Thursday, August 28, 2008

RESPECT RULES IN MINDANAO

PRESS STATEMENT
August 27, 2008
REF: ATTY. ZAINUDIN MALANG
0928-5000432

RESPECT RULES OF WAR IN MINDANAO!

Even as people are still reeling from events in Lanao del Norte, field reports from our colleagues in civil society continue to be disturbing. Now that fighting has shifted to Moro areas, we hear of insufficient time given to civilians to vacate their villages before AFP bombardment begins. We hear of food blockades against internally displaced people. We hear of NGOs being prevented from delivering urgently needed relief items and media personalities being prevented from covering the humanitarian crisis. We hear of a high ranking national official of DSWD complaining about the assistance to displaced families (25 kilos of rice, per family, per month) as being too "big"!

Therefore, we remind ALL PARTIES AND COMBATANTS of the Protocol II of the Geneva Conventions on the Protection of Victims of Non-International Armed Conflicts, particularly on the protection of civilian populations. Civilians enjoy protection from dangers arising from military operations (Art. 13-1). Neither should they be subjected to attack (Art. 13-2), nor should acts of hostility be directed at places of worship (Art. 16). Starvation of civilians as a method of combat is prohibited (Art. 14).

We call on United Nations humanitarian agencies, international organizations such as the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and other members of the international community to insist upon their mandate and duty to deliver aid to the victims of conflict. The concept of Right to Protect (R2P) necessarily includes the duty to protect.

We call on our friends in the media to equally report suffering by ALL communities. We wish to remind them that 85% of the civilian victims of the 2000 and 2003 all out wars were Moros. We remind them further of the public's need to be provided with ACCURATE AND COMPREHENSIVE reports from ALL SIDES to the conflict. Recall too the writings of Noam Chomsky on manufacturing public consent to support a war by playing up unchallenged claims of successful military operations and attrocities of enemies.
Impartiality! Neutrality! Non-Discrimination! These are the basics of International Humanitarian Law.
ALLIANCE OF MUSLIM ADVOCATES OF LAW
BANGSAMORO LAWYERS' NETWORK
MUSLIM LEGAL AID FOUNDATION, INC.
BANGSAMORO CENTER FOR LAW AND POLICY
UP MUSLIM STUDENTS ASSOCIATION (COLLEGE OF LAW)
ATENEO DE MANILA MUSLIM LAW STUDENTS

Messages from the people who perform

Join our move for "No To Recall"
"MAKIALAM"
rey

Padaca's group urges Pampanga folk: Reject recall-Panlilio move
By Ding Cervantes, Philippine Star
Thursday, August 28, 2008 SAN FERNANDO,

Pampanga – Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca, Ramon Magsaysay awardeefor government service, and other local officials who have formed the group KayaNatin! have called on Pampanga folk to reject the move to recall Gov. EddiePanlilio from his post.

This, as the recall initiative seems to have triggered a war of signatures.

As of noon yesterday, Panlilio's supporters who launched an onlinesignature campaign (ipetitions.com) had already garnered 1,228 digitalsignatures. Among the signatories identified themselves as Solita Collas-Monsodand Susan A. Roces.

On the other hand, Rosve Henson, president of the Kapanalig at Kambilan ningMemalen Pampanga (Kambilan) which launched the recall move last week, said hisgroup has started its signature drive in all of Pampanga's 21 towns.

While Henson could not say how many have already signed their recall petition,he said that from their original 5,000 members last week, they have issued 1,000more identification cards for new signatories.

"Each of these members has been asked to gather as many signatures as theycan, but we are doing this very carefully so that all the requirements of theCommission on Elections will be complied with," he said.

In a statement, Padaca's group said, "We believe that this attempt torecall him is politically motivated and would only serve to benefit the vestedinterests of a few politicians in Pampanga.

"The group described itself as a "movement for genuine change and ethicalleadership."

"We urge the people of Pampanga not to support the recall initiative. Weask the Kapampangans to give Gov. Panlilio a chance to fully serve his term andcontinue the reforms that he has begun," it added.

One Harvey Keh, a supporter of Panlilio, started the digital signature driveagainst the recall move on the Internet.

His e-mail is being passed on by Panlilio's supporters to solicit moresignatures not only from Pampanga but also from other parts of the country andapparently, even from Filipinos abroad.

Addressing "fellow Filipinos" in his e-mail, Keh said the recall movewas "started by people closely affiliated with Lilia Pineda, thegubernatorial candidate that Gov. Panlilio defeated and wife of alleged juetenglord Bong Pineda."

"If you will recall, just last month, Gov. Panlilio courageously filedplunder charges against Bong Pineda for his alleged involvement in juetengoperations and payoffs in Pampanga. If they succeed in doing this, we can expectthat Pampanga will once again go back to the dark ages of patronage politicsthat has led to the propagation of graft. We cannot just sit back, relax andallow a good and upright Filipino leader to fail. We cannot allow evil toultimately prevail."

"We cannot allow Gov. Eddie Panlilio to be recalled," he added,urging Filipinos to sign up in support of Panlilio at ipetitions.com/ petition/supportgovpanlil io.

"While we are aware that there are escalating problems in Pampanga such asthe continuing conflict between Gov. Panlilio and the Provincial Board, theunresolved issue on the striking Balas quarry workers and the calls for theresignation of the current provincial administrator, among others, we believethat a genuine effort to resolve them will be more beneficial to theKapampangans than a political exercise that will further polarize and divide thecommunity," Kaya Natin! said in its statement.

It further said: "We also recognize that there are members of the civilsociety, church groups, business organizations and supporters of Gov. Panliliothat have expressed disappointment with his performance during the pastyear."

"Thus, while we continue to support Gov. Panlilio's crusade to promotegood governance in his province, we also believe that he should listen to thevoices of these groups and work at immediately addressing and resolving thesegrowing concerns in order for him to become a more effective governor," itadded.

Noting that "reforms do not come easy" and "require continuingengagements between the provincial leadership and the other stakeholders in thelocality," Kaya Natin! said, "We do believe that given time, Gov.Panlilio's initiatives will ultimately result in better delivery of basicservices to his constituents. "

"We ask all Kapampangans to be patient with Gov. Panlilio because webelieve that despite the current situation, he is at the moment still the bestperson who can govern the province in an effective and ethical manner," itsaid.

It added: "Should there be a need, the members of Kaya Natin! are willingto help organize and/or facilitate a dialogue between Gov. Panlilio anddisgruntled members of the civil society, business groups, people'sorganizations and his former supporters in Pampanga.

"Apart from Padaca, the signatories to the Kaya Natin! statement included NagaCity Mayor Jesse Robredo, Ifugao Gov. Teddy Baguilat Jr., and San Isidro, NuevaEcija Mayor Sonia Lorenzo.

The Price of Among Ed's Recall

By Joselito Basilio


A recall is a process which begins with the gathering of the signatures, and then proceeds to the filing of a recall petition with the COMELEC, the verification of such petition, the fixing of the date of the recall election, and the holding of the election on the date scheduled by the COMELEC.

History reveals that a recall election may take place within a short span of time or take longer than almost year from the date of its initiation. In the case of Caloocan City Mayor Rey Malonzo, the recall election was held on 14 December 1996 or barely 5 months from the gathering of the required signatures. The recall of Mayor Jovito Claudio of Pasay City was initiated on 19 May 1999 and the recall election was held on 15 April 2000. On 2 July 2002, the people of Puerto Princesa City initiated the recall of Mayor Dennis Socrates and the COMELEC set the recall election on 14 August 2002.
I foresee that the recall of Among Ed would pass the same route as that of Mayor Claudio. It’s going to be a long protracted legal battle. Among Ed’s legal eagles will surely file opposition to the recall petition before the COMELEC citing Lilia Pineda’s pending election protest as a prejudicial question which must first be resolved before the petition for recall could be given due course. The form and substance of the petition would also be expected to be questioned by his lawyers. Even if the COMELEC would eventually give due course to the recall petition, the legal battle does not end there. The Supreme Court would finally decide whether the recall election shall take place.

