start with the senators). You can ask one or two questions a day, to be published in the MST, and ask the candidates to submit their answers the next day. For brevity, questions can be answered with a direct yes or no, with a sentence or two for remarks. Answers will be printed also. Candidates who failed to submit their answers will have the words �CANNOT ANSWER� next to their names. Then the readers will be surveyed (only e-mail replies will be accepted), and the results of the surveys published also. What can be gained by this exercise? 1. A definite stand on a specific issue by each candidate, and how the public accepts it. True, the replies of the candidate can be drafted by his speech writers or staff, but if such candidate is elected, and fails to perform in Congress or Senate according to what he answered, you can always take it back against him. 2. The public can now be made aware of issues, and how the candidates will address it. This can help us a lot in educating these �idiot� voters. 3. For a change, we will now see how these �idiot� candidates respond to �intelligent� questions. (What if they won�t reply? I think they will. Imagine how their survey ratings will go if their pictures are displayed on the front page with the words �CANNOT ANSWER� next to it) Of course, if MST can be the first to do it, look the opportunity of increased circulation (hehehehe). Thanks a lot and best regards, Bong L. Alba, (by email), March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Hi, Tony! I've been reading the reactions to your column on "An Idiot Nation" and I could only empathize with the frustration of our people. During the reign of Erap I sent an email to the then chairman of the Suffrage and Electoral Reforms Committee of the House of Representatives and proposed a grassroots education of our voters as a way of hopefully making them understand the danger of electing idiots to government positions. I never got the courtesy of a reply. I then wrote a noted columnist to inform about the inaction of the "honorable" chairman of the above-named committee. I never received a feedback from the columnist either. I somehow sensed a collusion between the two to purposely keep the voters ignorant so they could be easily swayed by the powerful and manipulative politicians. (More like lethargy and apathy than collusion. Filipinos generally do not answer letters from strangers. ACA) I still maintain that in order to avoid electing idiotic candidates we must educate the voters first. Keep punching until the idiots bleed to death! Otherwise, we're really FUBAR! Rome Farol , (by email), Rolling Hills , Colorado , March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, This could very well be one of those "violent" reactions to Idiots. (The writer is referring to a statement from Harvey Keh on what will make him decide to leave the Philippines . This letter was reprinted earlier in this website. ACA) I appreciate your column very much. More power to you. Nancy Marie de Castro, (by email), Paranaque City , March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Filipino culture is very unique, wherein ignorance is highly capitalized and used as leverage for political, even commercial, gains. I admire the disposition of "have the carabao tied rather than fencing the plant to kept it alive". What I mean is, by educating this MASA with the help of tri-media will make them realize and look for a better one. Will make them aware, concern, hope and act toward common good. It is a long journey and only time can tell. Philippine is not a hopeless case. This the reason why I forward this message to all my contacts. Allan Presto, (by email), March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Comment on your column: Media should get its own share of blame. They tend to support the candidates who can pay. Furthermore they are inclined to echo and magnify the sound of the squealing masa ("give the people what they want"). Call it the idiot media. Edwin Varona, (by email), March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Tony: I am truly amazed at the number of people who send in their comments to your columns. I am doubly amazed at the quality of the comments you columns invariably provoke. At the risk of seeming to be gushing, I find the subjects of your columns almost always interesting.. Your columns are well-written, well-researched, and enlightening. You are an outstanding credit to Philippine journalism. Please keep up the good work. Mariano Patalinjug, (by email), Yonkers , NY , March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, Even our intellectually-gifted legislators can be idiots, too. Election time is just around. Happy days again for political (will not) DIEnasties! The Arroyos, Singsons, Villafuertes, Lapids, Pimentels, Defensors, Estradas, Binays, etc.! No member of Congress (Senator or Representative) has yet dared to touch and define what is political dynasty. For the past 20 years, Congress, in