No Bystanders

Is burning really the solution?

2011-10-04T01:43:00.000-07:00

The problem of solid waste is in the headlines again.

With stories like the Baguio (Irisan) trash slide, the Olongapo trash slide and the flooding in Metro Manila and central Luzon aggravated by the fact that our rivers and canals are full of trash, the problem of solid waste is being confronted once again, both at the local and national level.

Sadly, instead of promoting ecological alternatives (there are plenty of success stories out there), certain groups and even media personalities are promoting fake solutions to something that is not even a problem in the first place.

The things that we throw away are not waste, they are resources if we only manage them properly.

Sadly, people are after quick "solutions" like incineration. MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said he is open to reviving incineration as a way to address the problem of waste. DENR Secretary Ramon Paje is said to be to open to discussing it (thou he claims he was misquoted).

Ms. Karen Davila of ABS-CBN has been promoting it as a "practical solution," calling groups against it as "idealist." But are groups who are against incinerators really just idealist?

The EcoWaste Coalition, Mother Earth Foundation, GAIA, Greenpeace, and Health Care Without Harm are just some of the groups who are actively campaigning against the revival of incinerators. These are the same groups who worked hard to ensure that a ban on incineration is included in the Clean Air Act and Ecological Solid Waste Management Act which resulted in making the Philippines the first country in the world to ban incinerators (a lot of state or cities have made a similar move too).

So what is their issue with incineration? In their position submitted to the DENR and the MMDA, the groups summarized their position:

The revival and promotion of the use of incinerators, thermal waste-to-energy systems and more landfills will lead to:

1.    A BLATANT VIOLATION OF THE PEOPLE’S RIGHT TO LIVE IN A SAFE AND TOXIC-FREE ENVIRONMENT. No less than the Philippine Constitution of 1987, Section 17, provides that “The State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature.” The Ecological Solid Waste Management Act (Republic Act 9003), Clean Air Act (RA 8749), Clean Water Act (RA 9275), and other related laws of the country are all designed to assure such right of the people.

There are more than enough studies already attesting to the irreversible ill-effects of the above-stated technologies for waste disposal on all forms of life and on the environment, and to their contribution to the worsening condition of global warming and climate change.

Very recently, on September 18, 2011, the special rapporteur to the United Nations Human Rights Council recognized the irrationality of these toxic facilities and called for an end to the incineration of medical waste in order to protect human health and the environment.   The recommendation is the substitution of incineration with more environmental-friendly and safe methods of disposal.

2.    AGGRAVATION OF GLOBAL WARMING AND CLIMATE CHANGE. Incinerators and landfills are a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute greatly to the worsening climate.

The first of four fact sheets we are providing entitled “Incineration of Municipal Solid Waste / Impact on Global Warming” published by the David Suzuki Foundation et al., in May 2007 states that a study comparing technologies used in Ontario, Canada that produce energy shows that “incineration (labelled in the table as “gasification”) contributes the greatest amount of greenhouse gas emissions” at 1,800 gms/kwh, followed by combustion or mass burning (1,400gms/kwh), coal-fired (1,000gms/kwh), natural gas steam turbine (less than 1,000gms/kwh), and natural gas combined cycle (less than 400).

On the other hand, landfills are huge sources of methane, a potent GHG with 72 times more climatic impact compared to carbon in the next 20 years.

3.    TOXIC PROLIFERATION. Mixed solid wastes, when burned or heated, or subjected to gasification, pyrolysis or plasma produce air emissions or leach out extremely hazardous substances from heavy metals such as mercury, lead, arsenic, chromium, nickel, cadmium, vanadium and manganese to supertoxic dioxins and furans.

Incineration also produces bottom and fly ash, and sludge which have been found in several studies to be even more toxic than those emitted to the air or leached to the ground. And while incineration does reduce the mass of solid waste, the toxic ash which it will inevitably produce poses another equally difficult, if not greater, problem of disposal.

The problem with landfills is that they take up so much space that could otherwise be used for productive pursuits or for protecting the environment.

The reality is that so-called landfills are most often than not located in forested areas, watersheds, agricultural areas, beside rivers and near the seas, which are all environmentally critical areas.

With the increasing establishment of so-called sanitary landfills which regularly turn into dumpsites, more and more of the country’s soil and water resources are becoming toxic, which in turn expose more people to various tragedies.

4.    LOSS OF VALUABLE RESOURCES. Waste is a resource-turned-garbage if mixed with other useful discards.   If collected, hauled, and dumped or burned as such, it results in a tremendous loss of otherwise great wealth.

A study of the anatomy of waste reveals that almost 100% of our wastes, both biodegradable and non-biodegradable, can be recycled or composted; the remaining non-recyclable fraction— hazardous, infectious, and toxic wastes—can be properly dealt with using environment-friendly methods.

If research on the use and value of waste resources is fully pursued as mandated in RA 9003, this would generate substantial and continuing knowledge and know-how for the country to prevent discards from being wasted and use such resources in establishing a sustainable, cyclical - not linear - economy that is allows diminishing natural resources to replenish itself.

5.    LOSS OF MILLIONS OF JOBS IN THE RECYCLING INDUSTRY AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ECOLOGICAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT. Considering that waste is valuable resource, its incineration will result in the loss of livelihood in many informal recycling sectors, small industries, and communities whose residents are engaged in recycling, composting, segregation and collection of waste.

6.    INCINERATION IS A COSTLY COMMITMENT. “State-of-the-art incinerators” like gasification, pyrolysis and plasma technologies are extremely expensive to install and operate.    They suck public resources that are better used for basic social services like health and education. Studies show that Japan for example invested almost one third of the total expenditure of taxpayers’ money towards the improvement of incineration facilities with advanced technologies, this has not stopped the formation and release of dioxins from these plants. This is the same situation for other pollutants such as heavy metals and toxic trace chemicals.

Contractual obligations to supply a certain tonnage of waste per year to the incinerator can saddle municipalities with financial liabilities if there is a miscalculation in waste generation or a decreasing waste stream, giving them an incentive to maintain the supply of waste or even import it. [2]
Recent news even cited the bad experience of the City of Harrisburg in Pennsylvania where the city government “fell victim to the "incinerator from hell"—a waste-to-energy incinerator whose renovation caused the town to go $310 million into debt, five times as much money as the city has in its general fund, according to the Stateline newspaper.”[3] This prompted Pennsylvania to declare its capitol financially distressed.

7.    PROLIFERATION OF FAILED TECHNOLOGY. In 2000, through a loan from the Bank of Austria, the Philippine Government received 26 “state-of-the-art” medical waste incinerators. At the outset, these incinerators failed our emission standards for dioxins, nitric oxide and other pollutants, which resulted in them being decommissioned.

However, the Philippine government continues to pay PhP 92 million every year since 2002 and is bound to do so until 2014 for these loans. Also, accidents involving incinerator plants in developed countries such as the US, Japan, and Germany have been widely reported.

Since the banning of medical waste incineration, health care facilities around the country have proven that there are safe and environment-friendly solutions in managing health care waste. Autoclaving and microwaving, methods of disinfecting waste (without burning), which are widely practiced in health care today, require low investment and low operating cost and less the threat to health and environment.

Still, other groups are claiming that incineration is a "safe" technology. To answer their claims, below are some of the highlights of a report published by the British Society for Ecological Medicine (a complete copy can be found here) entitled "The Health Effects of Incinerators" (June 2008):

    • “Incinerator emissions are a major source of fine particulates, of toxic metals and of more than 200 organic chemicals, including known carcinogens, mutagens, and hormone disrupters. Emissions also contain other unidentified compounds whose potential for harm is as yet unknown, as was once the case with dioxins. Since the nature of waste is continually changing, so is the chemical nature of the incinerator emissions and therefore the potential for adverse health effects.”

        •    This fly ash is light, readily windborne and mostly of low particle size. It represents a considerable and poorly understood health hazard.

        •    America have shown that fine (PM2.5) particulate air pollution causes increases in all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and mortality from lung cancer, after adjustment for other factors. A more recent, well-designed study of morbidity and mortality in postmenopausal women has confirmed this, showing a 76% increase in cardiovascular and 83% increase in cerebrovascular mortality in women exposed to higher levels of fine particulates.

        • Higher levels of fine particulates have been associated with an increased prevalence of asthma and COPD. Toxic metals accumulate in the body and have been implicated in a range of emotional and behavioural problems in children including autism, dyslexia, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning difficulties, and delinquency, and in problems in adults including violence, dementia, depression and Parkinson’s disease.

        • Some chemical pollutants such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals are known to cause genetic changes.

        • Monitoring of incinerators has been unsatisfactory in the lack of rigor, the infrequency of monitoring, the small number of compounds measured, the levels deemed acceptable, and the absence of biological monitoring.

        •    It has been claimed that modern abatement procedures render the emissions from incinerators safe, but this is impossible to establish and would apply only to emissions generated under standard operating conditions. Two of the most hazardous emissions – fine particulates and heavy metals – are relatively resistant to removal.

        •    The safety of new incinerator installations cannot be established in advance and, although rigorous independent health monitoring might give rise to suspicions of adverse effects on the foetus and infant within a few years, this type of monitoring has not been put in place, and in the short term would not reach statistical significance for individual installations. Other effects, such as adult cancers, could be delayed for at least ten to twenty years. It would therefore be appropriate to apply the precautionary principle here.

        •    There are now alternative methods of dealing with waste which would avoid the main health hazards of incineration, would produce more energy and would be far cheaper in real terms, if the health costs were taken into account.

But the most important part of this report is probably this:

• Incinerators presently contravene basic human rights as stated by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights, in particular the Right to Life under the European Human Rights Convention, but also the Stockholm Convention and the Environmental Protection Act of 1990. The foetus, infant and child are most at risk from incinerator emissions: their rights are therefore being ignored and violated, which is not in keeping with the concept of a just 7society. Nor is the present policy of locating incinerators in deprived areas where their health effects will be maximal: this needs urgent review.

I hope Ms. Karen Davila gets to read this. And I hope that she will afford those who campaign against incinerators the same airtime she has spent on promoting incinerators. Her listeners and viewers deserved to know the other side of this issue.

At the end of the day, the question we have to ask ourselves is "Can we really afford to burn our resources when we are living on a finite planet?"

To quote the famous Chief Indian Seattle, "We did not inherit this earth from out forefathers, we are just borrowing it from our children." As such, each one of us has the responsibility to make sure that we are passing on to our children a better planet, or at the very least, a planet where there is still enough resources, where scarce resources are not wasted or burned.

Note: The writer is an advocate against incinerator. He is currently the President of Mother Earth Foundation.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

Manila City Council Lauded for Thumbing Down Incinerators

2011-09-20T22:21:00.000-07:00

21 September 2011, Quezon City. Environment health leaders commended the Manila City Council for unanimously passing yesterday a resolution that effectively nipped in the bud proposal to burn Metro Manila’s trash.

Through a resolution sponsored by Councilor Numero Lim of Manila’s second district, councilors from various political blocs expressed "strong and vehement opposition" to the use of incinerators as proposed by the Metro Manila Development Authority for garbage disposal.

The City Council cited health, environmental and economic reasons for rejecting incinerators, adding "that these devices are notoriously expensive because of the energy required to burn garbage."

In lieu of incineration, the City Council urged the government to enforce “with vigor and political will” proven waste prevention and reduction measures such as source separation, reusing, recycling and composting.

The resolution immediately drew a chorus of approval from various citizens’ groups that see waste as a resource, which should be recycled back to nature or commerce instead of being dumped or burned and causing toxic pollution.

“We laud Councilor Lim and the City Council for weighing in on moves to lift the incineration ban that is enshrined in two major environmental laws. They are right in telling the concerned authorities to focus on real solutions, not on deceptive techno-fixes, that will address the garbage woes of Manila and the bulging metropolis,” said Froilan Grate, President of Mother Earth Foundation and NGO representative to the Metro Manila Solid Waste Management Board.

Republic Act 8749, the Clean Air Act, prohibits the “burning of municipal, bio-medical and hazardous wastes, which process emits poisonous and toxic fumes,” while Republic Act 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, calls for the “adoption of the best environmental practices in solid waste management excluding incineration.”

For his part, Roy Alvarez, President of the EcoWaste Coalition, encouraged other local government units (LGUs) to take their cue from the Manila City Council and stop the resurgence of waste incinerators all over the country.

“LGUs should not fall prey to incinerator prophets and their misleading promises of supplying emissions-free and cost-effective waste burners.   Take notice of what the Manila councilors did, don’t play with fire and pursue inclusive, climate-friendly Zero Waste systems,” stated Alvarez.
Von Hernandez, President of the Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA-Philippines), also cautioned LGUs against the “formidable air pollution challenge” resulting from the discharge of persistent environmental pollutants linked with incinerators, including cancer-causing dioxins and furans.

“Modern incinerators may be equipped with advanced pollution control systems, but in the end, they only serve to capture and transfer the problem between different environmental media,” Hernandez explained.

“Ash generated by the combustion process, considered hazardous waste, typically end up being dumped in landfills. So while there are indeed modern incinerators, there is no such thing as a pollution or emissions-free incinerator,” he emphasized.

To drum up support for real solutions to garbage woes, various environmental health groups are conducting public outreach programs that will culminate with an anti-incineration parade on September 28.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

Groups demand closure of all dumps after Baguio trashslide

2011-09-04T22:39:00.000-07:00

Sept 5, 2011, Quezon City- A week after the tragic “garbageslide” in Baguio City that claimed six lives and left houses in disrepair, residents from different communities affected by existing dumps, together with health and environmental groups, gathered in front of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to demand the immediate closure and rehabilitation of more than 1,000 illegal, toxic dumpsites all over the country.

“The Irisan Tragedy is as shocking as it is an unnecessary waste of life. According to RA 9003, Irisan dump and all other garbage dumpsites in the country, should have closed– making the local government of Baguio a blatant, continuing violator of the law as well as severely negligent of the immediate communities’ welfare and health,” said Romeo Hidalgo of the November 17 Movement and co-chair of the Task Force Dumps of the EcoWaste Coalition.

“Worst, there are thousands of other communities all over the country facing a similar disaster should local governments continue with their non-feasance in closing down all these toxic dumps,” he added.

Carrying a mock-up coffin covered with trash, residents from Payatas in Quezon City, Navotas City, San Mateo in Rizal, and various towns of Cavite affected by dumpsites march to the DENR and they offered prayers for the garabage-slide victims and those they left behind.

Under the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000 or Republic Act 9003 (RA9003), open dumpsites should have been closed in 2004, and controlled dumps in 2006. However, according to the data of National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC) posted on their website, there are still 790 open dumps and 382 controlled dumps operating in the country.

According to EcoWaste Coalition, the Irisan Tragedy could have been prevented had DENR duly enforced RA 9003, and filed appropriate legal actions against Mayor Mauricio Domogan and other city officials for permitting continuous mixed waste dumping in the facility.

“We’ve had RA9003 for years but rather than dutifully observing and enforcing it, we sought ways to circumvent it and keep deleterious facilities operating. Meanwhile, innocent lives pay the price of our prolonged defiance of this law. How many more Payatas and Irisan do we need? How many more innocent lives must pay the price of our neglect?” said Ochie Tolentino of the Cavite Green Coalition.

“We demand DENR Secretary Ramon Paje to immediately coordinate with the Department of Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police in order to close down all existing dumps post haste, and enforce appropriate actions against local officials who continuously defy the law,” she added.

“We are still suffering eleven years after the Payatas garbage slide that some 1,000 people, although only some 200 were retrieved and recorded. Residents near the dump continue to suffer from toxic fumes emitted by the dumps. Respiratory ailments have become common disease while toxic leachate continues to be released to the environment,” said Nita Panoy of Bangon Kalikasan Movement.

The EcoWaste Coalition asserted that the DENR must be firm in enforcing the anti-dump provision of RA9003 since it is their primary mandate to protect the environment and safeguard the health of the people. The environment watchdog also called on all local government units to close down all their existing dumps and put into place genuine ecological solid waste management systems based on the principles of people-based management, waste minimization, segregation at-source, and waste diversion within their areas.

Groups joining the protest action against dumps are Ang Nars, Ban Toxics!, Bangon Kalikasan Movement, Buklod Tao, Cavite Green Coalition, Diocese of Caloocan-Ecology Ministry, Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives, Greenpeace Southeast Asia, Mother Earth Foundation and November 17 Movement.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

Speak up for your tukayo

2011-09-03T02:18:00.000-07:00

Tukayo (variation: tokayo)
English Definition: (noun) namesake; person having the same first name as one's self
(Source)

You share a name, now know his story.

I first saw the website as a Google ad on my blog, but since I can't click on my own ads, I wasn't able to visit it at that time. And then, while watching GMA News TV this morning, I saw the ad again and I finally visited the site.

The project is called "Tukayo Campaign Against Impunity" and their website is at http://speakup.com.ph. When you go to the site, you'll see a listing of names. You can click on a name to know the story behind it. Or, you can enter your name and see if you share a name with anyone of them. I entered my name and I got to know Atty. Froilan Siobal.

This is his story:

Atty. Froilan Siobal and his wife Erlinda were killed on November 19, 2006, at around ten in the morning along Siobal St., Barangay Inerangan, Alaminos City, Pangasinan. Husband and wife were in their vehicle when SPO1 Agapito "Pitong" Celino from the 106th Police Mobile Group, together with Ojing Olivarez, suddenly appeared and shot the victims. Erlinda attempted to get out of the vehicle, however, she stumbled and Celino killed her with two shots. Sworn statements from witnesses Reynaldo A. Dacon and Bernald A. Caballero corroborated the role of both Celino and Olivarez in the killing, as well as implicated Barangay Councilman Donald Sison and Edgar Parang. The eldest son of the Siobals, Francisco, further confirmed that the men seen by the witnesses had threatened his father. He further indentified Boyet Medrano, Bong Grate, Barangay Chairman Rico Aquino, Mading "Mading" Tobias, Daniel Luciano, Landong Losendo, and a certain "Taba", all residents of Barangay San Miguel, Bani, Pangasinan, as conspirators in his parents’ murder. Francisco supposes the motive for his parents’ killing was that his father was suspected of being one of the masterminds in the killing of Rommel Rolda, a native of Vigan, Ilocos Sur, residing at Barangay San Miguel, Bani, Pangasinan, who was shot to death on October 10, 2003. On 29 November 2006, a case of double murder was filed before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office, Alaminos City, Pangasinan, against suspects SPOT Agapito Celino, Ojing Olivarez, Barangay Councilman Edgar Parang and other John Does under ID No. AC-06-341. SPO1 Celino is being re-assigned from the 106th PMG to Pangasinan Police Provincial Office. He will be restricted inside the camp pending the disposition of an administrative case against him. (Emphasis mine)

His story was particularly unnerving for two reasons, aside from the fact that we share the same first name (and I share the same last name with one of the suspects, sadly). First, I used to work in Alaminos, Pangasinan during the past two years. I know the exact barangay where he was killed and I could have passed the same street where his life was taken - on broad daylight.

Two, the manner by which he was killed is particularly disturbing. That it happened during broad daylight is bad enough, but to know that it was committed by state elements that was supposed to protect us in the first place is simply outrageous and unacceptable. The primary suspect is a police officer and some of the conspirators are elected officials. You could almost feel their sense of impunity, their confidence that they could get away with this crime.

But he is just one of the many victims of alleged extralegal killings (ELKs). This site also covers victims of enforced disappearances (EDs) and acts of torture committed by state agents.

Also from the said site:

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) of the Philippines documented 1,001 victims of alleged ELKs for the period covering 2001-2009. On the other hand, the civil society group, Karapatan, reported 1,188 victims of ELKs, 205 victims of EDs, and 1,028 incidents of torture, for the same period. These are among other forms of human rights violations targeting political activists and members of the media.

The numbers alone are disheartening, but for me, one victim alone of ELK is one too many. Though the group also mentioned that the numbers are going down under the current administration, there is still more to be done to fully address this problem.They have a petition for President Aquino to sign the National Human Rights Action Plan.

The National Human Rights Action Plan or NHRAP, is more than a piece of paper. When signed by the President, it will be a roadmap for all branches of government at all levels in protecting the civil and political rights of all citizens, including marginalized groups like women, children, the disabled, migrant workers and indigenous people.

To borrow their slogan: Speak up. Right a wrong. It's up to us.

Please visit the site, learn about the victims and sign the petition.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

Agencies/ groups working for Child's Rights

2011-08-23T04:00:00.000-07:00

Below are some of the government agencies and non government organizations working on child's rights and the prevention of child abuse. Telephone numbers, fax, email and website are provided when available.

Please leave a comment if you know of any group that should be added on this list. Thank you!

Government Agencies

Department of Social Welfare and Development
Batasan Complex, Constitution hills, Quezon City
T: 931-8101 to 07
F: 931-8149
E: (emails of directors, secretary here.)
W: www.dswd.gov.ph

Center for the Welfare of Children
CWC Building, 10 Apo St., Sta Mesa Heights, QC
T: 740-8864
F:742-2010
E:cwc@cwc.gov.ph
W: www.cwc.gov.ph

Movie and Television Review and Classification Board
18 MTRCB Bldg., Timog Avenue, QC
T: 376-7380
F: 376-7380 loc 113
E: admin@mtrcb.gov.ph
W: www.mtrcb.gov.ph

Center for Human Rights
SAAC Bldg, Commonwealth Ave., UP Complex, Diliman, QC
T: 928-5655 926-6188
F: 929-0102
E: chair.rosales.chr@gmail.com
W: www.chr.gov.ph

Violence Against Women and Children Division, National Bureau of Investigation
Taft Avenue, Manila
Trunk Line 523-8231 loc 3403, Direct Line 526-1216
W: www.nbi.gov.ph

NBI- Anti Child Abuse, Discrimination and Exploitation Division
Taft Avenue, Manila
T: 525-6028

Non-Government Organizations

End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and te Trafficking of Children for Sexual Purposes (ECPAT)
143 Anonas Ext, Sikatuna Village, QC
T: 920-8151 441-5108
F: 929-9642
E: ecpatph@gmail.com
W: www.ecpat.net

UNICEF Philippines
31/F Yuchengco Tower, RCBC Plaza, Ayala cor Buendia Avenue, Makati City
T: 901-0130
E: manila@unicef.org
W: www.unicef.org/philippinesbr />
Save the Children- Philippines
1 Encarnacion cor Lapu-lapu Avenue, Makati City
T: 852-3064 852-3059 852-5408
F: 853-0215
E: swrpo@skginet.net
W: www.savethechildren.org

Bantay Bata Foundation
ABSCBN Foundation Building, Mother Ignacia cor Eugenio Lopez St, Quezon City
T: 415-6307 (Hotline 163)
E: bb163report@abs-cbn.com

Ateneo Human Rights Center
Ateneo Professional schools Bldg, Rockwell Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City
T: 899-7691 loc 2109
F: 899-4342
E: info@ahrc.org.ph
W: www.ahrc.org.ph

Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Child Sexual Abuse
122C Matahimik Street, UP Village, Diliman, QC
T: 434-7528
F 426-7839
E:cptcsa@mydestiny.net
W: www.cptcsa.org

University of the Philippines- College of Medicine, Philippine General Hospital
Child Protection Unit, Department of Pediatrics
Philippine General Hospital, Taft Avenue, Manila
Trunk Line 521-8450 loc 2214, Direct Line 526-8418
F: 524*1512
E: cpu@advisory.ngo.ph
W: www.childprotection.org.ph

Children's Legal Bureau, Inc.
Door 2 Rodriguez Apartment, 721 Escario cor Gil Garcia St, Capitol Site, Cebu City
T: (32) 254-5091
E: clbphils@pacific.net.ph

Compiled by Para Sa Mga Bata (Movement to End Child Abuse)

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

The Rights of Every Filipino Child

2011-08-12T04:58:00.000-07:00

1. To be born. To have a name and nationality.
2. To be free. To have a family who will take care of me.
3. To have a good education.
4. To develop my potentials.
5. To have enough food, shelter, a healthy and active body.
6. To be given the opportunity for play and leisure.
7. To be given protection against abuse, danger and violence brought by war
and conflict.
8. To live in a peaceful community.
9. To be defended and assisted by the government.
10. To be able to express my own views.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

Declaration of the Rights of the Child

2011-08-12T04:56:00.000-07:00

Proclaimed by United Nations General Assembly resolution 1386 (XIV) of 20 November 1959

DECLARATION OF THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD

Preamble

Whereas the peoples of the United Nations have, in the Charter, reaffirmed their faith in fundamental human rights and in the dignity and worth of the human person, and have determined to promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom,

Whereas the United Nations has, in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, proclaimed that everyone is entitled to all the rights and freedoms set forth therein, without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status,

Whereas the child, by reason of his physical and mental immaturity, needs special safeguards and care, including appropriate legal protection, before as well as after birth,

Whereas the need for such special safeguards has been stated in the Geneva Declaration of the Rights of the Child of 1924, and recognized in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and in the statutes of specialized agencies and international organizations concerned with the welfare of children,

Whereas mankind owes to the child the best it has to give,

Now therefore,

The General Assembly

Proclaims this Declaration of the Rights of the Child to the end that he may have a happy childhood and enjoy for his own good and for the good of society the rights and freedoms herein set forth, and calls upon parents, upon men and women as individuals, and upon voluntary organizations, local authorities and national Governments to recognize these rights and strive for their observance by legislative and other measures progressively taken in accordance with the following principles:

Principle 1

The child shall enjoy all the rights set forth in this Declaration. Every child, without any exception whatsoever, shall be entitled to these rights, without distinction or discrimination on account of race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status, whether of himself or of his family.

