In Line with the World Anti-Counterfeiting day, I am dedicating this blog to the anti piracy campaign of our government. All my posts here in my blog are about corruption and you might wonder why I am blogging about piracy. Well, there is corruption involved in piracy! And that’s what I would include in today’s blog along with my opinion on the piracy issue. What is the role of corruption in the piracy business? Easy! Let me explain briefly. In order to get a pirated product, let’s say a DVD movie for example, a person must bribe or use illegal means to get a soft copy of the movie. The usual means is to bribe a person working on that production to get a soft copy which will then be sold to mass pirating “companies” to be sold to the markets or be uploaded the internet so that people can access it and download it via torrent or streaming websites. In the news today, there were pirated goods that are estimated to be worth P350 million were confiscated and destroyed at the Camp Crame Grandstand. It is questionable how pirated products that are said to be manufactured in other foreign countries can be shipped here in the Philippines without the government knowing it. Aren’t there a division in our government which deals with all incoming and outgoing containers? Don’t there have to be a waybill in every container or any shipment in that matter that will be shipped in and out of the country? Pirated DVDs, replica bags, shoes, and eyewear were confiscated by the Bureau of Customs, National Bureau of Investigation and the Optical Media Board and were destroyed by authorities, Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines Director General Ricardo Blancaflor said. ‘High value’ goods like fake Louis Vuitton bags, Oakley shades, Lacoste shoes were among the items destroyed during the ceremony, he explained.“Anything that’s illegal, we’ll destroy,” declared Optical Media Board chairman Ronnie Ricketts. He also said the campaign against piracy and counterfeiting is on-going, also adding that the ranking of the Philippines in the US piracy watch-list has been downgraded. “It’s not yet off the watch-list, but our (Philippines) ranking has gone down,” The Philippines has been taken off the Out-of-cycle review of the US piracy watch-list. “Hopefully, by next year we will be off it,” said Blancaflor. Blancaflor said that it is sad reality to piracy and counterfeiting was the loss of livelihood for many Filipinos, comparing counterfeiting and piracy to identity theft. “It’s like when someone’s name is stolen. It’s unfair. (Because of piracy) artists lose their jobs… and counterfeit medicine poses health risks to people.” I also know that Piracy is bad, but how can I afford original DVDs? Im a big fan of asian telenovelas, be it drama, comedy, or action. I cannot buy original DVDs of those here in the Philippines because there’s no one selling it. So I had to give in and buy pirated DVDs. Also, like me, we believe that buying original DVDs is not practical since it costs too much and you will only see one movie. After watching it, you have nothing but a CD that has the movie you already watched. If they can lower the price of the DVDs and make more variety available, then I would gladly buy original than the pirated ones.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Sex tourism
The prostitution industry in the Philippines is a national disgrace. It reflects rampant corruption. Even children are not safe from sexual exploitation. (Cullen, 2011)
The sex industry in the Philippines is growing, spreading all over the nation. Hotels, bars and clubs, and even supposedly empty warehouses serve as fronts. An estimated 1.2 million single male tourists arrive every year but Exactly how many of them buy sex services is unknown; this is an underground business, after all. What’s clear is, however, is that sex tourists exploit and removes the humanity of nation’s youth. Both women and young children, including males, are on offer for those ready to pay in pursuit of sexual indulgence.
Some sex clubs proudly advertise local mayors’ permits and licenses to operate. The purpose of showing it is to tell the “customers” that the girls are supposedly clean of sexually-transmitted diseases. Once, a club operator proudly told Father Shay Cullen (2011) that government-paid health workers come to the clubs to do the tests to ensure the customers that the girls do not carry sexually transmitted diseases that can infect the customers.
I am really disappointed with the health workers because they seem to have no concern that young women are being sold and that they are being exposed to physical and psychological harm. Evidence gathered by NGOs proves beyond a doubt that children as young as 14 can be purchased by private arrangement (Cullen, 2011). Father Shay Cullen (2011) states that sometimes the victims are only eleven years old. More or less one million children are brought into the sex trade every year worldwide according to UNICEF. The International Labour Organization (ILO) states the figure is more likely to 1.8 million. UNICEF estimates that as many as 60,000 minors are being exploited in the sex tourist business in the Philippines. NGOs believe the true figure is probably closer to 100,000.
The sex industry in the Philippines is growing, spreading all over the nation. Hotels, bars and clubs, and even supposedly empty warehouses serve as fronts. An estimated 1.2 million single male tourists arrive every year but Exactly how many of them buy sex services is unknown; this is an underground business, after all. What’s clear is, however, is that sex tourists exploit and removes the humanity of nation’s youth. Both women and young children, including males, are on offer for those ready to pay in pursuit of sexual indulgence.
Some sex clubs proudly advertise local mayors’ permits and licenses to operate. The purpose of showing it is to tell the “customers” that the girls are supposedly clean of sexually-transmitted diseases. Once, a club operator proudly told Father Shay Cullen (2011) that government-paid health workers come to the clubs to do the tests to ensure the customers that the girls do not carry sexually transmitted diseases that can infect the customers.
I am really disappointed with the health workers because they seem to have no concern that young women are being sold and that they are being exposed to physical and psychological harm. Evidence gathered by NGOs proves beyond a doubt that children as young as 14 can be purchased by private arrangement (Cullen, 2011). Father Shay Cullen (2011) states that sometimes the victims are only eleven years old. More or less one million children are brought into the sex trade every year worldwide according to UNICEF. The International Labour Organization (ILO) states the figure is more likely to 1.8 million. UNICEF estimates that as many as 60,000 minors are being exploited in the sex tourist business in the Philippines. NGOs believe the true figure is probably closer to 100,000.
I also heard about this on the radio where the radio jocks were discussing how an NGO with the collaboration of the police were able to stop an internet based sex business that is in Cebu city. The “business” involves letting minors (even children from age 11) be videoed, and the watchers in the internet will pay the “company” According to that report, there were different prices for each request. For example, If the customer wants to see a naked woman or child dancing, then he will pay, let’s say, $10. But if the customer wants more than just seeing them naked and dancing, the customer would have to pay more depending on how intense or how hard the request will be. When they went to the site, the operation was caught on the act with women and even children naked or actually doing their “work”. As I was hearing this, I was stunned. Then after a while, the radio jocks said that the women have permits, and that the children have their parents’ consent, which the representative of the “company” gladly presented to the police and NGO workers present. It was shocking to hear that there were parents who actually agreed that their child will be doing these kinds of things. It is so sad to hear that some parents would not care of their children’s minds will be corrupted for the sake of money.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Bilibid Prison/resort/hotel/lodging
Just a while ago while I was in my car going to school, I decided to tune in to an AM station. The two people were discussing the recent issue about the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) wherein there have been reports that some inmates that have a significant power in the society are given special treatments by providing them with better prison cells and better service than the others. During airtime of that radio segment, they decided to contact a police officer in the said prison. They began questioning the police officer if it was true that some were given better treatment than the others, then he said no everyone is treated the same in here. Then one of the radio hosts said that: “Pero ayon sa nakuha namin sa Failon Ngayon, eh may TV at DVD player sa kanyang selda?” (“but according to what we got from Failon Ngayon, there is a TV and a DVD player in his prison cell?”) (Failon Ngayon is a public service show, wherein Ted Failon is the host.) The police officer answered: “ay lahat naman po ng selda may TV at DVD player” (“oh, every prison cell has a TV and a DVD player”) I was in awe when I heard this. Why would a prison have these luxuries? A prison, for me, should be a place wherein people are afraid to be admitted to. In this case, maybe some would even prefer being in that prison instead of sleeping in the sidewalks. Wouldn’t that promote crime? The hosts of the radio show were flabbergasted; they asked the police officer one more time whether he understood the question and was he sure that he answered correctly. The police officer explained that: “donated po iyon nung Gloria administration” (“those were donated by the Gloria administration”) Once again, I was confused once more. Why would they do that? Instead of donating TV sets and DVD players, why not just fix the prison cells to ensure safety and good health of the prisoners because I heard (and I see on the news) that prison cells here in the Philippines are filthy. The hosts began to ask the police officer again whether it is true that there are prison cells that have air conditioners. The police officer, of course denied. Then one of the hosts said: “Pero may nababalita na meron daw talagang may special prison cell diyan, may aircon pa daw!?” (“but there have been reports that there realy are special prison cells that has air conditioning?!”) The police officer just denied it. For me, jails or prisons should not have these special treatments for VIPs. Or actually, all jails or prisons should not have luxuries like TV sets in every prison cells, DVD players, and such. Because they will not feel that they have done something wrong. They would not repent if they are “distracted” with those luxury items that are available and can be freely used by them. Although it may seem like I’m such a “kill-joy” person, it just seems to me that it is just right not to give them these luxuries because maybe they will think that there’s nothing wrong with being prisoned, it’s actually ok because I have a TV, aircon, and even a DVD player. Life’s good in here.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Corruption may be present in the military as well
According to former Army Capt. Rene Jarque, corruption is widespread in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). He said that the AFP has its share of “usual” corrupt practices like commissions, kickbacks, overpricing, padding, substitution, rigged biddings, under-delivery and ghost delivery.