the likes of Mona Lisa, simply didn�t care that the provision on political dynasty will just lie there and just die there in the Constitution. I was in Dong Puno�s talk-show about the middle of 1994 with Senator Tolentino and Representative Espinosa, both Committee Chairman on Constitutional Amendments of their respective Houses. I was then the Chairman of the Government Panel negotiating with the military rebels (RAM and ALTAS) at that time deliberating on electoral reforms, and one of the topics under discussion was about political dynasty. When asked during the talk-show why political dynasty remained undefined by law, their (Tolentino and Espinosa) common answer was they (their personal / political interests) were affected. The response of these two legislators only shows that Congress will continue to ignore the Constitutional mandate on political dynasty if only to perpetuate their political and personal interests. For the national interest to level the political electoral playing field, political dynasty has to be defined to prohibit those related to incumbents or to each other within a defined civil degree of consanguinity or affinity from running for an elective position within a certain political geographic entity (local or national). And to prevent more idiocy in the administration of government: 1. Only concerned government offices and instrumentalities shall be used in the distribution of the fruits of government and material assistance from whatever source to beneficiaries regardless of political affiliation (Firetrucks by DILG, ambulances and medicines by DOH, social and other civic assistance by DSWD, land titles by DAR, ETC.) 2. Avoid riding on the back of business. Government is a service organization that insures a good climate for business and investment, and sets the direction of the nation�s economy and development. It regulates, oversees, monitors the proper use of the national patrimony and the proper management and operation of strategic public utilities such as power, water, transportation, and communications especially during emergencies, and sees that business reciprocates its profit-making objective with its social responsibility. 3. Implement laws without much ado in order not to create restiveness and anxiety among the intended beneficiaries. 4. Formulate laws such that there can only be one interpretation and no other meaning except as formulated. 5. Members of government shall accept full transparency in all aspects of governance to include divestment in trust of their business interests that come in conflict with their official functions. 6. Additional qualifications in the field of education, experience, and/or civil service with full transparency of personal circumstances shall be required of those who seek elective or appointive positions like anyone who enters government service. 7. Appointments to Cabinet and other positions in Government shall be distributed equitably throughout the three major islands of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao taking cognizance of the different ethnic sectors of society. 8. All members of government must be committed unconditionally, body, mind, and spirit, to a disciplined and authoritative governance of the nation Fortunato U. Abat, (by email), March 05, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, I have been admiring your articles for quite sometime now and I have been hoping that you would run for president of this "stupid" nation. You have a good grasp of our country's problems and have practical solutions. You are known now by so many people for your deep concern for our country. In my list, you are one of our outstanding patriots in this difficult time of our history. You could help save this country by getting rid of the stupid, greedy and corrupt trapos and rotten political system that perpetuates corruption and dynasties. We badly need a savior, a super hero. You, together with Dr. Martin Bautista, Mr. Paredes and Mr. Sison of the "Ang Kapatiran Party" are the hope of our people who have been suffering long enough under the tyranny of corrupt leaders. We pray that you continue your good work and consider saving our country by your leadership. Bart Saucelo, M.D., (by email), South Bend , Indiana , March 06, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Can you do some follow up stories on Pacquiao? I have been hearing a lot about some idiot candidates but nothing compared about his story. I heard he changed his mind (again) and is considering running as a candidate for a party list group. Can't those people learn a lesson? You see its not Pacquiao, the boxer, but its Pacquiao, the candidate. Why can't they run without him? and Pacquiao, why can't he think he is being used? What will he do as Pacquiao the Congresssman? Can his "kamao" write some legitimate bills or will he just be a benchwarmer in congress (assuming the party list group wins). Come on guys! You have enough heroes who pay taxes