DURING the first few weeks of the impeachment trial, media, particularly ABS-CBN, religiously covered it, especially when the prosecution catalogued every minute detail of Corona’s properties, clearly inferring that the Chief Justice enriched himself while in office.
Towards the latter weeks, when it became increasingly clear that the bombs against Corona turned out to be duds, ABS-CBN suddenly stopped its coverage, making an enthralled audience wonder why, considering the wide viewership it enjoyed, ABS-CBN suddenly stopped its coverage without as much as explain why it did so. The why can best be answered by the fact that, on top of the bungling of its in competent prosecutors, the prosecution really didn’t have much to show by way of proving Corona’s guilt. It resorted to summoning practically every Tom, Dick and Harry, prompting Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile to say that the prosecution does not have any evidence at all and that it asked the Impeachment Court to summon everyone they can think of because they are engaged in a fishing expedition. The prosecution had a field day in trying Corona by publicity, prompting one senator-judge to say that, since the prosecution cannot prove its case in the impeachment court, it is now trying to convict Corona in the Court of Public Opinion. However, because of the apparent weakness of its case against the Chief Justice, public opinion began to shift so that, where before there was its tendency to lynch Corona, the public is now in the mood to give him the benefit of the doubt. And the defense has not even begun to present Corona’s side. It is not farfetched to say that, with this shift in public opinion, once Corona has presented its side, he might come out smelling like a rose. Is it any wonder why ABS-CBN, which is clearly becoming, like the Inquirer, a Malacañang organ, stopped covering the impeachment trial? In the local scene, we heard that the Monico’s vice-mayoralty slot has narrowed down to Vladi Gonzales and Archie Baribar. El Cid Familiaran, who is also positioning himself for the post, apparently is out of the picture, which explains the rumor that he is poised to abandon Monico’s camp and is now gravitating towards Thaddy Sayson. Archie would make a strong teammate for Monico. Although he miserably lost when he ran for Congress, he resuscitated his political career by topping the Sanggunian elections in 2010. Archie commands a strong following among the middle class and maybe even among the elite, but he does not seem to have strong roots among the C-D classes. Unfortunately for him, he does not have Leonardia’s catiluid appeal. Nor does he have Leonardia’s famed Mona Liza smile. Archie comes out too formal and too distant from the rabble. Vladi Gonzales, on the other hand, had demonstrated a strong following among the independent voters when he ran, albeit foolishly, for mayor in 2010, like Don Quixote tilting with the windmills. A hastily built political organization minus the precinctual structure of both Monico and Bing Leonardia also earned him a share in the mass votes. Unfortunately for Baribar, his appeal is concentrated mainly among the city’s professionals, a sector which also went to Vladi in 2010. Assuming that the professional-middle class is evenly divided between them, Vladi’s distinct advantage over Baribar is that his votes are organizational, no matter how adequate it was in 2010. In other words, Vladi’s votes are transferrable, something which Baribar cannot claim as his votes come mainly from among the independent voters who have minds of their own and therefore cross vote if voting for the other teammate suits them. Ely delos Santos Sun Star Bacolod
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In the local scene (Bacolod City), we heard that Monico Puentevella’s vice mayoralty slot has narrowed down to Vlady Gonzales and Archie Baribar.
Elcid Familiaran, who is also positioning himself for the post, apparently is out of the picture, which explains the rumor he is poised to abandon Monico’s camp and is now gravitating towards Thaddy Sayson. Archie would make a strong teammate for Monico. Although he miserably lost when he ran for Congress, he resuscitated his political career by topping the Sanggunian elections in 2010. Archie commands a strong following among the middle class and maybe even among the elite, but he does not seem to have strong roots among the C-D classes. Unfortunately for him, he does not have Mayor Evelio Leonardia’s appeal. Nor does he have Leonadia’s famed Mona Liza smile. Archie comes out too formal and too distant from the rabble. Vlady Gonzales, on the other hand, had demonstrated a strong following among the independent voters when he ran, albeit foolishly, for mayor in 2010, like Don Quixote tilting with the windmills. A hastily built political organization minus the “precinctual” structure of both Monico and Bing Leonardia also earned him a share in the mass votes. Unfortunately for Baribar, his appeal is concentrated mainly among the city’s professionals, a sector which also went to Vlady in 2010. Assuming that the professional-middle class is evenly divided between them, Vlady’s distinct advantage over Baribar is that his votes are organizational, no matter how adequate it was in 2010. In other words, Vlady’s votes are transferrable, something which Baribar cannot claim as his votes coming mainly from among the independent voters who have minds of their own and therefore “cross-vote” if voting for the other teammate suits them./PN Ely delos Santos Panay News Negros As early as this time, the political scenario is getting hot. The political wing of former Congressman Monico Newks Puentevella has reportedly split. The break-away of the five opposition councilors in Bacolod City call themselves the FIRST 5. Their common stand: 5 for 1 and 1 for 5. Meaning they are solid and united.