But the AFP is said to have a more sophisticated form of corruption called “conversion” Conversion is the process of converting the budget for military supplies into its cash equivalent by bypassing government accounting and auditing rules bye using false documentation.
Aside from the government, corruption in media also happens. Inday Espina-Varona, the chairperson of National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, said that the definition of media corruption is manipulation of news for personal or corporate interests. According to her, corruption in the media is an open secret.
Luis Teodoro, Danilo Arao and Evelyn Katigbak conducted a study on the media’s coverage of corruption and it showed the weakness of selected print and TV media agencies in evaluating the roots of corruption. According to them, “this necessarily requires looking closely at the workings of government, understanding it, and conveying that information to the readers, viewers and listeners as a living expression of the necessarily oppositional and watchdog functions of the mass media in the Philippine setting.”
In the usual of occurrence of corruption, Tujan pushed for “people’s governance” as the antidote to corruption, a governance which he described as one that would “take the issue of equity as a preeminent concern, ensuring positive action or even a preeminent role for the poor, marginalized toiling masses and develop democratic governance from the perspective of the poor and marginalized.”
This is one reason why Filipinos today don’t know where to go to for help concerning the law. For example, I need to tell the police that I have seen a police officer, wearing their uniform, go into an adult club. In the Philippines, that is not allowed. If I approach the barangay, which for example is where police officer is currently designated, what if the other police officers I talk to are friends of that police officer that I want to report? Or what if they themselves do exactly the same? Would they really take note of my report and do something about it? Most probably, not. So who is the person most likely I’ll run to next? The media people. But then again, corruption also exists in the media. If I go to the wrong person, whom can be a friend of a politician or a person that may be affected by what I will report, will he or she publicize my report? Most probably, I may even be in greater danger than I was before because of the goes out that I am reporting about something bad about the police, other people may follow and then the image of our government will be affected negatively. Of course, our government does not want that. What will happen to me? Most probably, I will be targeted or be falsely charged with something I didn’t know existed. But that’s just my opinion. I don’t know whether I’ll survive the first encounter to whom I reported, It’s probable that by then I will be already assassinated.
But the AFP is said to have a more sophisticated form of corruption called “conversion” Conversion is the process of converting the budget for military supplies into its cash equivalent by bypassing government accounting and auditing rules bye using false documentation.
Aside from the government, corruption in media also happens. Inday Espina-Varona, the chairperson of National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, said that the definition of media corruption is manipulation of news for personal or corporate interests. According to her, corruption in the media is an open secret.
Luis Teodoro, Danilo Arao and Evelyn Katigbak conducted a study on the media’s coverage of corruption and it showed the weakness of selected print and TV media agencies in evaluating the roots of corruption. According to them, “this necessarily requires looking closely at the workings of government, understanding it, and conveying that information to the readers, viewers and listeners as a living expression of the necessarily oppositional and watchdog functions of the mass media in the Philippine setting.”
In the usual of occurrence of corruption, Tujan pushed for “people’s governance” as the antidote to corruption, a governance which he described as one that would “take the issue of equity as a preeminent concern, ensuring positive action or even a preeminent role for the poor, marginalized toiling masses and develop democratic governance from the perspective of the poor and marginalized.”
This is one reason why Filipinos today don’t know where to go to for help concerning the law. For example, I need to tell the police that I have seen a police officer, wearing their uniform, go into an adult club. In the Philippines, that is not allowed. If I approach the barangay, which for example is where police officer is currently designated, what if the other police officers I talk to are friends of that police officer that I want to report? Or what if they themselves do exactly the same? Would they really take note of my report and do something about it? Most probably, not. So who is the person most likely I’ll run to next? The media people. But then again, corruption also exists in the media. If I go to the wrong person, whom can be a friend of a politician or a person that may be affected by what I will report, will he or she publicize my report? Most probably, I may even be in greater danger than I was before because of the goes out that I am reporting about something bad about the police, other people may follow and then the image of our government will be affected negatively. Of course, our government does not want that. What will happen to me? Most probably, I will be targeted or be falsely charged with something I didn’t know existed. But that’s just my opinion. I don’t know whether I’ll survive the first encounter to whom I reported, It’s probable that by then I will be already assassinated.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Corruption is widespread
What do cellular phones and corruption have in common? Both have become abundant and part of the Filipino lives.
The commonness of corruption has come to a point where selected government positions are seen as quick tickets to massive fortune. For example, employment at the Bureau of Customs (BoC) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is perceived as an opportunity not to serve the people but to gather wealth. But the Question is, why is such thing happening? Do the higher officials simply neglect to investigate on these “common” actions? Such public impressions are based not only on occasional news about government inconsistencies but also several studies that have identified various government agencies as havens of corruption. Though, it is not just confined to the public sector but is also evident in the private sector. The frequency of corruption in the country was highlighted at the National Study Conference on Corruption (NSSC) on January 14 and 15 2005 at the University of the Philippines College of Social Work and Community Development (UP CSWCD). That corruption is everywhere has been proven by the session and workshop papers that analyzed corruption in various sectors of public and private life. One of the speakers, said “The prevalence of corruption...implies that corruption is not simply an individual act but is a phenomenon that is systemic...and defined by particular social relations in the realm of ethics and culture, politics and economy in each society as well.”
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Can Media Corrupt A Child's Mind?
A recent study showed that kids who are allowed to watch R-rated movies are a lot more likely to start drinking at younger ages. The researchers surveyed middle school kids, asking them whether their parents let them watch R-rated movies or not, then surveyed the same kids again two years later and asked if they have started drinking yet. According to the study, Only 3 percent of kids who were never allowed to watch R-rated movies drank, compared to a whopping 25 percent of kids who were allowed to watch R-rated movies all the time.
One of the researchers said the data suggests that it's the R-rated movies themselves that lead kids to drink: "seeing the adult content, which includes smoking, drinking, sex, etc., actually changes their personality."
What it says to me is that, for better or worse, kids with more lenient parents end up drinking sooner than kids with more strict parents. But I wonder about those kids who aren't actually allowed to watch R-rated movies, but can figure out how to watch them anyway. Which are probably kids from ages 10-14, especially the ones with HBO, Star movies and the likes. Do they get into even worse stuff than the kids whose parents let them watch some R-rated movies and maybe let them have a little alchohol at special events? What are those sly kids doing by the time they get to 9th grade? Snorting drugs and watching porn films?
Using myself as an example, I thought back to the first R-rated movie I ever saw. My first experiences were all horror movies because my older cousins tend to like the thrill of watching horror films even though we were not allowed to. I watched Final Destination at age 9 with my cousins at their house. Their ages at that time ranges from 9 to 13. None of our parents knew their kids were watching it. It was a pretty scary and a one of-a-kind viewing experience (as I thought at that time), considering I was in a roomful of preteens at their house watching a movie about teens getting killed in a theme park. I ended up stunned at what I have seen in that time because I was a fan of theme parks when I was young. But after seeing that movie, I had a different perception on theme parks.
Then after that, my cousins and I dared each other to watch another one- which was The Ring. At that time I think I was already 11 years old. The movie was even scarier than the first horror movie I ever watched and it made me cry while watching the movie! First, theme parks were taken from me because of the story of final destination, and then now, I cannot watch television because someone might pop out of it?! At that time, I regretted watching those because I cannot go back to my usual happy life wherein I watch TV all day and go to theme parks and enjoy my time there.
Even though my parents didn't actually give me permission to watch any of these movies, they definitely let me drink a little bit at family reunions since my relatives always hires a bartender whenever we have a reunion. My relatives are fond of drinking so they give me “juice” which apparently, has been spiked by either vodka or rum. Of course, my family was not able to forbid me to drink it because they respect their elders. I wonder what happens to kids who watch higher quality R-rated movies than I saw? If they watch, for example, American pie will they really go drinking at a young age or even have sex before marriage? Is it really possible for media (movies) to corrupt a child’s mind?
What was your first R-rated movie? Did it corrupt you?
One of the researchers said the data suggests that it's the R-rated movies themselves that lead kids to drink: "seeing the adult content, which includes smoking, drinking, sex, etc., actually changes their personality."
What it says to me is that, for better or worse, kids with more lenient parents end up drinking sooner than kids with more strict parents. But I wonder about those kids who aren't actually allowed to watch R-rated movies, but can figure out how to watch them anyway. Which are probably kids from ages 10-14, especially the ones with HBO, Star movies and the likes. Do they get into even worse stuff than the kids whose parents let them watch some R-rated movies and maybe let them have a little alchohol at special events? What are those sly kids doing by the time they get to 9th grade? Snorting drugs and watching porn films?
Using myself as an example, I thought back to the first R-rated movie I ever saw. My first experiences were all horror movies because my older cousins tend to like the thrill of watching horror films even though we were not allowed to. I watched Final Destination at age 9 with my cousins at their house. Their ages at that time ranges from 9 to 13. None of our parents knew their kids were watching it. It was a pretty scary and a one of-a-kind viewing experience (as I thought at that time), considering I was in a roomful of preteens at their house watching a movie about teens getting killed in a theme park. I ended up stunned at what I have seen in that time because I was a fan of theme parks when I was young. But after seeing that movie, I had a different perception on theme parks.
Then after that, my cousins and I dared each other to watch another one- which was The Ring. At that time I think I was already 11 years old. The movie was even scarier than the first horror movie I ever watched and it made me cry while watching the movie! First, theme parks were taken from me because of the story of final destination, and then now, I cannot watch television because someone might pop out of it?! At that time, I regretted watching those because I cannot go back to my usual happy life wherein I watch TV all day and go to theme parks and enjoy my time there.
Even though my parents didn't actually give me permission to watch any of these movies, they definitely let me drink a little bit at family reunions since my relatives always hires a bartender whenever we have a reunion. My relatives are fond of drinking so they give me “juice” which apparently, has been spiked by either vodka or rum. Of course, my family was not able to forbid me to drink it because they respect their elders. I wonder what happens to kids who watch higher quality R-rated movies than I saw? If they watch, for example, American pie will they really go drinking at a young age or even have sex before marriage? Is it really possible for media (movies) to corrupt a child’s mind?
What was your first R-rated movie? Did it corrupt you?
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Corruption in the Philippines is on its massive stage
Corruption in the Philippines is on its massive stage, it can be pointed out whenever, wherever but who’s to blame? Our government? The church? The people? Or all the choices mentioned? Well corruption is part of our daily lives, everywhere we go in the streets of Manila or even in provinces it is present. Everything we encounter has a glimpse of the most contagious and deadliest disease that we Filipinos are trying to struggle with. Political corruption is the most evident nowadays. There are numerous vulgar cases of corruption that is just scattered around the corner. Well, are you familiar with P728 Fertilizer Fund Scam, Hello Garci scandal, AFP scandal, and NBN-ZTE scandal? These are just some of the most controversial expose in the history of political corruption. How about these names? Heidi Mendoza, Jun Lozada, Lt. Col George Rabusa? These people became an instant hero after proclaiming corruption within their environment. They became famous and called whistleblowers. What I want to point out is that there are various issues of political corruption and we can do nothing about it. Is it right to say that we are bring bribed by these people in power to serve as their tool in attainting what they want to achieve? Well most likely and no doubt the answer is yes as a crystal clear. Where can you find a President that was found guilty because of plunder? Only in the Philippines. Where can you a find a President that was found guilty in manipulating ballot counts? Only in the Philippines. Where can you find a person shot in the airport because of fighting against independence? Only in the Philippines. Only and exclusive in the Philippines that’s why foreigners and citizens as well labeled Philippines who have the most corrupt leadership and economy. Corruption in the Philippines dominated the news and there comes a point that the church is being questioned. The Church has a mission to lead the people in the upright and humane way of living but how come that corruption is still present? Can we blame Church for this? Should the Church intervene with the decisions in the Malacanang? Or should it simply guide the Catholics with the right path of life? Whether guided or not people should prevent themselves from being corrupted. Isn’t funny how people treat whistleblower as heroes after their expose and the officials involved are the villain? But it stopped there, the situation normalize after several mind manipulating and brain washing, worse bribery. People are very flexible when it comes to money. Sometimes, they forget about everything just to earn money and eat three times a day, that’s how sick and pitiful our situation here. If only we can realize that we are the biggest loser in this fight, we should work hand in hand to stop graft and corruption in the country. Corruption is a serious obstacle that every “Juan” should face, this is a contagious threat to our society and culture that should be cured right now before it can kill us in no time.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
school of thought on corruption in the Philippines
It’s all over the news. America’s top diplomat promised that her government is ready and prepared to supply military hardware to the Philippines in case it is needed for self-defense. This is due to the recent heat between China and the Philippines because of the Spratly’s issue. This just show, that we still have not improved. We still rely on our allies to help us whenever we are in trouble. WHY CAN’T WE JUST START BEING INDEPENDENT!? What if we try the “Bayan muna”, or the closed economy by the Japanese? (not sure whether closed economy is the right term, but japan did not allow any imports to enter their country at that time and look how great their country is now.) Let’s talk about the Spratly’s issue for now. Why can’t our country fight for our right to own the Spratly’s island if it is 80+ nautical miles from Palawan? Just recently, news says that we are going to equally share the Spratly’s islands. Are we sharing it because we think it is right? Or are we sharing it because we were too scared to fight for our right? Seriously, we need to have courage and be able to stand in our own feet. Another thought, what if there is a hidden agreement that says we are sharing it equally but in fact our share is already sold to another country so that some corrupt authorities can get more money? Sometimes I hate myself for always doubting our government, but who can blame me? I have seen so much to lose my trust on them. Up to now, they still have not redeemed themselves. I feel so negative when it comes to our government. I always think that they are corrupt, not doing their jobs, or that they are manipulators who have ulterior motives. I am just one of the youth that also thinks this way. Im pretty sure that there some like me out there. They might think that they can fool us with their public appearances with their masks on, we already know the dirt on some of those corrupt officials. The thing is, I still don’t know why we vote for them even though we already know they are fake or that they have bad intentions. Maybe we just lack choices for a better candidate to vote. See how my thoughts have gone from us being independent, to me always doubting our government, and then to how we vote for the “clowns” even though we already know their intentions? That is just a glimpse of how i think the Philippines is so corrupt. Even official surveys tell us that the Philippines is the most corrupt country in southeast Asia. What can I do to change my perceptions on our government? Show me something good, not corrupt, or something for the benefit of the people, then I will reconsider. So far, what has the Aquino administration done?
Saturday, June 18, 2011
The Choice of Foreign Investors
In the past Global Corruption Report, Transparency International has criticized foreign companies for aggravating corruption in the Philippines. TI mentioned in particular two projects involving Chinese companies: the $329-million national broadband network deal with ZTE Corp., already scrapped, and the Northrail project was undertaken by China National Machinery and Equipment Corp. (Philippine Star, 2009)
The Northrail project, according to both governments, is back on track. On the other hand, executives of ZTE (Zhongxing Telecommunications Equipment) left the Philippines and avoided facing the Senate during its probe into the broadband scandal. China, which is projecting itself in its 60th year as a responsible member of the international community that plays by the rules and competes fairly, should look into ZTE’s activities in the Philippines and hold its officials accountable. Beijing cannot expect a formal request for a probe from Philippine officials. (Philippine Star, 2009)
While Transparency International criticized private companies for their role in corruption, the Philippine government also plays a role. Opportunities for corruption are particularly rife in foreign-assisted projects, TI observed. Corruption is helped along by the refusal of international financial institutions to go along with the Philippine government in imposing a cap on bids above the approved budget contract for foreign-assisted projects. This has opened doors for collusion in rigging bids and for paying brokers fat commissions, with the cost of corruption added to the project cost. Protecting the entire system is the Supreme Court ruling on executive privilege in the ZTE broadband deal, which was supposed to be funded through a concessional loan from China’s Export-Import Bank. The ruling effectively granted foreign-funded projects a privilege akin to diplomatic immunity from Philippine laws on public accountability. (Philippine Star, 2009)
Many foreign companies have long factored in corruption as part of the cost of doing business in Asia and much of the developing world. The United States clamped down years ago, passing a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in 1977 to discipline its private companies. Several other countries have similar laws. China, if it wants to be a responsible global player, must one day pass its own version. (Philippine Star, 2009)
Several Asian countries have cleaned up their act, and it is no coincidence that they are leading in economic development in the region. The Philippines, with executive privilege as a refuge for scoundrels now enshrined in its jurisprudence, is headed in the other direction. (Philippine Star, 2009)
In my opinion, it is not the foreign investors that creates or promotes corruption in the Philippines. I think the corrupt officials are the ones who promote corruption and the foreign investors are only subjecting to it to hasten legal processes or to increase the productivity. Like what I said in another clog of mine, they are given a chance. Foreign investors, of course, would pick an easier, faster, and more convenient way of doing things than not subjecting to the wishes of the corrupt officials and risk the denial of the proposed investment here in the Philippines. It’s only human to pick the 1st choice above, so I also do not blame the foreign investors if they do.
SOURCES:
EDITORIAL, Aid and corruption (The Philippine Star) September 30, 2009
Friday, June 17, 2011
Maguindanao Masacre
In November 23, 2009, The Ampatuan Massacre or also known as the Maguindanao Massacre happened. "One of the deadliest single events for the press in memory" and the Philippines the world's worst place to be a journalist. -(CPJ).
Located along an abandoned hillside area Sitio Masalay, Barangay Salman, Ampatuan town, Maguindanao province, numerous victims were found scattered on the area and others were buried in three different graves. Upon investigation, they used M-16 rifles to take the life of these victims. Andal Ampatuan Jr., former mayor of the Datu Unsay town in Maguindanao is said to be the principal suspect behind the outrageous killing of people.
To date, there are 58 victims of the callous Ampatuan family and out of that number there were at least 34 journalists who got killed while doing their job.
Unsafe and unprotected
"Atrocious record for journalists' safety." - Committee to Protect Journalist (CPJ). It is indeed risky for the journalist and media staff to work in such place, our country.
According to the record, since year 2001 there are around 103 killings of media people in the Philippines and mostly, these are what we call the diminutive or independent journalist. They are the ones who are underpaid and asked to do hazardous coverage.
"Journalists working in small towns and cities are the most vulnerable, having little or no access to support groups, training and legal assistance. These journalists are often targeted by powerful clans, politicians or individuals stung by probing and critical stories. Others are caught in a deadly cross-fire between warring groups," - Peace and Conflict Journalism Network (Pecojon) and Center for Community Journalism and Development (CCJD).
Located along an abandoned hillside area Sitio Masalay, Barangay Salman, Ampatuan town, Maguindanao province, numerous victims were found scattered on the area and others were buried in three different graves. Upon investigation, they used M-16 rifles to take the life of these victims. Andal Ampatuan Jr., former mayor of the Datu Unsay town in Maguindanao is said to be the principal suspect behind the outrageous killing of people.
To date, there are 58 victims of the callous Ampatuan family and out of that number there were at least 34 journalists who got killed while doing their job.
Unsafe and unprotected
"Atrocious record for journalists' safety." - Committee to Protect Journalist (CPJ). It is indeed risky for the journalist and media staff to work in such place, our country.
According to the record, since year 2001 there are around 103 killings of media people in the Philippines and mostly, these are what we call the diminutive or independent journalist. They are the ones who are underpaid and asked to do hazardous coverage.
"Journalists working in small towns and cities are the most vulnerable, having little or no access to support groups, training and legal assistance. These journalists are often targeted by powerful clans, politicians or individuals stung by probing and critical stories. Others are caught in a deadly cross-fire between warring groups," - Peace and Conflict Journalism Network (Pecojon) and Center for Community Journalism and Development (CCJD).
A year after
The whole nation comes as one to remember the inhumane Maguindanao massacre. Different media organization, human rights groups, plus the family of the victims joined forces to pay tribute to the victims of the massacre. They had a motorcade from General Santos City to Sitio Masalay in Barangay Salman, Ampatuan, Maguindanao to revive the trail of the last mission of the victims before they were killed.
“Retracing the steps of the convoy is not only a way to pay tribute to the victims, but to be able to understand how the killings were carried out by the same people who were supposed to protect them,” said Rowena Paraan of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP).
The church also participated with this commemoration by having the church bells ring fo58 seconds, giving one second church bell for each victim.
The government did its share through President Benigno Aquino III as he declared November 23, 2010 a National Day of Remembrance and through the National Police who are on alert to the possibilities that can happen that day. As Senior Superintendent Marcelo Pintac quoted “Three hundred sixty degrees ang security namin dito sa area at lahat ng available na battalion ng Army, nag-coordinate na kami para masigurong safe itong lugar”. They assure that nothing ruthless as such Maguindanao massacre will happen again.
Concerts, conferences and ads are made to serve as an eye opener to the public and give them a view of what’s happening around us. “It’s also a way to raise public awareness on the issue and let the people know that things like this would continue to happen if we don’t do anything about it.” – Rowena Paraan (NUJP)
Call for justice
“The case of the Maguindanao massacre is a major test for the executive and the judiciary. Considering the gravity of the crime and the threat it posed to institutions like the media, not to mention the existence of overwhelming evidence that point to the involvement of the Ampatuans, a year has passed and victims continue to seek justice,” – Gen. Renato Reyes Jr. (Bayan Secretary).
The people has spoken, we don’t need another Pacquiao match, another death of an icon or worse another massacre for us to see the value of justice and unity in our nation. We have to work hand in hand to accomplish the goals that we want to stand for as President Aquino calls for the Filipino people to be united and to be as one.
References:
- The Ampatuan Massacre: a map and timeline by Analyn Perez and TJ Dimacali (GMANews. TV)
- Bayan to join march to commemorate Maguindanao massacre by Dennis Carcamo (philstar.com)
- De Lima links Maguindanao blast to massacre commemoration by Fidelis Angela Tan
- Journalists commemorate Maguindanao massacre (Sun.Star Network Online) - PNP assures security for Maguindanao massacre commemoration by Jorge V. Cariño (ABS-CBN News)
The whole nation comes as one to remember the inhumane Maguindanao massacre. Different media organization, human rights groups, plus the family of the victims joined forces to pay tribute to the victims of the massacre. They had a motorcade from General Santos City to Sitio Masalay in Barangay Salman, Ampatuan, Maguindanao to revive the trail of the last mission of the victims before they were killed.
“Retracing the steps of the convoy is not only a way to pay tribute to the victims, but to be able to understand how the killings were carried out by the same people who were supposed to protect them,” said Rowena Paraan of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP).
The church also participated with this commemoration by having the church bells ring fo58 seconds, giving one second church bell for each victim.
The government did its share through President Benigno Aquino III as he declared November 23, 2010 a National Day of Remembrance and through the National Police who are on alert to the possibilities that can happen that day. As Senior Superintendent Marcelo Pintac quoted “Three hundred sixty degrees ang security namin dito sa area at lahat ng available na battalion ng Army, nag-coordinate na kami para masigurong safe itong lugar”. They assure that nothing ruthless as such Maguindanao massacre will happen again.
Concerts, conferences and ads are made to serve as an eye opener to the public and give them a view of what’s happening around us. “It’s also a way to raise public awareness on the issue and let the people know that things like this would continue to happen if we don’t do anything about it.” – Rowena Paraan (NUJP)
Call for justice
“The case of the Maguindanao massacre is a major test for the executive and the judiciary. Considering the gravity of the crime and the threat it posed to institutions like the media, not to mention the existence of overwhelming evidence that point to the involvement of the Ampatuans, a year has passed and victims continue to seek justice,” – Gen. Renato Reyes Jr. (Bayan Secretary).
The people has spoken, we don’t need another Pacquiao match, another death of an icon or worse another massacre for us to see the value of justice and unity in our nation. We have to work hand in hand to accomplish the goals that we want to stand for as President Aquino calls for the Filipino people to be united and to be as one.
References:
- The Ampatuan Massacre: a map and timeline by Analyn Perez and TJ Dimacali (GMANews. TV)
- Bayan to join march to commemorate Maguindanao massacre by Dennis Carcamo (philstar.com)
- De Lima links Maguindanao blast to massacre commemoration by Fidelis Angela Tan
- Journalists commemorate Maguindanao massacre (Sun.Star Network Online) - PNP assures security for Maguindanao massacre commemoration by Jorge V. Cariño (ABS-CBN News)
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Panopticon Theory
PART II
When talking about scandals or gossip people are always interested to that, little that we know that we are violating rules against human rights, it is the Article 26 of the Civil Code states that every person should respect the dignity, personality, privacy and peace of mind of his neighbors and other persons, disturbing the private life of a person would constitute a cause of action for damages. (Calica, 2009). We are all guilty that when it comes to “tsismis” we all have our own version of a particular story. A special case is presented when the topic tackles sex and sexuality. There is an extra factor when the topic includes sex. People are more attentive to such issues because naturally, sex is coined with different interpretation but we all know that this is a sensitive topic to be discussed. Unfortunately some are insensitive enough to disseminate scandals particularly this Katrina-Hayden sex scandal. First of all, if there is no video there will be no scandal at all so the video itself is problematic. Was Katrina aware that their private affair is being videotaped? Well as confessed, she has no consent in the video recording. Chief Public Attorney Persida Rueda-Acosta said there appeared to be violation of Halili’s “right to privacy” “That is so unfair to the lady, she was made to fall in love not knowing that their private affairs would be videotaped and made public,” (Araneta, 2009). Obviously Katrina is unacquainted of Hayden’s agenda of collecting his private affairs. It is evident that being ignorant to an instance might be very dangerous for the person concern. Whenever a person is in a private area he or she thinks that the place is secured and no one can disturb your privacy but nowadays this kind of situation is no more obtainable because people who would like to look after you have an easy access of doing it by the means of the technology that we have now, the technology that can watch over you wherever you are, whatever you do, whoever you are with at a particular moment. Stalking is much more accessible for whatever purpose you have in mind for your target.
It is sad to think that with the modernization of our technology it leads us to criminality. It destroys the boundary between private and public spaces. It seems like synthesis of the private and public spaces is the main goal of the contemporary technology. It makes us feel that we are living in a world wherein everything we do is guarded and watched over so one wrong move can make you justly regret your decision because of the awaiting consequences that will be given to you. Technology helps you to develop but at the same time limits you to pursue your ideas because of the confinement it provides a person. With this kind of setting people will live in a big detention dome very soon. This said technology is all in favor of those cream of the crop population because they can watch us effortlessly and by that they can implement rules even without us knowing that we already fall for their trap. They use technology as one of their tool in the production of their money-making scheme to be more efficient and provide them much money that they can get from the people and more on those marginalized ones.
REFERENCES:
- Araneta, S. (2009, May 23). “Hayden says sorry for sex videos”. The Philippine Star. p. 8
- Ables , H. (1987). Mass Communication and Philippine Society. Manila, Philippines: University of the Philippines Press.
- Araneta, S. (2009, May 22). “Kho, Bello summoned over Katrina sex video”. The Philippine Star. p. 10
- Calica, A. (2009, May 20). “Hayden gets senator’s ire over sex video”. The Philippine Star. p. 9
- Araneta, S. (2009, May 21). “Katrina goes to Senate, NBI”. The Philippine Star. p. 6
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Panopticon Theory
PART I
“I am a victim everyday”-Katrina Halili. How true is it that we are victims in our daily lives? Victims in terms of what, how do we defend ourselves in such scenarios that will pilot to this conclusion? Are we aware that we are victims as well?
After the public laid eyes on the sex video scandal of Katrina Halili and Hayden Kho, different speculations came up from different people’s perspective. Others said that Hayden Kho should be condemned for this scandal because of his malicious acts while for the others Hayden is a victim as well. Since day one of this issue all the different mediums of media gives us an update to the issue itself and follow up leads for the investigation for this huge outrageous sex scandal. Hayden Kho said that without his knowledge and consent, the video recordings were uploaded on the Internet, downloaded, reproduced in DVD form, distributed and sold to the public. (Araneta, 2009). Diverse commentaries are made after Hayden said this statement meanwhile a representative from the senate namely Senator Bong Revilla branded Hayden Kho as a “pervert” and slammed Hayden for his behavior through his speech untitled “A Doctor’s Perversity”. Some commented that Senator Revilla is just using this issue to collect more respect as a candidate for the next election. As proven by Ables (1987), the media have been used to catapult personalities into public consciousness, an opportunity that has been exploited by these personalities for political gain. Right after this, Katrina went to the Senate and filed a case against Hayden. Court hearings have been made. Different angles of the issue came up such that the religious leaders and associations declared that they will be with Katrina with this fight. As Bishop Teodoro Bacani said “Even if they were consenting adults it does not mean that they should announce to the world what they did. I do not know what legal recourse can be done but this was really extreme. It really demeaned people and reduced them to the level of objects”. (Araneta, 2009). There were some unexpected issues branched out from the Hayden Kho- Katrina Halili sex scandal but one of the highlight during this issue is when a man bathes Hayden with his own bottled water during one of their court hearings. According to that man, he cannot tolerate the immoral acts of Hayden and disgust him with the kind of mentality he has with this particular issue because he video recorded almost all of his private affairs with different women and kept them as his collections. The sex scandal itself is a big hit to the audiences because they patronized such issues and for them it is entertaining. With the expected large audience share, the media crossed over their boundaries as the guardians of public morals. They allowed the obscene material to be discussed in the public and they are the one who is responsible in feeding the information to the audiences. They used this issue to earn more profit and let the respective TV and radio stations as well as the publications to get richer.
REFERENCES:
- Araneta, S. (2009, May 23). “Hayden says sorry for sex videos”. The Philippine Star. p. 8
- Ables , H. (1987). Mass Communication and Philippine Society. Manila, Philippines: University of the Philippines Press.
- Araneta, S. (2009, May 22). “Kho, Bello summoned over Katrina sex video”. The Philippine Star. p. 10
- Calica, A. (2009, May 20). “Hayden gets senator’s ire over sex video”. The Philippine Star. p. 9
- Araneta, S. (2009, May 21). “Katrina goes to Senate, NBI”. The Philippine Star. p. 6
Monday, June 13, 2011
The Situation of Agriculture in the Philippines
PART II
Globalization
“This globalization worsen the situation of local agriculture, all of our agricultural products including the raw materials are being exported as raw materials because we don’t have the industry, even the big foreign companies are not creating industries for us to be at least semi-profit oriented.” said Cosico.
Cosico mentioned that the Philippine government adopted international trade policies but does not support the development of local industries.
“We can see from the past administration that they are not interested in developing our own local industries, even if we have an agricultural economy.” said Cosico.
Cosico gave a concrete example with the rice industry during 1979. The Philippines had a chance to export rice crops but it was disrupted when President Ramos signed an agreement with World Trade Organization (WTO) which resulted for the country to be import dependent and export oriented.
The country continued to export raw materials and semi-process materials due to under develop manufacturing systems and became a constant dumpsite of the finished product by the industrialized countries which results to entombment of the local industry.
Cosico stated that our economy is more open to foreign countries instead of cultivating our own industry.
“We are semi-colonial, semi-feudal. Our agriculture is based on dictates of the capitalist countries.” said Cosico.
Agricultural Courses
“There’s an irony here, there are so many Asians and Filipinos students who were trained here but where are they now?” said Cosico.
Cosico mentioned that during the her time, during the 90s there are numerous students who are willing to take up Agricultural courses but most of the graduates are under private companies, individually speaking it benefits the employee however it does not help the agricultural development of the Philippines.
“If you will count on our government, what will you expect? They cannot offer jobs and opportunities or employment for the agricultural graduates therefore graduates will just accept those offers from the foreign investors” Cosico added.
Cosico added the country has sufficient human resources that the Filipinos can use to develop the agricultural state but there is no hope with our government. Most of the professionals leave the country which led to “brain drain”.
Cosico confirmed that Agricultural courses nowadays are not popular to the students and the course became remote and detested.
“Some agricultural schools are being shut down because they cannot maintain their operating cost, no enrollees, and no funds from the government” said Cosico.
She affirmed that if the government is serious about the development of the Agricultural industry in the Philippines, it should have concrete arrangement in education.
SOURCES:
Sharmaine Villanueva, Intern/Journalist of BULATLAT
Finesa Cosico, 36, An Agriculturist and Project and Extension Officer of AGHAM
Sunday, June 12, 2011
The Situation of Agriculture in the Philippines
PART I
“Hacienda and Encomienda system brought by the colonizers destroy the concrete and real development of Philippine Agriculture per se, including the local agriculture” said Finesa Cosico, 36, An Agriculturist and Project and Extension Officer of AGHAM.
Feny Cosico, former Grains Operation Officers of National Food Authority (NFA) is a graduate of Bachelor of Arts major in Entomology from University of the Philippines Los Banos (UPLB).
AGHAM is an organization which has an advocacy to serve the concerns of the people especially the poor by means of promoting Science and Technology.
The organization seek out help from the Science and Technology professionals, workforce and advocates to take part of the campaigns, fact-finding missions, research, community service and group discussions.
Colonization
Before the Spanish rule the land of the Philippines for 300 years, most of the Filipinos were occupied with farming, fishing, pottery-making, weaving and also mining.
Pre Spanish era includes manufacturing of “tuba”, “basi” and other liquors, manufacturing of gun powder, manufacturing of wax which will be used as products that will be traded with neighbor countries.
Learning and exploring is not new to the Filipinos, Even before the Spaniards came and invaded the socio-economic state of the country. Knowledge in leadership, agricultural engineering, and hydrology is evident when Banawe Rice Terraces were formed.
Further progress of the Filipinos were blocked by the Spaniards when they colonize the whole country and implemented political and social systems that aims to amass all from its new colony.
Spaniards took control over the land, resources and even the Filipinos and their labor. Feudalism is first executed through the Encomienda sytem.
Feudalism or the landlord-worker relationship was a system in which workers were given land to cultivate and to develop but the overall control and fruits of labor belongs to the feudal.
During the Encomienda system all the products such as sugar, crops and coconuts are collected and then exported to the capitalist countries in Europe through the Galleon Trade.
Later on, Encomienda system was replaced by the Hacienda system since the Galleon Trade is declining in the market and Industrial Capitalism in Europe is escalating. As an outcome Spaniards strengthen the agricultural manufacturing for export that is intended to expand the land owned by the mestizos. It was very easy for the colonizers to seize bigger mass of lands to gratify the increasing need for export.
There came the 1896 Philippine revolution, the end of Spanish era and free market is now open under the US colonization.
Free market is as the same as dumping of surplus or spare goods from the US to the Philippines, Filipinos became dependent to the US and this directed to the dependence of agricultural exportation.
This policy only caters to the little segment of the Filipino society or the hacienderos who became financial associate of US firms.
Up to present, the economy is still dominated by these few influential families.
SOURCES:
Sharmaine Villanueva, Intern/Journalist of BULATLAT
Finesa Cosico, 36, An Agriculturist and Project and Extension Officer of AGHAM
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Another encounter with a buwaya..
Another encounter with a buwaya..
I asked my cousin whether she had an encounter with a buwaya. At first she asked me what is a buwaya (corrupt police officer), then she realized what a buwaya (corrupt police officer) is herself. She said she had plenty, so she asked which one I would like to know. I guess I will be posting a lot of her experiences here in my blog J. I will now share her 1st encounter with a buwaya. On a bright sunny day (haha), she and her friend were commuting to baclaran. When they got out of the bus, they realized that they were dropped off at a no dropping off zone. All the passengers that had to go to baclaran were dropped off at a no dropping of zone. Of course, my cousin and her friend were sort of scared because they were not used to commuting and they are not familiar with the place. So they followed the other passengers who were going to cross the street. When they are already in the middle of the street together with the other passengers, they were suddenly called by a buwaya (corrupt police officer) and were asked to go to the side of the street. The buwaya (corrupt police officer) said that they were jay walking and that they had to go with him to the police station. My cousin and her friend wondered why they were the only ones who was called by the officer and was charged with jay walking. The buwaya (corrupt police officer) started threatening my cousin and her friend, the buwaya kept asking for their IDs and telling them that they can be jailed for that offense. But then my cousin asked the buwaya why they were the only ones that were caught by the buwaya. At first, my cousin and her friend thought that they caught the attention of the buwaya because they were wearing their uniform (they study in a prestigious school) and so the buwaya wanted to get bribed money from them. So they asked what was the reason, and the buwaya said : “eh kasi kayo ang may nas nakaka-alam ng kung ano ang tama at kung ano ang mali kaysa dun sa ibang mga yun.” (because you are the one who knows what is right from wrong from all those people.) My cousin of course, cannot accept that reason. She answered: “eh kuya napaka biased nyo naman po at judgemental, porket po ba naka uniform kami at sila hindi ibig sabihin wala silang alam?” (In that case, you’re so biased and judgemental. So does it automatically mean when we are wearing our uniform and the others are not then they don’t know nothing?” my cousins friend was already scared at that time and she was about to give her ID and follow the buwayas wishes, but my cousin stayed strong and said: “if you really wanted to arrest us for the sake of justice, then you should have arrested all of the people with us that time.” “I will not give my ID if that’s the reason you will give me”. The buwaya was startled and let my cousin and her friend go with a warning. They were able stand for what is just and right. We should do the same instead of bribing the buwayas with money, because just like the real buwaya, once they get used to a feeding spot where food is abundant they will continually go back there whenever they get hungry.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Corruption in NBP (National Bilibid Prison)
The recent news about the corruption in the National Bilibid Prison is not shocking to me anymore because I already have heard of stories wherein some VIP (very important prisoner) are treated better than other prisoners. It is obvious that a VIP would do anything to get the VIP treatment. A way to do that is through bribery, or using his authoritative powers to get it. Also, in prisons, gangs are abundant. Since they are abundant, these gangs are taken advantage of by the officials and use them as “weapons” to preserve peace inside the prisons. There have been so many high profile prisoners before, who were said to be having VIP treatment inside jail such as better “accommodation” and food. There are also reports wherein there are grants of living out privileges to those who could pay. Living out privileges used to be given only to those who are about to be released or long-time prisoners who are sick and old but now anyone who can pay can avail of this “promo”. The case wherein Leviste was able to get living out privileges is the most current news about this issue. Bureau of Corrections chief Ernesto Diokno has resigned and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima is now working on the justice department’s investigation on this issue. Will she make a difference? Will she be able to solve the mysteries of how the very important prisoners get their VIP treatment? Can she eradicate corruption inside those walls?
What did President Benigno Aquino III do about the matter? He cleared Diokno without the investigating his role in the corruption cases inside the bureau. Those (people whom I know) who voted for Pnoy because of his anti-corruption stand are frustrated and disappointed because so far, nothing has changed in the Philippine corruption issue. It has almost been a year since President Aquino took over and yet, corruption is far from being eliminated. The Aquino government has even shown that it is ready to fire the president’s friends who have been accused of wrongdoing. Also, the Aquino government has been criticized for appointing the president’s friends to Cabinet positions even if they do not have the basic qualifications. According the report, the media and some of Pnoy’s friends can justify this by saying that it is just normal for a president to appoint those he trusts.
reference: http://bulatlat.com/main/2011/06/10/the-long-wrong-way-to-solve-corruption/
reference: http://bulatlat.com/main/2011/06/10/the-long-wrong-way-to-solve-corruption/
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
My first impression was that we are being corrupted by foreigners whose only interests are our natural resources and man power. Our government, which is the hand that is labelled “Philippine Government” is placing a price on us, or selling us in other words. Until now, we have not yet been able to remove colonial mentality from our system. Until now, we still prefer products from other countries because we believe that they have better design, quality, etc.
On the other hand, since I read the article, it is actually about the 2010 elections. The clown actually represents the candidates who are pretending to be caring, honest, or trustworthy people. They are projecting themselves to the Filipinos what they are actually not in reality. They are just fooling us with the false promises, the flashy tv advertisements, the catchy jingles which will make you have an LSS (Last Song Syndrome). It is evident that popularity of the candidate matters in the Philippine elections, just look at some of our government officials as proof. Some of them have no background whatsoever about law, what to do in government, or etc. They are simply popular in our country, and that is why the Filipinos will vote for them.
Sometimes I feel guilty for not voting for a candidate that I truly believe in just because he had a low chance of winning. So instead of “wasting” my vote on that candidate, I’d rather pick a candidate that will win over the candidate that I do not like. I think that was what happened to the 2010 elections. For our community, the talk of the town was that they are voting for Gibo, but because there were gossips about Villar winning, (which at that time we did not want to happen), we chose to vote for Pnoy instead just to ensure that Villar will not win. Now I think about it and realize, what if most of the people were thinking the same as we did at that time? What if we followed what we believed in and voted for Gibo instead? Will the Philippines change for the better? I can’t help having regrets of that time because right now, I can’t see any improvement on the Philippines. Pnoy’s promise to eliminate corruption, I still can’t feel it.
References: http://carbonstereo.blogspot.com/2010/01/election-and-corruption.html
References: http://carbonstereo.blogspot.com/2010/01/election-and-corruption.html
Media corruption
Almost every day I hear news about politicians; Politicians who are given bad comments and politicians who are praised. If you think about the business of newspaper companies and tv stations, every portion of the newspaper or every minute of airing in television costs thousands or millions of pesos. It is possible that corrupt politicians might take advantage of their corrupt money to pay for those spaces in the newspapers or time in the tv airtime to make people believe that they are innocent, good, and are doing their job properly. Other people are easily bribed to tweak what they believe in. the most common reason is poverty. If you think about it, who would resist thousands or even millions of pesos offered to you just to edit the words you use to make a person look good to the public? Do take note that column writers only get a small salary per story or article they write. Maybe they will think that tweaking some of the words will not affect the purpose of the news, but in fact it definitely makes a difference. Just like in the editorial above, it shows reality. Reality wherein it is attempted to be socially constructed by the media people, spokespersons or representatives. Now, should we always believe what is shown to us in the news?
Before, I always say that I don’t trust our government or the police. In times wherein I needed the police, I thought that I should rather approach the media people since they would expose bribery, corruption, etc. But after that discussion, my perspective on the media people has changed, not that I am totally against them, I just don’t trust everything they state or say in the news.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Many Filipinos already accept the fact that our country is corrupt. To us, it’s already common knowledge and according to one survey, Philippines is ranked number one as the most corrupt country in Asia. According to the survey, Singapore was ranked as the least corrupt country in Asia. Japan and Hong Kong held the same ranking next to Singapore. This survey was conducted by the Political and Risk Consultancy that is based in Hong Kong on January and February of the year 2007. The people who took this survey are the 1,476 expatriate executives from different countries in Asia. In a scale of zero to ten, with zero being the least corrupt, they rated each country in Asia. The Pshilippines got a whopping 9.40!
An expatriate executive who also answered the survey stated that: “The Philippines has the distinction of being perceived in the worst light this year," the survey stated. "People are just growing tired of the inaction and insincerity of leading officials when they promise to fight corruption.” It is said that in the year of 2006, Indonesia was the one that was ranked as the most corrupt country in Asia with the Philippines being second. The Philippines score in the survey that was conducted in the year of 2006 was 7.80. The score of Indonesia improved in the year of 2007. Their score was 8.03, making the Philippines as the most corrupt country in Asia. Some say that Indonesia was able to improve their score because of their anti-corruption campaigns. A person who took the survey stated that Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines really has a close “fight” as becoming the top corrupt country. Another stated that: "The Philippines has been getting the least amount of foreign direct investment, and the level of foreign capital flowing to its stock market is also less than in either Indonesia or Thailand."
Some of the questions in the survey are: "How effective is the judicial system at prosecuting and punishing individuals for corruption when abuses are uncovered?", and "To what extent is corruption a deterrent to your willingness to invest and expand your business?" For the first question, respondents answered a score of 9.06 for the country of the Philippines with the number ten being the most ineffective. Take note that ex-President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was our president on that year. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo even said that their projects or camapaigns against corruption are effective. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo even hired a Hong Kong national who was famous for being an anti-corruption crusader in Hong Kong to be an adviser in the year of 2005. For the later question, the Philippines got a score of 8.5, with ten being very preventive. It is evident that graft and bribery in the Philippines are abundant. Local corruption monitors can even confirm it. Even we can with our experiences with them. Corruption is already present in every level of our government, from Bureau of Customs down to the police officers who are lurking in the streets who demand bribes from law offenders. And lastly, According to the United Nations Development Program, thirteen percent of the Philippine’s annual budget is lost because of corruption every year.
Do you think the Aquino Administration will be able to keep his promise to eliminate political corruption here in the Philippines? What has he done so far? Did we vote for the right person to LEAD our country?