and have brought honor to the country. Oh, well, heard from the grapevine, his Mercedes Benz arrived in the country and he did not pay a single cent. Play the game well instead of having him with you in Congress doing nothing like those other party-list groups. Tony, continue the good work Renato Santos, (by email), March 06, 2007 MY REPLY. See my reply to the email of Rudy Asercion (below). wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Mr. Abaya, I am forwarding one of my friends" reaction ,she is one of those I forward your emails. I will write her name at the bottom Teddi Wender, (by email), March 07, 2007 I�m sure Mr. Abaya feels good getting all kinds of reaction to his excellent pieces about our government. We know how difficult it is to say anything derogatory about the big guys in the government. You can get killed just expressing your right to free speech. There is no simplistic way to resolve our problem. We need national discipline and people need to unlearn the bad habits before we can learn the good. Our complacency, bahala na, is so entrenched in our culture that this is not going to happen overnight, maybe not even in our lifetime. I left the Philippines with the hope of returning after Martial Law, but things seemed to have gotten worse after the Marcoses and his alalay were ousted. We started seeing artistas, basketball players, .criminals, relatives of ousted politicos.etc.,etc. running for offices, which is sooo ridiculous, getting elected because they have the money to buy votes from the poor working "stiffs" ,their names being popular with the masses. They are the real idiots. Linda Salas Rojas, (by email), Los Angeles, California, March 15, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Sir, I have read all these reactions from the different people ( I suppose they all come from the middle and upper class) and a lot of them agree on the existence of "Idiot Candidates" and an equally idiot society. In fact, a lot of your respondents live outside of the Philippines . Thing is, if we have idiot candidates and worst, when they get elected, what does it say about the Filipinos? IDIOTIC, right? That means we are all a bunch of idiots. These include the people who respond to your article who choose to live outside the country; people who have brilliant ideas but do nothing about what's going on in our society; and people who are very much aware of our socio-economic ills but remain to be indifferent. We are not only idiots but we are all TALK TALK TALK. Why not WALK the talk and show to the world that we are not IDIOTS? Do something... Norman Tilos (by email), March 06, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Manny, mahal ka namim, ikaw bilang boxingero, ang galing mo...pero ngayon...balak mong tumakbo....kung sarili mong decision yan, saludo kami, may puso ka na baguhin ang kahirapan ng bansa natin...pero kung si Gloria ang may sabing tumakbo ka....Leche...wag mong pakingan yan....Mas malaki ang maitutulong mo bilang boxingero....hindi ka na bumabata ha....ilan taon na lang....peste ka na rin...kaya lumaban ka...wag mong pakingan ang mga lecheng politico.....Yun anak mo sa labas....kunin mo na....kung ayaw ng ina niya...Putang Ina Siya....bayaan mo syang mag demanda....mamamatay din yan....malapit na....wag kasi syang sobrang ambisionera...LABAN TAYO HA.....Putang ina nilang lahat...lalo na yun gumuguyo sa iyo....Leche........... Rafael Alcuaz, (by email), March 11, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww I have long suffered the Idiot Comelec's ineptness and stupidity in allowing candidates of devious moral character e.g. putschists, rapists, actors, boxers, communists, kleptomaniacs like Imelda Marcos and ilk, to file their candidacies for public office. Where else and to whom can the thinking public turn? Shouldn't candidates for pubic office be given requirements? Anyone applying even for a clerical job must satisfy several requirements that includes NBI clearance, police clearance etc. Why should these dark characters, known publicly for their devious characters and background, get away with it? Comelec should deny their application immediately! The electorate can then choose from well-screened candidates . Thank you so much, Mr. Abaya for finally bringing it to the fore. At least, with people like you in our midst, all is not lost...hopefully. Dr. Josephine V. Banaag, (by email), March 14, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww More Reactions to �Our American Heritage� ( Feb. 20, 2007 ) Dear Tony, I know that the American way of life isn't perfect, but I have always fantasized about a "solution" to our political problems: Send these presumptuous candidates for office (and those already in office) to the U.S. , let them live there for a year, with no servants and drivers and alalays. Let them follow rules and regulations and let them discover what happens when one tries to bribe a cop after running through a stop sign, or cheat on income