Principle 2

The child shall enjoy special protection, and shall be given opportunities and facilities, by law and by other means, to enable him to develop physically, mentally, morally, spiritually and socially in a healthy and normal manner and in conditions of freedom and dignity. In the enactment of laws for this purpose, the best interests of the child shall be the paramount consideration.

Principle 3

The child shall be entitled from his birth to a name and a nationality.

Principle 4

The child shall enjoy the benefits of social security. He shall be entitled to grow and develop in health; to this end, special care and protection shall be provided both to him and to his mother, including adequate pre-natal and post-natal care. The child shall have the right to adequate nutrition, housing, recreation and medical services.

Principle 5

The child who is physically, mentally or socially handicapped shall be given the special treatment, education and care required by his particular condition.

Principle 6

The child, for the full and harmonious development of his personality, needs love and understanding. He shall, wherever possible, grow up in the care and under the responsibility of his parents, and, in any case, in an atmosphere of affection and of moral and material security; a child of tender years shall not, save in exceptional circumstances, be separated from his mother. Society and the public authorities shall have the duty to extend particular care to children without a family and to those without adequate means of support. Payment of State and other assistance towards the maintenance of children of large families is desirable.

Principle 7

The child is entitled to receive education, which shall be free and compulsory, at least in the elementary stages. He shall be given an education which will promote his general culture and enable him, on a basis of equal opportunity, to develop his abilities, his individual judgement, and his sense of moral and social responsibility, and to become a useful member of society. The best interests of the child shall be the guiding principle of those responsible for his education and guidance; that responsibility lies in the first place with his parents. The child shall have full opportunity for play and recreation, which should be directed to the same purposes as education; society and the public authorities shall endeavor to promote the enjoyment of this right.

Principle 8

The child shall in all circumstances be among the first to receive protection and relief.

Principle 9

The child shall be protected against all forms of neglect, cruelty and exploitation. He shall not be the subject of traffic, in any form. The child shall not be admitted to employment before an appropriate minimum age; he shall in no case be caused or permitted to engage in any occupation or employment which would prejudice his health or education, or interfere with his physical, mental or moral development.

Principle 10

The child shall be protected from practices which may foster racial, religious and any other form of discrimination. He shall be brought up in a spirit of understanding, tolerance, friendship among peoples, peace and universal brotherhood, and in full consciousness that his energy and talents should be devoted to the service of his fellow men.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

What you need to know about the Price Tag Law

2011-08-12T04:49:00.000-07:00

Q: What is the Price Tag Law under R.A. 7394?

A: The Price Tag Law, as embodied in R.A. 7394, requires that all consumer products sold in retail to the public shall bear an appropriate price tag, label or marking indicating the price of the article. Such consumer products shall not be sold at a price higher than that stated therein.

Q: Why is there a need for Price Tag?

A: The price tag is need for the following reasons:
- To provide buyers with adequate information and guide to enable them to compare quality and prices of goods and patronize stores selling quality products at low prices.
- Its presence will discourage and minimize haggling which is a waste of time, money and energy of both buyer and seller.
- It also expedites transactions and enables both the buyer and the seller to use the time and energy for more productive endeavors

Q: What is a Price Tag?

A: A price tag is a device attached to a commodity stating the price at which it is offered for sale.

Q: What are the characteristics of a Price Tag?

A: A price tag should:
-be clearly written;
-state the price of the commodity per unit (piece, kilogram, meter, liter, etc.) in Philippine currency, except when a law or regulation allows consumer products to be sold in foreign currency such as in the case of duty free shops;
-bear no erasures or alterations of any sort.

Q: When are erasures or alterations in price tag allowed?

A: Erasures or alterations are allowed only in price reduction sales promotion compaigns.

Q: Are articles offered for sale at wholesale covered by the law?

A: No, only goods at retail are covered by the law.

Q: Is the use of codes in price tag allowed?

A: Generally, prices of consumer products and services shall not be written in code. However, if it is used in addition to price tags, labels, markings or price lists, it is then allowed.

Q: When is a price list allowed?

A: The price list is allowed when:
- a consumer product is too small or the nature of which makes it impractical to place a price tag thereon;
- in case of consumer services.

Q: Is the price tag required on samples or dummies on display?

A: Yes, samples or dummies of products offered for sale on retail when displayed within the retail outlets shall also bear the prices of products which they represent.

Q: Is price tag required for lumber?

A: Yes, in the case of lumber sold, displayed or offered for sale to the public, the same shall be tagged or labeled indicating thereon the price and the corresponding official name of the wood.

Q: What is the penalty for violation of this provision?

A: The penalty for this violation are:
A violation for the first time shall subject the person to a fine of not less than Two Hundred Pesos (P200.00) but not more than Five Thousand Pesos (P5,000.00) or by imprisonment of not less than one (1) month but not more than six (6) months or both, at the discretion of the court;
A violation for the second time shall also carry with it the penalty of revocation of business permit and license.
Source: Department of trade and Industry

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

The 8 Basic Consumer Rights

2011-08-12T04:30:00.000-07:00

1.    The Right to Basic Needs

The first consumer right is the right to basic needs which guarantees survival, adequate food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, and sanitation.

You may look forward to:
The availability of basic and prime commodities to consumers at affordable prices and of good quality.

What to do:
* Prioritize your needs;
* Look for quality, not quantity;
* Be quality conscious, not brand conscious;
* Do not engage in panic-buying; and
* In time of crisis / calamity, be vigilant in ensuring that basic commodities are available in the market.

If you are not satisfied:

* Keep in mind that the highest priced or most expensive product in the market may not be necessarily be the best in quality;
* Be vigilant in ensuring your continuous access to a wide assortment of competitively-priced goods and services; and
* Ensure also that in time of crisis, the price and commodities do not increase exorbitantly.

2.    The Right to Safety

The second consumer right is the right to safety, which is the right to be protected against the marketing of goods or the provision of services that are hazardous to health and life.

You may look forward to:
* Manufacturers of consumer products to undertake extensive safety and performance testing before selling their products in the market.
* Labels which contain the proper product information, its use and operation, and necessary precautions or warning signs.

What to do:
* If you have sensitivity to a certain ingredient, it would be very beneficial if you read all labels and product circulars before using a certain product.
* If you are in a store and have doubts about the product's effectiveness, ask for a person who knows how the product works or how to operate it.
* Keep certain products out of children's reach. Watch out for warning signs in the label of the product like "Not suited for Children Below Four (4) Years" or "POISON: For external use only", etc.
* Before buying products especially in cases when only large containers are available, it would be best if you ask for a sample or tester.
* Be on guard regarding products which are found to be hazardous, you can scan newspapers regularly for news bits on this topic.

If you are not satisfied:
* If no one in the store can explain to you satisfactorily things about the product, try to contact the manufacturer and give the pertinent details needed in determining the product easily such as code numbers and date of purchase for easy product identification.
* If you have doubts about the safety or proper performance of a product, go back to the store with your official receipt. To save time, jot down your questions.

3.    The Right to Information

The third consumer right is the right to information, which is the right to be protected against dishonest or misleading advertising or labeling, and the right to be given the facts and information needed to make an informed choice.

You may look forward to:
A complete information about the product to be bought including its use, ingredients / chemical contents, precautions, if any, limitations and expiry date.

What to do:
* Before buying a product, it is very important for you to read the label carefully so that you would be able to know its use, content (chemical ingredients), number of pieces, and proper care.
* Before signing any document like warranties or guarantees, credit items or service contracts, it is important to read and understand all provisions in the documents especially the fine prints.
* It is very important to read newspapers, buying guides, and magazines before buying a product. Also, consult with friends who you know have bought a similar product.
* If you need to clarify something regarding the use of the product, don't hesitate to write the company to obtain detailed information.
* It is imperative to look for the name and address of the manufacturer in case the need arises.

If you are not satisfied:
It would be advisable to contact the manufacturer directly which will be in the best position to give you detailed information.

4.    The Right to Choose

The fourth consumer right is the right to choose, which is the right to choose products with competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality.

You may look forward to:
* A wide array of goods and services which are offered in the market with diverse brands, sizes, shapes and colors, and with differences in the price, quality, and use.

What to do:
* Specify what you really want. The biggest size may be cheaper but it may not be what you need.
* Canvass price before buying a product or signing a contract.
* Read the manuals or instructions carefully to be able to compare one product with another so you will not miss the fine prints which might contain the information you need to determine which product would serve you better.
* If product testers are available, be sure to try one.
* Be wary of special offers like free items or buy 2 take 1 free. Compare them with the regular priced items to be sure that you are not paying for the said "free" items.

If you are not satisfied:
* Get in touch with the store owner / manufacturer in case you have a query regarding the product.
* As regards services rendered, you may write the company manager and suggest ways in which to improve their service

5.    The right to Representation

The fifth consumer right is the right to representation, which is the right to express consumer interests in the making and execution of government policies.

You may look forward to:
Legislators who would propose laws that would ensure consumers have the chance to live a better life by getting the best value for their hard-earned peso.

What to do:
*Read newspapers, bulletin boards in private and government offices, especially in your locality for announcements of public hearings.
*Take time to attend public hearings or even meetings conducted in your area wherein consumer issues are being discusses.
*Be aware of how the consumer laws and regulations are being implemented in your locality.

If you are not satisfied:
*Write a letter to your barangay chairman, especially if the issue concerns your locality. The barangay chairman is in the best position to recommend your proposal to the council.
*Be a member of a consumer group because there is strength in number and your collective voices will be heard loud and clear.

6.    The right to Redress

The sixth consumer right is the right to redress, which is the right to be compensated for misrepresentation, shoddy goods, or unsatisfactory services.

3 Rs:
Repair
Replace
Refund
You may look forward to:
Manufacturers/storeowners to replace defective goods pursuant to the provision on ?No Return, No Exchange? provided in the Implementing Rules and Regulations of Republic Act 7394, otherwise known as the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

What to do:
* In case you bought a defective product, try going back to the store where you bought the item and look for the Consumer Welfare Desk (CWD).
* You may request a replacement, refund, or repair.
* If the manager or store representative does not act on your complaint, proceed to the agency which has jurisdiction over your case.
* Bring the necessary documents like complaint letter and a copy of your receipt and other documents vital for the mediation.
* Be sure to attend the mediation conference.

If you are not satisfied:
* If mediation fails, arbitration follows. The process used is similar to the process being implemented by the regular courts. You will be duly informed of the developments of your case.

Note: On the first day of the hearing, the Consumer Arbitration Officer (CAO) shall talk to the parties for a last attempt to mediate/conciliate the complaint. If no settlement is reached, a formal hearing will be conducted. The CAO shall resolve the complaint after formal hearing. The CAO?s decision becomes final and executory unless appealed to the Department Secretary concerned, within 15 days from receipt of such order (Reference: Joint DTI, DOH, DA Administrative Order # 1, Series of 1993).

7.    The right to Consumer Education
The seventh consumer right is the right to consumer education, which is the right to acquire the knowledge and kills necessary to be an informed customer.

You may look forward to:
* The three sectors of society, business, government and consumer to embark on tri-media information campaign on consumer-related issues.
* A series of seminar, conferences, for a, trainings, and public hearings for the welfares of consumers.
* Consumer education being integrated in the school curriculum from elementary, secondary, and tertiary level as mandated by the Consumer Act.

What to do:
* Scan newspapers, magazines, and other reading materials for articles or news bits which educate consumers on hot to get the best value for their money.
* Involve yourself in public hearings or even meetings conducted in your area wherein consumer related issues such as access to basic goods and services, product quality and safety, sustainable consumption and the like are being discussed.
* Participate in seminar, conferences, and for a conducted by government agencies, consumer groups, and business/industry sector regarding new laws and regulations for consumer welfare.

If you are not satisfied:
* Write a letter to consumer columnists to share your opinions regarding a consumer issue.
* Companies have consumer departments and department stores have Consumer Welfare Desk (CWD) wherein you can inquire on additional information regarding a product or share your views on goods and services that they are offering.
* Inquire about the consumer education activities being undertaken by the schools.
* Inform government officials in writing on issues or legislation that you think will greatly affect you as consumer.

8.    The right to a Healthy Environment

The eighth consumer right is the right to a health environment, which is the right to live and work in an environment which is neither threatening nor dangerous and which permits a life of dignity and well-being.

You may look forward to:
* The government exerting an iron hand regarding the alarming increase in the degredation of the environment especially our forests, dying wildlife, depleted landfill space, and environmental contamination to prevent further damage.
* Constant monitoring of our seas, coral reefs, forests, and waste disposal being commit ed by factories to check if there is a violation of the laws on environmental protection.

What to do:
* Be aware of the kind and extent of pollution occurring in your locality like air pollution, noise/odor, etc. so that you would be able to address the problem.
* Do your share in caring for our environment by practicing the 3R?s of environmental protection:
REDUCE the source of solid wasted by buying earth-friendly products. These are products that could be disposed properly without harming our environment.

REUSE products and containers as much as possible.

RECYCLE because using recycled products and recycling per se will prolong the life of our landfills.
If you are not satisfied:
* Write to the local officials and to consumer organizations if you are aware of dynamite fishing or illegal logging being committed in your area.
* Organize an earth-friendly group in your area, the main task of which is to ensure that your surroundings have clean air and water. Also, encourage the people in your neighborhood to practice proper waste disposal, use of recycled and recyclable materials and the use of environmentally safe materials.

Source: Department of Trade and Industry

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

Two seconds from impact

2011-07-24T01:23:00.000-07:00

Two seconds from impact, and all I can think of is "Is this it?"

I was at peace.

A few minutes after 12 noon today, July 24, 2011, as I was riding a jeepney from Katipunan to UP, I was looking at a white L300 van going on full speed towards the jeep I was riding as we were making a left turn towards UP.

Then it was all a blur. Sounds of metal hitting each other, aluminum twisting and glass breaking. It was as if time stood still for a brief moment. I remember being thrown on the floor, a hand or an elbow hit my left eye, and I felt weight on top of me.

And my first thought was: I AM ALIVE!

And then people started crying. Someone said, "I can't move". And then a young woman cried "There's blood on my head." There were a number calling for help, my self included.


The drivers of both vehicles arguing who was at fault. (FGrate 2011)

Then, I tried to feel my head for any blood. There was none. Feeling that I can move, I tried going down and called for help. I wanted to be out of the way, feeling that I was ok. Standing in the center of the highway, I tried to remember my name and tried to form one sentence. Since I can remember my name, and the sentence I formed sounded coherent to me, I concluded I don't have any damage to my head. I tried feeling my other body parts, but there was no wet spot. My hips are sore for hitting the floor, and my left eye was sore too, but that was it. I think I am OK.

I looked at the other guy who went down also, he seemed OK, no visible wound or blood.

People started coming, calling for taxis and other vehicles to carry the wounded to the UP Infirmary which is only a few minutes away.

When all those who are wounded were brought to the Infirmary already, I went back to the jeepney and joined the other onlookers. The damage to the jeep isn't much, but during impact, it felt like it was totally crushed. I took some photos, and decided it was time to leave. There was nothing else I can do.

I decided to walk a bit inside UP. While walking, I was able to reflect on a few things.

First, if this happened in Commonwealth Avenue, I doubt if I would have survived. The van would have been running faster and the impact would have been greater.

Second, I was lucky to be sitting where I was sitting at the time of impact. I saw the van as it was approaching us up to the point of impact. The lady in front of me was directly at the point of impact, and she was bloody. And most of those who were serious (as per my amateur assessment) were sitting on the right side of the jeep.

Third, almost everyone would agree that a lot of drivers in Metro Manila are not worthy to be issued a divers license. And yet how many of us are acting on it? When do we stop complaining and start doing something about the problem? How many accidents would have to happen for us to say, enough is enough? Does the victim have to be someone close to us for us to act?

Then maybe it's too late.

Fourth, I found my immediate reaction amusing. Two seconds before impact, and all I can think of is "Is this it?"

I was at peace.

This is in contrast to my reaction a few years ago when I was also in the face of death.I wrote about this experience here, but looking back, I remember being angry. As a gun was pointed at me, I was asking, "Why me?, Why now?, Why this way?"

But this time I felt ready. And I guess this is because after the first incident, I made an assessment of my life and made some drastic changes. I quit my 8-5 job to spend more time with my family, friends and in doing the things that I love. I traveled more, love deeply, forgave easily, held no grudges against anyone, and basically try to go to bed every night being at peace with the fact that tomorrow is not guaranteed.

And lastly, this experience has again made me reexamine my life.

Am I in a point where I want my life to be? Can I really afford to give up everything at this point to pursue the love of my life who is at the other side of the world? Do I really want to? Questions that I need to answer, and soon.

But as for today, let us celebrate life. It may be short, but we can definitely make it sweet.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.net

Willie, the boy who wouldn't smile, and the issue of child's rights (A compilation)

2011-07-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

Below is a compilation of statements and documents related to the child abuse incident on the March 12, 2011 episode of the show Willing Willie by Mr. Willie Revillame on TV5.

In the said episode, also posted on YouTube (now deleted) , a six-year-old boy named Mike (not his real name) was shown dancing “ala-macho dancer," much to the delight of the host and the studio audience. As seen in the video, however, the boy was clearly distressed and humiliated by the said experience as evidenced by his crying while supposedly “entertaining” Mr. Revillame and his audience.

About Us
Our complaint letter
The signatories
Timeline of Events
Froilan's Clarification on ABS-CBN's participation

The Show
Original Sponsors
Advertisers and Contacts
Transcript of Willie Revillame's Speech on Willing Willie, April 8

Statements and Replies
Department of Social Welfare and Development
Movies and Television review and Classification Board
Apology of TV5 and Mr. Revillame
Philippine Association of National Advertisers
Commision on Human Rights
Council for the Welfare of Children
UNICEF
Full statement of TV5 on the measures it is undertaking
Pia Cayetano
Ateneo Human Rights Center
St. Scholastica's MassCom Dept
UP College of MassComr
World Vision
CBCP - NASSA

Advertisers' Action and Statements
Unilever Ad Pull out on all live game shows
Jollibee Food Corporation
Procter and Gamble
CDO Food Corporations
Cebuana Lhuiller

Others
House Resolution Condemning Child Abuse on Willing Willie

Our Complaint Letter

Hon. Loretta Ann P. Rosales, Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights

Sen. Pia S. Cayetano, Committee Chair, Youth, Women and Family Affairs

Hon. Corazon "Dinky" Juliano-Soliman, Secretary, Department of Social Welfare and Development

Hon. Grace Poe Llamanzares, Chairman, Movies and Television Ratings and Classification Board

Mr. Manny Pangilinan, Chairman, TV5

Justice Santiago M. Kapunan, Officer in Charge, Integrated Bar of The Philippines

Mr. John Rojo, President, Philippine Association of National Advertisers

Ms. Charmaine Canillas, Chairman, Ad Standards Council

Ateneo Human Rights Center

Council for the Welfare of Children

SUBJECT: CHILD ABUSE ON WILLING WILLIE SHOW OF TV5

We wish to bring to your attention a deplorable incident that occurred during the March 12, 2011 episode of Willing Willie, hosted by Mr. Willie Revillame which was aired during TV5's primetime block. In the said episode, also posted on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YRCxh9q64w, a six-year-old boy named Jan-jan was shown dancing “ala-macho dancer," much to the delight of the host and the studio audience. As seen in the video, however, the boy was clearly distressed and humiliated by the said experience as evidenced by his crying while supposedly “entertaining” Mr. Revillame and his audience.

Children should be at school studying or playing at home. They should not be used as cheap sources of entertainment. The act of making children work is already unfortunate; however, the said act is even more deplorablewhen they lose their dignity and self respect in the process.

If TV shows that employ child actors are required to secure the necessary permits from the DSWD, are reality shows like Willing Willie required to do the same? Are representatives from the DSWD present to monitor these activities, especially for shows that air live?

We quote Article V, Section 9 of Republic Act No. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act:

“Obscene Publications and Indecent Shows. – Any person who shall hire, employ, use, persuade, induce or coerce a child to perform in obscene exhibitions and indecent shows, whether live or in video, or model in obscene publications or pornographic materials or to sell or distribute the said materials shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period.

If the child used as a performer, subject or seller/distributor is below twelve (12) years of age, the penalty shall be imposed in its maximum period.

Any ascendant, guardian, or person entrusted in any capacity with the care of a child who shall cause and/or allow such child to be employed or to participate in an obscene play, scene, act, movie or show or in any other acts covered by this section shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period.”

Clearly, what transpired during this episode of Willing Willie was a violation of this provision of the law.

We condemn the blatant act of subjecting poor Filipinos -- especially minors, a group that history has shown to be one of the most vulnerable sectors of our society -- to humiliation in shows like these in exchange for some quick cash. Given the financial hardships that they have to endure, they often feel forced to do acts that violate their dignity as human beings in exchange for keeping body and soul together.

We condemn the host, not only for failing to stop the boy, who was clearly uncomfortable with what he had to do, but more importantly for milking similar situations for the sake of selling the show and increasing its ratings.

We condemn the producers of the show and the management of TV5 not only for failing to act appropriately on this incident, but also for tolerating these kinds of shows, as well as the host's tasteless and humiliating antics.

We express disappointment towards the parents of the boy for subjecting their child to this horrible experience.

We express concern for the studio audience and others at home who found this incident amusing and entertaining.

We express disappointment towards all the advertisers of the show for failing to consider the content and the values of the shows in which they advertise.

We challenge our government agencies, particularly the DSWD and the MTRCB, to act promptly on this and other similar incidents, and to institute measures to protect young children when they appear on Willing Willie and similar shows.

In this regard, we would like to request the following actions from your office:

For Mr. Manny Pangilinan and the management of TV5 to immediately implement a temporary moratorium on the guesting of children on Willing Willie and similar shows;

For Mr. Willie Revillame and the producers of the show to issue a public apology to Jan-jan and all their other guests whom they have humiliated in the past, and to promise never to commit the same acts in their future episodes;

For the MTRCB to conduct an investigation and review of the said episode to determine the violations made by the host and the producers of the show of the standards and regulations set by law and the Board, and impose corresponding penalties on those found guilty;

For the DSWD and the CHR to conduct an investigation into the said incident to determine the violations of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, committed by the host, the producers and the management of TV5, and initiate legal action against those who will be found responsible;

For the DSWD and the MTRCB, in partnership with the TV networks in the country, to formulate regulations that will cover the appearance of children on game shows and other reality-TV themed shows, especially those that are aired live;

For the Committee on Youth, Women and Family Affairs of the Senate to conduct an investigation, in aid of legislation, to institute amendments to Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 to protect children from similar violations;

For the DSWD to provide counselling to Janjan and to all other children who participated on the show in the past for possible trauma and other physiological distress, as well as to their parents who consider subjecting their children to such experience as acceptable;

For the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to provide legal support to the victims of these abuses who may want to pursue legal action against those who will be found responsible by the relevant government agencies; and

For the Philippine Association of National Advertisers and AdBoard to forward this complaint to all their members, especially those who advertise on Willing Willie, and to request their members to temporarily cease placing ads on the show until the host, the producer and the management have complied with this request and instituted reforms to avoid a repeat of this incident in the future. Otherwise, we will be constrained to start a call to boycott the products of those who will refuse to heed this request.

We are expecting a prompt reply and action on your part. We will be continuously monitoring this issue and will continue to gather support from the general public through a Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Para-kay-Jan-jan-Shame-on-you-Willie-Revillame/102087546543288) we have started, as well as the mainstream media.

Signed:

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Original Sponsors of Willing Willie

P&G's Head & Shoulders,
UFC Cook & Dip Catsup,
Oishi Cookies,
Smart C Drinks,
Jollibee's Mang Inasal,
Unilever's Rexona,
Pepsodent,
Vaseline,
Surf Liwuid Detergent,
Glutamax Face Cream,
Pau Liniment,
Yakult,
CDO Funtastyk Young Pork Tocino,
Technomarine,
Will Tower Mall,
Daily Spell fragrance,
Wil Cologne,
Protec-Cee,
Foton Automobile,
Manny Villar's Camella Homes,
Cebuana Lhuiller

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Sponsors and Contact Details

THOSE WHO PULLED OUT THEIR ADS:

Mang Inasal (Jollibee Food Corporation)

http://www.facebook.com/MangInasalPhilippines

Fit n' Right (Del Monte Philippines)

http://www.facebook.com/FitnRight

Proctor and Gamble, Distributing Pihilippines Inc.

Robert McDonald, CEO

brandinfo@ph.pgconsumers.com

Tel: (632) 894-3955 (MM)

1800-1-888-8008 (Outside MM, toll free)

Unilever Philippines

Fernando Fernandez, Chair

media.affairs@unilever.com

t: (632) 588-7400

f; (632) 588 7711

Cebuana Lhuillier

Jean Henri Lhuillier, CEO

T: (632) 895 1777, 8951619, 8951744, 8951222

F: (632) 5977814

THOSE WITHOUT OUT OFFICIAL STATEMENT OR THOSE WHO DECIDED NOT TO PULL OUT

Smart Communications Inc.,

Napoleon Navarro, President and CEO

publicaffairs@smart.com.ph

Suyen Corporation, Makers of Bench Clothing Line

Ben Chan, CEO

bench@benchtm.com

Tel; (632) 777-7888

Fax; (632)844-8150

Liwayway Manufacturing Corporation, Makers of Oishi Foods

Carlson Chan, Vice Chairman

carlsonroving@yahoo.com

T: (632) 844 8441-52

F: (632) 815 8343 or 887 4399

Aldrtz Corporate Center

Ritchie Corpus, Founder and President

Tel/Fax: (034) 432 3270

info@aldrtz.com

Nutriasia Group

Mr. Joselito Campos, Chairman and CEO

(632) 636 0279

Others not listed, in need of contact information as the website does not provide:

Technomarine Asia

Cherry Mobile

UPDATED 12:09 April 3,

Cherry Mobile

Maynard Ngu, Ceo

(632) 512 9302, 5479015, 547 8593, 577 5490

Technomarine Asia (Singapore)

+85223703555

info@technomarine.net

Foton Motor Philippines

Rommel Sutin, President

T: (632) 442 4076, 442 4077, 4424078

inq@foton.com.ph

Medical Test System (Distributor of Glutamax)

T: (632) 892 1250, 893 1443, 813 0069

F: (632) 816 6350

medtest@pldtdsl.net

Vista Residence Inc

Thrace Alcade, Business Development Head

T: (632) 298 5389

vistamanila@gmail.com

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Statement from the Department of Social Work and Development

PRESS STATEMENT of

DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman on the

Case of the Child “Jan-Jan” Shown in Willing Willie

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) condemns the emotional abuse and humiliation bestowed on a six-year-old child contestant, during the March 12, 2011 episode of the Willing Willie show aired on TV 5.

The sequence shows the boy gyrating in a distasteful manner with the audience, including the host (Willie Revillame), manifesting no evidence of concern or alarm for the child. This incident is clearly a violation of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and a blatant manifestation of child abuse. The term “child abuse” includes the following acts: “psychological and physical abuse, neglect, cruelty, sexual abuse and emotional maltreatment,” and “any act by deeds or words which debases, degrades or demeans the intrinsic worth and dignity of the child as a human being.”

Putting pressure on children to do acts such as mimicking adult sexy dances, in exchange for a certain amount of money, and at the expense of being laughed at and ridiculed by hundreds of people, clearly traumatizes the child. This is a clear form of child abuse and will not be tolerated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

The Department has already communicated to ABC Development Communication Chairman Manuel V. Pangilinan asking that children should not be allowed to appear in TV shows like Willing Willie, especially those capitalizing on poverty as a source of immediate entertainment. In the formal communication with Mr. Pangilinan, the Department has also rebuked the insensitive actions and remarks of Mr. Revillame.

On a final note, the Department is also conducting its own investigation on the said incident and if warranted under the circumstances, legal action will be taken against the TV 5 management and other concerned parties in violation of RA 7610. The necessary counseling will also be awarded to the child and his parents, to prevent further trauma and abuse due to the media hype brought about by this saddening incident.

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Movies and Television Review and Classification Board

Missing document.

Apology from TV5 and Mr. Revillame

Mr. Willie Revillame, the producers of "Willing Willie" and TV5 sincerely and deeply apologize for the segment of the show featuring 6-year-old Jan-Jan Suan which viewers may have found offensive or in bad taste. We wish to stress that there was never any intention to humiliate or abuse Jan-Jan or any contestant on the show.

"Willing Willie" is a program that was conceptualized to bring joy and hope and shine the spotlight on ordinary Filipinos. The program aims to provide a venue for everyone to show their talents, tell their stories and make their dreams come true. This is the thrust of everyone involved in the program, particularly its host, Willie Revillame.

Like most contestants on the show, Jan-Jan, accompanied by his aunt, joined the program to showcase his talent and play in a game segment in the hope of bringing home big prizes. He has performed in the past in school programs and mall contests, and his performance in "Willing Willie" was completely voluntary and with the blessings of his parents.

He appeared to be sad or even in tears, not because he was being forced to dance, but because he felt the dance was "serious" and he was playing a role. He did not want to smile because of his missing upper front teeth and because of the presence on the set of former basketball player Bonel Balingit who Jan-jan thought was a scary "giant".

Again, TV5 and Wil Productions express profound regret for any insensitivity on their part, and wish to thank all those who have expressed concern. We are always grateful to be reminded of our obligations to the viewing public. In turn, we hope to make clear that the objective of the show has always been to bring joy and hope to Filipinos, whether they are participating on the show or viewing at home.

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Phil. Association of National Advertisers

March 29, 2011

Dear Mr. Grate,

Greetings from the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA)!

This is to acknowledge receipt of your email sent to the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA) office yesterday March 28.

Please find below the email circulated to the representative of PANA member-companies, attaching your letter documenting “Child Abuse on Willing Willie show in TV5”.

We are sharing this information to our membership consistent with our mission statement which states that: PANA aims to be an association of advertisers providing leadership, guidance and support in the promotion of effective, truthful and responsible marketing communications, championing self-regulation, consumer protection, values formation and the advancement of the practice of marketing communications to global standards.

With this information, we trust that our members will be guided accordingly on the best decision to take.

Rest assured that the management of TV5 has also been contacted regarding our member advertisers’ concern on this

Respectfully yours

John V. Rojo

President

PANA

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Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.com

What went before? Unilever and Children in Media

2011-07-11T01:36:00.000-07:00

Last July 8, 2011, I met with the representatives of Unilever Philippines to discuss what they have done and what they plan to do in the coming weeks with regards to protecting the rights of children (and women) as contestants and viewers of live game shows on Philippine TV. The points discussed during this meeting is summarized in their recent statement. (Click here to read their statement.)

For the benefit of those who are not familiar with this story, allow me to share some of the highlights:
(Note: A complete timeline can be found on this GMA News piece.)

March 12 - a boy was made to dance "ala macho dancer" by TV host Willie Revillame on his show on TV5. The boy, who was crying, was made to dance at least five times.

March 26 - the Facebook Page "Para Kay Jan-jan" was started to raise awareness on the issue and gather signatures for a petition submitted to various government agencies and concerned groups.

March 28 - a copy of the petition was submitted to the Philippine Association of National Advertisers (PANA) with the request to forward the same to their members

April 1 - a letter requesting Unilever to suspend its ad placement on Mr. Revillame's show was sent to Unilever Philippines and their corporate headquarters based in the Netherlands.

April 3 - an urgent call was made to Unilever Netherlands to act on our request

April 7 - Unilever Philippines met with members of the Para Sa Mga Bata group to discuss their plan of action

April 8 - Unilever Philippines suspended ad placements on ALL LIVE GAME SHOWS in the country

(Between April and July, Unilever claims to have been working with PANA and the 3 stations to come up with a guidelines on the participation of children on live games shows, among others.)

My view

Among all the previous advertisers of Mr. Revillame, I believe Unilever was the most responsive to our call for action. Though some of my colleagues in the environmental movement might castigate me for praising Unilever, I believe I have to give credit where credit is due.

1. Unilever actively involved us in their decision making. Before they came out with their decision to pull out, they met with us to get our perspective on their plan.

2. Unilever elevated the cause into more than just an issue with one person by pulling out its ads from all live game shows in the country.

3. Unilever did more than what we asked them. They actively worked with PANA and the top 3 station for the drafting of the guidelines and they stood their ground that they will not return in any show unless such guidelines are in place.

When I wrote Unilever, I had two objectives in mind.

One, was for Unilever to recognize the voice of its consumers and consider our views in their decision making.

Two, for companies to be responsible in the quality of the shows in which they advertise.

I believe in our engagement with Unilever that these objectives are achieved.

I respect the fact that they do have a business to protect, but they also have shown that at the end of the day, it's not all about the money. And I have to thank them for that.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Unilever Philippines Statement on Advertising in Live Game Shows

2011-07-11T00:55:00.000-07:00

On April 8, Unilever, in response to the issue on children appearing in live game shows programs, has taken the following measures:

1. Temporarily withdrew its ad placement in all live game shows across all networks

2. Together with PANA, led a review of the current TV guidelines involving children in top 3 TV networks

Prompted by Unilever’s action, PANA lead discussions with top advertisers, TV Networks and the KBP and came up with a list of recommendations on program content involving children focused on 3 critical concerns : exposure to violence, appearance and involvement in situations and activities not appropriate to children and use of offensive language. PANA has submitted this to the KBP and to the top TV stations for their respective action.

In response to PANA’s recommendations, KBP is now set to approve new provisions on its broadcast code reinforcing current standards in programming related to children.

The top TV networks, particularly TV5, ABSCBN and GMA7, have also responded by reviewing their policies and drafting new measures towards better protection for children as a contestant, a talent or even as a viewer.

Some of the more critical actions taken by the networks are the following:

Stronger adherence and alignment of local network policies to existing industry child protection standards ex. RA 9231, 7610, KBP Code etc…
Installation of content monitoring systems as well as network ombudsmans that would act as the policy gatekeeper for ensuring that children are protected in their respective tv programs.
Stricter and clearer operating production guidelines towards child protection eq. prescreening of talents, proper documentation, safer work environments, securing parental consent etc…

With these developments and having reviewed the guidelines submitted by the three top networks, we believe that there is now a safer environment for Unilever to reinstate its participation and support in live game shows.

Rest assured, Unilever will continue its efforts in positively influencing the TV networks and the industry as a whole to take action towards better programming content involving children.

(Click here to read my take on Unilever's statement.)

In the face of death

2011-07-03T22:17:00.000-07:00

This incident happened four years ago, July 2, 2007. I am re-posting this to remind myself, and again share with everyone, the lesson that I have learned from this experience.

***********************

Youngblood
Hold-up
By Froilan Grate
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:25:00 08/18/2009

I was in shock. I couldn’t believe it was all happening. The fellow behind me told me to go up the stairs. When I reached the second floor, the other guy pulled out something from his pocket and pointed it at my face. A gun.

At that moment, I knew it was for real. I wasn’t scared at all. All I felt was anger and sadness. Anger because I knew I was not the most evil person in the planet, so what had I done to deserve this? Sad because I thought my life was going to end this way. What a pathetic way to die.

Strange how things could change so fast. I was just standing on a road, near West Avenue in Quezon City, waiting for the rain to stop so that I could walk to the main road and catch a ride home. It was before 10 in the evening. Then, out of nowhere, a man or a boy (he couldn’t have been more than 20 years old) approached me to ask for the time. When I turned to look at him, another man came up from behind, put his arm over my shoulder and told me to take it easy, while pressing the tip of something metallic to my side. They said that if I would just remain calm, no one would get hurt. They told me to just follow what they told me and then I could go.

They asked me to walk with them. We walked for about 20 minutes until we reached a residential area. We came upon an old, abandoned house, one of them entered and the one behind me ordered me to follow. On the second floor, the guy pulled out his gun and pointed it at my face. I saw his face transform from that of a boy to that of the devil.

Maybe I cried—I am not sure about it now. But if I did, there were definitely no tears, and it was not because of fear, it was in anger. If I did cry, I am not ashamed of it: a person who cries in the face of death is no coward.

I remember saying, “Kuya, pag usapan natin ’to, please.” I said it over and over again, until one of them shouted, “P—g ina mo, hubad! Tumahimik ka!”

For some reason, I just stood there and pleaded with them. The man with the gun grabbed my bag and ordered me again to remove all my clothes. When I didn’t move still, he pressed the gun against my forehead and asked if I wanted to die.

I stripped to my underwear, while asking for something that they must have thought stupid. “Kuya, pwede iwan mo ’yung notebook?”

He threw it on the floor.

As soon as they got my shoes, my clothes and my bag, they walked out of the house as if nothing had happened. I was in shock and almost naked, so they expected me to hide in there and cry.

They were wrong. As they walked away, I did the most stupid thing anyone could think of. I jumped out of the window, barefoot but unaware that I was stepping on broken glass, and ran after them, all the while shouting and asking for help.

I caught up with them as they were about to exit the gate. When the guy with the gun saw me, he pointed it at me. I ducked behind a fence and hid.

They started running again, and I went after them. So there we were running on the street: one guy with all my stuff, the other with a gun, and me almost naked.

There were people around. Jeepneys, cars and tricycles passed us by. I stood in the middle of the street asking for help, but nobody stopped. So I kept running after them alone.

The guy with the gun stopped a tricycle and went off, so I went after the guy with my stuff. Suddenly, a man on motorcycle stopped beside me and told me to get on his bike. I did as he told me. He asked me what happened. I told him where the other guy went, and we went in the direction he took.

Unfortunately, the guy had entered a dark and narrow alley and my “knight” felt it would be too dangerous to pursue him.

He drove away fast. I asked him where we were going, but he did not answer. “Not again!” I thought.

Before I realized it, we were in front of a police station. Still naked, I entered the station and told the policemen on duty what had happened. They said we should go back, but the funny thing was that they were in no hurry to do so. No one bothered to offer me anything to cover myself with.

We went back to the place, with me still naked. The policemen asked around, but nobody wanted to say anything. No one saw anything. I pointed to the alley where the guy had made his escape. The policemen refused to go there, and I understood: There were just two of them, it was dark, and they didn’t even have a flashlight.

On our way back to the station, I asked them if we could pass by the old house so I could pick up my notebook. I went inside the house, alone and naked still, to get it.

Back in the police car (a multi-cab) when all the excitement was gone, I noticed a pool of blood on the floor. Only then did I realize that my feet were bleeding. (I would find out later that I had wounds in 14 different places, with the deepest wound taking about a month to heal.)

At the police station, I was interviewed so they could put the incident in the blotter. When the investigator learned that I had lost three phones (one was issued by the office) and P50,000 in cash and other valuables, he almost called me stupid, as if it was all my fault. The station commander told the investigator to hurry up, without bothering to hide his irritation.
I told them I could remember their faces, and could they perhaps ask someone to make sketches, like what we see the investigators do on “CSI”? For that, they said, I would have to go to Camp Karingal—on my own.

With the interview done, I was told to go home. I said I had no money left and I was naked and bleeding. It didn’t occur to them to bring me home or to a hospital. They said I could call home. I told them I was living alone. The station commander said, “E paano ’yan, mamamatay ka na lang pala niyan?”

I asked if I could borrow a cell phone. The commander said his phone had no load. When I asked if I could use their office phone, I was told somebody was using it.
After a long wait, I was finally able to call our office. Thankfully, one of our staff answered so I asked her to text my friends and tell them to pick me up.

While I was waiting for my friends, the guy in the motorcycle came back with a clean pair of shorts. I was touched by his kindness. He could have gone home and slept, but he came back to bring me something to cover myself with. When I asked who he was, he said his name was Chris. Then he said goodbye and went home.

A little later, two of my friends arrived and brought me home. They kept me company until I told them to go and get some rest.

I tried to sleep but couldn’t. Every time I closed my eyes, I could see the faces of the robbers and feel the gun on my face. Every time I heard some movement, I would think it was they. They had my ID, and my address, and they could have come after me. I stayed awake, until I was beside someone I love and trust. And only then did I cry.

All this happened two years ago. And it is only now that I am able to gather the strength to write about it.

Despite all the evil around us, I reaffirm my faith in the goodness of the human heart.

(Froilan Grate, 26, is chair of Add Up! Volunteers, a group of young individuals who have bonded together to do their share in nation building.)

Reposted from http://business.inquirer.net/money/topstories/view/20090818-220798/Hold-up

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,

At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds

www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Globe responds, and I am happy

2011-06-23T23:08:00.000-07:00

Two days ago, I wrote Globe and asked them three things:

1. Is Globe ready to commit that it will not advertise on Wil Time Big Time, at least until the KBP has ruled on the issue and the criminal case filed against Mr. Willie Revillame has been decided by the courts? I mean, would you be willing to risk your company’s reputation into someone (and a show) who will eventually be found guilty of child abuse?
2. Would Globe be willing to listen to its consumers on issues like this? Or will you be like SMART who refused time and again to listen to pleas from its consumers.

3. Would Globe be holding on to your values as a company and uphold the common good, or will you be like SMART who is only after profit?

You can find the entire letter here.

Today, the President of Globe personally sent me a reply. The full reply is below:

****************

Hi Froilan,

First of all, thanks for acknowledging Globe's efforts in trying to improve our customer service.

Let me address some of your questions:

1. We will not be advertising either on the Willie show or on TV5. We did support Willie in his early years but pulled out because we felt that the values he began to demonstrate as his popularity grew became increasingly divergent to ours. We have not and will not support his shows on TV5 or any other venue.

2. We at Globe are transforming into a customer focused organization. That has become the hallmark of our strategy so it is integral to us to listen to our consumers. The development of our new products and services starts with understanding our customer's problems and solving them through innovative telecom solutions. An example of this is the groundbreaking 'My Super Plan' concept.

3. We believe that telcos should exist for a higher good as evidenced by how much we do in CSR and for the environment. We do need to maintain our profitability to fund this plus the heavy capital investments that we need to make on an annual basis.

Finally, thanks for continuing to be loyal to Globe. We are working towards building loyalty such as yours among our many subscribers and I believe we are making progress.

Best,

Ernest

****************

(*Emphasis mine)

I am personally satisfied with his reply, especially with Number 1. I will now be asking my friends and family to switch to Globe and stop supporting companies that promote (by financially supporting thru advertising) the commercialization and sexualization of children.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Thou shalt not be a bystander

2011-06-22T11:46:00.000-07:00

"Thou shalt not be a victim, thou shalt not be a perpetrator, but, above all, thou shalt not be a bystander."

- Yehuda Bauer on the Holocaust

"The road to Auschwitz was built by hate but paved with indifference."

- Ian Kershaw

An appeal to Globe

2011-06-21T12:03:00.000-07:00

Mr. Ernest Cu

President

Globe Telecom

Dear Mr. Cu,

Greetings! I pray this letter finds you well.

I hope that you don't mind that I am writing you again directly. You have personally answered my complaints before (and to be honest that is one of the reasons why I am still a Globe customer, for eleven years now), and I am taking the same liberty again to express my sentiment to you as a concerned subscriber.

I am part of an online community called Para Sa Mga Bata (Movement to End Child Abuse). Now 14,000-plus strong, this group came about as a result of what we believe was an incident of child abuse on a live game show on national TV. This group, I believe, is not only people power online, but also consumer power.

Immediately after bringing attention on this incident to various groups (government, media, advertisers, etc), we have asked the advertisers of the show to consider pulling out as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility and their commitment to upholding quality TV programming and most especially children’s rights. Major companies like Unilever, Procter and Gamble and Jollibee Food Corporation pulled out their sponsorship from the said show. This after the Commission on Human Rights, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, international media organizations and thousands of Filipinos have said that indeed, it was child abuse. The MTRCB even suspended the show for one month for violation of broadcast rules.

After the suspension, however, the show went back on air supported by a few companies but most prominent among them were companies owned by Mr. Manny Pangilinan, including SMART. This despite the fact that a criminal case was filed against the host of the show where they chose to advertise.

A company does not own the money that they use to advertise. It is money paid to them by the consumers. As such, at the end of the day, it is basically the consumers who are paying for these poor quality shows with which these companies advertise. It is with this thought that I realized that some of my friends and family members are also guilty of supporting a show that is guilty of child abuse. And I cannot live with that.

It is for this reason that I will be asking my friends and family to give up their SMART number, and with the recent acquisition of Digitel by MVP, their Sun numbers as well. This leaves Globe as the only option. But before I do this, I need to ask you 3 questions:

1. Is Globe ready to commit that it will not advertise on Wil Time Big Time, at least until the KBP has ruled on the issue and the criminal case filed against Mr. Willie Revillame has been decided by the courts? I mean, would you be willing to risk your company’s reputation into someone (and a show) who will eventually be found guilty of child abuse?

2. Would Globe be willing to listen to its consumers on issues like this? Or will you be like SMART who refused time and again to listen to pleas from its consumers.

3. Would Globe be holding on to your values as a company and uphold the common good, or will you be like SMART who is only after profit?

Lastly, for you, I would like to ask: Would you be the Globe President that I admired for transforming Globe’s customer service or will you be like Manny Pangilinan, who in my opinion, doesn’t give a damn about public opinion, doesn’t care about the request of their customers, and worse, doesn’t value the welfare and the rights of Filipino children.

When I wrote you last year about my concerns with Globe’s service and customer relations, you personally answered my concerns and have your people address them. When I wrote Mr. Pangilanan about this issue, he did not even bother to reply, much less ask his secretary to acknowledge it. I don’t want to be supporting a company headed by this kind of person. He might be one of the most successful businessmen around, but in my books, he doesn’t deserve even an ounce of respect as a leader. My hopes are with you.

Thank you for your indulgence in reading this letter.

Para sa mga bata,

Froilan Grate

Administrator

http://facebook.com/EndChildAbusePH

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,

At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds

www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Ang Kwento ng Puta

2011-06-18T01:39:00.000-07:00

Tingin ng mga bobong kapitbahay ko puta daw ako. Nagpapagamit, binabayaran. Sabi nila ako daw ang pinakamaganda at pinakasikat sa aming lugar noon. Ang bango-bango ko daw, sariwa at makinis. Di ko nga alam kung sumpa ito, dahil dito naletse ang kinabukasan ko. Tara makinig ka muna sa kwento ko, yosi muna tayo.

Alam mo, maraming lumapit sa akin, nagkagusto, naakit.

Ang hirap pag lahat sa iyo virgin eh. Tinanggap ko naman silang tao, bakit kaya nila ako ginago? Masakit alalahanin, iniisip ko na lang na kase di sila taga rito, siguro talagang ganoon. Tatlong malilibog na foreigners ang namyesta sa katawan ko, na-rape daw ako.

Sa tatlong beses akong nagahasa, ang pinakahuli ang di ko makakalimutan. Parang maski di ko ginusto ang mga nangyari, hinahanap-hanap ko siya. Tinulungan nya kasi akong makalimutan yung mga sadistang Hapon at Coñotics. Kase, ibang-iba ang hagod niya. Umiikot ang mundo ko sa tuwing ginagamit niya ako. Ibang klase siya mag-sorry, lalo pa at kinupkop niya ako at ang mga naging anak ko.

Parating ang dami naming regalo - may chocolates, yosi, ano ka! May datung pa! Nakakabaliw siya, alam kong ginagamit nya lang ako pero pagamit naman ako nang pagamit. Sa kanya namin natutunan mag-inggles, di lang magsulat ha! Magbasa pa! Hanggang ngayon, sa tuwing mabigat ang problema ko, siya ang tinatakbuhan ko. 'Yun nga lang, lahat ng bagay may kapalit. Nung kinasama ko siya, guminhawa buhay namin. Sosyal na sosyal kami.

Ewan ko nga ba, akala ko napapamahal na ako sa kanya. Akala ko tuloy-tuloy na kaligayahan namin, yun pala unti-unti niya akong pinapatay. P*** ng I**! Sa dami ng lason na sinaksak niya sa katawan ko, muntik na akong malaspag. Ang daming nagsabi na ang tanga tanga ko. Patalsikin ko na daw. Sa tulong ng mga anak ko, napalayas ko ang animal pero ang hirap magsimula.

Masyado na kaming nasanay sa sarap ng buhay na naranasan namin sa kanya. Lubog na lubog pa kami sa utang, kulang ata pati kaluluwa namin para ibayad sa mga inutang namin.

Sinikap naming lahat maging maganda ang buhay namin. Ayun, mga nasa Japan, Hong Kong, Saudi ang mga anak ko. Yung iba nag-US, Europe. 'Yung iba ayaw umalis sa akin. Halos lahat, wala naman silbi, masaya daw sa piling ko, maski amoy usok ako.

Sa dami ng mga anak ko na nagsisikap na tulungan ang kalagayan namin, siya din ang dami ng mga anak ko na namamantala sa kabuhayan at kayaman na itinatabi ko para sa punyetang kinabukasan naming lahat. Dumating ang panahon na di na kami halos makaahon sa hirap ng buhay. Napakahirap dahil nasanay na kami sa ginhawa at sarap.

Ang di ko inaakala ay mismong mga anak ko, ang tuluyang sisira sa akin. Napakasakit tanggapin na malinlang. Akala ko ay makakakita ako ng magiging kasama sa buhay sa mga ahas na ipinakilala ng mga anak ko Hindi pala. Ang tanga ko talaga. Binugaw ako ng sarili kong mga anak kapalit ng kwarta at pansamantalang ginhawa na nais nilang matamasa.

Wala na akong nagawa dahil sa sobrang pagmamahal ko sa aking mga anak. Wala akong ibang yaman kundi ganda ko. Pinagamit ko na lang ng pinagamit ang sarili ko, basta maginhawa lang ang mga anak ko.

Usap-usapan ako ng mga kapitbahay ko. May nanghihinayang, namumuhi at naaawa. Puta na kase ang isang magandang tulad ko.

Alam mo, gusto ko na sanang tumigil sa pagpuputa kaso ang laki talaga ng letseng utang ko eh. Palaki pa ng palaki. Kulang na kulang. Paano na lang ang mga anak ko naiwan sa aking punyetang puder? Baka di na ako balikan o bisitahin ng mga nag-abroad kong mga anak. Hindi na importante kung laspagin man ang ganda ko, madama ko lang ang pagmamahal ng mga anak ko. Malaman nila na gagawin ko ang lahat para sa kanila.

Sa tuwing titingin ako sa salamin, alam ko maganda pa rin ako. Meron pa din ang bilib sa akin. Napapag usapan pa din. Sa tuwing nakikita ko ang mukha ko sa salamin, nakikita ko ang mga anak ko. Tutulo na lang ang mga luha ko ng di ko namamalayan. Ang gagaling nga ng mga anak ko, namamayagpag kahit saan sila pumunta. Mahusay sa kahit anong gawin. Tama man o mali. Proud ako sa kanila. Kaso sila, kabaligtaran ang nararamdaman para sa akin.

Sa dami ng mga anak ko, iilan lang ang may malasakit sa akin. May malasakit man, nahihilaw. Ni di nga ako kinikilalang ina. Halos lahat sila galit sa isa't isa. Walang gusto magtulungan, naghihilahan pa. Ang dami ko ng pasakit na tiniis pero walang sasakit pa nung sarili kong mga anak ang nagbugaw sa akin. Kinapital ang laspag na ganda ko. Masyado silang nasanay sa sarap ng buhay. Minsan sa pagtingin ko sa salamin, ni hindi ko na nga kilala sarili ko.

Dadating na naman ang pasko, sana maalala naman ako ng mga anak ko. Isang buwan pa, magbabagong taon na. Natatakot ako sa taong darating. Ngayon pa lang usap usapan na ang susunod na pagbubugaw ng ilan sa mga anak ko. Sana may magtanggol naman sa akin, ipaglaban naman nila ako. Gusto kong isigaw: "INA NINYO AKO! MAHALIN NYO NAMAN AKO!"

Sige, dumadrama na ako. Masisira na ang make up ko nito eh. Salamat ha, pinakinggan mo ako.

Ay sorry, di ko nasabi pangalan ko.

Pilipinas nga pala.

Note: This is not an original piece but I am not able to trace who is the original author. If you happen to know, please leave a comment so that I can give proper credit. Thank you.

Edit: This is an original piece by Ms. Mike Portes, originally titled as "Minsan may isang puta"
Thanks to those made a comment as to the original author.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,

At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

FG | GreenMinds

www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Marcos should be buried at the LNMB, but only if...

2011-06-18T01:08:00.000-07:00

Yes, you got that right.

After being very much against it, I now have a change of heart. I am now in favor of allowing Ferdinand Marcos to be buried at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani. Yes, even with full military honors. In fact, it should be a state burial due a true hero.

But only if the following conditions are met. And I mean all.

1. He should be buried on June 19, 2011 in celebration of Rizal's 150th birthday.
2. His family should surrender and return everything that they have stolen and plundered from this country.
3. His entire family, including Imelda, Imee and Bongbong, should also be buried with him. On the same day. All his other children and relatives who would refuse to admit that FM committed his crimes during the martial law years should also be buried with him.
4. Gloria Arroyo and Erap Estrada should be buried with him too.
5. All the 200+ congressmen who signed the resolution calling for his burial at the LNMB should be buried with him too. Yes, on the same day also.
6. Willie Revillame, Mikey Arroyo and MP should be buried with him. Of course, on June 11 too.
7. LNMB should be renamed to Libingan Ng Mga Magnanakaw (LMM).
8. A new Libingan ng mga Tunay na Bayani (LTB) shall be created using funds surrendered by the Marcoses.
9. All the real heroes currently buried at the LNMB shall be transferred to the LTB in a manner that will not dishonor them.The AFP general who stole from the Filipino people should remain at the LMM.
10. All of these will be shown on national TV, without commercial break.

Now, if all of these will happen, then and only then can we call FM a hero.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

FG
No Bystanders | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Facing My Demons

2011-06-16T01:38:00.000-07:00

About fourteen years ago, I was having one of those periods in a teen’s life where one feels lost and conflicted. Living away from my family, and as always, I turned to my usual refuge - the confession.

This particular day however, for reasons I can’t remember now, I have decided to go to a different parish and have my confession there.

It started out ok, normal I guess. Then the priest turned friendly, very friendly, in fact. He asked me to stay, as he wanted to talk to me more. After finishing the last two confessants, he talked to me again, giving me words of encouragement. I welcomed the opportunity to be able to talk to someone who didn’t judge me; in fact he made me feel special by listening to me. When I said it was time for me to go home, he invited me to go back next Thursday (or was it Friday?) to meet some of his young friends.

I went back as promised, and I met two of his young friends – they were probably around 16 or 17 at that time. But I was surprised to learn that we are actually going to a resort, just the four of us. When I complained that I wasn’t prepared for it, he said he got it all covered, he bought new swimming trunks for me.

At the resort, I remember it was all surreal for me – three boys and a priest, playing. I was confused and amazed at the same time, to see that priest are humans too. For someone who wanted to be a priest someday, that was a welcome thought. It means I could be a priest and not be serious and grumpy all the time.

Looking back, I should have been alarmed with the accidental touches on me, and the not so accidental touches on the other boys. But with the beer given to us, and the fact that we were having fun, I made it all pass.

When it was time to go home, we dropped the other two boys off and since it was too late for me to go home (way past my curfew, and I was drunk already), he offered for me to sleep at the parish. I remember being awed, being inside the priests’ quarters and when showed that they have two refrigerators (aside from the one in the kitchen) – one for chocolates and other desserts and one for drinks, beer, soft drinks, name it.

So he made me drink some more. And I was so amazed, here I am drinking as much alcohol as I want with a priest, when back home we are told that drinking is not good. Then from there on, it was all blurry to me.

I remember at some point, we went to his room to sleep. He put me to bed, and told me I should sleep ahead as he still needs to prepare for his sermon the next day. I remember he tried to kiss me, and I turned my head away. He let it pass and he went to work on his bed side table.

Sometime during the night, I felt it happen. I wasn’t sure what was happening, but I am sure in my head I said NO but I am not sure if I said NO enough. I remember I tried to stand, but the next thing I remember, I was sitting on the chair and he was kneeling in front of me. Then it was blank again. Next thing I remember, I was on the floor on my back and he was sitting on top of me. And I remember him say “God gave you a beautiful gift, you should share it...” and “You’re way better than my boyfriend...” And I think I asked who, and he said the name of the boy we were with awhile ago. And everything else was blank.

Those words stayed with me because as an insecure boy, it made me feel special.

The next morning, he woke me up telling me he has to say mass. And he invited me to attend. And as I was sitting there, I felt conflicted seeing hundreds of people kneeling in front of this man who was just hours ago kneeling in front of me.

But worst of all, that morning, I felt guilty for I believe I have betrayed God.

And I was never the same after that.

I was a conflicted boy. Was I abused? Can you call it abuse when all I felt was physical pleasure and no pain at all? Can it be rape when none of my body part was penetrated?

Was it my fault? Did I bring it upon myself?

And the only way I knew to cope is to try to forget that it all happened. He saw me again outside the church a few weeks after, and he asked me to come back. I never came back to that church until 9 years later.

In my effort to try to forget, I stopped going to mass. Every time I see people kneeling in front of a priest, I remember that feeling that morning after. Feelings of shame, of guilt, and hatred.

But try as I might, I can’t get away from it. Even when I try to be intimate with someone I love, I am reminded of that night.

Five years ago, stories of clergy abuse started to hit the news. So I decided to go back and face him, and finally end all of this. I want to tell him that I forgive him, but he has to promise not to do it with other boys again. I felt I needed that to be able to forgive myself.

I was told he was assigned to another parish, so I asked to talk to the head parish priest who, under the sanctity and secrecy of the confession, I told my story. But I got the shock of my life; I was told that there is nothing that they can do unless I am willing to make public my complaint. Since I wasn’t ready that time, I left Iloilo and promised never to go back to that church again. For me, I did my part. Although inside me, I knew there would be other boys who would go through the same experience.

Until that fateful day of March 12, 2011 happened. A boy was abused by a game show host on national television.
I felt compelled to explain that my reaction to that incident has no relation to my own abuse, but I realized it doesn’t really matter. My actions are no less meaningful just because I have issues with abuse myself. On the contrary, it would show that my reaction was nothing personal to the host, but the incident was personal for me.

After that, emails and messages stated to pour in. Hate mails I can ignore, but stories of abuse after abuse came to light, asking me to do something about it. And I was actually ready to take on this advocacy head on.

Except that inside me, that incident made me feel like I was a fake. How can I fight for other victims when I wasn’t able to fight for my personal battle? How can I tell the boy it was not his fault, when up to now I wasn’t really able to convince myself that it wasn’t my fault? How can I tell the boy that he shouldn’t be ashamed, when I am living in shame all my life?

So I have decided to do this. I need to do this. Writing has always helped me cope with things. I have initially wanted to just share this with a few friends but knowing that they have used my fear of shame to silence me before, I have decided to come clean this time.

I am not ashamed of letting an adult take advantage of me when I was young, it wasn’t my choice. What I am ashamed of is that it took me 14 long years to stop being a victim. What I am ashamed of is living with the fact that there are other boys out there who were abused by this priest too. To them, I say sorry.

And I hope with this, I am doing the right thing. I hope with this, somehow, I am able to right those wrongs.

I am not a perfect person, I have my (more than?) fair share of mistakes, but I wouldn’t let that fact stop me from doing what I feel is right.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Si Mamang Driver, Si Willie at ang Mang Inasal

2011-04-02T19:42:00.000-07:00

Naging ugali ko na ang kausapin ang nga driver ng taxi na aking sinasakyan. Magugulat ka sa kaalaman ng bawat isa, at sa kanilang paninidigan, sa mga isyung bumabalot sa ating lipunan. Mula noong eleksyon, impeachment ng Ombudsman, pagbitay ng mga Pinoy sa China - lahat ito ay alam nila at may binuo silang sariling kuro-kuro at pananaw.

Noong Biyerness, bago pa man lumabas ang balitang nag pull out ang Mang Inasal ng Jollibee Food Corporation sa programang Willing Willie, ay naging paksa sa pagitan ko at ng Mamang Driver ang pang aabuso ng isang bata sa programa.

Tinanong ko kung siya ay nanonood ng WW, at ang kanyan sagot "Napipilitan lamang ako kasi yan ang pinapanood sa bahay, pero kung ako ang masusunod, ililipat ko sa ibang palabas."

Hindi niya napanood ang nasabing episode kaya akin na lamang ikinuwento sa kanya ang pangyayari.Napunta ang aming usapan sa usapin ng pag pull out ng mga advertisers at ang banta ni Willie na i boycott ang ang mag pu-pull out.

Nung aking tinanong kung sila ba ay susunod kung sakaling sabihin ni Willie na wag silang bumili ng produkto ng CDO, ang kanyang naging pahayag "Hindi naman po ako bumibili ng CDO kasi pangit ang lasa, maalat."

Sunod kung tinanong kung kumakain siya sa Mang Inasal at Jollibee. Paborito daw ng kanyang pamilya ang mang Inasal kasi sulit ang Eat-All-You-Can Rice ng nasabing restaurant.

"E paano kung sabihin ni Willie wag na kayo kumain dun kasi iniwan siya ng Mang Inasal?" tanong ko sa kanya.

"Iniinsulto naman niya kaming mahihirap. May sarili kaming pag-iisip. Pagsinabi niya yun, siya ang di namin panonoorin."

Natahimik kami ng mga kasama ko sa sinabi ng Mamang Driver.

Dagdag pa niya "Kung talagang para sa mahirap siya, bakit niya ipagkakait sa amin ang bagay kung saan kami nakakatipid at nakakain ng masarap bilang isang pamilya?"

Mabuhay ka Mamang Driver! Ikaw ang patunay, hindi ito laban ng mahirap sa mayaman. Laban ito ng mga taong naninindigan laban sa karahasan at pang-aabuso, lalong lalo na ang pang-aabuso sa mga bata.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,
Froilan Grate | GreenMinds

www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Complaint Letter RE Child Abue in Willing Willie

2011-04-02T19:36:00.000-07:00

Hon. Loretta Ann P. Rosales, Chairperson, Commission on Human Rights
Sen. Pia S. Cayetano, Committee Chair, Youth, Women and Family Affairs
Hon. Corazon "Dinky" Juliano-Soliman, Secretary, Department of Social Welfare and Development
Hon. Grace Poe Llamanzares, Chairman, Movies and Television Ratings and Classification Board
Mr. Manny Pangilinan, Chairman, TV5
Justice Santiago M. Kapunan, Officer in Charge, Integrated Bar of The Philippines
Mr. John Rojo, President, Philippine Association of National Advertisers
Ms. Charmaine Canillas, Chairman, Ad Standards Council
Ateneo Human Rights Center
Council for the Welfare of Children

SUBJECT: CHILD ABUSE ON WILLING WILLIE SHOW OF TV5

We wish to bring to your attention a deplorable incident that occurred during the March 12, 2011 episode of Willing Willie, hosted by Mr. Willie Revillame which was aired during TV5's primetime block. In the said episode, also posted on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YRCxh9q64w, a six-year-old boy named Jan-jan was shown dancing “ala-macho dancer," much to the delight of the host and the studio audience. As seen in the video, however, the boy was clearly distressed and humiliated by the said experience as evidenced by his crying while supposedly “entertaining” Mr. Revillame and his audience.

Children should be at school studying or playing at home. They should not be used as cheap sources of entertainment. The act of making children work is already unfortunate; however, the said act is even more deplorablewhen they lose their dignity and self respect in the process.

If TV shows that employ child actors are required to secure the necessary permits from the DSWD, are reality shows like Willing Willie required to do the same? Are representatives from the DSWD present to monitor these activities, especially for shows that air live?

We quote Article V, Section 9 of Republic Act No. 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act:

“Obscene Publications and Indecent Shows. – Any person who shall hire, employ, use, persuade, induce or coerce a child to perform in obscene exhibitions and indecent shows, whether live or in video, or model in obscene publications or pornographic materials or to sell or distribute the said materials shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period.

If the child used as a performer, subject or seller/distributor is below twelve (12) years of age, the penalty shall be imposed in its maximum period.

Any ascendant, guardian, or person entrusted in any capacity with the care of a child who shall cause and/or allow such child to be employed or to participate in an obscene play, scene, act, movie or show or in any other acts covered by this section shall suffer the penalty of prison mayor in its medium period.”

Clearly, what transpired during this episode of Willing Willie was a violation of this provision of the law.

We condemn the blatant act of subjecting poor Filipinos -- especially minors, a group that history has shown to be one of the most vulnerable sectors of our society -- to humiliation in shows like these in exchange for some quick cash. Given the financial hardships that they have to endure, they often feel forced to do acts that violate their dignity as human beings in exchange for keeping body and soul together.

We condemn the host, not only for failing to stop the boy, who was clearly uncomfortable with what he had to do, but more importantly for milking similar situations for the sake of selling the show and increasing its ratings.

We condemn the producers of the show and the management of TV5 not only for failing to act appropriately on this incident, but also for tolerating these kinds of shows, as well as the host's tasteless and humiliating antics.

We express disappointment towards the parents of the boy for subjecting their child to this horrible experience.

We express concern for the studio audience and others at home who found this incident amusing and entertaining.

We express disappointment towards all the advertisers of the show for failing to consider the content and the values of the shows in which they advertise.

We challenge our government agencies, particularly the DSWD and the MTRCB, to act promptly on this and other similar incidents, and to institute measures to protect young children when they appear on Willing Willie and similar shows.

In this regard, we would like to request the following actions from your office:

1. For Mr. Manny Pangilinan and the management of TV5 to immediately implement a temporary moratorium on the guesting of children on Willing Willie and similar shows;

2. For Mr. Willie Revillame and the producers of the show to issue a public apology to Jan-jan and all their other guests whom they have humiliated in the past, and to promise never to commit the same acts in their future episodes;

3. For the MTRCB to conduct an investigation and review of the said episode to determine the violations made by the host and the producers of the show of the standards and regulations set by law and the Board, and impose corresponding penalties on those found guilty;

4. For the DSWD and the CHR to conduct an investigation into the said incident to determine the violations of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004, committed by the host, the producers and the management of TV5, and initiate legal action against those who will be found responsible;

5. For the DSWD and the MTRCB, in partnership with the TV networks in the country, to formulate regulations that will cover the appearance of children on game shows and other reality-TV themed shows, especially those that are aired live;

6. For the Committee on Youth, Women and Family Affairs of the Senate to conduct an investigation, in aid of legislation, to institute amendments to Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act and Republic Act 9262 or the Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004 to protect children from similar violations;

7. For the DSWD to provide counselling to Janjan and to all other children who participated on the show in the past for possible trauma and other physiological distress, as well as to their parents who consider subjecting their children to such experience as acceptable;

8. For the Integrated Bar of the Philippines to provide legal support to the victims of these abuses who may want to pursue legal action against those who will be found responsible by the relevant government agencies; and

9. For the Philippine Association of National Advertisers and AdBoard to forward this complaint to all their members, especially those who advertise on Willing Willie, and to request their members to temporarily cease placing ads on the show until the host, the producer and the management have complied with this request and instituted reforms to avoid a repeat of this incident in the future. Otherwise, we will be constrained to start a call to boycott the products of those who will refuse to heed this request.

We are expecting a prompt reply and action on your part. We will be continuously monitoring this issue and will continue to gather support from the general public through a Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Para-kay-Jan-jan-Shame-on-you-Willie-Revillame/102087546543288) we have started, as well as the mainstream media.

Signed:

Movement to End Child Exploitation

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,
Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

I'm Sorry Noy

2010-07-19T04:29:00.000-07:00

I should have voted for you.

I should have voted for you despite the fear of being labelled "bobo," of being accused of not using my head, of being brainwashed by surveys, of letting my emotions influence my better judgment.

I should have voted for you for your firm commitment to the Reproductive Health Bill. When Gibo made a turn around (is that what you would call may paninindigan?) to appease the Catholic Church and Villar claiming that it is not needed since we are not over populated, you stood your ground to empower women to make their informed choice, and respect the rights of everyone to make this choice.

I should have voted for you because among all those who are running, I know you are the one who has the determination and the capacity to bring GMA to answer to all her crimes. The reason why we have Erap and GMA is because we have failed to bring the Marcoses to justice. And unless our next president can bring GMA to justice, we will have the same cycle all over again. That is the reason why I will never vote for Gibo because a vote for him is a vote to acquit GMA of all her crimes. A vote for Gibo and Erap is like telling all the crooks and the corrupt that it is OK for them to continue what they are doing because the Filipino people can easily forgive and forget.

I should have voted for you because among all the candidates, I have my full trust that you are the one who would least likely steal from the public coffers. I know you will not use your position for personal gain, just like you did not use your privilege when Cory was president - so unlike Bong and Aimee Marcos, Jinggoy Estrada and the thick skinned Mikey and Datu Arroyo.

I should have voted for you because among all the candidates, you are the only one I know who would step down peacefully after six years in office. That I do not see in Gordon.

I should have voted for you because among all the candidates, you are the one who offers hope to more people. I have been working on the ground and I have seen how so many are putting their trust on you, how so many are finally looking to a better future, how so many wanted a government that they can trust again - and how they see that in you.

They say you have not accomplished anything, that you have not passed a single legislation. But let me tell you this, among all the senators of the 14th Congress, I have the highest respect for you. I will never forget how you stood for the Filipino people and the constitution when we fought the highly disadvantageous Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).

Among the 23 senators, there were only 4 of you who voted against an agreement that that is detrimental to our economy and environment and would sell our patrimony to the Japanese. Even our so called environmental champions Legarda and Pia Cayetano betrayed us on this. While everyone agreed that the agreement was unfair to us, that it was negotiated without our best interest in mind, you maintained that it should be scrapped or at least renegotiated when everyone was saying let's just go with it since we can't afford to piss off the Japanese.

Of course, I will not forget how you scrutinized the law that should be passed every year - our national budget.

They say you don't have a stand of your own, that you will merely be a puppet of your party and your relatives. That I strongly disagree with. Again, going back to the JPEPA, you have shown your being independent. The primary supporter of JPEPA was Roxas, your party chairman and yet you made a stand against his own position.

They say you're not mentally healthy. That I find insulting. I am insulted by the fact that they have the guts to "show" bogus psychiatric reports. Did they think that the Filipinos are that stupid? I am insulted by their insinuations that a person who went to a mental doctor is mentally ill for life. If that is the case, why is "that woman" still in the senate?

They say you are a reluctant leader. I say its a sign that you are not power hungry.

They say the Hacienda Luisita is your biggest crime. Well, we have to give it to them, you do have your faults in the HL issue. But I recognize the fact that you are just one of the many owners and that not all HL farmers have anything bad to say about you. Nonetheless, I will still hold on to your promise to distribute the land within 5 years. With Risa Hontiveros with you, I know that is possible.

They say that the surveys showing you are leading are biased, that you paid for it. That I do not believe. If surveys can be bought, Villar would have been leading by 40%. I have made my own surveys. Compare for example how many private vehicles have your sticker and that of the other candidates, its either most will vote for you or that many are ashamed to show their support for the other candidates. Or among the more than 200 taxi drivers I have talked to, more than half would vote for you. Or among the hundreds of Barangay Officials I have talked to, majority would not only vote but campaign for you.

I said I should have voted for you, but I didn't. Because I did not vote yet. I went to the precinct very early and yet I realize I am not yet ready to vote, so I went home to write this.

I would have voted for Nick Perlas too. It's between you and him, either way it would be a principled vote. But let me tell you why I will not vote for you.

I MAY not vote for you because I don't want to be a part of the destruction of your good name. The country puts so much hope on one person that I fear you will fail us. Our problems are so big and many no matter how good you are, you will not be able to solve all of them. You cannot erase poverty in 6 years. Most importantly, our problems are OURSELVES that no matter who the president is, unless we ourselves change for the better, we will not be able to accomplish anything.

And more importantly, I may not vote for you because I feel we do not deserve you. A country who will vote for Revilla and Lapid as top senators does not deserve a new symbol of hope. A country who will vote for Manny Villar for second place does not deserve an honest leader. A country that allows Erap and Bongbong Marcos to run does not deserve a president who will not screw us.

Now, I have to go back and cast my vote. Whether I vote for you or not, I am sorry.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,
Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

What happened?

2009-09-17T23:37:00.000-07:00

What happened to our sense of right or wrong?

What happened to the saying, tell me who your friends are and I will tell you who you are?

If you seriously think that Gibo Teodoro is the least evil of all presidentiables, then go for him.

But you might want to consider these:

Won't your vote for him at vote to acquit GMA of her crimes?

Do you think Lakas-Kampi's endorsement comes with NO STRINGS ATTACHED?

Do you want your next president to support charter change to have a parliamentary system with NO TERM LIMITS?

Do you want your next president to break the law (premature campaigning) and claim there is nothing wrong with it?

Do you want your next president to spend the people's money to promote himself, and claim there is nothing wrong with appointed officials using public funds for personal gain?

Do you want your next president who saw nothing wrong with the corrupt GMA, and thus continue serving her? Isn't his stay in her cabinet an endorsement of her policies? Would you want the same policies to continue for the next 6 years, and beyond?

How can you expect someone who is part of a gang (who we call the administration) guilty of making people disappear(remember Karen ans Sherryl of UP?) not commit the same crimes on his term? At the very least, he turned a blind eye on this issue as DnD Sec.

If you can be proud of voting for him (by telling the whole world about it), then go for it.

If not, then I guess you would know better.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

The idiots who run the church

2009-09-17T23:33:00.000-07:00

Recent news reports quoted some bishops saying they will not support Noynoy Aquino because of his stand on the Reproductive Health Bill.

What can you expect?

These are the same bishops who received envelopes full of cash when there were efforts to impeach the [fake] President.

These are the same bishops who turned a blind eye to all the evil deeds of the [fake] President.

These are the same bishops who turned a blind eye as their priest abuse young boys and girls.

So what does that tell you?

These bishops would rather have a president who stole the vote, who is the most corrupt, who is an evil bitch than someone who isn’t tainted but is in favor of giving people the information and the freedom to choose what is best for themselves and their family.

These bishops would rather have a liar for a president than someone who is honest.

Why? When GMA was asked how is her sex life, she answered “Plenty!” So why isn’t she pregnant? It’s the reverse of Immaculate Conception (Satanic maybe? Or was it post menopausal sex?).

If ever she got pregnant, it would be interesting to see whether the child would look like Mike or Nani Perez, or one of the PSG Guards. But thank God, wala ng kasunod. Can you imagine a world with another Mikey?

Doble Vidal, that NBI agent in the Hello Garci mess, should really be ashamed of his last name.

In fact, this isn’t a good time to be part of church that is nothing but houses of stones governed by people who are nothing but bigots and hypocrites.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Are you represented by the right people?

2009-06-03T22:42:00.000-07:00

Below is the list of congressmen who signed HR 1109 or the Con Ass resolution. Let your representatives know what you feel. Shame on these "rape-resentatives" who sold their soul, raped the constitution and betrayed the Filipino people for 20 million more in "pork" funds.

ABANTE, BIENVENIDO M. “BENNY” 6TH District Pandacan
ABLAN, ROQUE R. JR, Ilocos Norte, 1st District
AGBAYANI, VICTOR AGUEDO E. Pangasinan, 2nd District
AGYAO, MANUEL, S Kalinga Province
ALBANO (III), RODOLFO T. Isabela, 1st District
ALFELOR, FELIX R. JR. 4th District, Camarines Sur
ALMARIO, THELMA Z. Davao Oriental, 2nd District
ALVAREZ, ANTONIO C. Palawan 1st District
ALVAREZ, GENARO RAFAEL M. JR. Negros Occidental, 6th District
AMANTE, EDELMIRO A. Agusan Del Norte, 2nd District
AMATONG, ROMMEL C. Compostela Valley, 2nd District
ANGPING, MARIA ZENAIDA B. Manila, 3rd District
ANTONINO, RODOLFO W. Nueva Ecija, 4th District
APOSTOL, TRINIDAD G. Leyte, 2nd District
AQUINO, JOSE S. (II) 1st District Agusan del Norte
ARAGO, MARIA EVITA R. 3rd district, Laguna
ARBISON, A MUNIR M. Sulu 2nd District
ARENAS, MA. RACHEL J. Pangasinan, 3rd District
ARROYO, DIOSDADO M. Camarines Sur, 1st District
ARROYO, IGNACIO T. 5th district Negros Occidental
ARROYO, JUAN MIGUEL M. 2nd District of Pampanga
BAGATSING, AMADO S. Manila 5th district
BALINDONG, PANGALIAN M. Lanao del Sur, 2nd District
BARZAGA, ELPIDIO F. JR. Cavite, 2nd District
BAUTISTA, FRANKLIN P. Davao Del Sur, 2nd District
BELMONTE, VICENTE F. JR. Lanao del Norte, 1st District
BICHARA, AL FRANCIS C. Albay, 2nd District
BIRON, FERJENEL G. Iloilo, 4th District
BONDOC, ANNA YORK P. Pampanga 4th District
BONOAN-DAVID, MA. THERESA B. Manila, 4th District
BRAVO, NARCISO R. JR. Masbate, 1st District
BRIONES, NICANOR M. AGAP Party list
BUHAIN, EILEEN ERMITA Batangas, 1st District
BULUT, ELIAS C. JR. Apayao Lone District
CAGAS (IV), MARC DOUGLAS C. Davao Del Sur, 1st District
CAJAYON, MARY MITZI L. Caloocan, 2nd District
CAJES, ROBERTO C. Bohol, 2nd District
CARI, CARMEN L. Leyte, 5th District
CASTRO, FREDENIL H. Capiz, 2nd District
CELESTE, ARTHUR F. Pangasinan, 1st District
CERILLES, ANTONIO H. Zamboanga Del Sur, 2nd District
CHATTO, EDGARDO M. Bohol, 1st District
CHONG, GLENN A. Biliran, Lone District
CHUNG-LAO, SOLOMON R. Ifugao, Lone District
CLARETE, MARINA C. Misamis Occidental, 1st District
CODILLA, EUFROCINO M. SR. Leyte, 4th District
COJUANCO, MARK O. Pangasinan, 5th District
COQUILA, TEODULO M. Eastern Samar, Lone District
CRISOLOGO, VINCENT P. Quezon City, 1st District
CUA, JUNIE E. Quirino, Lone District
CUENCO, ANTONIO V. Cebu City, 2nd District
DANGWA, SAMUEL M. Benguet, Lone District
DATUMANONG, SIMEON A. Maguindanao, Lone District
Dayanghirang, Nelson L. Davao Oriental, 1st District
DAZA, NANETTE C. Quezon City, 4th District
DAZA, PAUL R. Northern Samar, 1st District
DE GUZMAN, DEL R. Marikina City, 2nd District
DEFENSOR, ARTHUR D. SR. Iloilo, 3rd District
DEFENSOR, MATIAS V. JR. Quezon City, 3rd District
DEL MAR, RAUL V. Cebu City, 1st District
DIASNES, CARLO OLIVER D. (MD) Batanes, Lone District
DIMAPORO, ABDULLAH D. Lanao Del Norte, 2nd District
DOMOGAN, MAURICIO G. Baguio, Lone District
DUAVIT, MICHAEL JOHN R. Rizal, 1st District
DUENAS, HENRY M. JR. Taguig, 2nd District (2nd Councilor District)
DUMARPA, FAYSAH MRP. Lanao del Sur, 1st District
DUMPIT, THOMAS L. JR. La Union, 2nd District
DURANO (IV), RAMON H. 5th District, Cebu
ECLEO, GLENDA B. Dinagat Islands, Lone District
EMANO, YEVGENY VICENTE B. Misamis Oriental, 2nd District
ENVERGA, WILFRIDO MARK M. Quezon, 1st District
ESTRELLA, CONRADO M. (III) Pangasinan, 6th District
ESTRELLA, ROBERT RAYMUND M. ABONO Party List
FERRER, JEFFREY P. Negros Occidental, 4th District
GARAY, FLORENCIO C. Surigao Del Sur, 2nd District
GARCIA, ALBERT S. Bataan, 2nd District.
GARCIA, PABLO JOHN F. Cebu, 3rd District
GARCIA, PABLO P. Cebu, 2nd District
GARCIA, VINCENT J. Davao City, 2nd District
GARIN, JANETTE L. Iloilo, 1st District
GATCHALIAN, REXLON T. Valenzuela City, 1st District
GATLABAYAN, ANGELITO C. Antipolo City, 2nd District
GO, ARNULFO F. Sultan Kudarat, 2nd District
GONZALES, AURELIO D. JR. Pampanga 3rd District
GONZALES, RAUL T. JR. Iloilo City
GULLAS, EDUARDO R. Cebu, 1st District
GUNIGUNDO, MAGTANGGOL T. Valenzuela City 2nd District
HOFER, DULCE ANN K. Zamboanga Sibugay, 2nd District
JAAFAR, NUR G. Tawi-Tawi, Lone District
JALA, ADAM RELSON L. Bohol, 3rd District
JALOSJOS, CESAR G. Zamboanga del Norte, 3rd District
JALOSJOS-CARREON, CECILIA G. Zamboanga del Norte, 1st District
JIKIRI, YUSOP H. Sulu, 1st District
KHO, ANTONIO T. Masbate, 2nd District
LABADLABAD, ROSENDO S. Zamboanga del Norte, 2nd District
LACSON, JOSE CARLOS V. Negros Occidental, 3rd District
LAGDAMEO, ANTONIO F. JR. Davao del Norte, 2nd District
LAPUS, JECI A. Tarlac, 3rd District
LAZATIN, CARMELO F. Pampanga, 1st District
LIM, RENO G. Albay, 3rd District
LOPEZ, JAIME C. Manila, 2nd District
MADRONA, ELEANORA JESUS F. Romblon, Lone District
MAGSAYSAY, MARIA MILAGROS H. Zambales, 1st District
MALAPITAN, OSCAR G. Caloocan, 1st District
MAMBA, MANUEL N. Cagayan, 3rd District
MANGUDADATU, DATU PAKUNG S. Sultan Kudarat,
MARANON, ALFREDO D. III Negros Occidental, 2nd District
MATUGAS, FRANCISCO T. Surigao del Norte, 1st District
MENDOZA, MARK LEANDRO L. Batangas, 4th District
MERCADO, ROGER G. Southern Leyte, Lone District
MIRAFLORES, FLORENCIO T. Aklan, Lone District
NAVA, JOAQUIN CARLOS RAHMAN A. (MD) Guimaras, Lone District
NICOLAS, REYLINA G. Bulacan, 4th District
NOGRALES, PROSPERO C. Davao City, 1st District
OLAñO, ARREL R. Davao Del Norte, 1st District
ONG, EMIL L. Northern Samar, 2nd District
ORTEGA, VICTOR FRANCISCO C. La Union, 1st District
PABLO, ERNESTO C. APEC Party List
PANCHO, PEDRO M. Bulacan, 2nd District
PANCRUDO, CANDIDO P. JR. Bukidnon, 1st District
PICHAY, PHILIP A. Surigao Del Sur, 1st District
PIñOL, BERNARDO F. JR. North Cotabato, 2nd District
PUNO, ROBERTO V. Antipolo City, 1st District
RAMIRO, HERMINIA M. Misamis Occidental, 2nd District
REMULLA, JESUS CRISPIN C. Cavite, 3rd District
REYES, CARMELITA O. Marinduque, Lone District
REYES, VICTORIA H. Batangas, 3rd District
ROBES, ARTURO G. San Jose Del Monte City, Lone District
Rodriguez-Zaldarriaga, Adelina Rizal, 2nd District
ROMAN, HERMINIA B. Bataan, 1st District
ROMARATE, GUILLERMO A. JR. Surigao del Norte, 2nd District
ROMUALDEZ, FERDINAND MARTIN G. Leyte, 1st District
ROMUALDO, PEDRO Camiguin, Lone District
ROMULO, ROMAN T. Pasig City, Lone District
ROXAS, JOSE ANTONIO F. Pasay City
SALIMBANGON, BENHUR L. Cebu, 4th District
SALVACION JR., ANDRES D. Leyte, 3rd District
SAN LUIS, EDGAR S. Laguna, 4th District
SANDOVAL, ALVIN S. Malabon-Navotas, Lone District
SANTIAGO, JOSEPH A. Catanduanes, Lone District
SANTIAGO, NARCISO D. (III) ARC Party List
SEACHON-LANETE, RIZALINA L. 3rd district of Masbate
SEARES-LUNA, CECILIA M. Abra, Lone District
SILVERIO, LORNA C. Bulacan, 3rd District
SINGSON, ERIC D. Ilocos Sur, 2nd District
SINGSON, RONALD V. Ilocos Sur, 1st District
SOLIS, JOSE G. Sorsogon, 2nd District
SOON-RUIZ, NERISSA CORAZON Cebu, 6th District
SUAREZ, DANILO E. Quezon, 3rd District
SUSANO, MARY ANN L. Quezon City, 2nd District
SY-ALVARADO, MA. VICTORIA R. Bulacan, 1st District
SYJUCO, JUDY J. 2nd Dsitrict, Iloilo
TALINO-MENDOZA, EMMYLOU J. North Cotabato, 1st District
TAN, SHAREE ANN T. Samar, 2nd District
TEODORO, MARCELINO R. Marikina City, 1st District
TEODORO, MONICA LOUISSE PRIETO Tarlac, 1st District
TEVES, PRYDE HENRY A. Negros Oriental, 3rd District
TUPAS, NEIL C. JR. Iloilo, 5th District
UNGAB, ISIDRO T. Davao City, 3rd District
UY, EDWIN C. Isabela, 2nd District
UY, REYNALDO S. Samar, 1st District
UY, ROLANDO A. Cagayan De Oro City, Lone District
VALDEZ, EDGAR L. APEC Party List
VALENCIA, RODOLFO G. Oriental Mindoro, 1st District
VARGAS, FLORENCIO L. Cagayan, 2nd District
VILLAFUERTE, LUIS R. Camarines Sur, 2nd District
VILLAROSA, MA. AMELITA C. Occidental Mindoro, Lone District
VIOLAGO, JOSEPH GILBERT F. Nueva Ecija, 2nd District
YAP, JOSE V. Tarlac, 2nd District
YU, VICTOR J. Zamboanga Del Sur, 1st District
ZAMORA, MANUEL E. 1st District, Compostela Valley
ZIALCITA, EDUARDO C. Parañaque, 1st District

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

People I will NOT vote for in 2010

2009-05-09T10:19:00.000-07:00

I Will Not Vote For:
Villar, Roxas, Teodoro, Bayani, Binay, de Castro, Legarda, Syjuco, Genuino

I May Not Vote For:
Panlilio, Padaca

I Will Vote For:
Baguilat

For most of them, I will not vote for them because they have no respect for the law. They are circumventing the law on premature campaigning. And not to mention the stupidity of their commercials.

Of course, they can say they used their own funds for the TV campaign, but in the end, how will they recover these expenses? Is this an investment with hopes of high returns?

This alone shows their character. Why vote for someone who can not respect the laws of the land?

On Villar
It's so simple, if he's innocent, why don't he face the charges on double insertion? Can he honestly say that his companies never benefited from his position? If he has the integrity, why did he not avoid funding projects that will benefit his companies? I think we call that delicadeza in this country.

And Mr. OFW, you might want to help Dondon Lanuza who is currently on death row for self defense (someone tried to rape him).

On Roxas
How pathetic can you be? Marrying someone just to get some points in the survey? Who on earth would announce an engagement in Wowowee if you are serious about someone? And his commercials are just as pathetic. "Anak, ako na?" - yeah right! So trapo!

On Binay, Teodoro, Syjuco, & Genuino
What do you call people who use their position to advance their personal agenda? Suckers! Trapo at its best!

On Bayani
Can you imagine a country of pink fences? Of course, Marikina is touted to be a model city. But model on what? Cleanliness? It is only clean because they dump their waste somewhere else. And oh yeah, they are also the couple who advised people to flush their kitchen waste in the toilet bowl since it is biodegradable anyway! Nice!

And what about what he did on the trees along Katipunan? Cut them in the middle of the night! Traidor! Of course, there's no wonder the man who claimed trees in the cities are causing floods would do it!

On Legarda
Will you vote for a political prostitute? She claims to be for the environment, but what has she done? She sold the Philippines to Japan with the JPEPA. She failed the green groups, and she failed me.

On de Castro
Oh well, too much political baggage? Personal interest? Interest of former employers? Have you noticed the sponsors of Trip na Trip - the very late night show of Kat de Castro? Almost all are government agencies and GCC's!

And did he ever make a stand on all the important issues of our time? NO, he played safe! The making of a lame duck president!

On Panlilio
A leader must learn to listen. A leader must learn to sacrifice. A leader must unite. Unless Panlilio shows he has these traits, then maybe I will vote for him. Maybe. Your loyalty must be to your province and to your constituents, not to your provincial administrator. If she is causing most of the problems, I'm sure Pampangga has a lot more who are equally if not more qualified.

And of course, you must make the supreme sacrifice. Resign from priesthood, even just for formality (as they say, once a priest, always a priest). Then, maybe. Just maybe.

On Padaca
Yes, she was able to defeat a political dynasty. But, I fear she has the making of another dictator. Have you heard her talk? "My task force; my projects; my, my, my..." The way she delivered it just sent chills to my spine (and yes, it's not just me. I discussed it after with the others in the audience). Political will is one thing, hard headedness and self centeredness is another. She still has a lot of time to prove herself. Then maybe I will vote for her. Just maybe. (But please don't run as Pres or VP).

I will vote for Gov. Teddy Baguilat of Ifugao. He is an example of a leader who has vision, the political will and the integrity that we need. Most important, he has the humility to stay grounded despite his success/ power. It is a must.

(Just because someone's name is not here, it DOES NOT mean I will vote for them. Watch out for Part 2!)

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

A Special Request

2009-05-04T08:28:00.001-07:00

My Dearest Friends,

I hope this email finds you well.

I will be celebrating my birthday soon, and I have decided to spare you the trouble of worrying what to give me.

Last April, when I went home to Guimaras, I was approached by a Principal of a public elementary school. She told me of their effort to build a library and a computer center. She laments how her students graduate without ever seeing a single computer, or being inside a library. For their assignments, the students have to make do with their text books, but given the state of our public school system, there are just not enough books to share. And of course, given the quality of books approved (as evidenced by the scandals and hundred of factual errors, not to mention the grammatical errors, found on the books approved by DepEd), it is sad to know that these students are deprived of the opportunity to develop their full potential.

Seeing the sincerity and the determination of the Principal, I personally agreed to help them realize their dream of a library and a computer center. They said they’ll be happy with just computer, but given that this will serve the entire school population, from Grades 1 to 6, (she will send the profile of the school within this week), I am thinking of working for at least 5 computers, if possible.

In return, they promised to take care of this library. They already have the structure ready, it will be repainted and fixed by the bayanihan effort of the parents. They will also shoulder the electrical and other maintenance cost. And most importantly, the Principal agreed to make the library open to out of school youths and even students from other schools (almost all public elementary schools in Guimaras are without their own functioning library). This would mean that this library will not only benefit the entire school population and it’s future students, but the entire community as well.

In this regard, I would like to appeal to your kind hearts for possible book donations. I know how hard it is for some of us to let go of our books as I am giving away 100 of my own books. But I just think of it this way, my loss is the gain of thousands of other kids, now and in the future. Eventually, it will benefit our country.

Of course, you might do this as a birthday gift to me, or if you don’t like me that much (hehe), as a gift to the Filipino youth instead.

Thankfully, Add Up! Volunteers decided to adopt this project as well. And Mother Earth Foundation agreed to allow our office in Katipunan to be used as drop off point. Cash and computer PLEDGES are most welcome now, but please hold on to your cash at this point. There are other ways that you can help, if you are willing. You can ask your own friends for their book donations. You can email me possible people that I can write (for computer and book donations, freight sponsorships, etc). You can volunteer your office to be a drop off point. Just email me and we’ll work it out.

In return, you will have my utmost appreciation. All donations will be acknowledged in my blogs, and the school also proposed to have the list of donors posted at the library.

For those in the Katipunan area, you may drop your books at Mother Earth Foundation, 59 C. Salvador St. Loyola Heights, Quezon City. Please look for Zen or Tin, Tel No. 9253829. Please remember to sign the record book. I will post regular updates and other drop off points soon in my blog, http://nobystanders.blogspot.com.

Thank you very much for reading this long letter of mine, and thank you in advance for your support.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

I don't understand

2009-03-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

Filipino jokes I can't laugh about.

JOKE Number 1:
Why did GMA pardon Erap, the Aquino-Galman killers, Jalosjos and soon, Daniel Smith? Because Danny Lim, Antonio Trillanes, and hundreds of juvenile delinquents are in prison.

JOKE Number 2:
Why is Gaite the new SEC Commissioner? Because Jun Lozada is still protected by the La Salle Brothers.

******

What kind of government pardons plunderers, killers, and rapist and yet imprisons those who call for change, and ignore the plight of children who are imprisoned?

What kind of government rewards those who lie and plot to kill a witness, but at the same time harass those who stood up for the truth?

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Pagod ka na ba?

2009-03-19T20:53:00.000-07:00

Pagod ka na ba magbasa at makinig sa mga balita?

Pagod ka na ba sumama sa mga rally at people power?

Pagod ka na ba mag rehistro at bomoto sa eleksyon?

Pagod ka na ba sa mga political statements sa Multiply, Facebook at sa blogs?

Pagod ka na ba pag usapan ang pulitika at ang ating gobyerno?

Pagod ka na ba makialam, makimasid at makibahagi?

Seguro nga pagod ka na. At alam nila yun. Kaya malakas ang loob nila na patuloy tayong gaguhin, lokohin, babuyin, pagnakawan, pagsamantalahan at lahat lahat na.

Pero isipin mo, saan na lang kayo tayo ngayon kung sila napagod din?

Paano na lang kaya kung napagod si Rizal magsulat ng mga nobela. Kung napagod si Ninoy bumalik sa Pilipinas. Kung napagod si Aguinaldo, Bonifacio, Silang, Jacinto, Melchora Aquino, at lahat ng mga katipunero at Pilipinong lumaban para sa ating kalayaan?

Paano na lang kaya kung lahat ng guro ay mapagod din sa kakaturo, kung ang nakikita lang din naman ng mga kabataan ay puro kasinungalingan at pagnanakaw?

Paano kaya kung mapagod ang lahat ng mga sundalo (di kasama ang mga kurakot na heneral) na ipaglaban ang kapayapaan, kung sila'y gagamitin lamang para mapanatili ang isang pekeng pinuno?

Saan kaya tayo ngayon?

Pagod ka na ba?

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Obama's Falling Star

2009-03-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

- Barack Obama, Inaugural Speech as 44th President of the U.S.

When Obama made this comment in his speech, many Filipinos believed he was referring (one of, at least) to the Philippine President, Gloria Arroyo. This was further fueled by the fact that GMA tried to meet with Obama, to no avail. Even Secretary of State Clinton did not include the Philippines in her first visit to Asia.

I personally admired Obama for this. At least, he doesn't want to be used by someone who is indeed clinging to power through corruption and deceit. That's why it came as a surprise to read on the news that it was Obama himself who called Arroyo early this week. What could have prompted the US president to call someone he snubbed repeatedly even while he was still running for president?

Ah. Of course, you just have to read the news and make the connection.

People are calling for the transfer of Daniel Smith, who was found guilty of raping a Filipina and the scrapping of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which many sectors believed to be one sided in the favor of the US. The case of Smith was proof to this.

So, Obama called GMA to affirm his country's commitment to the VFA. Commitment to the VFA? The US Congress did not even ratify the treaty! They would have the guts to cite it's provisions when it it convenient for them and it supports their cause.

This is the kind of change that Obama promised? Is this the foreign policy that he wish to pursue? The kind that disrespects the laws of other countries? The kind that treats other nations not as equals but as partners of convenience?

People say the Philippines needs an Obama. I say, no thanks! We have enough of people like him already.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Rape has a nationality

2009-03-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

If you are a Filipino, and someone tries to rape you in the middle east, and you tried to protect your self, you will suffer the death penalty. And your government will not do anything.

If you are American and you rape a Filipina, your (American) president will call the Philippine president and the victim will recant.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Nicole Recants

2009-03-17T21:44:00.000-07:00

Consider these events leading to this sad news:

1. Despite the public humiliation, Nicole stood by her accusation - she was raped by Daniel Smith.

2. The court finds Smith guilty of raping Nicole.

3. Smith was transferred to the US embassy, clearly violating the terms of the VFA.

4. The Supreme Court ordered the transfer of Smith to Philippine custody.

5. People started calling for the scrapping of the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA).

6. Obama called GMA, in support of the VFA.

7. The Chinese sent patrol ships to Spratly's. Certain politicians said we should invoke our Mutual Defense Treaty with the US.

8. Nicole went to the US. The US!!!!

9. Nicole recants.

Wow! This country is fucked up. We've been colonized before, our forest and our women raped, and why would we allow these things to happen now?

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

New Feature: Taxi Talk

2009-03-14T21:05:00.000-07:00

I will be starting a new section soon, called Taxi Talk. Every time I ride a taxi, I do try to have a conversation with the drivers.

One, I feel they would have second thoughts if ever they have any bad plans if they feel a certain connection with me. Second, and most important, being men of the streets, these Taxi Drivers are able to provide a different perspective on various issues and topics.

And in this section of teh blog, I hope to chronicle these meaningful conversations. Please watch out, and you'll be surprised!

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa galing ng Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Dr. Manny Pacquiao?

2009-02-18T01:33:00.000-08:00

On my way home after lunch today, I was surprised with the number of students gathered around the gate of Southwestern University. What's more surprising is the multitude of ROTC uniformed students lining in formation. Obviously, someone "big" is expected to come.

Then, as if by on cue, all the girls started to shout (or more appropriately, shriek) on top of their lungs. That's when I realized, today is the day that the university is awarding an honorary doctorate in human kinetics to Manny Pacquiao.

Of course, the decision of the university is not without objection. Some professors are questioning the conferment. "Dr. Aparicio Mequi, dean of the graduate school of Foundation University and a former chair of the Philippine Sports Commission, said on Friday that while Pacquiao had brought honor to the country through his victories in boxing, the planned conferment on him of a doctorate in human kinetics (honoris causa) might be a violation of a policy of the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd)," an Inquirer.net report said. (Click here to read the entire report)

I will leave it up to the CHED to determine the validity of that honorary doctorate. My only question is, what's next, Congressman Pacquiao?

When Pacman decided to run as congressman before, he enrolled in a college course (after passing the equivalency test of DepEd for high school), taking up political science. That was before the election, probably to show that he is doing something to counter his critics that he is not built for politics. After he lost by a large margin, it was not pursued anymore (unless the school excused him for months when he was training for his de la Hoya fight).

Now, with the doctorate, there is no need for him to pretend to enroll in a univeristy. If you have a drop out (Erap) for a president (and another one, an evil corrupt alien calling herself as president), why can't you have a doctor, albeit an honorary doctorate on human kinetics, run for congress?

Or maybe Manny doestn't need the title anymore. He previously registered as a resident on a remote (at least compared to Gen Santos City) area, a move that critics believe is in preparation for his second try at politics. Why the transfer? He has a house in Gen San, he is frequently in Manila and in the US for his trainings and fights, so why register to vote in a remote area?

We can only guess, of course. Maybe there is no Darlene Custodio-like opponent who would beat him to humiliation again; or maybe money talks more in that area (as compared to Gen San again, as money talks everywhere in the Philippines, especially during elections, and especially in the halls of Malacanang and Congress)? It's not so hard to imagine.

You are considered a national traitor if you wished that de la Hoya would win last time (like I did), but maybe a humbled Pacman will realize that just because he is a great boxer, it doesn't mean he can win all his fights. I hope this time Hatton shows him that.

If Manny really wants to help his country, as he claims to be the reason why he is running, there are a lot of other ways that he could do so. He can get inspiration from other super stars, with the like of Jet Li and his One Foundation or many other Hollywood stars (we are sadly lacking examples of stars in the Philippines).

If he is bent on running, his kind of friends already showed us the kind of politician he will be. Mike Arroyo, Chavit Singson, and Lito Atienza? God bless this country!

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Thank you Brian!

2009-02-18T00:12:00.000-08:00

Wow! I'm flattered. My blog was listed on the must see links on Brian Gorrell's blog, Pure Advocacy.

I actually started blogging after seeing Brian's blog, and realizing the potential of blogs to spread a message, so this is like full circle for me.

Thanks again Brian! Friends, please visit Brian's blog for some interesting read. I especially liked how he was able to transform the blog from a personal cause into something that is bigger than him.Click on the link above or check out my Blog World section.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystanders.blogspot.com

Why No Bystanders?

2009-02-16T22:22:00.000-08:00

After a short break from blogging, I have decided to transform this blog into something that would represent my true reasons in having this blog in the first place. Thus the birth of NO BYSTANDERS.

I felt that the original site was a bit self centered, first with the URL "everythingfroi;" and second with the site name "A Glimpse of Poy's Crazy World," when in fact this site is not about me but rather of my thought, views and advocacies. Things that are bigger than me.

So why NO BYSTANDERS?

I got the inspiration from reading Malcolm Gladwell's The Tipping Point. In the book, the concept of Bystander Effect was discussed, and basically what it says is that people tend to help or to act less when they know there are other people who might do it (I will try to discuss the two concepts later and in succeeding posts).

And upon reflecting on the concepts of "the tipping point" and "bystander effect," I came to realize that these concepts aptly explains some of the basic social problems that we have. Take for example GMA's stay in power. Why is it that after so many scandals, she is still in power. People power fatigue maybe? Maybe we have not reache the tipping point? Or is it the Bystander Effect at work?

Same goes for all our environmental problems. I believe people are not acting because they believe somene will do it anyway.

To explain futher the concept of Bystander Effect, below is an excerpt fro Wikipedia:

"The bystander effect is a social psychological phenomenon in which individuals are less likely to offer help in an emergency situation when other people are present. The probability of help is inversely proportional to the number of bystanders.

The bystander effect was first demonstrated in the laboratory by John Darley and Bibb Latane in 1968.[2] These researchers launched a series of experiments that resulted in one of the strongest and most replicable effects in social psychology. In a typical experiment, the participant is either alone or among a group of other participants or confederates. An emergency situation is then staged — examples include smoke pouring from a vent in the room, a woman falling and becoming injured, a student having an epileptic seizure, etc. The researchers then measure how long it takes the participants to act, and whether or not they intervene at all. These experiments virtually always find that the presence of others inhibits helping, often by a large margin.

There are many reasons why bystanders in groups fail to act in emergency situations, but social psychologists have focused most of their attention on two major factors. According to a basic principle of social influence, bystanders monitor the reactions of other people in an emergency situation to see if others think that it is necessary to intervene. Since everyone is doing exactly the same thing (nothing), they all conclude from the inaction of others that help is not needed. This is an example of pluralistic ignorance or social proof. The other major obstacle to intervention is known as diffusion of responsibility. This occurs when observers all assume that someone else is going to intervene and so each individual feels less responsible and refrains from doing anything.

There are other reasons why people may not help. They may assume that other bystanders are more qualified to help, such as doctors or police officers, and that their intervention would be unneeded. People may also experience evaluation apprehension and fear losing face in front of the other bystanders. They may also be afraid of being superseded by a superior helper, offering unwanted assistance, or facing the legal consequences of offering inferior and possibly dangerous assistance."

So in writing this blog, I proclaim to the entire world:

I refuse to be a bystander!

And I will make it my life's mission to be an example to the world, or at least to my circle of influence, that they too can choose to be not a bystander. Then, probably, we might see a better world someday.

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystander.blogspot.com

The Rebirth of a blog

2009-02-16T21:55:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone!

Thanks for visiting. This site has moved to a new address. Please change your links :)

The new address is http://nobystanders.blogspot.com.

Alternately, you may use this permanent adress that will divert you to the new address, and any changes taht may happen in the future. The permanent address is www.froi.greenminds.net.

Please check out the new blog to discover the reason behind the re-birth of this blog: No Bystanders

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystander.blogspot.com

Is Academic Freedom Dead in the US?

2009-02-16T21:03:00.000-08:00

From the Ecowaste Egroup:

This Action Alert came from Ann Leonard (co-founder of GAIA) who helped the EcoWaste Coalition a lot in terms of introducing us to grantmakers in US who are into public health and environmental justice issues. The Time Magazine in its 6 Oct 2008 issue cited Ann as one of the "heroes of the environment" for her work on Zero Waste and, of course, "The Story of Stuff." Thanks in advance for your support. Manny C. Calonzo

Dear Friends,

You all know that U.S. consumption rates are out of control and driving much of the ecological devastation on the planet. With 5% of the world's population, the U.S. uses 30% of the world's resources and creates 30% of the world's waste.

I created the film The Story of Stuff to inspire people in the U.S. to think about the hidden environmental and social impacts of our out of control consumption patterns here. I have been delighted that many teachers have adopted it for use in classrooms in the U.S. and around the world.

Recently though, a high school teacher in Missoula, Montana showed he Story of Stuff to her high school biology class. An irate parent complained to the school board, which late last month voted that showing the video violated district policy-in effect banning the film.

You can read about this growing controversy here:
http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2009/02/11/news/local/news03.txt and we will post updates to our blog at www.storyofstuff.com

This is a dangerous precedent.

At a time when every reputable scientist and organization agrees that the future of the planet is at risk, educators need to help students to think critically about the causes and consequences of environmental degradation, especially climate change. School textbooks and mainstream media have failed to adequately address the environmental crises we face, and teachers like Kathleen Kennedy in Missoula should be commended for seeking out alternative materials like The Story of Stuff to encourage critical thinking and action for sustainability.

Fortunately students, parents, and teachers in Missoula and elsewhere are organizing to demand the school board revere its decision. Please join them!

Please take a minute to send an email to the Missoula school board to ask that they reconsider their vote. I've pasted a sample letter below or you can write your own comment.

Email the school board at publiccomment@mcps.k12.mt.us and send a copy to the local newspaper, the Missoulian, at newsdesk@missoulian.com. Please blind cc me at ann_leonard@sbcglobal.net

Stay tuned and thank you for helping!

Sincerely,

Annie Leonard
The Story of Stuff

Patuloy na umiibig sa Pilipinas,
At naniniwala sa Pilipino,

Froilan Grate | GreenMinds
www.NoBystander.blogspot.com

A Real Man

2009-02-15T06:03:00.000-08:00

Some guys feel the need to love a thousand different women, BUT a real man knows how to love one woman, a thousand different ways.

Copied from a shout of a friend in facebook :)

RP military welcomes shorter soldiers

2009-02-14T19:27:00.000-08:00

Why just now? And I wonder if this applies to the Air Force too. Hmmm... Maybe it's not too late for me.

**********

RP military welcomes shorter soldiers

Agence France-Presse
First Posted 12:13:00 02/14/2009

Filed Under: Military

MANILA, Philippines -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines has lowered its height requirement in order to attract more recruits with technical skills, the military said on Saturday.

The minimum height has been reduced to five feet (1.52 meters) for both genders from five feet, four inches for men and five feet, two inches for women, it said in a statement.

The move was part of "an effort to accommodate soldier-applicants who are not blessed with height but are skilled and qualified (in) carpentry, masonry, computer technicians/programmers, electricians, mechanics, heavy equipment specialists, etc.," it said.

Philippine troops are battling communist guerrillas in the hinterlands of the country and various Muslim armed groups in the south.

From Inquirer.net

Words of Wisdom?

2009-02-12T19:45:00.001-08:00

Too often, we lose sight of life's simple pleasures...

Remember, when someone annoys you,

It takes 42 muscles in your face to frown

BUT, it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm

and smack the asshole upside the head.

Lost Generation?

2009-02-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

A very powerful video.

Lost Generation

I am part of the lost generation
and I refuse to believe
that I can change the world
I realize this may be a shock but
Happiness comes from within
is a lie, and
Money will make me happy.
So in 30 years I will tell my children
They are not the most important thing in my life.
My employer will know that
I have my priorities straight because
work
is more important than
family.
I tell you this
Once upon a time
Families stayed together
but this will not be true in my era.
This is a quick fix society;
Experts tell me
30 years from now I will be celebrating the 10th anniversary of my divorce.
I do not concede that
I will live in the country of my own making
In the future.
Environmental destruction will be the norm.
No longer can it be said that
My peers and I care about this earth.
It will be evident that
My generation is apathetic and lethargic
It is foolish to presume that
There is hope.

And all of this will come true unless we choose to reverse it.

Fight for your right

2009-01-12T09:00:00.000-08:00

Just wanna share an experience tonight when I called my credit card's customer hotline:

Me: Hi. I would like to know what will be your dollar conversion rate if I purchase online tonight?

CSR: Sorry Sir but we do not have that information.

Me: What do you mean? Is there no way for you to check it?

CSR: Sorry Sir, but it changes often. We will only know once your transaction is posted.

Me: How can that be? I don't want to be surprised when I receive your billing and I will see you forex at $1=P60.

CSR: It's usually within the published rates sir.

Me: Like how much? I need a number. Can you guarantee?

CSR: No Sir. I can't give you a number.

Me: Let me talk to your supervisor.

CSR: My Supervisor will tell you the same thing Sir.

Me: I don't care. I want to hear it from your Supervisor.

CSR: Hold on Sir.

After 20 seconds...

Supervisor: Good evening. This is _____. I was informed you are asking about our forex rate?
Me: Yes.
Supervisor: Sorry Sir but we don't ahve that data. You can check it after your transaction is posted.
Me: How can that be? If your charge me $1=P60, can I complain after that?

Supervisor: NO SIR.

Me: Exactly. As customers, we have the right to those information to enable us to make the right choices, don't you think?

Supervisor: Yes Sir. What you can do is you may call us before you make that purchase to inquire about the conversion rate.

Me: That's what I am exactly doing now. I am about to make a purchase and I am calling you to inquire on the rate.

Supervisor: Sir, can I get your land line? I will just clarify and I will call you in 15 minutes once I have the rate.

Me: Sure. It's _______.

After 5 minutes...

Supervisor: Sorry Sir, but we can't give you an exact amount. But right now it should be within 46.92 Sir.

Me: But will it reach 50?

Supervisor: No Sir, if any, the difference should be in centavos.

Me: Ok. Thank you. That will do.

Supervisor: Sorry again Sir if we can't guarantee the exact amount.
Me: It's ok. At least you made an effort. I just don't like it when your agent tells me there's nothing you can do without trying. Thanks again for the effort.

Supervisor: Sorry again Sir. Thank you for calling.

+++++++

Moral of the story? I don't know (hehehe). Maybe never give up on your right? I'm maybe hard headed, but only when I know it's my right. When things go wrong, never be afraid or be shy in asking for the Supervisor or the Manager.

When there was a problem with my order in Chowking, I asked for the manager, he apologized and gave us complimentary food. Same with Pizza Hut.

When I was in Cebu, I ate at Mang Inasal. Supposedly, it's unlimited rice. But I have to wait for 30 minutes for my extra rice. Malamig na ang sabaw ko. Worst, I see the kitchen staff playing with dishwashing liquid in the kitchen, spraying it against another staff, including the food being served. Also, the same people who handle the food also handle the money and clean the table. A big no-no in food business. I called for the manager, she recognized the problem and offered to refund my food. But I know it will be charged to the staff so I refused, but I told her to fix the problems or else I will report them to their Head Office. The next day, I went there again, everything was how I asked them and I was treated like a king.

I called Bayantel to complain about my bill. The agent was arrogant and when I asked to talk to another agent, he dropped the line. I called again and asked for the supervisor. She apologized and promised to investigate and asked for my initial concern. Right there and then, she waived the items in my bill that I object to.

I have thousands more of these stories. Maybe I'm hard headed, maybe "walang hiya." But for me, there's only one reason for this: I refuse to accept what is not right and is not just.

I will never say, "Hayaan mo na, para walang gulo..." when I know I am right. But also, I will not hesitate to say sorry if I know it's my fault (some of my friends will object to this haha!).

So, I leave you with these quotes:

Evil flourish simply because good people choose to do nothing.

Failure to condemn translates to stamp of approval.

Silence to apathy is betrayal.

Thanks for reading. Good night!

Quote of the day

2009-01-07T23:01:00.000-08:00

We neither know nor judge ourselves; others may judge, but cannot know us. God alone judges and knows us.
Wilkie Collins (1824-1889)

Bonus Quote from Melanie M:

Do not judge my brother, he is not a book.

Why this country deserves GMA as [fake] president....

2009-01-07T06:45:00.000-08:00

GMA's gift to the Filipino nation. Watch this excellent video.

God, 12 scandals are not enough? When will we say enough is enough?

Happy New Year Everyone!

2008-12-31T06:12:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all the best for 2009.

Comments on PAL

2008-12-15T20:09:00.000-08:00

I'm disgusted with PAL and their lack of customer service.

To make a long story short, my mother in law had contracted e.coli from a cold smoked salmon salad she ate on a PAL flight from Manila to Bangkok, Thailand earlier this year. My husband and I didn't eat the salad, nor did other passengers we happened to meet whilst in Bangkok. Although there is no concrete evidence of her contracting e.coli from the salad PAL served (i.e. having a sample of the salmon tested, etc), it is pretty evident she did contract it from what she ate on the plane considering it was her first meal that day and her previous meal was 8 hours before that.

She missed touring Bangkok cause she was vomiting and severely ill. When we got back to Manila (had trouble with PAL AGAIN but that's another story) we checked her into UST hospital where she was treated.

The thing is...it was a chain of events. My mom in law ended up spending 10 days in 2 hospitals. She was staying at UST then cause of the unsanitary conditions, ended up contracting klebsiella.esbl (a very NASTY bacteria resistant to most antibiotics) during her stay there and ended up at St. Luke's hospital.

To say the least, my mom in law NEVER wants to visit the Philippines again (can you blame her after what has happened) and we're still trying to fight for some compensation from PAL.
Anonymous on September 25, 2008 11:18 PM

Ive always enjoyed the service that PAL offers. ive never had any experience with their reservations offices but their ground and flight crews are some of the most pleasant Ive experienced, I live in the New York and fly via San Francisco to get to Manila. After having to endure "service" from American domestic airlines, PAL, is definitely a whisp of fresh air.
Anonymous on September 26, 2008 12:03 AM

Bryan boy had thesame experience like you. Check out his blog.
People that work in LAX nicknamed PAL as the PLANE THAT's ALWAYS LATE, coz THEY ALWAYS ARE! And when they're late, airline people give you a meal coupon with an attitude, as if I should be grateful that I was given a free meal coz they were late! Jurrassic talaga! And the sad thing is, THEY COULD CARE LESS ABOUT ME AND YOU! You think your letter means something???? This is just business as usual for them!
ilovekimmel on September 26, 2008 2:31 AM

I have my own share of disgust with PAL, back in '02 (indeed that was the last time I boarded PAL) we were bound for LA and at the Terminal 2 as a standard procedure everyone checked in 3 hours before the flight. To our dismay, the plane was supposed to leave by 10pm a couple of "late business class" passengers delayed the flight schedule. Their reason, they called that they were running late and has to make the flight (they might be that important or maybe they just wanted to make their money's worth for being in a MABUHAY Business Class)! My my we were in outrage just becuase we were riding coach even the time for boarding was adjusted for them. While inside the plane, obviously the Flight Attendants (but I would like to call them Stewardess because they are OLD and or RETIRABLE looking gals) expected angst among the passengers that they weren't attending to us that much. I was given an attitude just for asking for a cup of water. That's the crappy service you get $1500 worth. It's giving me goosebumps everytime I think about it! That was a 13 hour flight that I can no longer take back "sigh!"
Anonymous on September 26, 2008 3:47 AM

what do you expect? PAL means "PALPAK" (defective) and PALENGKERA (ill-mannered staff). what else is new in Philippine Custumer Service???? NOTHING. You can't blame them though, if you have a GOVERNMENT like the Philippines', do not wonder anymore.
Comment by Who Am I? on September 26, 2008 4:24 AM

Hi Bri,

Thank so much for posting my letter (and thanks to my friend who forwarded the letter to you).

My letter may not change PAL but at least I know I did something. I'm tired of complaining every time I get a lousy service and writing PAL is my simple way doing my share. Maybe, just maybe, they will listen. If not, it's not my loss.

One thing I was hoping when I wrote this letter is encourage others to come out and share their experience as well.

And thank you Brian for posting this letter here. I posted it in my blog (www.greenminds.net) but of course, only my friends read it. Haha! Now I know more people will be able to read this, and hopefully more people will share their own experience.

If you have the same (or worse?) experience, please drop a comment on my site.

Froi
Michael on September 26, 2008 5:45 AM

There are a lot of issues regarding PAL.. "Plane always late" is the most classic. Yup, they got a lot of rude employees but not all of them though.

Cebu pacific is the best right now in terms of service.. :):)They also have many promos which make it possible for any "juan" to fly with them. Also all of their Planes were brandnew airbus A320. Or is it A319?

It saddens me that PAL is not performing up to it's standards as the Flag Carrier of the Philippines.As the official plane of our country, they are our window to the outside World and any image they have whether good or bad will reflect a lot to the foreigners.

Our airports also needs a lot of change.
Comment by ara on September 26, 2008 6:32 AM

I used to love PAL because of their direct flights but last January I was on my way to Jamaica via Vancouver and requested for a window seat away from the children (no offense but I haven't had any sleep because of work) and the person at the check-in counter scolded me about hating children because I was single and didn't have any of my own. He told me once I become a mother I would understand and gave me an aisle seat next to a little kid who cried the whole trip. Crazy! What about customer service? All I wanted was to get some rest. *sigh*
Ramel on September 26, 2008 8:40 AM

The way to teach PAL a lesson is not to book a single ticket from them anymore. They used to be the one and only airline in P.I.

Customer service? Hah! Lucky you if they will just pout on you ! I dont know why? Even pinoy crew at fastfood/restaurants here in the US (Jollibee, Chowking, Goldilocks) arent trained well on customer service. Nada, zit, zero. That's why you would only see 3 or 4 people standing in line.

Back to PAL - Cebu Pacific will give a run for their money. Where in the world they would play parlor games and give you prizes inside an airplane. Only Cebu Pacific does that. Smile? They will give you all the smiles you want.

Still, spend your money to a competitor instead. That's the only thing you can do and sooner, they'll feel the pinch.
Anonymous on September 26, 2008 10:44 AM

I do hear a lot of "horror" stories about PAL. Curiously though, I, nor anyone from our family has yet to experience any of these with the airline, not even "plane always late". We did encounter a canceled SFO-MNL flight once, but PAL made sure all passengers were re-booked for the next flight and billeted in a nice hotel for the duration of the wait. We do fly quite frequently, and have tried other airlines as well. Our worst experience so far is with a domestic US carrier -- 9hr delay and not even a drink was offered to us passengers. To cut the long story short, Pinoy service is still tops!
Anonymous on September 26, 2008 11:21 AM

Put up a website for (Philippine) AIRLINE GRIPES,

maybe as part of
www.greenminds.net ?

let people submit their stories. If possible, even videos, as proof. For those submitting stories, if possible also, jot down the names of the personnel who need additional "customer service" training, flight number, date, time and airports of departure and arrival.

Turn on the voice recording feature in your cellphones, to document your conversations with the airline personnel, if you can not turn on the video feature in your cellphone.

Of course, we know that if the owner of the blog is Philippine-based, they can be FORCED, pressured, or intimidated to close down their blog, if they are going against a giant. So, think ahead. I am not sure if TRUTH is a defense against LIBEL in the Philippines. Sometimes, the "giants" in the Philippines, just use their money to harass people who complain by filing lawsuits against them. It is a tactic often used in the Philippines, that even Brian had experienced, threats of lawsuits.

Brian, it looks like Filipinos now find a good place to air legitimate gripes in your blog. Maraming salamat, po.

http://blogs.usatoday.com/sky/2006/06/whats_your_bigg.html
Anonymous on September 26, 2008 11:42 AM

"I decided to make a reservation and was told to pay for it on or before Sept 15. Given that you have very limited sales offices, and only one (Cubao) near me, I was only able to visit on September 13, a Saturday."

"But alas, to my surprise, it was closed. It is closed every Saturday afternoon and whole day of Sunday. On weekdays, you’re only open until 5pm! Why a sales office with limited locations would close on weekends I beyond me. Cebu Pacific is open until 9 or 10 pm, 7 days a week!"

Is Philippine Airlines propped up by sales from tickets, or subsidized by public taxes? This does not look like they have any motivations in making as much sales as they can. How much is the CEO of Philippine Airlines making, salary, bonus (why would he have a bonus?) , others? How much are the people behind the counter making, bonus, benefits? Their motivation level for making sales and making repeat customers seem to be low.
Anonymous on September 26, 2008 3:37 PM

2 words - Third World !
Anonymous on September 26, 2008 4:19 PM

I am glad we didn't try PAL at all. We will just stick to www.evaair.com. Tickets are cheaper and the service is excellent.
Canadian on September 26, 2008 4:59 PM

Just like the Chinese, Filipinos in the Philippines are the worst when it comes to customer service. Every time I go home I dread encountering a problem with any business there because I know I won't get anywhere and I'd be endangering myself with a possible heart attack due to anger!

What do you expect, it's the common thread that runs among the people from the top (government, justices, legislators, etc) down to the rank-and-file. Two years ago, while applying for a business permit at a DTI window, I was totally helpless when my turn came at 5 minutes to lunchtime, only to be told to come back an hour later as they were closing for lunch break - what a total waste of my time and the others who were in line too. And to think I am a Fil-Canadian trying to contribute to the Philippine economy!

A nationwide education to correct this problem is clearly needed but, alas, knowing the Philippines - it's absolutely hopeless!
Comment by Rexler on September 26, 2008 8:58 PM

Cebu Pacific?
Yeah, right.

Where in the world would you find an airline that has nothing:
no newspapers
no blankets or pillows
if you want refreshments, you have to buy it from the FA (50 pesos for a can of soda or a cup of noodles)
EVEN ON INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS

One time, with a very long queue at the check-in counter, CebuPac cancelled our flight to HK, 45 minutes before its scheduled departure. Other airlines would book you in a hotel and schedule you for another flight. Not with them. No apologies, and no one from the airline came over to talk to us passengers. The people from NAIA just told us about the cancellation, with an advisory to call The CebuPac hotline to resked. Even sadder was the number of OFW passengers who came from the province and had no option but to stay and wait it out at the airport to wait for a flight.

A few years ago, me and my friends were on a CebuPac flight to Bohol. During take-off, the cabin started filling up with engine exhaust, the smoke alarms blaring bloody hell. While ascending, the flight attendants started passing around sheets of toilet paper drenched in water, telling us to cover our noses with them. After a few minutes, the pilot comes on the PA:
"Ladies and gentlemen, we are experiencing some techinical difficulties. Please put your head between your legs and assume the crash position."
Everybody was in shock. Too stunned actually with what was happening that fortunately, no one panicked and chaos did not ensue. 20 mins later, the pilot comes on again:
"It seems that we will have to turn around and go back to the airport to change planes. Thank you for your patience, we will be landing in MANILA BAY in 15 minutes."
I swear on everything I hold dear to me that those were his words. Landing in Manila Bay. Really.
90 mins later, we were boarding another plane. There was a foreigner in a CebuPac uniform at the foot of the stairs seeing us off, probably one of the company's higher-ups. He goes:
"Thank you so much for your understanding. Now, please pray."
Needless to say, I never rode CebuPac again.
6 months later, I tell this story to a clients who happened to be a CebuPac pilot. He never heard of the incident. Apparently, they kept it under wraps.

My point is, PAL and CebuPac are both crappy. PAL has actually improved as of late, and I have not had any untoward incidents with them in the last two years. If anything, I like PAL better because they have their own airport. NAIA Terminal 1 is just hell with a couple of runways.
Anonymous on September 27, 2008 1:09 AM

Yeah, PAL has its own "airport" coz they don't want to share it with any other airlines. Lucio Tan wants a monopoly! That is how he competes, or any big old fart in the Philippines for that matter.
When FVR became president, he "opened up" the sky to other airlines because he believed in a FREE MARKET. The more competitors that are out there, the better for the consumers. That is how Cebu Pacific came to be.
But what the heck! Only in the Philippines right?
Anonymous on September 27, 2008 5:00 PM

Best time to visit the Cubao office is 830am when it opens. Do your research first. Check online for flight schedules/availability and fare. Call reservations, book the flight and get your confirmation number. Present number to agent in Cubao (20 total seats), she prints e-ticket, forwards same to Cashier for either cash or credit card payment. The time spent in the new Cubao office should not exceed 30 minutes for the early bird.

Lesson of the story: Make it easy on yourself!!!
Anonymous on September 27, 2008 11:43 PM

When PAL opened direct flights from Vancouver,Canada to Manila. I was so happy and immediately booked and paid returned flights last May of this year for me and my mother and also did the same for my brother and his family. I ,however, had a shock of my life when I checked in at the YVR (Vancouver) airport, The ground staffs where so unprofesional,impolite, no smiles, and no help at all. My bag was in excess at that time and the guy at the counter said it's heavy and cannot accept my bag and if I can move somewhere to remove the excess. I offered to pay whatever amount to cover the excess weight but he refused and he insisted that I come back if I am done. I left the counter out of disgust and start looking for a spare box or bag but stores at the airport are already closed at that time. So, I have to improvised, got to a corner ignored everybody passing and staring, opened my baggage and made some bunch of plastic bags and wrappers into a package. Such a hassle ! and not to say, the indignity! I went back to the check-in counter and they almost again did not accept my bags. You know, I got irritated the entire flight and vowed not to fly PAL again. I hope somebody at PAL reads this! You people need to work on your customer service skills and services!
nEd* on September 28, 2008 6:36 AM

Well I think there are lots of issues regarding these airlines in the Philippines. I personally have a very bad experience with CEBU PACIFIC, not once but twice. And hey from what I gather its not just me on this side of the world who has complaints about this airline. And I don’t buy it that they have frequent promos, heck, so they’ve got the right to treat people like that just cause people bought a promo ticket? My experience happened last year when I went home for a vacation. I bought a promo ticket, my very first from this airline, after flying with PAL the year before which cost way too high so I said why not try the cheapest if it’ll bring me to Philippines just the same. They’ve only been operational in Bangkok a few weeks when I flew home and youd think everything’s fresh and smooth being new and all..but I got to pinas I was so shocked to see my luggage destroyed I mean completely unusable, cracked (hard case) with one wheel missing and I was so shocked and furious very early in the morning. And there was a foreigner guy who didn’t have his baggage so he reported it missing/lost ( I dunno what happened after) but me I also complained and the representative asked tons of questions and filling up the form that they have for destroyed baggage. So after that she told me that they will contact me but I stayed in there for 3 weeks and nothing. I even called a number of times but all I got were infinite ringing but no answer- the woman gave me several numbers, none worked – should I be happy? NOT I was furious and counting my days stay in the Philippines and the problem still unresolved. i even emailed them to ask them about my complain and that I only have a few days to stay in pinas..several emails and still nothing from them…so because I was in the province the whole time I was in the Philippines I said to myself wait til I get to manila..came the time I was to fly back to my workplace, before I checked in I asked them about my complaint and showed them the copy or my complaint , made a tiny bit of a scene there I said I wanted to speak with the manager who called and talked to lots of people and after just told me to just call the office because the office that they have at the airport doesn’t solve matters like that or email the office… call? Internationally?email? They must be going nuts, they wouldn’t even pick up the phone,the whole time I was there I kept trying to no avail. They didn’t even acknowledge a single email,to make the story shorter, I still have the piece of paper the representative gave me as a copy of the complaint and no, they still haven’t settled nor replied any of my emails and when I arrived in Bangkok the handle of the handbag I checked in was also broken but I let it pass coz it wasn’t expensive and it was mine..by the way the hard-cased luggage was just borrowed from a friend because mine was so huge I didn’t have that much stuff so I asked my friend to lend me his.i was so ashamed to my friend for what happened.
The second incident was just march this year when I went home for holy week and for my baby’s birthday.. still with CEBU just domestic but way to serious than the luggage thing coz I swore im never flying with the airline again (at least for domestic flights)..it was just after holy week so most of the people were going back to their respective workplace and so was i..at the airport we arrived about 55 minutes b4 the departure and we were even happy that when we got to the airport the plane wasn’t there yet so there was time for picture taking and family time, when we entered the check in area it was so quite we thought that we were one of the first few people to arrive, no lines, nice…but then the agent told us that everybodys checked in already and that we’re late already and that I cant fly on that day coz the plane’s already full. I was like What?! The plane’s not even there and its still 50 mins till departure so how can I be late, I was just at this same flight a few months back and it wasn’t like this we came even later.i have my name listed on that day and I was there… I mean I couldnt miss the domestic coz I had a connecting flight that same night so I said. And then the other guy told me that im late blah blah I should be at the airport 45 mins before departure blah blah…furious already I yelled at the guy and said excuse me if you hadn’t been talking for the last 10 mins, would I have made it at the boarding area? I was here before your 45 minutes and you weren’t even entertaining anybody anymore, you’re closed already cant you see.there were a few people like me who weren’t allowed to check in because they said they were late…they came before me…how’s that? one was a pregnant woman who was just standing when I got there teary-eyed just not talking to the men at the counter… Why is that the plane from manila’s not even here yet. And he said ma’am sorry but you should check the nonsense/suggestions on your website but you wouldn’t even acknowledge a complaint? Don’t tell me about your website coz I know they don’t work.. we tried every possible way we could just so we could board that flight but unsuccessful. The pregnant woman told me that she bought the ticket 2 months back, so was my ticket how could they be full when we the people who was supposed to be on that flight are outside of the boarding area? Doesn’t make sense to me….hmmmm, wait, but it does, you see it was peak season, just after holy week, people eager to go back to manila, lots of profit for them. We bought the promo tickets 2 months back for just over 3 thousand, 2 way. And then the pregnant woman told me that the chance passengers paid more than 5 thousand just for a 1 way ticket…savvy, right? And for those of us who missed our promo ticket, our tickets were useless, so we either fly on that day or thrash the ticket, for those who really cant fly on that date must buy again, and you were hoping youd save some on a promotion, turns out it costs more…and I swear I cursed a whole lot of bad words that day…I wished they answered my phone calls coz it would’ve been a lot more satisfying for me if I aired it to whoever was responsible…I guess it’s their policy not to answer the line for complaints…what im saying is that they shouldn’t treat their customer’s like that just because they think that maybe their customers are just nobody’s because they can only afford cheap promo tickets…why in the world would you advertise promotion?
Comment by GreenMinds on October 1, 2008 4:55 AM

Hello everyone,

I just would like to share that PAL responded to my letter. If you want updates on this, you might want to check out the blog I started for this issue (and other customer service related concerns) at www.customerwow.blogspot.com

Many thanks!

Froi
www.greenminds.net
Anonymous on October 11, 2008 12:17 AM

I've had it with PAL. We were flying back and forth between the US and Manila quite a few times last year, not on vacation, but for medical issues, etc. Anyhow the last time we had to fly to the US, a family member there was very ill, our flight was cancelled. The flight was supposed to leave about 10PM, but an hour after the scheduled departure, we still weren't boarding, no announcements or anything. Another hour passed and they finally told us the flight was cancelled for mechanical problems on the plane, but they didn't tell you what to do: no announcement about rescheduling the flight, what to do now that it was midnight and we were stuck in the airport. People crowded around the few remaining employees asking what to do. After asking a few employees, we finally found out that they would put you up at a hotel or give you P1000 for a taxi ride home. Since we lived close by, we opted for the taxi ride home, but there was just one person issuing the P1000; the line was more than 100 people deep, and she had to verify your ID first and then ask for your signature. People at the end of the line were screaming for them to open another line, but of course the rude Filipinos at the end of the line rushed to the front of the new line. We then had to find a supervisor to help us book our connecting flight in the US to our final destination.

Upon returning the next morning we found out that they had cancelled more than one flight the previous night before, so they were trying to cram the passengers from two flights onto one. They did this by separating families, bumping people off the flight, etc. It was total FUC****G chaos as passengers started threatening the employees. After many arguments had ensued, a supervisor finally appeared and tried to calm people down. Of course, the flight was late again as they tried to figure out what to do. Now that the flight from Manila was delayed, we would have less than an hour to make our connecting flight in the US. The staff in Manila told us there would be ground staff in San Francisco to assist us with the connection, but of course, when we arrived in SF, no one was around to help. We barely made our flight, but another passenger we met missed his flight.

PAL's staff are ill-trained, and supervisors try to hide in their offices until problems get out of hand, they don't make announcements when necessary. The employees lie about staff on the arrivals end--they have no FUC***G idea, but they will tell you what you want to hear. Additionally, they have obviously have maintenance issues due to the many cancellations and delays. On board the plane, many times my headphones or video display haven't worked. Lastly to make a flight change they force you to fax a copy of your ID with your signature to make a change. They even charged us a $150 fee to upgrade to business class.

It's really a shame how crappily PAL is run. The monopolies and corruption in this country really give people a poor impression of the Philippines.

Philwhine
Anonymous on October 15, 2008 6:57 PM

I have had bad experiences also with PAL that are bearable, and Cebu Pacific that I will never ever forget, but after taking other airlines in other countries, I feel that we still have a great service!

PAL always tops my list and they have greatly improved! I rode the newly configured 747-400 to Cebu and the new seats are at par with Singapore Airline's Kris World!

Bush and the flying shoes in Iraq

2008-12-15T07:26:00.000-08:00

Watch as US President George Bush ducks as a journalist threw not one, but a pair of shoes right in the middle of a press conference.

The journalist is currently detained, and the Iraqi government calls it a shameful act and has demanded an on air apology from the station where the journalist worked. Some people in Baghdad, however, consider the journalist their hero.

I doubt if GMA would have the same reflexes.

Camp Explore featured on Jessica Soho

2008-12-13T08:07:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for a different kind of Christmas with friends? Why not go back to the basic and rediscover the real meaning of Christmas and the simple joys of the holidays?

Interested? Watch this video of Camp Explore as featured in Jessica Soho show in GMA.

I hate SSS!

2008-12-12T21:37:00.000-08:00

(External entry)

Two months before I resigned from my last work, I made sure that I get all the ID cards I need since I will be surrendering my company ID. This means I arranged everything from my SSS (replacement), TIN, Postal ID, etc. These are some of the IDs needed for bank and other important transactions. Aside from these ID cards, I also continued my PhilHealth, Pag-ibig and SSS contributions without fail, so when I get sick, the health insurance can take care of a part of the hospital bill, and when I reach retirement age or die, I get a little something out from SSS (Social Security System).

I was happy with the online inquiry service of SSS until I experienced what seems to be an endless problem with their website. It was down, if not too slow, most of the time. Then they had this new procedure where one should register first and create an account before he can do online contribution inquiry, etc.

Personally, I like the old thing more – type your last name, your birthday and your SSS number, press ‘submit’ then tada! All the information you need to know and see with regards to your membership are there.

That was the old process. The new one is, well, I can’t say if it’s better or what. I have registered and tried accessing my account successfully. To register, you need to fill up the online form and wait for the email with your password from them (you create your own username and they give you the PW which you can change afterwards). Once logged in, you need to log in again to access your membership account. In other words, you need to log in to log in. Funny, right?

After successfully fooling myself logging in and trying the not really impressive service, I tried registering my husband. He received the email that says,

‘We are sorry to inform you that you have not successfully registered in the SSS Website. Please call the SSS Hotline at (632) 920-6446 to 55 for assistance.’

A month later, we tried registering again – filled up the form and waited for their email. We received the same response!

So I decided to call those numbers to inquire but all of them are either busy or your call just can’t get through (I hear a fast busy tone). I tried calling the trunkline (9206401), but the lady kept insisting that I call those other numbers even I told her how hard it is to get though. And I’ve been dialing since yesterday!

Aaaarrrgghhh! How I hate SSS! Their web service sucks, and their phone service sucks more. Maybe that’s why it’s called the SSS Hotline. Your head will get hot when you call their line. I just hope they find a website hosting service that works, and a bunch of people that works better.

See original post here.

Juana Change: Cha-Cha

2008-12-10T08:12:00.000-08:00

Wanna Change OR WALA na Change?

Friends, please, do me a favor. DO THIS COUNTRY A FAVOR. Please watch this video until the end.

"Bless the President, so that she will have the forebearance, good health, tolerance, to lead this nation up to 2010 and perhaps, who knows, even beyond..."

I am praying that God was asleep when this prayer was said. God, please bless this country.

Do we really deserve her? Should we take her challenge? The answer is up to us. Wake up Filipinos!

Today

2008-12-08T20:05:00.000-08:00

Yesterday is History.

Tomorrow is a Mystery.

Today is a Gift

That's why it is called a Present.

-From Kungfu Panda

Congressman Manny Pacquiao

2008-12-08T19:56:00.000-08:00

PacMan is running as Congressman after all. If this is true, I would have to say sorry for thinking that he would run as senator. Bu who knows? It is too early to say. What's established is that he is entering politics again.

Well, at the very least, if Pacman will win as congressman, he will be with peers. A house of stupid or greedy people, or both. Unlike the senate, he will be at home in the House of Rep. But I doubt if the intelligent people of Quezon City will vote for him. I promise to camapign against him, even if I am from a different district. Watch out PacMan. You are not the luckiest man alive, I tell you.

MANILA, Philippines -- Filipino boxing champion Manny Pacquiao is giving politics another shot in 2010, but this time it will reportedly for the congressional seat of Quezon City’s second district, incumbent Representative Mary Ann Susano said Monday.

If plan pushes through, Susano said she and Pacquiao would be the team to beat in the city, which the incumbent solon envisions as the "Dragon City."

Susano said a group of businessmen and politicians arranged a meeting between her and Pacquiao before the boxer left for the US to train for his Dream Match with Oscar de la Hoya.

At the meeting, Pacquiao was asked if he was interested in running for Congress. Asked if Pacquiao appeared inclined to accept the offer, Susano said, "Yes."

Click here to read the entire news report.

Blogging Tools

2008-12-07T20:14:00.000-08:00

Want to showcase your blog to the world? Head on to http://alphainventions.com - it's the Friendster of Blogs :)

3ix is Not A Cheap Hosting Provider

2008-12-07T19:40:00.000-08:00

(External Entry)

Remember my post about transferring my site to 3ix? It was the biggest mistake I ever made with respect to my blog. I remember bragging to my blogger friends how they provide chat support and how cheap their services are. But now I take back all those things I have bragged about because with 3ix, you get what you paid for - cheap hosting.

This post is going to be long so please bear with me as I try to vent out my frustrations here in my blog. I hope someone will learn from my experience. If you decide you don’t want to read all the bru-haha, then you can skip and proceed here.

I have been a subscriber of 3ix for over six months before I transferred pinoytux.com to 3ix hosting, which worked pretty much well. I decided that free hosting no longer works for my blog so I ordered an upgrade of my account amounting to $28.10. It was OK at first. I mean I can’t transfer my database to their MySQL server but the support was kind enough to upload the dump file for me. Then hell started to break loose.

One time, I thought that my account was compromised because my homepage shows the WordPress installation page. So I asked them to check what is wrong with my account. The very kind technical support didn’t know what to do and asked me if I have backup of my database, which I did from 3 days before. So the support dumped again the file after two hours of debate why he can’t import a dump file in tar.gz and zip format. I lost some post and comments because of this but I thought, you know sh*t happens, so I guess its OK.

Then I put in SiteUptime checker to see how many times my blog went down every day. I see reports that my has become inaccessible quite a few times because I received alerts through email but I thought that it is not so bad. Maybe it was all just false positives.

Then again, the database went missing. I checked phpMyAdmin and my WP database shows no tables. So I opened a chat again with their support and this time, I asked them to change the permission of the database because it was I think that is wrong. So they did and they fixed the problem.

Continue reading the post here.

Crap! Pacman Won!

2008-12-06T21:35:00.000-08:00

It's sad day in Philippine history for me. God bless this country!

From Inquirer.net:

Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao stopped Oscar de la Hoya Saturday, defying a disadvantage in size with a brutally dominant performance in their welterweight showdown.

Pacquiao's speed, power, and precision were too much for De la Hoya, whose left eye was swelling shut as he declined to come out for the ninth round. With the technical knockout, Pacquiao improved to 48-3 with two drawn and 36 wins inside the distance.

Pacquiao, the reigning World Boxing Council lightweight champion, moved up two weight classes to take the lucrative bout with De la Hoya, a 10-time world champion in six different weight classes who fell to 39-6 with 30 knockouts.

Read related news here.

The Generous PacMan?

2008-12-06T05:11:00.000-08:00

With Manny "Pacquiao’s penchant for charity, his inability to say no, and his belief that everything he does in the name of giving is in accordance with what God’s mission for him,"* Manny is giving away P35,000,000.Yes, 35 Million!

Great, right? Wait until you know where he is spending it.

Manny spent the 35M or about "$700,000 to purchase tickets to the “Dream Match” against Oscar De La Hoya so he can give them out to friends and supporters."* Well, what can you expect from the great Pacman.

Well, Mr. Fake Hero, I can think of better ways to spend your 35 million, which is in fact a tiny fraction of your expected 489 Million income from this so called Dream Match.

How to spend 35M? Let me count the ways:

1. Pay the tuition of more than 200 college students in UP for a full 4 year course.
2. Support the entire operational cost of 15 midsize NGO's for 3 years.
3. Provide more than 30,000 sacks of rice for distribution to the poorest of the poor in the Philippines.
4. Train more than 3,500 villages on ecological solid waste management.
5. Build 350 treeless houses that are fire, flood and earthquake proof.
6. Provide more than 30 doctors for 5 years to the remotest villages in the country.
6. Provide capital support to more than 700 women to start their own small enterprise.
7. Build more than 100 new classrooms.
8. Hire and support 250 new public school teachers for 1 year.
9. Provide free internet access to over 3,000 public schools for the entire year.
10. Provide clean drinking water to over 2,000 rural villages.

And oh yes, if you ask GMA, 35M can also be used to:
1. Buy 70 governors to support the Charter Change initiative.
2. Buy 35 bishops to support her, or vote against a CBCP call for her to resign.
3. Buy 170 congressmen, enough to make sure that the impeachment complaint will be junked.
4. Buy 35 generals of the AFP to keep the military "insulated" from the "political noise."
5. Get the services of ALL the killers-for-hire in the country to murder any journalist or political opponents who gets in her way.

I could think of a lot more ways to spend his millions, I am just an email away if he needs more suggestions.

I'm sure he will also give to "real" charity, but I doubt if it is even half that amount. And I am wondering, will Chavit Singson and Mike Arroyo get free tickets too? Just asking.

Win or loose, Pacman will earn an estimated 489 million pesos - at least. And in an unfortunate event that he will win, he may even receive 1 MILLION PESOS from GMA in Malacanang as gift to our "hero!"

I just hope that money was not from the tax payers. Mayber not, maybe it's from the fertilizer fund scam, or the ZTE kickbacks, or the Macapagal Boulevard overprice, or from the swine missing loans.

But wait, aren't all of those taxpayers' money?

*From Inquirer.net. Click here to read related news article.

VoW: Olbermann to Bush: Shut the Hell Up

2008-12-04T20:30:00.000-08:00

Wow! Why don't we have TV personalities with the same courage to tell a lame duck president (or in our case, a fake president!)

Why de la Hoya should win?

2008-12-04T01:17:00.000-08:00

Or why would de la Hoya do a favor to the Philippines by defeating Manny Pacquiao?

As much as I admire Pacman as a boxer (A sport I don't understand by the way. When was it ok to hurt someone? When was it ok for thousands of people to cheer on 2 people killing each other? When was it ok for anyone to bet on who would suffer the most?), I can't bring myself to admire him as a person.

The way that he allowed himself to be used by the powers that be (and he will do it again!!!) in the name of Atienza and the Arroyo gang is enough reason to loose respect for the man. Speaking of Atienza, it still amazes me how he can provide a hero's welcome to a fake hero but ignore the real heroes in his city - the teachers, the medical workers, etc. Manny, adopted son of Manila? So why did he hold his press conference in DENR and ignore the preparation of the City under Mayor Lim? It does speak of his character.

I also could not understand how the Church chose Manny to be their poster boy in their fight against the Reproductive Health Bill. The man is a womanizer for Christ' sake! He abandoned his own child from a mistress, and he makes kids every break from boxing! Manny for RH? Shame!

So why do I want Oscar to win?

Simple.

He needs to be humbled. Manny believes that if he can take de la Hoya, he can take the Senate next. Yes, he will allow himself to be used again by those crooked politicians. They need him in the senate to have another puppet, in addition to Revilla and Lapid of course. For who else who run under the administration ticket? Running is one thing, winning is another.

If Oscar will win, I hope it would be a wake up call for Manny. He cannot just take up any fight. There are fights that are beyond him. What will he do in the senate? Punch any senator who would object to his resolution making boxing the national sport? Where would he use his pork barrel, in building boxing gyms in every baranggay? Nice!

But honestly, I want him to loose for one more important reason.

I want his loss to be a wake up call for Filipinos. Manny represents a false hope to many of us. Young kids want to skip school and punch each other so they could be like their hero. And every fight of Manny, the country stops. Crimes go down. With every win, the entire country feels that we are ok.

But we are not OK. We have a corrupt government, poverty is not going down. If we can unite for one day to watch Manny fight, why can't we unite for one day to demand accountability from those in power? If people can spend thousands to bet on him or to watch him on live telecast, why can't we give to worthy causes. The theaters are packed every fight, but go to film festivals with enviornmental or social themes, and you will find an empty hall.

So yes, I may be alone in this country, but I am praying that Oscar will win. Manny's loss does not diminish my being Filipino. He was never my hero. He never will be, not unless he cut his ties with his crooked friends and distribute his wealth, even just a part of it, to the poorest in his province - but not as part of his campaign.

So Oscar, do my country a favor. But please don't make it too hard on him, let him reach the 12 round so the macho Filipino's can still claim that at least their hero fought till the end.

So we can continue to fool ourselves.

Just so we know who should suffer the death penalty

2008-11-27T02:13:00.000-08:00

I am for capital punishment, if only for these people. They have betrayed us, and they will continue to betray us.

After 2010 (hopefully when we have a new president, but I know I am dreaming), then we will restore the death penalty. And those who voted (see list below) for dismissing the impeachment complaint should be lined up in Luneta and shot in the head.

Wait!

That is a great insult to Rizal. These people doesn't even deserve the gas chamber, that is too humane. They need to be cut into pieces and fed to the crocodiles. But I am not sure if the crocs will take them, even animals have taste you know. And these politicians do stench to the bones.

Are you represented by any of these bastards (and this is a very kind word for them)? Shame on you! Shame on you for not doing anything. Shame on Iloilo! I am ashamed of being Ilonggo, 4 of those who voted for dismissal are from Iloilo.

To all Ilonggos, are you proud of the people representing you? You have betrayed this country once by allowing yourself to be used by GMA in the last election (I am not sure if she cheated her way in Iloilo, or she was really voted by a lot of Ilonggos - but either way, it's disgusting! I am not sure which of the 2 is more disgusting!) and now look at what your "elected" officials are doing in your behalf. Will you vote for them again, if there will be an election indeed?

Prove to the world that Ilonggos are wise people. Dump these stupid offcials!

Now, check out this listing from Inquirer and see for yourself how you voted (because they represent you, unless you express your opposition otherwise):

Against Dismissing the Complaint
1. Minority Leader and San Juan Ronaldo Zamora
2. Deputy Minority Leader and Bayan Muna Rep. Satur Ocampo
3. Gabriela Rep. Liza Maza
4. Bayan Muna Rep. Teodoro Casiño
5. Bukidnon Rep. Teofisto Guingona
6. Makati Rep. Mar-Len Binay
7. Parañaque Rep. Rufus Rodriguez
8. South Cotabato Rep. Darlene Antonino-Custodio

For the Dismissal of the Complaint
1. Capiz Rep. Fredenil Castro
2. Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman
3. Baguio City Rep. Mauricio Domogan
4. Negros Oriental Rep. George Arnaiz
5. Iloilo Rep. Raul Gonzalez
6. Cebu Rep. Pablo John Garcia
7. Cebu Rep. Antonio Cuenco
8. Antique Rep. Exequiel Javier
9. Apec Rep. Edgar Valdez
10. Bohol Rep. Edgardo Chatto
11. Lanao del Sur Rep. Faysah Dumarpa
12. Leyte Rep. Eufrocino Codilla
13. Zamboanga Sibugay Rep. Belma Cabilao
14. Ifugao Rep. Solomon Chungalao
15. Zamboanga del Sur Rep. Antonio Cerilles
16. Masbate Rep. Rizalina Seachon Lanete
17. Sulu Rep. Munir Arbison
18. Bohol Rep. Roberto Cajes
19. Tawi Tawi Rep. Nur Jaafar
20. La Union Rep. Victor Ortega
21. Lanao del Sur Rep. Pangalian Balindong
22. Romblon Rep. Eleandro Madrona
23. Isabela Rep. Giorgido Aggabao
24. Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gullas
25. Quirino Rep. Junie Cua
26. Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga
27. Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco Matugas
28. Sultan Kudarat Rep. Arnulfo Go
29. Manila Rep. Theresa Bonoan-David
30. Iloilo Rep. Niel Tupas
31. Parañaque Rep. Eduardo Zialcita
32. Cebu Rep. Raul del Mar
33. Maguindanao Rep. Simeon Datumanong
34. Cebu Rep. Pablo Garcia
35. Iloilo Rep. Arthur Defensor
36. Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin
37. Quezon City Rep. Bingbong Crisologo
38. Misamis Occidental Rep. Herminia Ramiro
39. Bukidnon Rep. Candido Pancrudo
40. Manila Rep. Zenaida Angping
41. Negros Occidental Rep. Alfredo Maranon (for Occidental Mindoro Rep. Amelita Villarosa)
42. Agusan Del Norte Rep. Jose Aquino

I am very angry!!!!

2008-11-25T23:43:00.000-08:00

Today, the Committee on Justice of the Philippine's House of Representative's dismissed the impeachment complaint against GMA as insufficient in substance.

(You may read the news here.)

The vote was 42-8. What the hell????

Only a stupid person would think GMA is not guilty of any of the crimes enumerated in the complaint. Oh, I forgot. Maybe they are all stupid.

The report will now be forwarded to the plenary for adoption or rejection. Now we know that majority of the Committee on Justice members are stupid. Next, we will know if the entire House is composed of stupid people.

I believe only one third of the plenary is needed to transmit the complaint to the Senate. I hope this will not be reduced to a mere numbers game. Please, write your congressmen.

And finally, I would like to share this insight. With the allegations of 500,000 that was given to each of the congressmen, one is tempted to say "Mga buwaya talaga sila."

But my friends, I agree with my friends from the Crocodile Conservation in Isabela:
It is a great injustice to the crocodiles!

Quote of the day

2008-11-25T05:28:00.000-08:00

I just love this quote from Friedrich Nietzsche:

"Whoever aims publicly at great things and at length perceives secretly that he is too weak to achieve them, has usually also insufficient strength to renounce his aims publicly, and then inevitably becomes a hypocrite."

Happy Tuesday night everyone!

Video of the Week: World on Fire

2008-11-24T20:23:00.000-08:00

Sarah McLachlan - World On Fire

Time to lead

2008-11-18T06:47:00.000-08:00

A comment from one of my posts, which I think is very important:

Last year, European government leaders agreed to a 30% cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. Now, with the downturn in the economy, that deal is under threat and they are offering a 20% percent reduction.

As a result, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace and World Wildlife Fund through the coordination of the Climate Action Network (CAN) formed the campaign Time to Lead . Time to Lead is a movement that urges European citizens and organisations to act by contacting local legislators and issuing support of the 30 percent reduction in Europe’s own carbon emissions by 2020. Citizens act by joining the ‘call to action’ at http://www.timetolead.eu/.

FREE Movie, anyone?

2008-11-14T06:24:00.000-08:00

Click here for details.

Future Leaders of Asia Forum

2008-11-12T19:41:00.000-08:00

On 2008, the first Future Leaders of Asia Forum was held on January 17-19 at the Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City, Philippines, with the theme, "Social Entrepreneurship: Developing a New Generation of Asian Leaders." It was a project under the Ateneo School of Government, the Ramon Magsaysay Foundation, and Ashoka, which aimed to gather young leaders from different Asian countries to form a network of social entrepreneurs after being introduced to the concept. The participants were also encouraged to create their own social enterprises.

One of the successful participants was Mian Alampay. She was one of the winners of the Make It Happen! 1st Ateneo de Manila University Social Entrepreneurship Busines Plan Writing Competition that was launched during the first FLAF. Mian founded the Bright Kids Learning Center, which teaches basic arts and crafts to kids in Batasan Hills Elementary School.

Once again, on 2009, there shall be a second Future Leaders of Asia Forum, which will gather the country's top young leaders to introduce to them social entrepreneurship and to encourage them to start their own in their localities.

The Forum's goal is to inculcate in the minds of the young leaders that social problems can be solved in more innovative and creative ways aside from the traditional dole-out projects which are not sustainable. It also aims to empower the youth by reminding them that as early as now, they can already contribute greatly to create significant and meaningful change that can benefit the less privileged.

Recognizing the need of a sustainable environment for the future generations, the 2009 Forum's theme shall be "Social Entrepreneurship: Employing Innovations in Pursuit of Environmental Sustainability." The aim is to find out how social enterprises can creatively help promote and secure the Earth's environmental sustainability.

***

For more information on how to apply, please visit the website: www.ateneoflaf.com

Thank you very much!

======================
The FLAF Secretariat Team
Ateneo School of Government (ASoG)
G/F CSP Building, Social Development Complex
Ateneo de Manila University
Loyola Heights, Quezon City
1108 Philippines

Email Address: flaf2009@gmail.com
Landline and Fax Number: +63-2-4265657

Contact Persons:
- For local applicants and participants, you may directly contact Ms. Steph Cuevas through this number: +63-927-7559992
- For international applicants and participants, you may directly contact Mr. Tadashi Zialcita through this number: +63-927-7559993

PAL Responds.... 2

2008-11-02T06:22:00.000-08:00

October 31, 2008
MNL/CPN/170908/25564

MR. FROILAN GRATE
froilan[at]greenminds.net

Dear Mr. Grate,

This is further to our acknowledgement email. Thank you for your patience in awaiting our reply. On behalf of Philippine Airlines, please allow us to express our sincerest regrets for the inconveniences caused you when you visited our Cubao ticket office.

Initially, we were truly disheartened to know of the reported experience from a valued passenger. Definitely, we at Philippine Airlines, do not tolerate any acts of discourtesy, rudeness, and arrogance from employees whom we expect to be the finest in passenger care. With regard to your concern on the operating hours and availability of our ticket offices, please allow us to explain that we have 7 ticket offices located within the Metro Manila area. These are the Makati ticket office, Century Park Hotel ticket office, Cubao ticket office, Padre Faura ticket office located PAL Data Center Bldg. ticket office located on airport road, PNB ticket office located in Macapagal avenue, and the NAIA II ticket office. All our ticket offices are open from Mondays to Fridays 8AM to 5PM and 8AM to 12NN on Saturdays. Our NAIA II ticket office is open from 2AM up to 10PM 7 days a week. Nevertheless, you will appreciate to know that we have since brought your feedback on the handling by our staff and the operating hours of our ticket offices, to the attention of the offices concerned for whatever necessary corrective actions.

We are sorry to learn that our on-line booking service impressed you unfavorably. Please allow us to explain, that some of the advertised rates may have been limited and purchased by other passengers already. We can only hope, to gain your understanding.

Mr. Grate, thank you for the opportunity to communicate with you. We sincerely appreciate this gesture. Contrary to the unfavorable turn of events, we still hope for another chance to restore your confidence in our service.

Very truly yours,

LUIGI F. LORENZO
Customer Management Officer
Customer Relations

WOW: MWSS Regulatory Office

2008-10-27T19:42:00.000-07:00

I would like to commend the Customer Service Regulation Office of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage Systems (MWSS) for their help this morning.

I was helping an American colleague who is doing a research on fluoridation in the water system in the Philippines. I initially inquired with the DENR-EMB (they have no idea), DOH (no one's answering their trunkline) and BFAD (only the clerks were there, the technical people are all out and no one knows when will they be back) but they were all at loss who is the lead agency for this, at least in terms of policy.

However, when I called MWSS-RO, I was only transferred once (a feat for any company using a trunkline), and after stating my concern, the lady I spoke to called the person best to answer my queries. And yes, that person was able to answer me. And to top it all, no one seemed irritated with my call (another rarity, especially in government offices) and the person knew what he was saying. He even gave me additional contacts where I can verify his information. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get the name of the person but whoever you are, I salute you!

*Update: The name of the nice fellow is Mr. Bong Cordova. Thank you Mr. Cordova!

Solons back Guimaras vs mining

2008-10-27T02:23:00.000-07:00

ILOILO CITY, Philippines—Five Congressmen have urged the House of Representatives to support the stand of officials and residents of Guimaras against mining operations on the island-province.

House Resolution 841, filed on Oct. 10, calls on the chamber to support the opposition of Guimarasnons against the entry and operations of mining companies.

The resolution was sponsored by Guimaras Rep. JC Rahman Nava, Bayan Muna Representatives Satur Ocampo and Teodoro Casiño, Gabriela Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan and Anakpawis Rep. Rafael Mariano.
In the resolution, the congressmen described the island as rich in natural resources and one of the pristine popular tourist destinations in the country.

Click here to read the complete story.

Celebration

2008-10-20T07:46:00.000-07:00

I know it's not much but still, I would like to celebrate it.

Today, I hit my first 1000 unique visitors from 30 countries!

Yeah, I know it's nothing compared to ebay or facebook or whatever, but still, it's nice to know that there are at least 1000 unique people who viewed my blog in around 4 months. And from around 30 countries! WOW! I am just happy, please allow me to be happy.

Thank you to all of you who visited my blogs!

NOT: SM Fairview Horror Movie House?

2008-10-11T07:43:00.000-07:00

(Submitted entry)

We got our tickets, came 30 mins late and started enjoying the flick. After an hour, right on the one of the most exciting parts, there was a black out in the screen, lights on around the movie house. Wondering why, I looked at the technical room and started gazing around. I saw 20 of us watching the film. Thinking it was only an ordinary technical problem, I just let it pass. After a few seconds, the film resumed. But this time, it's different. We can not see the subtitles anymore. So I was starting to freak out. The fact that the setting was in China, so we expect subs, right? After 20 mins. black out again. This time, with the lady assisting in the cinema saying "Sandali lang po.." WHAT! Sandali lang po!! First time in my seeing a movie in a big screen ever i heard saying from the staff, SANDALI LANG PO. (Parang nakikinood lang sa kapitbahay ah). Knowing my rights as a consumer, I started saying that this is not right. We paid for 100 bucks to watch in the big screen and this is all we got? Sandali lang po! (I thought You've got it all for us?).

I was in the brink of losing my patience, but I still remained composed. I was just raving that I will call the management of the cinema about this not-so-good experience. It just pisses off when you're watching a very good film with so much "bloopers" in between. Nawawala yung excitement.

Here's the catch. Those black outs happened just in the middle of the must-see fight scenes and yeah, during the climax - just when the adrenaline-rush is almost there. Then what, sandali lang po? Gee.

Sorry for my being sarcastic, but I think any movie goer would also react that way. Specially if they paid for it. and golly, the incident happened 3 times. What now?

Haay. The day is over. and I still can't move on with what happened. Probably tomorrow morning, I'll ring the management's office for that matter. Tell my not-so-good experience hoping it will not happen anymore.

Mukhang sila ata ang dahilan ng lumalaganap na Piracy. Haha. Laugh out loud.

To read the ntire article, please click here.

More on Plastic

2008-10-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

Adapted from "The Green Guide" #77, The Green Guide Institute.

With all the recent press about plastics leaching harmful chemicals into food, we want to be sure we’re using the safest materials in our children’s lunchboxes.

Get the scoop on which plastics are safe to use right here:

Chemicals that leach from plastic containers into food include suspected carcinogens or endocrine disrupters, which have been linked to reproductive system harm. Plastic used for containers can be identified by their recycling codes, as listed in this article.

Most wraps on pre-packaged foods lack identifying symbols. Here is a great list from The Green Guide Institute from which you can tell at a glance the plastics that are safe for food storage and those that aren’t:

As a precaution, you can unwrap these foods and store them in nontoxic glass, ceramic or steel bowls, or Ziploc bags (made of LDPE). Heat promotes leaching:

To be safest, never microwave or heat foods in plastics.

1. Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE or PET): No known hazards.

2. High Density Polyethylene (HDPE): No known hazards.

3. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC or vinyl): Plasticizers are added to many PVC products to make them flexible. These include phthalates — suspected endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), DEHA, another possible EDC, was found to leach from PVC cling wraps into cheese. Grocery stores commonly use PVC to wrap deli meats and cheeses. Reyonds cling wrap is PVC. Some waters and vegetable oils are bottled in PVC. Ad PVC’s manufacture and incineration produces highly toxic dioxins, as does the PVDC used in Saran Wrap, according to Consumers Union.

4. Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE): No known hazards.

5. Polypropylene (PP): No known hazards.

6. Polystyrene (PS or Styrofoam): Made from styrene, a suspected carcinogen, PS also contains p-nonylphenol; both chemicals are suspected EDCs. Do not consumer fatty foods or alcoholic beverages from Styrofoam containers; styrene can leach into these substances. Some opaque plastic cutlery is PS, as well.

7. Other Resins, including Polycarbonate (PC): Most clear plastic baby bottles and 5-gallon water bottles are made of PC. Bisphenol-A EDC in PC, has been found in water and heated infant formulas bottles in PC, as well as food cans lined with a plastic film.

For some more great tips on how and why to reduce your use of plastics –and for which ones are the biggest concern for your health and the environment — read these new guidelines from The Green Guide Institute .

This article was reprinted from “The Green Guide” newsletter, a publication of The Green Guide Institute. Since 1994, “The Green Guide” has been a premier consumer source for practical everyday actions benefiting environmental and personal health. Want more practical solutions that benefit the environment and personal health? Subscribe online to The Green Guide.

Least Evil Among Plastics

2008-10-04T01:01:00.000-07:00

Choose your water bottles very carefully in order to prevent chemicals in the plastic from leaching into your water.

Plastic water bottles are very convenient for carting water around when we are on the go, as they don't break if we drop them. However, it is worth paying attention to the type of plastic your water bottle is made of, to ensure that the chemicals in the plastic do not leach into the water. If you taste plastic, you are drinking it, so get yourself another bottle.

To be certain that you are choosing a bottle that does not leach, check the recycling symbol on your bottle. If it is a #2 HDPE (high density polyethylene), or a #4 LDPE (low density polyethylene), or a #5 PP (polypropylene), your bottle is fine. The type of plastic bottle in which water is usually sold is usually a #1, and is only recommended for one time use. Do not refill it. Better to use a reusable water bottle, and fill it with your own filtered water from home and keep these single-use bottles out of the landfill.

Unfortunately, those fabulous colourful hard plastic lexan bottles made with polycarbonate plastics and identified by the #7 recycling symbol, may leach BPA. Bisphenol A is a xenoestrogen, a known endocrine disruptor, meaning it disturbs the hormonal messaging in our bodies. Synthetic xenoestrogens are linked to breast cancer and uterine cancer in women, decreased testosterone levels in men, and are particularly devastating to babies and young children. BPA has even been linked to insulin resistance and Type 2 Diabetes. For more of the science on the effects of BPA on our endocrine system etc. see these studies: Environmental Health Perspectives Journal. Nalgene, the company that manufactures the lexan water bottles also makes #2 HDPE bottles in the same sizes and shapes, so we have a viable alternative.

Unfortunately, most plastic baby bottles and drinking cups are made with plastics containing Bisphenol A. In 2006 Europe banned all products made for children under age 3 containing BPA, and as of Dec. 2006 the city of San Franscisco followed suit. In March 2007 a billion-dollar class action suit was commenced against Gerber, Playtex, Evenflo, Avent, and Dr. Brown's in Los Angeles superior court for harm done to babies caused by drinking out of baby bottles and sippy cups containing BPA. So, to be certain that your baby is not exposed, use glass bottles.
Check the recycling numbers on all your plastic food containers as well, and gradually move to storing all food in glass or ceramic.

Store water in glass or brass if possible, and out of direct sunlight.

From http://trusted.md/blog/vreni_gurd/2007/03/29/plastic_water_bottles

The Seven Types of Plastic

2008-10-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

Why are most plastics marked with a number inside a recycling symbol? The simple answer is that each number represents the type of resin made to produce the plastic.

Because each resin is different, these numbers affect how and where you can recycle plastics. You don’t have to remember the name. Plastics are identified by numbers 1-7.

Here’s some common products you’ll find of each type:

#1 PET (Polyethylene terephthalate)*: soda bottles, oven-ready meal trays and water bottles

#2 HDPE (High-density polyethylene)*: milk bottles, detergent bottles and grocery/trash/retail bags

#3 PVC (Polyvinyl chloride): plastic food wrap, loose-leaf binders and plastic pipes

#4 LDPE (Low-density polyethylene): dry cleaning bags, produce bags and squeezable bottles

#5 PP (Polypropylene): medicine bottles, aerosol caps and drinking straws

#6 PS (Polystyrene): compact disc jackets, packaging Styrofoam peanuts and plastic tableware

#7 Other: reusable water bottles, certain kinds of food containers and Tupperware

*PET and HDPE are the most common forms of plastic, so they are the easiest to find recycling locations for

From www.earth911.org

The Plastic Age

2008-10-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

We currently live in the 'Plastics Age' with a total consumption of about 182 million tonnes of polymers per year. Of this, polypropylene is 24 t
o 25 per cent and all polyethylenes, about 40 per cent. This industry has grown phenomenally in the last century. Its growth within this period will be of interest to many.

Human race has always progressed by using raw materials around. Growth from 'Stone Age' to 'Plastics Age' has been very rapid. Use of plastics within the last century and in particular, after World War II has increased exponentially.

Plastic is not a uniformly defined term. Its origin is from the Greek word 'Plasticos', which means 'to form or mould'.
Plastics can broadly be defined or described as materials composed essentially of very large molecules (called macromolecules or polymers) which may be natural, semi natural (modified natural) or synthesised from small molecules, termed as monomers.

At times, plastics and polymers are used as synonyms in the colloquial world. Some prefer to differentiate the two by defining plastics as made by compounding polymer and additives. Polyvinyl chloride is a polymer, but when compounded with a plasticiser and the thermal stabiliser, it may be termed as a plastic.

Some polymers may not need any additives and these can be used as such in their virgin form. It is preferable to use the word polymer instead of plastic, as the word polymer denotes big or giant molecules. 'Poly' means many and 'mer' indicates substance.

Classification of Polymers

Polymers can be classified based on their end uses or origin of raw materials.

Classification based on End-uses

This type of classification also highlights different market and key properties depending upon specific use. Thus, adhesives need totally different properties from materials used as consumer goods like packaging films, ice cream cups, paints or moulded furniture.

Thermoset Polymers: Thermosets were the early polymers made synthetically. The first totally synthetic polymer, Phenol, Formaldehyde was, in fact, thermoset in nature, its moulding powder, polyurethane foams used in sofa seats, automobile seats or the 'setting adhesives' are examples of thermoset resins. Thermoset materials 'set' when heated (thermal effect). One can imagine boiling of an egg. The yolk becomes hard or it is 'set'. Once it is set, it cannot be reprocessed again. It does not become liquid again.

Thermoplastic Polymers: Thermoplastic materials melt when heated and can be shaped as desired. They can be reheated and melted several times. Polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, nylon, polyester and PVC are examples of thermoplastic polymers. Today, production of thermoplastic polymer is several times that of thermoset polymers.

Rubber: Rubber can be natural or synthetic, such as styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer, nitrile rubber, silicone rubber or isoprene. The high impact is the key property for rubber.

Fibers: Polymers for fibers need different properties as compared to rubber or thermoplastics used in furniture or in milk packaging. Fibers have textile and non-textile applications. For textile applications, dyeability, washability, lightness and comfort on feel are major properties; while that for non-textile use, solvent resistance or tenacity may be of importance. Polyester and nylon are commonly used in textile applications, whereas polypropylene has properties suitable for non textile use.

Adhesives: These polymers must have a good adhesion between different substrates and good bonding strength. It should be easy to apply on the surface. Poly vinyl alcohol, epoxy polymers or cyno acrylic polymers are examples of adhesives.

Paints and Inks: These polymers should have a film forming ability, good flow properties and sufficient tack to the surface on which they are applied. They should be able to incorporate large quantities of pigments. Inks on paper or plastics have different properties. Alkyd polymers, polyesters, epoxy polymers or amino polymers are common examples.

Classification of Polymers based on Origin of Raw Materials

Polymers can be classified based upon their origin, as:

Natural Polymers: These occur as macromolecules or polymers in their natural form. Cellulose, starch, sugar, lignin etc. have plant origin. Other materials such as shellac, wool etc. have animal origin. All these materials are natural polymers. They exist in nature. It is interesting to know that different starches behave differently due to difference in their spatial structure although their chemical formulae are the same.

Semi-Natural or Modified Natural Polymers: Most natural polymers cannot be used in their virgin or native form, but can be chemically modified. Thus, cellulose when treated chemically (acetylated) yields cellulose acetate, which can be spun into fibre, extruded or injection moulded. Carboxy methyl cellulose, CMC, dissolves in water but cellulose itself does not. Thus, cellulose acetate or CMC can be classified as semi-natural polymers.

Synthetic Polymers: These are made from monomers through a chemical reaction, called polymerisation. Polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polyvinyl chloride, polyester etc. are examples of synthetic polymers. Although synthetic polymers outnumber natural polymers, the total quantum of natural polymers is far greater than synthetic polymers.

(Source: Prof. D.D. Kale, Ex-HOD, Polymer Department, UICT, Mumbai)

New Blog on Customer Service

2008-10-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

I've started another blog - Customer Service Wow! or Not!?

I started this blog to create a venue where people who are frustrated with the services of the different businesses (the NOT!) here in the Philippines can air out their complaints. I will post my own experiences from time to time, but anyone who has something to say is welcome to send me an email at customerWOW@greenminds.net.

This blog will also feature business who are going the extra mile (or even just an extra step) for their customers - the WOW!

I hope that the businesses to be featured in this blog will see this as an opportunity to improve their customer service.

PAL responds

2008-10-01T04:40:00.000-07:00

From: Wecare@pal.com.ph [mailto:Wecare@pal.com.ph]
Sent: Wednesday, September 17, 2008 1:38 PM
To: Froilan Grate
Subject: Re: A Formal Complaint against PAL

Dear Mr. Grate:

This is to acknowledge your e-mail apprising us of your recent experience with us.

A request for feedback had been initiated to provide us with the full circumstances of the reported incident. We will be communicating with you again as soon as we complete our reports. You are assured of our most preferential attention.

Sincerely,

Customer Relations
Philippine Airlines
ar/

NOT!: The Shame that is PAL

2008-10-01T04:38:00.000-07:00

September 16, 2008

Mr. Jaime J. Bautista
President & Chief Operating Officer
Philippine Airlines

Dear Mr. Bautista,

I am writing to express my disgust with the quality of service and the attitude of personnel of Philippine Airlines. I have long heard of many bad things about your company but my experience last September 15, 2008 in your Cubao Sales Office left no doubt of the values that your company holds.

It is a shame that PAL is the country’s flag carrier. You do not deserve to have this title. With the quality of service, or the lack thereof, that you provide, you are a disgrace to this country. You are indeed Asia’s oldest airline, not because you are a pioneer but because your service is Jurassic and outmoded.

For you to understand this great dissatisfaction that I feel towards PAL, please allow me to share the events that lead to that unfortunate day of September 15.

Early September, after seeing an advertisement on your promo rate, I logged on to your website to book a ticket to Bohol for late November. I was surprised to see however that the advertised rates are not available online. I decided to call your telephone reservations hotline but was only able to connect after numerous redials and after being put on queue for the longest time.

After knowing that I can avail of a cheaper rate over the phone than online, I decided to make a reservation and was told to pay for it on or before Sept 15. Given that you have very limited sales offices, and only one (Cubao) near me, I was only able to visit on September 13, a Saturday.

But alas, to my surprise, it was close. It is close every Saturday afternoon and whole day of Sunday. On weekdays, you’re only open until 5pm! Why a sales office with limited locations would close on weekends I beyond me. Cebu Pacific is open until 9 or 10 pm, 7 days a week!

But of course, what can I do? I have to miss work on Monday just to pay for this ticket. So I went back Monday lunch and arrived at a place with hundreds of angry people! I was given a number 1186, and the number was still in 900! At 3PM or 3 hours after, the number is 999 – which means I’m not even halfway near. If this trend would continue, I would be accommodated past 6pm already, if I’m lucky!

But the waiting time is not the only problem. The attitudes of your employees are the worst that I’ve seen. If the attitude of your employees is even just half the quality of the service crew of Max’s Restaurant beside it, you would be worthy of being the country’s flag carrier. Come to think of it, the waiters have a more stressful job, but they can still afford to smile.

But your employees? Not only a smile was never to be seen, they are very rude! Your guards were shouting at the customers. Your agents were angry and irritated by questions from would be passengers. When I asked one agent a question, all she told me was “Sir, ask from the information.” So I went to the information, only to find out that no one is manning it because the ONLY person assigned was having lunch – and it was 1:30 in the afternoon!

So I went back, and ask another teller if I can pay by credit card over the phone. He said no, but another agent beside him said yes, so he told me “Sir, can you just call our hotline and ask from them?” Wow! Do they even have training? Not a single employee that day showed any courtesy to me or to any passengers that day. I even heard a foreign looking customer arguing with your agent with the customer shouting in despair at the end of the argument “I’m never going back to the Philippines!”

I was also wondering why after doing this everyday for so many years, you don’t even have a system to manage your ticket selling efficiently. You have electronic numbering but it is not being followed. Those who came later are being called first than the people who were there earlier. The guard explained this by saying that you could be called by your number or by your name. How is that possible, he can’t explain. There were also not enough seats for everyone. And you can’t leave even to eat because once they passed you, you have to get a new number. No one would give you an estimate so you really have to wait.

Now, please tell me Mr. Bautista, is this the kind of service that you can be proud of? You really think you deserve the title of the country’s flag carrier? You had a press release before saying that you expect a rough time ahead because of high fuel prices. But I tell you this, you’re greatest challenge is how to win back customers who lost their trust. Because for now, I will never buy my airline ticket from your company. And I will ask my family, friends and anyone who will listen to do the same until you have changed.

Without us, you have no business. So why don’t you give back a bit of what you’ve earned? Invest on a better system (online and on site sales offices), train your people on proper customer service, and make them appreciate their job. A piece of advice, let them eat at Max’s beside your Cubao branch and maybe they can learn a thing or two on customer service.

We don’t want to be pampered, we just need to be RESPECTED! We need to be treated like human beings every time we transact business with you. Is that too much to ask for?

Froilan Grate
froilan[at]greenminds.net

Welcome

2008-10-01T03:52:00.000-07:00

Thank you for visiting Customer Wow! or NOT!

I started this blog to create a venue where people who are frustrated with the services of the different businesses (the NOT!) here in the Philippines can air out their complaints. I will post my own experiences from time to time, but anyone who has something to say is welcome to send me an email at customerWOW@greenminds.net.

This blog will also feature business who are going the extra mile (or even just an extra step) for their customers - the WOW!

I hope that the businesses to be featured in this blog will see this as an opportunity to improve their customer service.

Thank you, CIC!

2008-09-17T04:42:00.000-07:00

I recently gave a talk on Environmental Protection and Preservation to the faculty and students of College of Immaculate Conception in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija. It's a month long celebration of CIC's Social Responsibility with the theme "Kalikasan Ating Kinabukasan... Kilos na! (KKK).

It was a challenging talk. I usually have my trusted PowerPoint Presentation with me, but this time, I have to do without it... almost. Because there were about 2000 students, the only venue that is available is the open gymnasium with broad daylight that made LCD projection almost impossible. But, as one teacher aptly put it, it was a blessing in disguise as the students were forced to use their creative imagination as I describe my set of photos.

What I initially feared as a challenging talk turned out to be one of my most memorable talks to ever give. The students were all excellent, they were all cooperative and participative despite the technical glitches and the heat.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire CIC community for the warm welcome you have afforded me. I hope something positive will come out of this event. I'm looking forward to seeing CIC be the first plastic-free school in Cabanatuan and in Nueva Ecija.

The shame that is PAL

2008-09-16T07:34:00.000-07:00

GMA and my capacity to hate

2008-09-10T12:58:00.000-07:00

I've been hurt for so many times, and yet I hate no one. I initially thought I am not capable of hating anyone. Be angry yes, often in fact. But hate? No way!

We might fight today, but next week, I won't even remember what we fought about.

That is until there is GMA. You have to give it to her. Even the most Christian among us would find it hard not to see all the evil deeds that she has done. From stealing our votes, corrupting our bishops, buying our governors and mayors, killing our journalists and those in the opposition, desecrating our constitution, selling our land to the Japanese (JPEPA), stealing from public funds (duh, as if this has to be mentioned), abusing our very basic human rights, to telling us that she is the best person to lead this country! The list is endless. And these are the general ones. Of course, we have the macapagal boulevard, NAIA 3, north rail, ZTE, etc!

How the other 80 million great Filipinos were not insulted when she said that she is the beast, the best I mean, person to lead this country is beyond me. I wanted to puke when I heard it!

I was initially sorry that I wasn't able to join EDSA 2 (because I was in the province) but now I am just glad I wasn't part of those who put her in power. Of course, I'm not blaming those who went to EDSA 2. I'm sure they all had good intentions, except probably for GMA and her cronies.

Who could have known that the Vice President that was so silent until it was sure that Erap will be ousted did make her stand and offer herself as an alternative. The nerve!

At least, Erap was elected. In a democracy, you deserve the leaders that you elect. But in GMA's case, she rigged the elections and stole the vote (Hello, Garci? I am sorry...), we do not deserve anything that she could give us.

She is not my president. And God will understand me for hating GMA with all that I am. Anyway, I have no desire of killing her. That would be too nice and easy. Yes, she doesn't deserve the death penalty - she's far too worst than that.

What could be worst than living until you're 80, inside a solitary cell, with 80 million Filipinos hating you?

You tell me.