The First Five is reportedly composed of Councilors El Cid Familiaran, Archie Baribar, Elmer Sy, Catalino Alisbo, and Sonya Verdeflor. When asked if ever Newks will make arrangement with them, will they consider reconciliation? Although he did not confirm, number 1 councilor, El Cid Familiaran said, in politics, there is no permanent friend nor enemy. But sometimes, each one differ in opinion. We only want to be free from pressure. From their group, as of this time, there is no possible mayoralty candidate yet. “We do not deny help from political kingpins or political leaders, and we treasure the time when we were together,” Familiaran said. He did not commit also as to what political wing they will join or support because they have not decided yet. However, their decision to split was based on principles as true and transparent leaders who are sincere in their commitment regardless of any situation. Puentevella is beyond reach for comment as of this writing.* (EBC) Edith Colmo Negros Daily Bulletin I HAVE learned that German scientist Albert Einstein could not speak until he was four and did not read until he was seven. Ludwig Van Beethoven was also problematic in music school so much that his teacher once said that as a composer he is hopeless. Years later, he made a name as one of the world's greatest musicians and composers.
The great American inventor Thomas Edison did not do well in school either. His teachers thought he was stupid. Years later in Menlo Park he invented the famous electric bulb and phonograph, and further developed the telegraph system. The famous Walt Disney who owns an all around Walt Disney Entertainment Company was a poor performer in school, and the newspaper editor he once work with fired him because he said Disney didn't have any good ideas. Of course, who couldn't cite the case of Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao who rose from being a poor street kid and fought fiercely his way to become a billionaire boxer and congressman? I had a classmate in college who was a loner, downer, low IQ, and always insulted by our teacher for always gave wrong or inappropriate answer when thrown with a question. He was the worst performer in our class. Everybody thought he would be a loser all his life. A decade after I learned he finished with a master degree and doctorate, and that he managed his own successful plumbing service company with three dozens of workers in Ottawa, Canada. I am sure there are thousands others with similar story. All of them are ordinary beings in their groups and during their times. But what made them extra ordinary and exemplary? Repeatedly I scoured for explanations. I studied some important details in their lives and the greater environment they lived in. I didn't find any astonishing and distinct secrets. All I found was their firm resolve, stubbornness, doggedness, firmness and toughness that made them so. Being tenacious and resilient brought them miles and miles away. They win because they think they can. An unknown author penned the following words: If you think you're beaten, you are. If you think you dare not, you don't. If you like to win but think you can't. It's almost certain that you won't. Life's battles don't always go to the stronger woman or man, But sooner or later, those who win are those can. I don't think some rich people who made fortunes by making others miserable, by trampling upon the rights of others, are fit to be called tenacious and resilient. They are exploiter and oppressor. They love themselves so much that they have to feast on the pain and misery of others. They are fed with pride, hate and greed. These people carry many masks, and they wear the mask that fit who they talk to. They are manipulative and opportunistic. I tend to see more the like of Archie Baribar, El Cid Familiaran, Sonia Verdeflor, Provincial Board Member, Dino Yulo, Congressman Neri Colmenares, Congressman Anthony Golez, former Congressman Monico Puentevella, Vice Mayor Thaddy Sayson, former councilor Lyndon Cana, Bishop Antonio Navarra, Father Felix Pasquin, retired Fiscal Cesar Beloria Sr., as people of good character, who exemplified tenacity and resiliency in their way of leading people, of finding solutions to social problems, and in battling the arrogant powers that be. Only few of them are relatively well-off. But the most important story in their lives is that they have won many battles because they believe in themselves and in God. I also tend to see more the like of Councilor Elmer Sy, an exemplary person of character, whom I had a long chat recently. Some ignores him because he seldom talks and looks like you can't get nothing from him. Others think he is a dull and crazy man. But when one knows Elmer well, it is his character of firmness, long tolerance, out-of-the-box thought process, creativeness, and deliberate action man that brought him success in his private and public life. He said he did not rush to become a successful businessman; he done it one step at a