tax returns. Let them see that, yes, there is corruption in U.S. politics - but can you imagine, seeing a powerful Congressman (aka Randy Cunningham of San Diego) whose sobbing and (supposedly) remorseful photo is plastered front-page on U.S. major dailies after being indicted for corruption! Let them see and experience how the law is applied to one and all, no matter one's status or stature. Let them see ordinary citizens not throwing trash all over the place, much less, urinating in public. (Heck, there are NO pink urinals along major thoroughfares in U.S. cities!) And let them discover that one can get a driver's license or any other government-issued document without having to go through a fixer; that funds outlayed for public works do not include 30% for "padulas," another 30% for "facilitation," and yet another 20% for a VIP's favorite showcase project, and that materials purchased for U.S. roads and highways are of high quality and do not rot, or get washed away, after the first heavy rainfall. If these idiots can endure through all of the above "stations of the Cross," then let them go back to 'Pinas and see how they apply all these lessons learned. Perla Manapol, (by email), March 06, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww HELLO TONY, THESE ARTICLES YOU ARE SENDING ME ARE SO ENLIGHTENING THAT SO MANY OF US ARE NOT REALLY IDIOTS. WE HAVE THOUGH SOME WHO ARE IDIOTS. YOUR SUGGESTION TO 'QUALIFY ALL THE CANDIDATES' ETC. IS IDEALLY TRUE AND GOOD. BUT WHO WILL DO THIS TASK? THIS JUST MIGHT BE ANOTHER SOURCE OF CORRUPTION IN THE END, AS ALL OTHER SIMILAR THINGS HERE HAPPENS. EVERY TIME WE MAKE A 'RULE OR REGULATION' WE END UP HAVING CORRUPTION IN IMPLEMENTING THE 'RULE OR REGULATION'. BUT DEFINITELY WHEN ITCOMES TO ELECTIONS, THE LAW ON VOTERS MUST BE CHANGED: ONLY THOSE 1. EDUCATED [ HIGH SCHOOL GRADS], OR 2. TAX PAYER OR 3. LAND OWNER HAVING WITH NOS. 1 AND 2 QUALIFICATIONS TOO CAN VOTE. JUST A SAMPLE OF HOW TO QUALIFY THE VOTERS. NO ONE SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO VOTE IF HE/SHE IS NOT WITH THESE KINDS OF QUALIFICATIONS. PRESENTLY, OUR LAWS ON WHO ARE ALLOWED TO VOTE ARE OBSOLETE THAT IS WHY WE ARE IN THIS DEEP PROBLEM. TO PICTURE THIS SYSTEM IS LIKE LOOKING AT A 'PYRAMID' INVERTED UPSIDE DOWN, THE BASE ON TOP AND THE POINT IS DOWN....THE LATTER SUPPORTING THE BASE. WHAT IDIOCY IS THIS? THAT IS WHY POLITICIANS WHEN THEY GET MORE VOTES FROM THE 'BASE' WINS THE RACE. THIS IS AN OBSERVATION. I HOPE WE CORRECT THIS PICTURE. Len Pasion, (by email), March 06, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Excuse me, Mr. Abaya, The "idiot test" that you are proposing as a condition for eligibility to run for office will presumably preclude the candidacy of that Filipino boxer who poses the following skills. Ability, Agility, Fortitude, Cunning, Strength, Discipline, Determination, Concentration. Americans of Filipino descent recognize and acknowledge that these traits are characteristics of a champion - something that the Philippines is sorely lacking in their politics. Rudy Asercion, (by email), March 06, 2007 MY REPLY. A champion in boxing is not necessarily a champion in politics. Some Filipinos can apparently tell the difference. According to an online poll in the website mannypacquiao.ph, 91% of 15,305 respondents said they do not want Pacquiao to pursue his bid for a congressional seat in South Cotabato, 4% said they want him to, and 4.7% said they didn�t care, one way or the other. (Philippine Daily Inquire, March 03, 2007 ). Pacquiao has recently been booed in several public appearances. wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww (Unedited) We looked at some of our nearly convicted lawmakers (upper and lower house) an idiot you are quite true. But let us mirror ourselves who's the real idiot. Why? These were the same people that had opposed changes in our constitution, bcause they know welll ahead, they will have no chance to be qualified and run for office if ever the rules of the game (electoral reforms, dyanasticism and qualification of candidates) are changed! We ride to their tide, now whos the idiot. With an annoying smile of a devil, this candidates all looked as us we are the one! Now the next time time around, when charter Change is proposed. will you support it and let ourselves less an idiot? Rodolfo Cada, (by email), March 06, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww The Philippine U.S. Heritage would appear to be continued with �HUMAN SECURITY ACT OF 2007� which closely follows the U.S. Patriot Act These Acts ensure that Liberty is protected by giving up Freedoms, or is that an oxymoron? Never mind it's the thoughts that count!. The wide definitions of terrorism., �suspect�, �reason to believe� with an � increase in surveillance will remove the excuse of International laws on human rights to be used against the Police and Military because now they can inquire into activities of any organization on suspicion of terrorist