Impulses
Verbal jousts 3
The administration has allegedly started buying extra seats from some allied party-list groups. Reports say Alagad, the Alliance of Volunteer Educators (AVE) and the Ang Laban ng Indigenong Filipino (ALIF) are allegedly selling their second and third seats for P5 million each. Of course, this was denied by both parties. Whatever happens, fact remains that the falling Administration is desperately grabbing whatever available twig in the political jungle just to stay in power.
* * *
Detained former senator Gregorio "Gringo" Honasan recently asked a Makati court to allow him to leave his detention cell in Laguna to file his certificate of candidacy for senator in the May elections. Will this extreme rightist join the bandwagon of the left wing under Teddy Casiño and company? Onli in da Pilipins!
* * *
Just after the controversy-torn ASEAN held in Cebu, President Arroyo has rallied Filipinos to stand behind the government in implementing the agreements reached and not be distracted by partisan politics. She said in an internet news report, "As we gear towards the realization and implementation of all the accords reached, we call on the Filipino people to be focused on the ball and not be distracted by the empty wind of partisan politics. Let us strike while the iron is hot and move forward with the rest of ASEAN and East Asia." I am sure she was then crossing her fingers when she declared such dichotomy. Plain hypocrisy at its best!
* * *
The holding of Hilario Davide's oath-taking as Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Cebu ahead of his confirmation drew heavy criticisms from allies of former President Joseph Estrada in the Senate. Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. said the oath-taking showed the Arroyo administration's lack of delicadeza (sense of propriety). Sen. Luisa "Loi" Ejercito Estrada, wife of the ousted president, said that sending an unconfirmed ambassador to the UN has placed the country in a "ridiculous situation." I rest my case.
* * *
According to Iloilo Gov. Niel Tupas, he is still the legitimate governor of the province despite a dismissal order from the Ombudsman. But, newly sworn-in Acting Governor Roberto Armada says otherwise. Thanks to Acting Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez. The Ilonggos are now entertained politically with the charade in the Capitol. I call this "the new Dinagyang salvo!"
* * *
For the second time in two months, another undersea earthquake, this time measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale, rattled Taiwan Tuesday. This is simply telling us that nature still rules this planet.
* * *
Sacha Baron Cohen, a British comedian, snaffled the Golden Globe for best actor in a musical or comedy on Monday for his portrayal of the blundering Kazakh journalist "Borat." In receiving the award, Borat said, "Thank you to every American who has not sued me so far." The movie might be entertaining to some, but I understand completely why Kazakhs are not happy with Borat's sarcasm.
* * *
Now let's again go back with our verbal jousts. The readers are also enjoined to answer the queries themselves. I guarantee you, it is intellectually fun. Note that my answers are not necessarily correct. In fact, my intent is to amuse, more than anything. Here's the first Q and A.
Q: Is the rejection of all violence a valid principle by which to live?
A: Yes, but is it possible?
* * *
Q: Should we place restrictions upon the length of time served in office by elected representatives?
A: Filipino politicians, generally, are like diapers. They must be changed regularly. Did I answer the question well?
* * *
Q: Should mankind invest in the exploration of space?
A: Yes, after we fix the planet first.
* * *
Q: Should professionals be paid according to their performance?
A: Of course, but they should prove their worth first.
* * *
Kudos to the organizers and officers of PRISSAAP 6, most especially to president Rev. Exequiel Guanzon and the pool of coordinators in St. Joseph School and San Jose Catholic School! Also, my heartfelt thanks to the organizers of the 3rd Regional Broadcasting Conference set January 20-21 at Iloilo Central Elementary School. Special mention to Sir Jude Thaddeus Iledan who has been instrumental in bringing the best in Western Visayas in terms of campus journalism.
* * *
Ateneo de Iloilo is currently having its SMT Week. The following are some of the set activities: Grand Quiz Bowl, Physics Exhibits, SMT Hands-on Activities, and Movie Presentation, among others. Science, Math and Technology are alive! Let's nurture it!
(Engr. Herman M. Lagon may be reached through h_lagon@yahoo.com.)