Source:http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/13/business/worldbusiness/13iht-peso.4891792.html
An expatriate executive who also answered the survey stated that: “The Philippines has the distinction of being perceived in the worst light this year," the survey stated. "People are just growing tired of the inaction and insincerity of leading officials when they promise to fight corruption.” It is said that in the year of 2006, Indonesia was the one that was ranked as the most corrupt country in Asia with the Philippines being second. The Philippines score in the survey that was conducted in the year of 2006 was 7.80. The score of Indonesia improved in the year of 2007. Their score was 8.03, making the Philippines as the most corrupt country in Asia. Some say that Indonesia was able to improve their score because of their anti-corruption campaigns. A person who took the survey stated that Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines really has a close “fight” as becoming the top corrupt country. Another stated that: "The Philippines has been getting the least amount of foreign direct investment, and the level of foreign capital flowing to its stock market is also less than in either Indonesia or Thailand."
Some of the questions in the survey are: "How effective is the judicial system at prosecuting and punishing individuals for corruption when abuses are uncovered?", and "To what extent is corruption a deterrent to your willingness to invest and expand your business?" For the first question, respondents answered a score of 9.06 for the country of the Philippines with the number ten being the most ineffective. Take note that ex-President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was our president on that year. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo even said that their projects or camapaigns against corruption are effective. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo even hired a Hong Kong national who was famous for being an anti-corruption crusader in Hong Kong to be an adviser in the year of 2005. For the later question, the Philippines got a score of 8.5, with ten being very preventive. It is evident that graft and bribery in the Philippines are abundant. Local corruption monitors can even confirm it. Even we can with our experiences with them. Corruption is already present in every level of our government, from Bureau of Customs down to the police officers who are lurking in the streets who demand bribes from law offenders. And lastly, According to the United Nations Development Program, thirteen percent of the Philippine’s annual budget is lost because of corruption every year.
Do you think the Aquino Administration will be able to keep his promise to eliminate political corruption here in the Philippines? What has he done so far? Did we vote for the right person to LEAD our country?
Source:http://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/13/business/worldbusiness/13iht-peso.4891792.html
Monday, June 6, 2011
Philippine corruption in the point view of youth.
Today, I asked one of my friends to answer some questions about corruption. I usually ask these questions when the conversation topic leads to politics. Below is our question and answer scenario:
Question 1: For you, what is corruption?
Sharmaine Maurer (not her real name):
- -Corruption is an unaccepted dishonest immoral behaviour of the people in authority.
Question 2: Do you think there is corruption in the Philippines? If yes, what can you say about the corruption in the Philippines?
Sharmaine Maurer (not her real name):
- -Well, it is very obvious that corruption in the Philippines is vulgar and common to each and every Filipino. It already reaches the maximum state wherein moral actions are invalid to some extent.
Question 3: Do you think our government, under the Aquino administration, will be able to eliminate/lessen the corruption in the Philippines?
Sharmaine Maurer (not her real name):
- -No. I really don’t think so.
Follow up Question: Why do you think so?
Sharmaine Maurer (not her real name):
- -As our President Benigno Aquino III promised during campaign period before the 2010 elections, he seemed to be very promising so most of the Filipinos embraced that innocent image he is trying to portray. But come to think of it, his policies and this privatization policy is the number one cause of corruption and by that he has no difference with the past presidents. Philippines will remain as corrupt as before.
These are the usual answers I get when I ask about corruption, especially in the Philippines. It is very alarming that even the youth feel or think that our country can no longer get rid of corruption. It’s like there’s no more hope. We continue to live our lives knowing that there is corruption going on everywhere but we don’t even try to stop it. Yes, we always say that there should be no corruption, corruption is bad, we hate our politicians because most of them are corrupt, or that our country is the most corrupt country in the world. We just TALK about it, but not DO SOMETHING to change it.
Elections. Our votes are easily bought by popularity and advertisements of the candidates. In the end, we impeach them because they are not doing the job we want them to do and what they are supposed to be doing. In the first place, who were the ones who voted for them? They said that we should practice responsible voting, it did not work. We easily get fooled by “praise releases” of corrupt candidates. Of course the information that is fed to us during elections are the information that makes the candidate seem great, deserving, and the best. But we also have to know their backgrounds. What if they were involved in some kind of gambling crime or issue? Would you like them to be an authority in our country? Of course not. But in reality, there is a possibility that these kind of people are lurking around in our government.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
The Filipino “Buwaya”
The Filipino “Buwaya”
-Most common breed of Filipino government officials.
(Buwaya – Crocodile)
This is what we commonly call our corrupt politicians, but most of the time, we use this to call corrupt police officers on the streets. Let’s see their similarities!
The Real Buwaya (Crocodile) (Animal) Type: Reptile Cold Blooded Diet: Carnivore Average life span in the wild: Up to 70 years Size: Up to 15 ft (4.6 m) Weight: Up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) Group name: Bask (on land) or float (in water) Protection status: Endangered Other Facts: The crocodile will patiently wait in hiding for its victim. When an animal gets close enough, the crocodile will jump forward and clench its prey between its teeth. | The “Buwaya” (Person) Type: Mammal Hot Blooded and Cold Hearted :) Diet: (They prey on humans so…yup! Carnivore it is!) Average life span in the wild: Up to 70 years (70 years mostly living of corrupt money :p ) Size: Smaller than the real Buwaya. Weight: Up to 2,000 lbs (Joke) they get to eat a lot of food though. Because of Corruption. :) Group name: Bask (on land) or float (in water, because they’re like floaters hahaha.) Protection status: Over Populated Other Facts: The “Buwaya” will patiently wait in hiding for its victim. When a law offender gets close enough, the “Buwaya” will jump forward and ask for Bribe money from his prey using “laws” to threaten the prey. |
Also, some kids compare corrupt police officers to crocodiles because of their big bellies :)
Ever since I was a kid, these are my perceptions of what a police officer in the Philippines is. Its sad to say that until now, I think the same. It’s hard to change my perception of them because there are a lot of news and stories wherein a lot of people had bad encounters with the Philippine police officers. Yes, these people might have been law offenders, but the right thing for a police officer to do is to punish them accordingly to ensure that the law offender does not commit his mistake again. But, in reality, these Buwayas would rather get bribed money instead of teaching the law offenders a lesson. So for the Buwayas, they arrest law offenders for money, they make a living out of Bribed money. At first I thought that stories about these Buwayas were just exaggerations because, of course, a law offender does not want to be caught. But the experience my family had with these Buwayas made me realize that what people said about them are NOT JUST exaggerations.
One day we were going to a mall somewhere in Manila, then a police officer ask us to pull over. We were wondering why because we always use that route every time we go there; same street, same entrance, same exit, and even same traffic (always heavy traffic!). Then the police officer approached us and said: “sir, swerving kayo. Akin na ang lisensya mo...” (Translation: “sir, you’re swerving, give me you license..”) and then my dad said: “hindi ah, na cut lng kme nung isang kotse kanina kitang kita mo naman diba?” (Translation: “no, another car cut our way. You clearly saw it right?”) Then the officer said: “ahh, gunun ba, baka naman pwede nalang mag lagay para tapos na ang usapan.. (with a smirk in his face >:[] )” (Translation: oh, is that so? Maybe you can just give me money so that our conversation will be over?) My dad gave him 300 Pesos and we got away. My dad said that he was so guilty that he gave the police officer bribe money, but he thought of the time and trouble it will cost him if he did not accept the offer of the Buwaya. Maybe most of the Filipinos would rather avoid conflicts or troubles than face troubles and correct them. I don’t blame the victims of these Buwayas because they were given a choice by those Buwayas, of course they will choose the easy way out (Who wouldn’t?) Hopefully, the new administration will be able to completely eliminate these Buwayas so that the law offenders will not have an easy way out and learn their lesson and in the future, the question would be Who would?
Sources:
http://www.nationalgeographic.com
http://www.crocsite.com
Sources:
http://www.nationalgeographic.com
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