activities and check all bank accounts.. The police and the military have also been freed of the irksome procedure of obtaining warrants to arrest and can detain without charges if they suspect people based on their religious, social and political backgrounds. Now we have the final solution to the Communist threat, the squealing Masa and Idiot candidates in one blow. Gloria has given assurances that these new laws will not lead to attacks on her political opponents, or the ability of the media and other voices to express dissent against the Malaca�ang Palace, the ruling party or the people in power(elite). In other words �Trust her, she�s a politician� Regards Doug Adam, (by email), March 06, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww More Reactions to �Casualties of War� ( Feb. 25, 2007 ) In a message dated 3/10/2007 1:19:05 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, [email protected] writes: MY REPLY. I doubt if you are implying that the Americans deliberately trained their mortars on your house. Mortars are notoriously inaccurate weapons. They were no doubt aiming for the Japanese hold-out positions in PGH, UP-Herran, St. Paul�s College, La Salle, or the Rizal Memorial sports complex��.but hit your house and your neighbors� instead. It is known these days as �collateral damage.� No, no, Tony. There is no doubt about what I asserted.. The extent of US mortar fire on Manila was like no other city suffered in WWII. The rationale given afterwards, to reduce US casualties from hand to hand combat with the Japanese on the streets of Manila in no way relieved any trauma from the shelling. Guerillas who met the US forces pleaded with them to stop shelling Manila -- "...our families are there; the Japanese have retreated to Intramuros." The reported reply was "Sorry, orders are orders." Winning a city from the enemy by leveling it is not just "collateral damage"; it is direct assault on civilians; It's like mowing down the innocent in a crowd in which a fugitive has sought to lose himself. It is a criminal act and cries out to high heaven.. � Angie Collas-Dean, (by email), Eugene , Oregon , March 11, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, I seem to have missed this article that has elicited such a wide response.(You can access it in www.tapatt.org or acabaya.blogspot.com, ACA) My own father was a victim of Japanese atrocities. I was 9 when the war broke and 12 when it ended. The wound is still fresh and I still grieve for my father. Virgilio Gonzsales, (by email), California , March 11, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Really good piece, Mr. Abaya. We, especially our young, should learn more of those trying times when most of us who survived were guided by "the better angels of our nature." I was in my teens during WW II. I recall my two late uncles (brothers of my late father) who served in the USAFFE and grand-uncle who was in the U.S. Navy, narrate the hardships and brutalities they endured during the "Bataan Death March" and later internment at Camp O "Donnell inTarlac. Your late fellow-columnist (and fellow-Atenean), Max Soliven wrote an excellent article entitled "WEEPING WITHOUT SHAME", where he stated that more than 78,000 Filipino soldiers, most of them in their teens or early 20's gallantly fought in Bataan. One of the misconceptions about the war especially in the U.S. is the fact no more than 1,000 had been Americans - "which included the officers of the Scouts, and the only all-American unit, the 31st US Infantry, plus a detachment of horse cavalry from old Fort Stotsenberg." Mr. Soliven's father, the late Assemblyman Benito Soliven of Ilocos Sur, was a hero of that war. . BTW I'd like to get in touch with Isabel Escoda, whose husband Tony, Jr. (Sonny) was my classmate at the San Juan de Letran College High School which reopened at the Holy Cross Parish Church premises in San Juan , Rizal shortly after the Liberation of Manila in 1945. Is Tony still working as a newspaperman? Our classmates/schoolmates then were John Normandy, "Baby" Benitez, Carlos Infante, Joe Aquino, Ramon (Mon) Pedrosa, Lorenzo (Tits) and Greg Tanada, Senen de la Costa, Salvador Reyes, and Vicente Ayllon, among others. We were in second year high then. Tom de Guzman, (by email), March 11, 2007 Peace and Joy Every Conscious Moment! wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Tony, I am 1/4 Japanese and am probably proud of it because of the positive things the Japanese are known for. My father's father was Japanese -- a Japanese migrant to our country in the years before WWII who worked the mines in Baguio . His name was Kosaku Furukawa. After the war, he was among the Japanese migrants rounded up for deportation back to Japan . He never made it. He died of dysentery while in detention in Muntinlupa and was buried, so I heard, among dead Japanese civilians and soldiers alike in an old cemetery somewhere in Canlubang, which I intend to seek someday. My grandmother was an