The whole recall process is a very expensive exercise. The proponents of the recall of Among Ed would spend millions to buy signatures and more millions to buy votes during the recall election. These exclude the enormous amounts to be spent on election campaign, PR and lawyer’s fee. Among Ed himself would not be spared from the burden of incurring cost involved in a recall. He would certainly need millions to get reelected.

It has been said that an initiative to recall an official is always resisted with stronger vim and venom. The reason is obvious. The incumbent would not like to lose power just recently won. The challenger, often a loser in the previous election, would not want to lose a second time. It foments divisive, wasteful and bloody politics where lives are often lost. Moreover, a recall election would undermine the delivery of basic services to the public. The running of the local government units would slow down as our elected officials would be preoccupied with the recall election campaign. This all augurs ill for the future of Pampanga.

KASAUP's CALL FOR UNITY

KASAUP, Inc., the people’s organization representing 18 municipal grassroots organizations that are all based in Pampanga, is bothered by the continuing discord among the province’s political leaders, leading personalities, and even among civil society organizations. We have been doing a lot of consultations and evaluations with our own leaders and constituents. We have also asked our Lord’s guidance so we can arrive at a decision concerning two major discords.

On the move to RECALL Governor Panlilio: KASAUP firmly says NO!

Our people have been subjected to so much divisiveness and the RECALL will just add to it. The other more important basis of KASAUP’s stand on the RECALL is that there is no basis for such. Our energies can be diverted to a lot more pressing issues like the non-approval of the provincial board to its supplemental budget requests for the BALAS, the scholarship program, and other budgets necessary for the governor to serve our province better.

KASAUP is also rejecting the call of a very few people for Governor Panlilio to resign. We hope and pray for these people to ask themselves if what they say is really the desire of our KABALENS.

On this background, KASAUP enjoins all KAPAMPANGANs to focus very carefully on the issues and not on the personalities.

We call for UNITY and an immediate stop to all the discords. Let us all pause and hold actions and discussions on divisive issues and focus our attention on issues where we can all work together.

Let us continue to communicate. Let us open windows of opportunities when doors are closed when we disagree. Let us all treat each other with respect. Lastly, let us not allow our selfish motives to drag us into the pit of darkness while we allow our ever loving and forgiving GOD to continue guiding us.

SAUPAN TAYA ING BALEN PAMPANGA!

Kaya Natin! Statement on the Movement to Recall Gov. Eddie Panlilio (Pampanga)

We, the founding members of Kaya Natin! A Movement for Genuine Change and Ethical Leadership strongly condemn the move to recall Governor Eddie Panlilio of Pampanga.
We believe that this attempt to recall him is politically motivated and would only serve to benefit the vested interests of a few politicians in Pampanga.

While we are aware that there are escalating problems in Pampanga such as the continuing conflict between Gov. Panlilio and the Provincial Board, the unresolved issue on the striking BALAS Quarry Workers and the numerous calls for the resignation of the current Provincial Administrator, among others, we believe that a genuine effort to resolve them will be more beneficial to the Kapampangans than a political exercise the will further polarize and divide the community. We also recognize that there are members of the civil society, church groups, business organizations and supporters of Gov. Panlilio that have expressed disappointment with his performance during the past year. Thus, while we continue to support Gov. Panlilio's crusade to promote good governance in his province, we also believe that he should listen to the voices of these groups and work at immediately addressing and resolving these growing concerns in order for him to become a more effective governor.

As current local government leaders, we believe that all these issues also stem from the fact that this is Gov. Panlilio's first term as governor of one of the largest provinces in the country and thus, these problems can also be attributed as part of his learning process. We also believe that these tensions also arise as a result of the changes and reforms being implemented in the province. Yet, we also recognize that these should not be used as an excuse if and when basic services are not able to be delivered to the people of Pampanga.

In light of all these, we urge the people of Pampanga not to support the recall initiative. We ask the Kapampangans to give Gov. Panlilio a chance to fully serve his term and to continue the reforms that he has began. Moreover, we ask all Kapampangans to be patient with Gov. Panlilio because we believe that despite the current situation, he is at the moment still the best person who can govern the province in an effective and ethical manner. Should there be a need, the members of Kaya Natin are willing to help organize and/or facilitate a dialogue between Gov. Panlilio and disgruntled members of the civil society, business groups, people's organizations and his former supporters in Pampanga.

Finally, we sincerely hope that this movement to recall Gov. Panlilio will be put to rest at the soonest possible time so that we can unite towards working for a better Pampanga and ultimately, a better Philippines.

(Sgd.) HON. GRACE M. PADACA, Gov. of Isabela Province

(Sgd.) HON. JESSE M. ROBREDO, Mayor of Naga City

(Sgd.) HON. TEDDY BAGUILAT, JR., Gov. of Ifugao Province

(Sgd.) HON. SONIA LORENZO, Mayor of San Isidro, Nueva Ecija

The Fox and the Grapes

By Joselito Basilio

The English idiom “sour grapes” is derived from the fable “The Fox and the Grapes” where the protagonist fox fails to reach some grapes hanging high up on a vine, retreats, and rationalizes that the grapes are probably not ripe anyway. The fable’s moral story is that it is easy to despise what you cannot get. The idiom had later been misused by those who do not know the original story and is now taken to mean “bitterness” or “resentment”.

There is a towering personality in the civil society who may be likened to the proverbial fox. He did not get what he wanted. He’s bitter about Dabu’s denial of his desire to have his proposed program implemented. He continues to be resentful at the way he was treated by Dabu and, by extension, Among Ed.

I am of course alluding to top businessman Renato Romero who’s calling not only for Dabu’s resignation but for Among Ed’s. He went to the point of expressing his support for the recall bid against Among Ed. Not contended, he is now resorting to ad hominem arguments describing, among others, Among Ed as a thief who stole the advocacy for good governance.

I was right all along. First impression really lasts. With due respect to the good businessman, I doubted his sincerity when I first saw him during the campaign. Our support for Among Ed was supposed to be unequivocal, no string attached. No division of the spoils of war. Obviously he harbors a different agenda.

Mr. Romero’s new found advocacy (if you can call it that way) - resignation or recall of Among Ed - merits no attention. He wants us to return to traditional politics from which he may have benefited in the past. Will the so-called civil society allow that to happen?

Demonizing Dabu

By Joselito Basilio

The curious cat that I am, I visited the blog site calling for the ouster of Atty. Vivian Dabu, Among Ed’s controversial administrator. I was glued to it for a long time reading and analyzing the articles posted by the anonymous blogger and the raves the site has been getting mostly from anti-Dabu forces.

The anonymous blogger uses vile language in describing Dabu. There, she is being depicted as an obnoxious, an ugly and a dim-witted character. If the stinging, bitter and acerbic comments on Dabu were to be translated into punches Dabu would be knocked down instantly and die of internal hemorrhage.

I would like to believe that the creator of the blog site is a lawyer like Dabu because he (or she?) employs words frequently used by lawyers like “putative” and ably cited a jurisprudence (Supreme Court decision) to justify his portrayal of Dabu as an unintelligent lawyer. Whoever this blogger may be, his call for Dabu’s resignation will not gain ground for a simple reason that he is attacking Dabu’s person and character rather than presenting a reasonable argument that would persuade people to support the ouster call. At the end of the day, I believe the Dabu will earn more sympathy than those who want him fired.

Honestly I do not know or have met Dabu. We all know she is not perfect. No one is. I agree that she has her own negative qualities like everybody else. Nonetheless, I believe she is a good and an honest administrator. She displays a political ill never seen in the previous administrators, a rare character needed to rid the corruption-prone capitol of graft and corruption. Like Among Ed, she’s not been tainted with corruption up to now which I find remarkable. This is much more important than her perceived bad management style other segments of civil society are complaining about.

Assuming, for the sake of argument, that Dabu is fired by Among Ed. What then? Would her ouster placate the Provincial Board and the Mayor’s League? Would it mollify the civil society? I do not think so. The aftermath is going to be a vicious cycle as when Cory fired Executive Secretary Joker Arroyo in compliance to civil society’s pressure. Believe me.

Is There A Need For A Recall?

Is There A Need For A Recall ?
By Red Reyes
Chairman Sunlag (Light and love for the people advocating good governance)
VP Kasaup

Last June 26, 2008, some mayors of Pampanga expressed their disappointmentsagainst Gov. Panlilio's leadership and governance.. They accused Among Ed as a governor with poor performance and that he runs the province with an "autocraticstyle of government". They also criticized the governor as one who pretends to begood and yet, is not doing something to deliver the basic needs of the people ofPampanga. A recall attempt filed by Kampilan headed by former board member Rosby Henson last August 21, 2008.

In my opinion, with the situation of our province, recall is not the solution to our problem. In recall and re-election, we need to spend multi millions of pesos. Instead of doing this evil attempt, why not spend these money to help the poor and the needy?

If we are to review how Fr. Ed Panlilio decided to run for governor, it began whensome Kapampangans Dreamt Of Having a Real and Genuine Change in Philippine politics. They believed that Good Governance and Responsible Citizenship are the Only Way To Enjoy The Fullness Of Life In Our Country. Fr. Ed was chosen to lead that crusade .

When Among Ed assumed the office as governor, these were the immediate changeshe implemented :

1. He collected a monthly income of almost a million pesos per day from quarry taxes as compared to 45,000 pesos per month from the previous administration. Shares of municipalities and barangays were also fully distributed .
2. SOPs and kickbacks for contractors and politicians were fully abolished to ensure that 100% of the projects will be delivered to the people. Bidding and transparency were fully observed.
3. He declared a war against "jueteng" by filing a case to the alleged jueteng lord, Bong Pineda, the husband of former board member Lilia Pineda who became his number 1 contender for governorship in the last May 2007 election .
4. Priority projects recommended by mayors , like road concreting , were implemented in all the 21 towns of Pampanga .
5. Construction materials were delivered to many barangays and schools for their priority projects , especially in the remote and depressed areas .
6. Medicines and healthcare services were distributed to all district hospitals of Pampanga.

These are only few of the accomplishments of our governor. With these facts, let us open our eyes, hearts and minds, and ask ourselves the following questions :

1.Was Among Ed able to deliver what he has promised—good governance ?

2.Is there really a need for a recall against Among Governor Ed Panlilio ?

3.What are the Real Motives behind such recall against Among Governor EdPanlilio on the part of his political opponents ?

4.If such recall against our Incumbent Governor Ed Panlilio materializes ,would it not Plunge Pampanga back into the Dark Ages Of Dirty Politics And Untold Rape and Plunder Of this Great Province 's Wealth andResources by the Same Political Syndicates, Families And Dynasties whoare behind such recall ?

5.Shall All Well-Meaning and Patriotic Pampanguenos allow such recall tohappen and thus,Totally Deprive Them Of Their Fair Share And Right ToAn Equal Distribution Of Wealth in Our Beloved Pampanga ?

6.Shall we, as True Pampanguenos , Again Allow this Same Gangs OfTraditional Politicians ( Trapos ) To Take over the Reins Of Government To Serve Their Own Vested Interests And Without Shame , ROB OurProvincial Coffers , And Once More , Plunge Our People Into The DepthsOf Extreme Poverty ? And , finally ,

7.Shall we allow these Trapos, Jueteng Lords And their Cohorts to ContinueOpposing Among Gov. Ed Panlilio's Noble And Worthy Projects and thus ,Obstruct Pampanga's Road To True Progress And Prosperity ?

LET US ALL , AS TRUE AND NOBLE KAPAMPANGANS , THINK ABOUTALL THESE THINGS , AND BE UNITED AS ONE TO OPPOSE THE FORCESOF EVIL WHO ARE TRYING TO STOP AND DESTROY THE GREAT GAINSTHAT HAS BEEN INITIATED AND MADE BY AMONG GOVERNOR EDPANLILIO IN OUR BELOVED PROVINCE OF PAMPANGA .

MAY GOD ALMIGHTY PROTECT US AND BLESS THE WORK OF OUR HANDS IN THIS NOBLE CAUSE !

GOD RICHLY BLESS OUR BELOVED PAMPANGA ON THE ROAD TO TRUE PROGRESS AND PROSPERITY !

GOD BLESS , PROTECT AND GUIDE BY HIS SPIRIT OF WISDOM ,HIS ANOINTED SERVANT , AMONG GOVERNOR EDDIE PANLILIO !

KMI STATEMENT ON RECALL OF AMONG ED PANLILIO

KMI: NO TO RECALL! YES TO REFORMS!

The results of the May 2007 gubernatorial elections brought ripples of hope around the country that any well-meaning Kapampangan would be proud of.. Shunning the usual practices characteristic of traditional and patronage politics, we elected Gov. Eddie Panlilio on the basis of his good governance platform. It was one shining moment for Pampanga that future generations can always look back to for inspiration.

We recognize the many gains that the Panlilio administration has attained for Pampanga after just a year in office. We are especially grateful for the:

ü Sincere efforts to address sectoral issues and concerns by institutionalizing structures and mechanisms (e.g. Indigenous Peoples' Council, Youth Development Council, Persons with Disabilities, etc.)
ü Increase in quarry collections and the immediate distribution of the shares of the participating local government units
ü Convening of the Provincial Development Council after several years of inactivity

We STRONGLY REJECT the recall initiative filed against Gov. Panlilio at this point in time. A year after the elections, we are just beginning to heal the wounds of divisions through dialogues and peaceful negotiations. Holding a divisive political exercise so soon will only re-open the as yet unhealed wounds and undermine efforts for Pampanga's progress.

We enjoin our political leaders and the Kapampangan populace to give PEACE AND UNITY a chance especially at this time when we are confronted with a global economic crisis that renders us all vulnerable. We respect the mandate that the people have accorded Governor Eddie Panlilio in the same way that we respect the mandate given to Vice-Governor Joseller Guiao, the members of the Provincial Board and the rest of Pampanga's duly-elected officials.

While we say no to recall at this instant, we challenge the Panlilio administration to immediately implement MUCH-NEEDED REFORMS, foremost among which are:

ü Ensure checks and balances at the Capitol by not concentrating power and authority on the Provincial Administrator who holds other positions of influence. We recommend the creation of a Multi-Sectoral Advisory Council composed of experts and stakeholders in priority development areas to enhance the participatory character of the Panlilio administration;
ü Give flesh to good governance in Pampanga first and foremost. Breathe life to the campaign platform of "Daing ding Pakakalulu, Iyatad king Kapitolyo" by laying down foundations for economic empowerment to wean the people away from jueteng;
ü Offer a peaceful resolution to the impasse with the BALAS boys. BALAS being the cornerstone of the Panlilio administration' s achievements, it is but fitting to accord the BALAS workers the basic courtesy of due process in confronting allegations of anomalies. We urge Gov. Panlilio to honor his promise of unconditional reinstatement of the BALAS boys who went on strike to dramatize their protest against unjust treatment. We recommend the creation of an investigative body that will look into the alleged anomalies as basis for imposing sanctions on those found guilty and clearing the names of those who are not guilty.

Pampanga stands to lose much if we are to continue this political tug of war that has been adversely affecting our province's growth and development. We say NO TO RECALL and YES TO REFORMS as we commit to cooperate with both the Executive and Legislative branches of the Provincial Government in making good governance happen in our beloved Pampanga.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Cailangan Waring Milaco Ya Queng Puesto?

Cailangan Waring Milaco Ya Queng Puesto ?
Neng Red Reyes

Iniang milabas a Hunio 26, 2008 , mapilan caring alcalde
ning Pampanga ding pepasiag queng carelang casiran lub
laban queng pamamuntuc at pamangobierno nang
Gobernador Panlilio . Sasancanan de y Among Ed bilang
metung a gobernador a maqui mainang pamamalacad at
mamuntucan ya queng probinciang maqui "dictatoryal a
estilu ning pamangobierno". Pipintasan de ing gobernador
bilang metung a magcunwaring mayap dapuat ala yang
gagawan ban lang midinan caring mumuna dang cailangan
ding tau ning Pampanga .

Nung pacasurian tamu nung macananu yang mig-decision
y Among Ed Panlilio a magcandidato para gobernador ,
migumpisa ya ini iniang ding mapilan Capampangan Mica-
Taguimpan La Para Queng Metung a Tune At Dalise
Pamagbayu Queng Anyu Ning Politica Queti Pilipinas .
Carela ya ing Capaniwalan a Ing Mayap a Pamangobierno
At Responsableng Pamamalen , ila ding Ustung Dalan ban
tamung danasan ing Masnang Niaman Ning Pamibie-bie
Queng Quecatamung Bansa . Y Among Ed ing mepiling
mamuntucan para caniting nobleng crusada .

Iniang migumpisa yang milucluc bilang gobernador y
Among Ed , oreni ding agad-agad a pamagbayung
queang pepatupad :

1. Mengolecta ya balang bulan a panaquitang alus metung
milyung pesus balang aldo manibatan caring buwis qng
tibagan ( quarry taxes ) compara queng apat a pulu
libung pesus balang bulan a acucua ning milabas a
pangasiwaan . Miparalan la ngan queng carelang daque
ding municipalidad ampon barangay .

2. Masnang milaco la ding por cientu o ilegal dang
panaquitan ( SOPs and kickbacks ) ding contratista at
politico ban maqui casiguraduang ciento por ciento daring
proyecto mibye la caring tau . Milaco ing pamamirait at
ding pamanicuang ustung presyu caring proyecto ing
malino mipatupad .

3. Migdeclara yang guera laban queng "jueteng" y
Gobernador Panlilio iniang migsampa yang caso laban
queng mideclarang guinu ning jueteng , y Bong Pineda ,
ing asawa na ning dating miembro ning capulungan , y
Lilia Pineda , a meguing mumuna nang calaban Among
Ed para gobernador iniang milabas a Mayo 2007 alalan .

4. Ding dapat a mumunang proyectong nirecomenda daring
alcalde , calupa daring pamagcemientong dalan , agad
lang mipatupad caring sablang aduang pulu't metung a
balen ning Pampanga .

5. Miparala la ding matiriales pang-construcsyun caring
maracal a barangay ampon escuela para caring carelang
mumunang proyecto , laluna caring macarayu at
macalunus-cabiliang lugal .

Oreni ding mapilan caring maracal nang guewa ning
quecatamung gobernador . At carening mayap nang
proyectong pepatupad , buclat tala ding quecatamung
panimanman , pusu at caisipan , at cutnan tala ding
quecatamung sarili carening cutang :

1. Ayumpisan at agawa nang Among Ed ing pengacu
nang mayap a pamangobierno ?
2. Talaga cayang mangailangan a milaco ya queng
puesto y Among Gobernador Ed Panlilio ?
3. Nanu la ring "tune motibo" daring cacalaban at
bisang magpalaco queng puesto nang Among
Gobernador Ed Panlilio ?
4. Nung maganap ing balac dang ilaco ya y
Among Gobernador Ed queng queang puesto ,
e caya ini ing Pamisubli Queng Pangasaldac ning
Balen Pampanga qng Panaung Madalumdum
Ning Marinat a Politica at E Abilang a Pamiducmu
At Pamanaco Queng Caban At Natural a Yaman
niting quecatamung Daquilang Probincia
capamilatan da rening Sindicatong Politico ,
Pamilia At Dinastiang malambat nang babye
pasaquit at matinding cacaluluan quecatamung
Memalen Pampanga ?
5. Magpiac tana mata wari at paburen tamu , itamung
Maca-Balen Capampangan a maliari ing marawac
dang caburian dening mapilan ban mibabo ing
carelang maimut at macasariling capaquinabangnan ,
a milaco ya queng puesto y Among Gobernador
Ed Panlilio , at Milaco Ing Carapatan At daque tamu
bilang Memalen , queng Pante-pante Pamidaque
queng Cayamanan ning quecatamung Probinciang
Pampanga ?
6. Bilang Tune , Malugud At Maqui Masabal a
Capampangan , Paburen tala wari dening Barcada
At Sindicato daring sadiang Politico ding talan queng
rienda ning pamangobierno ban sumerbisyu caring
Personal dang Interes At Alang Marine , Arapan a
Panacawanan de ing quecatamung Caban-Probincia
at Misan Pa , Isaldac dacatamung Memalen pabalic
Qng Calalaman Ning Matinding Cacaluluan At
Casaquitan ? At catataulian cutang ,

7. Paburen tala wari dening sadia nang Mangatacong
Politico , Guinu daring Jueteng at ding cabarcada ra
a isundu ing carelang gagawang "circu at moro-
morong pamamulitica" a pamangontra caring Noble ,
Maca-DIOS At Maca-Balen Proyecto nang Among
Gobernador Ed Panlilio , at capamilatan da ring
carelang pamangontra , Sasalabatan de ing Dalan
Papunta Qng Tune Progreso At Pamisaplala Ning
Probinciang Pampanga ?

BILANG TUNE AT NOBLENG CAPAMPANGAN ,
PACAISIPAN TALA DENG BAGUE ARENI , AT
MISANMETUNG TAMU PARA LABANAN TALA
DENING COCONTRANG MAPILAN A MAMUNTUCAN
AT PUERSA NING CAROCAN A MAGNASANG
ITUCNANG AT SIRAN LA DING MAYAP A
PAMAGBAYU AT PROGRESO NING LULUGURAN
TAMUNG PROBINCIA NING PAMPANGA

CAPAMILATAN NANG AMONG GOBERNADOR
ED PANLILIO .
INGATAN NA CA TAMU NING CACATAS-CATASAN
AT MAYUPAYANG DIOS AT PANUANAN NA LA
DING GAWA DARING QUECATAMUNG GAMAT
CANITING NOBLENG CRUSADA PARA QNG MAYAP
A PAMANGOBIERNO !

PANUANAN NE NING DIOS ING QUECATAMUNG
INDUNG TIBUAN PAMPANGA PAPUNTA QNG DALAN
NING TUNE PROGRESO AT PAMISAPLALA !
PANUANAN , INGATAN AT ANTABAYANAN NE NING
DIOS , QNG QUEANG ESPIRITU NING CABIASNAN ,
ING QUEANG PILING TALASUYU , AMONG
GOBERNADOR EDDIE PANLILIO !

Monday, August 25, 2008

Uncivil Society?

Uncivil Society?
By: Joselito Basilio (Law Student)

In Kapampangan context, civil society is an unusual concept in that it always seems to require being defined before it is discussed. In part this is because the concept was rarely used in Kapampangan discourse before Among Ed ran for governor in the May 2007 elections and many people are therefore unfamiliar with it.
Arguably, civil society only gained legitimate recognition in Pampanga during the May 2007 elections. Many new civil society groups, notable of which are KMI, KCI and ADCL, facilitated better awareness and a more informed citizenry, who made better voting choice for governor. In fact credit should be given to civil society for Among Ed’s electoral victory.
But what happens when the some members of the same civil society groups are pulling a direction different from that of the person who helped them elected governor. How it is going to be decided which direction in which to go and whether it is the right one as circumstances continue to change over time? Will they leave the decision to Among Ed or pressure him to adopt what they want?
I have raised these questions because I am deeply saddened by the recent turn of events in Pampanga which involves a segment of the civil society.
I’m particularly disturbed by the juvenile behavior of a civil society prominent actor who is now calling for Among Ed’s resignation and even indicated his support for the latter’s recall because this is the only way to get rid of Among Ed’s most trusted assistant who previously turned down the actor’s proposal on public policy. This is tragic. When a civil society conceals its real intentions beneath a sheep’s clothing it has no more reason to exist.
What is wrong with Dabu at the helm of power? Among Ed put her there. She enjoys the trust and confidence of no less than the governor himself apart from the enormous powers she yield as mandated by law. Every decision she makes is presumed to be the order of the governor. Among Ed delegated most of his powers to Dabu so that she can effectively deal with influence-peddlers and favor-seekers, and get rid of graft and corruption in the capitol. This is how Among Ed manages the affairs of the office of the governor. Can’t the civil society respect Among Ed’s management style?
If some people are displeased over how the capitol is being run, that is part of Kapampangan human nature. We Kapampangan have this incurable tendency to envy people who are closer to someone we love. I feel this is the reason why some members of the civil society have deserted Among Ed. They want all equal access to the governor’s office. They cannot accept Among Ed’s regimental management style where decisions are made through the office of the administrator.
Civil society is supposed to build social capital, trust and shared values, which are transferred into the political sphere. We have the right to express our views to influence the governor’s decisions but it is not right to desert the governor when what we want is unheeded. That’s uncivil.

Friday, August 22, 2008

THE POWER OF INSURGENCE: Young Muslims call for SC SENSITIVITY on MOA

UPHOLD PEACE FOR OUR GENERATION
A STATEMENT BY THE YOUNG MORO PROFESSIONALS NETWORK INC
Quezon City, Philippines c/o 09204345010

We are concerned citizens of peace, sons and daughters of theBangsamoro, who are grieving over the past weeks' horrific incidentsin Southern Mindanao, and appeal against an all-out war in Mindanao.

We are an international network of more than a hundred Young Muslims - lawyers, doctors, IT and media professionals, businessmen, local chief executives, civil servants, professors, NGO workers - from different cultural groupings and Muslim converts, who are concerned with the future of this nation.

We are gravely concerned with the negative repercussions brought bythe Temporary Restraining order (TRO) of the Supreme Court on the signing of the Memorandum of Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD), which forms part of a Comprehensive Peace Pact framework in the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) - Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace talks. While we advocate for civil society participation in the peace processes by involvement indiscussions on the MOA drafting, we question the lopsidedone-track , anti-peace talks stance of many of our Senators - to nameMar Roxas, Chiz Esudero,Loren Legarda, Rodolfo Biazon, Juan Ponce Enrile and others. They arestatesmen/women who we feel are not helping the peace process and insteadpromote divisiveness in times of confusion, emotional trauma anduncertainty among our people. We ask the presidentiables among them, withnational ambitions, what is their agenda for the Bangsamoro, if any?Have they gone to the Muslim South and asked the Muslim constituencybefore opposing the MOA or were their positions a product of theirbiases and prejudices?

We also question the inequality of voices in media, majority ofwhich represent rightist sentiments, without appreciation of historicMoro grievances in the country. We are disappointed that 12 years ofpeace negotiations between the MILF and GRP can be swept away byunconcerned so-called national politicians who have never proposed anyconcrete form of governance structures that can respond to the Moroaspiration for right to self-determination. We are aware thattensions aggravated by senseless, unfounded statements of thesesenators , congressmen and politicians opposing the MOA put the gainsof the peace process farther and impact on many of developmentprograms ongoing in the South because of renewed hostilities.

We would like to appeal for more informed judgements , constructivedialogue, an affirmative reaching out by Manila's media andpoliticians to the grassroot populace in the South to understand thesearch for genuine peace.

In deliberating the MOA AD, we call on the Supreme Court to exercisejudgment with dispassion but sensitive to the lives and constituenciesaffected even lost because of frustrations over the TRO on the MOA-AD.

We are deeply concerned with the evacuations in North Cotabato,echoing the cycle of violence manifest in any renewal of hostilities.We affirm our trust in the local and international monitoring teams,the AHJAG and the CCCH to help keep the peace on the ground.

We call for an independent investigation on the attack in Lanao del Norte on villages by armed men affecting children,women and damaging relationships built from decades of interfaithdialogue. These lawless acts are in violation of Islam, internationalhumanitarian laws and conventions protecting children and women fromthe wrath of war. Muslims and Christians are victims alike. Muslimsmust stand up and rise to condemn violence and aggression on theinnocent, We call on our ulama, MNLF, MILF and traditional leaders tohelp bridge the mistrust by reaching out to our Christian brethren ,who were victimized in Norte's attacks. Be the messengers of messagesof non-violence and peace - SALAAM as Khalifas (STEWARDS) who enjoin what is goodand forbid what is wrong (as stated in the Holy Quran).

Let the perpetrators be accountable to local peacekeeping mechanisms. Both the AFP and MILF must be held to answer for any atrocities andviolations of the rules of war.In these times of hardship, we hold hands as one , with ourChristian and Lumad neighbours, in the name of peace, acceptance andjustice. We are committed to a democratic and peaceful resolution ofthe conflict. Do not be afraid of the MOA- AD. Let all stakeholders involve an enlightened discussion of the MOA. To the national public,open your hearts to the Moro grievance.

We all have to link and expand our ranks till the entire country is bound together with the strength and the ardor of our resolve. I do not exaggerate when I say this could be our last chance to save democracy in the Philippines. The darkness thickens and we have to move. - Joaquin "Chino" Roces, 1985

Bobby Kennedy - "Laws can embody standards; governments can enforce laws--but the final task is not a task for government. It is a task for each and every one of us. Every time we turn our heads the other way when we see the law flouted--when we tolerate what we know to be wrong--when we close our eyes and ears to the corrupt because we are too busy, or too frightened-- when we fail to speak up and speak out--we strike a blow against freedom and decency and justice."

Group plants tree seedlings in schools

STO. TOMAS -- Embracing the morning sun with shovels and seedlings in hand, acivil society group here started a massive tree planting program targetingpublic secondary and elementary schools here the other day.

The group that calls itself "Kayapan at Pakamal Tamu Sto. Tomas"(Kayaptas) initiated tree planting in various schools of this town in line withits vision of becoming a "key partner and catalyst of comprehensivegrowth" in the Municipality of Sto. Tomas.

Kayaptas said they are responding to the threat of global warming and havecoordinated their efforts through networking with local government officials.

The group's objective here is to distribute and plant 50 trees likemahogany, narra and molave to each of the town's two public high schools andeight elementary schools.

The seedlings were given by the Community, Environment & Natural ResourcesOffice (Cenro).

The three schools that initially benefited from the project include SanBartolome Elementary School, Sto. Tomas Elementary and High School and SanVicente Elementary School.

Pampanga Governor Eddie Panlilio was guest of honor during the event. Rev. Fr.Ramon Torres, parish priest of Sto. Tomas Church, and the respective principalsand teachers of the schools, also took part in the project.

Kayaptas officers, led by its president, Melvin Calalang and members, came infull force. Sto. Tomas Vice Mayor Gloria Ronquillo and the Municipal Councilmembers and Barangay Captains of the three barangays were also present.

According to its vice president and spokesperson, Irwin Nucum, Kayaptas isactively involved in various programs and activities for the improvement of thecommunity in response to the call for good governance and responsiblecitizenship.

Nucum said: "It is one of our missions to participate directly in verysignificant undertakings and advocacies that will benefit not only our town butour entire province and nation as well, hence this noble tree planting. Westrongly believe in the cooling effect of trees through carbonsequestration."

Climate scientists believe that human-induced global deforestation isresponsible for 18 to 25 percent of global climate change. The United Nations,World Bank and other leading non-governmental organizations are encouragingreforestation and other projects that encourage tree planting to mitigate theeffects of climate change.

"Once fully grown, these trees will not only protect the school buildingsbut will also be a good form of investment. But the deeper fruit of the projectis the real 'pamisaupan' (cooperation) that was generated between thelocal government unit and its elected officials and the private sector includingthe local church. It's shared governance at its best," Nucum said.(IOF)

source: www.sunstar.com

Grassroots group out to support Panlilio

Friday
August 22, 2008

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- Members of the grassroots group Kasaup signified their support for Governor Eddie Panlilio and the "Cruzada" with their attendance at the Provincial Government's 25th commemoration ceremonies of Ninoy Aquino's death at the Benigno Hall on Thursday morning.

"We are (still) here. Governor Panlilio is not alone as others say. We are strongly supporting him and Provincial Administrator Vivian Dabu amid all these problems and accusations hurled at them," said the Kasaup leader, who requested anonymity for fear that future plans of the group to show their support for the capitol executives might fall into jeopardy.

"Kasaup," the leader said, "is the 'other civil society' deeply entrenched in the grassroots level. We are the umbrella of 17 other groups in 17 towns across Pampanga and a corps of hundreds of volunteers in barangays and villages. We are mainly responsible for bringing to the grassroots Governor Panlilio's programs in education, health and social services. We are volunteers upholding the values of the Crusade. We have been there since the very beginning of the Cruzada and we vow to carry on the work and deliver the provincial government's development programs to the people.

" The leader said Kasaup is a breakaway group of the Kapampangan Marangal Incorporated, which was formed when representatives from both parties "did not meet eye-to-eye" regarding some policies governing civil society.

"But we did not want to hamper the implementation of programs that will benefit people at the grassroots, that is why Kasaup was born," the leader said, adding that the group is cause-oriented and is not into political patronage.

"We have the lowest profile in doing our work. But we have the numbers. Our group is one of the largest during the campaign, and that number remains until now, if you base it on our July 5 congress held here in the capitol grounds. We are sure we could muster that number again in support of the governor," the leader said.

"Our Cruzada vow remains," he said, "so let's stick together." (JTD)

source: http://www.sunstar.com/

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

PB with KMI, KCI, CFC and ADCL

FYI.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Groups meet with PB on Capitol issues
By Ian Ocampo Flora

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO -- Taking their advocacy for "good governance"to a whole new level, some disenchanted civil society group leaders met with theProvincial Board (PB) on Tuesday to discuss pressing issues in the Capitol. While the members of the Biyaya A Luluguran at Sisikapan (Balas) were holdingtheir rally in front of the Capitol grounds, some civil society groups werediscussing important issues with the PB at the session hall. Visit the Beijing Olympics 2008 blog Leaders and some members of Kapampangan Marangal Incorporated (KMI),Kapampangan Coalition Incorporated (KCI), Couples for Christ (CFC), and Advocacyfor the Development of Central Luzon (ADCL) tried to thresh out pressing issuesin the Provincial Capitol that Pampanga Governor Eddie Panlilio has not yetsettled with the PB. The dialogue between the PB and civil society groups revolved around the issuesof the salaries of Balas employees, scholarship, and automation of quarry taxcollection. Items discussed included the designation of the Arnedo Park as a freedom park,supplemental budget for the salaries of Balas members, special session, and thepossible cooperation between the PB and civil society groups. Accomplishing what Panlilio seemed to have failed to accomplish with the PB,the civil society groups were able to create a partnership with the PB. Theyalso proposed the passage of the resolution for a six-month salary program forBalas and the automation of the quarry collection. "We would like to give the drafting of these resolutions to civil societyand we would consider them immediately as soon as they are accomplished,"PB presiding officer Vice Governor Joseller "Yeng" Guiao said. The PB and civil society groups also discussed major issues about theimprovement of funds and protocol in the provincial capitol. KMI's Averell Laquindanum, spokesperson of civil society groups, met withthe PB to get a deeper understanding on the workings and problems at theCapitol. "Admittedly, there is a breakdown of communication between the twobranches (of the Provincial Government)," he said. Laquindanum clarified that they met with the PB to advance the advocacies ofgood governance and responsible citizenship. Some civil society group membersexpressed their dissatisfaction with Panlilio's performance by taking turnsin airing their concerns and grievances during the dialogue. Guaio, meanwhile, lauded the civil society groups for going to the PB sessionhall for the dialogue.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

How to handle a hero

We cant deny, its true.

How to handle a hero

HUMMING IN MY UNIVERSE
By Jim Paredes
Sunday, August 03 2008
(http://www.philstar .com> http://www.philstar.com )

The OFW (overseas Filipino worker), who used to be known as> OCW> (overseas contract worker), is now an integral part of our national culture and consciousness - as Pinoy as pakbet and adobo. It is a cultural template that came to be primarily because our country could not - and still cannot - provide enough employment for its citizens. People have had to find jobs abroad to earn enough to clothe, feed and care for their constantly growing families that, to add to their problems, their faith discourages them from keeping small. OFWs have been dubbed by the very system that created them as "heroes" for bringing home dollars that provide much needed economic benefits to their families and, consequently, to the system itself. And while they may in fact be a big factor why our country has not collapsed despite the culture of inertia, corruption and government mismanagement that plague it, OFWs are, in their own view, reluctant heroes,to be sure. One, most of them really have no choice but to go abroad for lack of opportunities here. Two, many of them will abandon the "hero" label in a heartbeat if they can simply find some way to feed their families and stay in the Philippines at the same time. We know that they and their loved ones pay too high a price for the economic benefits they enjoy. And this includes being away from their loved ones and missing out as their family stories are written. They are absent from family pictures, albums, house blessings, graduations, births, birthdays, anniversaries and family reunions because ironically, they have to earn their money elsewhere to finance all this. They have children who are fed and clothed but are orphaned of at least one parent. Their main consolation is, at least, the people they love are experiencing these wonderful economic benefits even if they cannot physically be part of it and enjoying with them. I have met many OFWs during my travels abroad and even now that I live parttime in Sydney. I have observed that as much as they are the providers and the sustainers of life back home they, too, need care and sustenance which many of them hardly get. A lot of them complain about being trapped or doomed to being lonely and missing out on life just so their loved ones can have a better life. This article is about the caring and encouragement these reluctant heroes, who up hold the sky up for our families and our society, need on their end. Here are a few things to keep in mind when relating to the fathers, mothers, kuyas, ates, uncles, aunts and other relatives who have left us temporarily to keep the rest of us alive. 1. Relate to them as people, not just as providers. Many times, the relationship between OFWs and their families back home is sadly reduced to an almost solely economic one. A lot of OFWs complain that most of the time, they only hear from the beneficiaries of their hard-earned salaries when the roof needs fixing, the tuition needs paying, someone is sick, or a relative needs money. They feel like slaves trapped in a cycle of backbreaking work in order to grant their families' wishes. Although I live abroad, I'm what you may call an OFW in reverse. A big part of my family is in Sydney, and I come quite often to Manila to earn and pay for the house, schooling, food, electricity, etc. As an "Aussie W," as Danny Javier likes to call me, I go through the same loneliness and deprivation that regular OFWs go through, although not as intensely and desperately. At least I am able to go back every few months and stay for a few weeks unlike the majority who go home only once every year or two and stay only for a couple of weeks. 2. Find more things to write or communicate to them about other than asking for money. The main loss that OFWs feel is the deprivation of affection from their loved ones. It starts off as a physical loss which they and their families feel initially. After a while, when the dust has settled and the reality sets in that the relative will be gone for quite a while, indifference can creep in. Families can get used to their member being far away, leading to an alienation that can be most painful especially for the person who is away. A soon-to-be-released documentary I watched a few days ago showed a group of Filipino teachers employed in the United States who felt a lot of frustration while doing video chats with their families. Apart from presenting a list of things they needed financed, many of their family members had little else to talk to them about. Things changed dramatically when one of the teachers committed suicide due to sheer loneliness. After that, the family video chats became less of an asking or begging session, and more of a genuine exchange of love and caring. This is what OFWs miss the most. So make sure they are kept in the loop and abreast of what's going on in everyone's lives. 3. Constantly shower the OFW with gratitude. There is nothing more gratifying than being appreciated for the sacrifices one makes. A simple, heartfelt "thank you" from a loved one can be profoundly uplifting to someone who is feeling the alienation and meaninglessness of living in some foreign place. It can give one a sense of purpose, direction and reward for a job well done. Gratitude can be a tonic that revitalizes the OFW to continue working under lonely, stressful conditions. 4. Don't blame them for being away. Many times, the pain OFWs feel can be a double whammy. Not only is it difficult to be away from their families, it hurts them even more when they are blamed for everything that is wrong with their relationships with their loved ones. Everything is dumped on their lap because they are not present to fix things. While their absence may very well be a factor in why certain things are wrong, e.g. why his son has taken to drugs, why the daughter failed in school or ran away, why the family was cheated of its savings, or whatever else can go wrong, it does not really help the situation to pin the accusation solely or needlessly on someone who is helpless at the moment because he is abroad and is therefore not in a position to fix things. Instead of blaming, families could attempt to engage one another, including the overseas member in a serious conversation about what together they can do about the situation. 5. Encourage them to get a life outside of work. While the OFW may not really choose to live abroad but for necessity, it can be a great learning opportunity to learn a new language, understand a new culture, meet new friends and enrich one's life overall. Many people on both sides of the fence, at home and abroad, mistakenly tend to view the situation largely as one of pure sacrifice with little joys to anticipate wherever one is. That's really too bad because being abroad can be a great learning experience in independence, creativity, culture, adjustment and discovery. I've been amazed at how some of our countrymen have built happy lives in remote, seemingly inhospitable cultures. It is wonderful how they can make something good out of a bad situation. For families at home, it is OK to encourage the OFW to pursue personal growth and happiness. Some may worry that growth or embracing their situation can cause them to be estranged from their significant others back home. That can be a valid worry. While it is necessary to remind them to be anchored to the family, it is also important to slacken just a bit the chains or ties that bind. 6. Don't forget to greet them on their birthdays, Christmas, New Year, Father's Day, etc. These special days may not seem as special or have the same urgency to the people at home, but believe me, to the one who left and is living in some alien place, to be forgotten on a special day is a pain that can induce overwhelming sadness. This is especially true when all the other Filipinos they work with receive greetings, gifts and calls from their loved ones back home. 7. Put aside some of the money the OFW sends home for a rainy day. Many families who are beneficiaries of the OFW's blood, sweat and tears have the attitude that daddy or mommy, kuya or ate will always provide. Thus they spend on trivial unimportant things and are caught flatfooted when the job contract is not renewed and the money runs out. They soon discover that all that sacrifice was for naught and they are all back where they started! 8. When they come home, make sure to be around for them and for events where the returning relative can experience the family life he or she has missed. Many OFWs come home for that rare visit looking forward to family bonding, only to discover that the people he wants to spend time with are busy, or worse, not interested to be with him/her. They discover that they have become strangers to their families and only token greetings and affection are accorded them. They do not feel integrated, only accommodated. Their presence after a long absence may even be seen as disruptive to the household's daily routine. This can be a big disappointment and may even discourage the OFW from coming home as often. Losing a reason to come home is a tragedy that he and his family can ill afford. > The OFW phenomenon is here to stay. Thank God modern communication can somehow ease its alienating effects on families. But even as we learn to live with it, we should continually find ways to keep OFW families from becoming dysfunctional despite the absence of some of its members. The family is one of our nation's stronger institutions, our joy and our treasure. We owe it to ourselves and our countrymen to keep it intact, even under the worst of circumstances.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

THE ROLE OF THE INDIVIDUAL IN GOOD GOVERNANCE

THE ROLE OF THE INDIVIDUAL IN GOOD GOVERNANCE

by: RED REYES



How do we define good governance?

Good Governance is the reason why kapampangans were united for one cause.
This is the reason why kapampangans dreamt of a brighter future for our country
And for our children. It is sad to say that we have our own interpretation of good governance. Unfortunately, it is because of an entirely different understanding and interpretation that many are disappointed of How Among Ed implement his own
Principle of Good Governance.

In an open discussion with balikbayan relatives and friends, I have clearly observed
that their faith , hope and expectations for Governor Panlilio to succeed is quite high as compared to the many who live in Pampanga . Why is that? One possible reason is
that those people living abroad, specifically, in developed countries, have a wider perspective of good governance. OFWs and immigrants who are living in several rich countries abroad had themselves glimpses of good governance. With this, they have better standards of living, higher salary, promising healthcare and retirement benefits. They have great faith that Among Ed will succeed because he is quite focused and determined to absolutely apply true good governance in our Province of Pampanga .

When Among Governor Eddie Panlilio made a turn around in changing the old system of governance , such as the total abolition of all forms of corruption , SOPs, patronage politics and the like , many individual especially old politicians got madly infuriated . A lot of these traditional politicians were not supportive of Among Ed’s administration because their illegal income was eliminated. What is likewise alarming is the fact that their constituents also share the same sentiments.

It is lamentable that a big segment of our people as well as our politicians are not yet ready in this kind of process. Worse of all, corruption is like a cancer that affects the whole country. Corruption and bribery have become a way of life in our society. This is the main reason why our governor has a hard time in moving forward towards transforming our province into an ideal society under this noble crusade of good governance.

We have our Almighty GOD to thank that we have so far been successful in seating a governor without any political machinery, power and money. Despite our different affiliations, religious beliefs and status in life, God has kept us all united to overcome great obstacles and bring to fruition what had seemed to be the impossible dream.

In this time of adversity, we need to remain united in fighting for truth, justice and equality for all. Instead of finding fault in Among Ed or in his provincial administrator, why not ask ourselves on how we can help our province reclaim its glorious past, its cherished dignity, and enormous success and prosperity?

Every individual has his role and responsibility towards the success and completion of this noble mission. Bishop Pablo David has stated that the church is asking pardon from the Filipino people, especially the poor because for a long time, despite of massive corruption, illegal gambling and hardships, the church remained silent. This time, the church will now help and get involved to fight for the truth. Our Lord commands us to love and serve one another, including that of living for the truth. To be part of good governance is to expect nothing in return, none of any sort of reward. This is the essence of our mission in order to make ourselves more meaningful and our deeds like a pleasing aroma to God. Each one of us has been called to be part of this noble crusade for good governance. This is the best gift we can give to our children and our future generation. We can do no less but, rather, give our utmost for a truly bright future for our beloved Province of Pampanga .

GOD tremendously Bless Pampanga !

GOD Bless All Noble and Patriotic Capampangans !

GOD Bless our Pampanga Governor, Among Governor Eddie Panlilio !

Thanks to Joseroman Laquian for his ideas and contribution!

Thursday, August 14, 2008

BALAS - THE OTHER SIDE

Monday, August 11, 2008
Mercado: Among Ed and simple Physics
By Ram Mercado

THE recent Dialogue between Pampanga Governor Ed Panlilio and Vice Governor Guiao, also presiding officer of the Provincial Board (PB), has not spawned understanding and goodwill. Rather it brought forth a poisoned fruit. During the televised confrontation, Panlilio brought out his concerns to Guiao. One of these is the urgent matter of a supplemental budget to pay the Balas (quarry task force) workers who are not in the regular budget. Visit the Beijing Olympics 2008 blog The PB has recently turned down the governor's request for a special session, the urgency of which Guiao had already known and clearly understood. He even encouraged Panlilio to seek support as he needed. For a reason as flimsy as a burlesque dancer's gown, the PB rejected Panlilio's request for having failed "to fully impress the reason for the need of a special session." This is pure and plain harassment, a gross obstructionism and an act of downright belligerence. While the presiding officer was on leave, his hit man did the works. Panlilio had spent great efforts explaining during the dialogue his priority concern of having funds appropriated for the Balas personnel. That the governor's quarry revenue collections are a record high is a singular achievement which made him famous far and wide. The board members do not share that pride, apparently resenting a remarkable feat. This has been the Gov's redeeming value despite his failures in other political and management aspects. What our Cabalen admire about Panlilio is his honesty. Unless he absconds with government money or display wasteful and frivolous extravagance of provincial funds, he remains a hero in the eyes of most Pampangos. Thievery and corruption is rampant enough. When a public official proves himself to the contrary, he gets widespread admiration and silent support from the public at large. A leader of this mould would be difficult to beat in an election. But there are underworld denizens who hate honest people. Panlilio thus becomes a "Public Enemy No.1" of the PB led by Guiao. Why should the Board, indeed, pass and approve urgent and necessary funding requirements for worthy projects of Panlilio when by doing this will enable him to implement his agenda for governance? Being in a state of "belligerence", Panlilio should understand the overt hostility. Even before he takes the first move to ask for the PB's speedy action and favorable support to his program, he is already "dead meat" Pampanga is the pitiful loser in this Capitol war. Panlilio is not the loser as he gains people's sympathy for the ordeals he has been subjected to. The people cannot be fooled by the board members' conspiracy, disguised as legislative wisdom, against the priest on leave. The PB wanted to know the urgency of Panlilio's request, and the specific items he wanted to be funded. The members know what the Governor needs and requires. This is not a complicated matter to apprehend unless a deliberate sabotage is intended. The truth is they wanted Panlilio to come on bended knees and pass though the eye of the council needle. What the governor should do is wage an education-information campaign and get his message beamed to the breadth and length of the province. Let the people decide who is the villain in this continuing saga. The people would not find it hard to understand what is happening. Among Ed will be in his elements doing that. As a preacher, he can spread his gospel to the villages where simple minds do not differentiate between "urgent" and "necessary." Provided that he does not steal from the people's money; providing further, that he stays a bachelor if not celibate, he would be well on his way to a second term. He would even pass a Recall election, which I support so that our people may sell their votes and buy some rice and canned goods from the proceeds. After all "rights" can be put under negotiation or paid for including compensation for human rights, bill of rights, right-of-way including their right to vote. As we are told, nothing is free in this world. People should profit from their labor and sweat, why not earn honest money by selling their votes? Diogenes roamed the streets of Athens with a lighted lamp day and night looking for an honest man. There is one such person in Pampanga, one who refuses to prostitute his office in the name of "good" politics. The more the council people make a martyr of him by their insult, discourtesy, obstructionism and open hostility, the stronger the people will support Panlilio. Ironically, Guiao and company are making him bigger than he really is by cutting him down to size. Don't they know simple Physics - that the whole is greater than its parts?

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

CAPITOL PRESS STATEMENT

Terminal leave and bonuses of BALAS boys paid in full

City of San Fernado, Pampanga - The provincial government through the Human Resource Management Office clarifies today some quarry checkers that they will be paid in full of their bonuses and terminal leave credits.

Mrs. Jesusa Goseco, Provincial HRMO, sheds light on these issues as another stand-off staged this morning by some provincial quarry checkers in front of the capitol building here. The matter is directed to the 64 reinstated provincial checkers. It may be recalled that on July 10 of this year, the same checkers headed by Eduardo de Leon and Alex Pineda ( both former Quarry Supervisors ) engaged in the same protest rally clamoring for the resignation of Provincial Administrator Atty. Vivian T. Dabu who is the Chairperson of the BALAS Committee. The protesters were one in saying that they were hurt by allegations of Atty. Dabu regarding their "inefficency" and "irregularities" in some checkpoints.

The initial four-day stand-off was settled by Gov. Eddie T. Panlilio through a dialogue with all workers concerned. All employees who joined the rally then were automatically terminated following the guidelines set forth by the Civil Service Commission ( CSC ) through Resolution No. 021316 referred to as the "Omnibus Rules on Prohibited Concerted Mass Actions in the Public Sector". Thus state the guidelines:

Section 4. Limitations on the Right to Self Organization. - the right to self organization accorded to the government employees as described in the foregoing section that shall not carry with it the right to engage in any form of prohibited concerted activity or mass action causing or intending to cause work stoppage or service disruption, albeit of temporary nature.

Section 5. Definition of Prohibited Concerted Mass Action. - As used in this Omnibus Rules, the phrase "prohibited concerted activity or mass action" shall be understood to refer to any collective activity undertaken by government employees, by themselves or through their employees' organizations, with the intent of affecting work stoppage or service disruption in order to realize their demands or force concessions, economic or otherwise, from their respective agencies or the government. It shall include mass leaves, walkouts, pickets and acts of similar in nature.

Section 7. Administrative Liability. - Government employees who join, participate or take part in any prohibited concerted activity or mass action as defined in the preceding section, shall be held administratively liable for the offense of conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and such other administrative offenses as may be warranted under the circumstances.

Furthermore, in the Plantilla of Casual Appointment, the appointee clearly understands and agrees that he/she "may be laid-off any time before the expiration of the employment period when his/her services is no longer needed or funds are no longer available or the project has already been completed/finished or his/her performance is below par".

All provincial checkers are casual appointees. The "unconditional reinstatement" was a fruit of the negotiation that was mediated by some members of the civil society groups like the Kapampangan Marangal Inc. (KMI) and Kapampangan Coalition (KCI) on JUly 14, 2008 at a venue undisclosed to media. While Gov. Panlilio ordered the reinstatement of the terminated employees, the provincial chief executive remains firm that he is bound to implement the law.

Goseco further elucidates that the checkers (whose re-appointment covers the period July 21, 2008 - August 31, 2008) need not worry of facing unemployment because they (64 Checkers) are being considered for continuous service. "No directive was issued by the appointing authority that these checkers will be laid-off after August 31, 2008", the HRMO added.

Christopher Ocampo, a BALAS Committee member, was told to explain to his rank that their termination in July 10, 2008 still entitles them to the full payment of their terminal leave credits as well as their bonuses. Four months of uncut service prior to October 31 qualifies a government employee to receive his/her bonus in full. /PIO

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

KASAUP (KING BAYUNG PAMPANGA)" EXECUTIVE BRIEF "

KASAUP literally means HELPER.

KASAUP is an organization of volunteers to the advocacy of Good Governance and Responsible Citizenship in Pampanga. The core members of KASAUP are the municipal coordinators of Kapampangan Marangal, Inc. (KMI), a people's organization with the same advocacy. These municipal coordinators are also at the same time the leaders of the civil society organizations in their respective municipalities.

These municipal coordinators are basically the people who volunteered as the municipal coordinators during the campaign of Among Ed Panlilio for Governor of Pampanga in the May 14, 2007 Elections. They continue their advocacy by volunteering as the partner of the provincial government and creating the direct link of the governor to the people of Pampanga as a member of the responsible citizenry.

KASAUP was organized to constructively assert the role of civil society in good governance and responsible citizenship. It will pursue a direct link with the provincial government in the pursuit of its advocacy. Its member municipal coordinators will continue to coordinate with KMI.


VISSION

To be a recognized major player in the pursuit of good governance and responsible citizenship in Pampanga.


MISSION

To create a direct, sustainable and constructive link between the provincial government and the people of Pampanga by direct participation in the planning, implementation and monitoring of the plans and programs of the provincial government.


GOALS

1. To create a direct link between the people of Pampanga and the provincial government.
2. To empower the citizenry by providing a mechanism where their concerns, ideas for good governance can be directly forwarded to the provincial government.
3. To empower the citizenry by providing a visible link for the provincial government in ensuring that its plans and programs are implemented correctly by allowing the former to be a part of the planning and monitoring process.

MEMBERSHIP

All current municipal coordinators who are willing to join KASAUP will form the core membership of the organization.

A committee on membership shall be created to plan and implement the membership program for KASAUP. This committee will also determine the organizational structure of KASAUP including the ways and means of determining who shall the comprise the members of the organizational structure. This structure will then operationalize the plans and programs of KASAUP.