time. Elmer inspired and helped countless entrepreneurs and ordinary folk. He saved countless lives, quietly. He managed organizations and people quite effectively. He always give his all to those who need his help. Like the other successful and fulfilled persons, Elmer will always be a trustworthy and dependable person and if given a chance, a worthy leader. Real tenacious and resilient people are built in good character. They have a clear goal in life and set of values. They are so determined and disciplined to get it at whatever costs but not at the expense of others. They often hang on after others have let go. They will always finish what they have started. They know exactly that life has its ups and downs, victories and defeats, retreats and advances, but they are not easily disheartened. They are not quitters. Inspirational speaker and successful Chinese businessman Francis Kong once said that "Instead of looking at pressure and trials as the reason to quit, get tenacious and see them as the very thing that will make your life the beautiful thing that you desire it to be. See it as your opportunity to learn, to grow, and to be transformed. See these trials as the very things that will enable you to have the life that dream of!" I agree, we can always choose to be a warrior and remain happy. Not the least, tenacious and resilient people are honest and faithful with the people they love and work with. They are ever patient with anyone. In the midst of today's life on the fast lane and fastfood, we need people like them, who can inspire, challenge, motivate and engage the many into taking the initiative to be creative in their ways to develop tenacity and resiliency. People who can give more ideas, challenge the norm, leave comfort zones and not to think out of the box but to get out of the box and do some thinking, and can bring out the best in everyone. By the way, my mother in-law once told my wife that she won't be rich with me. When I learned it instead of carrying a grudge I took it as a challenge. I'm still not rich but I am happy with her and our kids, and those who share life with us; all those small things give me a lot of rich feelings. So I believe. Karl G. Ombion Sun Star Bacolod I HAVE learned that German scientist Albert Einstein could not speak until he was four and did not read until he was seven. Ludwig Van Beethoven was also problematic in music school so much that his teacher once said that as a composer he is hopeless. Years later, he made a name as one of the world's greatest musicians and composers.
The great American inventor Thomas Edison did not do well in school either. His teachers thought he was stupid. Years later in Menlo Park he invented the famous electric bulb and phonograph, and further developed the telegraph system. The famous Walt Disney who owns an all around Walt Disney Entertainment Company was a poor performer in school, and the newspaper editor he once work with fired him because he said Disney didn't have any good ideas. Of course, who couldn't cite the case of Filipino boxing icon Manny Pacquiao who rose from being a poor street kid and fought fiercely his way to become a billionaire boxer and congressman? I had a classmate in college who was a loner, downer, low IQ, and always insulted by our teacher for always gave wrong or inappropriate answer when thrown with a question. He was the worst performer in our class. Everybody thought he would be a loser all his life. A decade after I learned he finished with a master degree and doctorate, and that he managed his own successful plumbing service company with three dozens of workers in Ottawa, Canada. I am sure there are thousands others with similar story. All of them are ordinary beings in their groups and during their times. But what made them extra ordinary and exemplary? Repeatedly I scoured for explanations. I studied some important details in their lives and the greater environment they lived in. I didn't find any astonishing and distinct secrets. All I found was their firm resolve, stubbornness, doggedness, firmness and toughness that made them so. Being tenacious and resilient brought them miles and miles away. They win because they think they can. An unknown author penned the following words: If you think you're beaten, you are. If you think you dare not, you don't. If you like to win but think you can't. It's almost certain that you won't. Life's battles don't always go to the stronger woman or man, But sooner or later, those who win are those can. I don't think some rich people who made fortunes by making others miserable, by trampling upon the rights of others, are fit to be called tenacious and resilient. They are exploiter and oppressor. They love themselves so much that they have to feast on the pain and misery of others. They are fed with pride, hate and greed. These people carry many masks, and they wear the mask that fit who they talk to. They are manipulative and opportunistic. I tend to see more the like of Archie Baribar, El Cid Familiaran, Sonia Verdeflor, Provincial Board Member, Dino Yulo, Congressman Neri Colmenares, Congressman Anthony Golez, former Congressman Monico Puentevella, Vice Mayor Thaddy Sayson, former councilor Lyndon Cana, Bishop Antonio Navarra, Father Felix Pasquin, retired Fiscal Cesar Beloria Sr., as people of good character, who exemplified tenacity and resiliency in their way of leading people, of finding solutions to social problems, and in battling the arrogant powers that be. Only few of them are relatively well-off. But the most important story in their lives is that they have won many battles because they believe in themselves and in God. I also tend to see more the like of Councilor Elmer Sy, an exemplary person of character, whom I had a long chat recently. Some ignores him because he seldom talks and looks like you can't get nothing from him. Others think he is a dull and crazy man. But when one knows Elmer well, it is his character of firmness, long tolerance, out-of-the-box thought process, creativeness, and deliberate action man that brought him success in his private and public life. He said he did not rush to become a successful businessman; he done it one step at a time. Elmer inspired and helped countless entrepreneurs and ordinary folk. He saved countless lives, quietly. He managed organizations and people quite effectively. He always give his all to those who need his help. Like the other successful and fulfilled persons, Elmer will always be a trustworthy and dependable person and if given a chance, a worthy leader. Real tenacious and resilient people are built in good character. They have a clear goal in life and set of values. They are so determined and disciplined to get it at whatever costs but not at the expense of others. They often hang on after others have let go. They will always finish what they have started. They know exactly that life has its ups and downs, victories and defeats, retreats and advances, but they are not easily disheartened. They are not quitters. Inspirational speaker and successful Chinese businessman Francis Kong once said that "Instead of looking at pressure and trials as the reason to quit, get tenacious and see them as the very thing that will make your life the beautiful thing that you desire it to be. See it as your opportunity to learn, to grow, and to be transformed. See these trials as the very things that will enable you to have the life that dream of!" I agree, we can always choose to be a warrior and remain happy. Not the least, tenacious and resilient people are honest and faithful with the people they love and work with. They are ever patient with anyone. In the midst of today's life on the fast lane and fastfood, we need people like them, who can inspire, challenge, motivate and engage the many into taking the initiative to be creative in their ways to develop tenacity and resiliency. People who can give more ideas, challenge the norm, leave comfort zones and not to think out of the box but to get out of the box and do some thinking, and can bring out the best in everyone. By the way, my mother in-law once told my wife that she won't be rich with me. When I learned it instead of carrying a grudge I took it as a challenge. I'm still not rich but I am happy with her and our kids, and those who share life with us; all those small things give me a lot of rich feelings. So I believe. Karl G. Ombion Sun Star Bacolod THE Bacolod City Council approved on first reading Wednesday a proposed ordinance declaring every 18th day of June as the Charter Day of Bacolod City.
The ordinance was authored by Councilor Caesar Z. Distrito, chairman of the City Council committee on laws, ordinances and good government. It was co-authored by Councilors Homer Bais, Roberto Rojas, El Cid Familiaran, Em Legaspi Ang and Al Victor A. Espino. The ordinance was passed with seven members in favor, namely: Councilors Homer Bais, Dindo Ramos, Caesar Distrito, Roberto Rojas, Mona Dia Jardin, Carl Lopez and Keith Ramos. Councilors Archie Baribar, Catalino Alisbo, Sonya Verdeflor and Elmer Sy voted no to the ordinance. Distrito said the ordinance is made to correct a historical distortion that Bacoleños have been observing for many years. The date when the said law was passed, which was June 18, 1938, should be celebrated as the charter day of Bacolod City. The House of Representatives, through Deputy Secretary General Dr. Ramon Ricardo A. Roque, together with the National Historical Commission, issued a certification dated June 20, 2011 that the City of Bacolod's Charter Day was indeed June 18, 1938. According to Distrito's resolution, October 19, 1938 was the date when Mayor Alfredo Montelibano Sr. was inaugurated as mayor of Bacolod City and not the day when the charter creating Bacolod City was signed into law. After such discovery, the city mayor issued Executive Order 15-A, Series of 2011 to celebrate the 73rd Charter Day of Bacolod City on June 18, 2011. (CNC) |
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