Ibaloi woman my grandfather met in Baguio . Her name was Clara Acop who I still had the benefit of knowing for about five years before she passed on from cancer. But I am certainly not proud of the atrocities Japanese soldiers committed in our country during the war. In fact, I am ashamed of it. The fact that my family carries my grandmother's name is proof of how some of us did not wish to live with the stigma of war crimes for the rest of our existence -- even if these were not committed by us but rather by our kinfolk. My father, Rodolfo, whose name when he was young was Masayuki Furukawa, tells me his dad was not a soldier although some have spread the tale that he was. Whether he actually was or wasn't is no longer important. From all evidences however, grandfather was a civilian who also worked as a carpenter and who fathered five children the second of whom is my father. If I have to apologize for being part Japanese, I apologize on behalf of those who wouldn't. War is hell and what the Japanese soldiers did to people back then was and is worthy of the highest condemnation and abhorrence by all decent human beings -- always. Apologies must be in order. Denial is like denying that people today are being summarily executed. Regards, Col Dennis Acop, USMA �83, (by email), March 11, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Sir, Why does the Japan Ministry of Education deliberately omit the dreadful role of the Japanese Empire during the WW2 in their history text books?. According to my niece (half Filipino-half Japanese), what was written on their text book were purely praises and admiration for the valor of the Japanese Imperial Army. She was surprised to learn about the atrocities committed by the Japanese Imperial Army, particularly in the Philippines and China (particularly in Nanjing ). Did the Chinese government also demand an apology by the Japanese government for the one million Chinese massacred, raped and tortured by the Japanese Imperial Army in Nanjing ? Thank you and more power Allan G. Buyayo, (by email), March 12, 2007 wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Dear Mr. Abaya, Please consider this as a "pahabol" to your collection of episodes during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines . Here goes: On 14 January 1945 , when I was barely four and a half years old, my father was to leave us all behind -- a fatal casualty during the American bombing of our town, Cabanatuan , in an effort to drive away the Japanese, where in the process many Filipino civilians were killed. A neighbor, himself in panic, relayed the gruesome news that my father was one of those casualties. Moment later, some of my relatives carried his body to our house, which by then was already partly shattered from the bombings. My mother was devastated, of course. We were four broods, the youngest barely one and a half years old. My father's closest friend who helped carry my father's body already lifeless, handed my father's horseshoe ring to my mother. This ring was to be his only material legacy to us, to be passed on from brother to brother. Not only my father died during the bombing. My grandmother was struck right inside our house. I could somehow remember the crumbling of some of the pillars as bombs rained on the area with heavy explosions and straying shrapnels. My grandmother was the real pillar in that house, a matriarch of sort. January 14 was a sad day, as it was terrifying. With two loved ones dead in the family at the moment, we had to retreat to the mountains as the Japanese soldiers were already on a rampage to kill Filipinos, either with guns or bayonets, at sight. We carried no belongings as we were to sustain ourselves with only some solid sugar and raw vegetables we picked along the way. But just before we went any farther, we buried father and grandmother by the "libis", underneath a camachile tree that was to serve as our landmark as we pledged to return for their remains and to rebury them decently at a later time, God-willing. We struggled as one big family up some hills, wading and wobbling through some streams with leeches swarming. How or when we descended from the hills, I couldn't really remember anymore. My trauma of that war has since been fixated on January 14, the day that I lost two loved ones. The above is my little input to your "WWII Casualties...." episodes. Thanks. Yours truly, Manny Guillermo, (by email), March 13, 2007 Managing Director, KSearch Asia Consulting, Inc., Makati City wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww Fidel Exconde, brother-in-law of Art, sent your account by email. Both Fidel and I have recently read Fly Boys and have had conversations about the atrocities inflicted by the Japanese. In all my life I will never understand the inhumanity man inflicts on his fellow humans. Thanks for sharing. Regards, Ron Lockhart, (by email), Georgetown , Texas , March 14, 2007 OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO |