BOONDOCK QUEEN
My Ideas, My Freedom, My Space....

Question: "What form of government do we have in the Philippines?"
Answer: Demo-Crazy!
Question: "What is that?"
Answer: A government POOR the people, OFF the people and BUY the people

Ngeeeh!

These issues are:
The Constitution
The Voter
The Future of my country

The Constitution, as I personally see it and as I have already mentioned in the past, is packed with flaws. I am convinced it was hurriedly adopted to legalize the "revolutionary" government of Tita Cory. It was adopted even if it was short of deliberations with different sectors of society, it lacked widespread dissemination, and was obviously built on political interest.

Tita Cory sat in power by end of February 1986 and by October 1986, we had the constitution. In eight short months, after years of turmoil under Martial Law and Marcos, we ordained and promulgated the Constitution. And because the "election fever" is in "fools wing", I cannot avoid bringing up the issue of Article VII, Sec. 2 of the consitution where it states the qualifications for a presidential candidate. "No person may be elected President unless he is a
a) natural born citizen of the Philippines,
b) a registered voter,
c) able to read and write,
d) at least forty years of age on the day of the election, and
e) a resident of the Philippines for at least ten years immediately preceding such election."
Less these, everything else makes Juan eligible. Can I blame FPJ, Eddie Villanueva of the Jesus Is Lord Movement, and if ever Brother Mike of El Shaddai if they decide to throw in their hats into the political arena?

How can I? It is their right. What is troubling however, is the fact that common sense, love of the ever-growing poor, and "God's will" almost always seem to justify their ambitions as well as for those behind the scenes with hidden political agendas. It is the justifications that is suspect.

Has the legislature done something about it? I am sure I do not need to expound. But Cha-Cha always seems to go reverse.

This brings me to the second topic.

The Voter today can easily be classified into two groups,
1) the thinking group who study the ability, qualification and intention of the candidate, and
2) the fan, who simply worships entertainment in any form.

After many years of presenting the electorate with winnable candidates such as TV and movie personalities, the present crop of malicious politicians effectively continue to use this brand of politics as they woo the "fans" by bringing their idols closer to them, as in, the bigger the personality, the bigger the vote, which they have achieved through the likes of Erap, Jaworski, Noli, Loren, Tito Sotto, Ralph Recto (Santos), Kiko Pangilinan (Cuneta), Ramon Revilla Sr. Between these two groups of voters, majority belong to the "fan" group - even shedding tears, risking limb and life in defense of their idols.

The thinking group refuse to be bought, intimidated, or harassed, but disregard their right to vote or depart from my country out of desperation. The fan group continues to grow, while the thinkers continue to split, quit and vanish from the voters registration and census.

Hence, EDSA IV is most likely to happen again. If FPJ wins, then the "thinking" group would react with peace rallies and mass celebrations in church. If FPJ loses, the "fan" group will also mass protest everywhere, all the way to Mindanao.

The Future of my country is crumbling. Every politician who upholds the slogan "para sa mahirap" (for the poor) continues to strengthen the idea that the poor indeed have the capacity to turn things around in my country, as proven in the case of ex-President Joseph "Erap" Estrada who was put into power by the vote of these people. Instead of really helping the poor, they use the poor, indoctrinating the idea that the rich only get richer and the poor, poorer. As the masa grows, and ever so fast, and the corrupt become even more corrupt, the little few "thinkers" left behind will opt and continue to escape. I cannot avoid the dreadful thought that one day a bloody take over by these people may occur as they come closer to the seats of power in my country, as some of them have already done. Others just waiting in line for the ripe time. Others all to willing to serve these malicious politicians.

Scenarios like invasion of private villages, homes, and schools will continue to rise rapidly. Kidnappings, bank robberies, drug-pushing may just be a way of life. Soon, not far from today, my country may turn into a penal colony by some foreign invader after seeing Filipino blood spilled all over the streets. (that's if these invaders find any interest of what may be left of it)

Do I sound horrifying? I sure do.
Am I paranoid? Close to being one. But is it a possibility? Please tell me I am wrong!

Last Nov 14th, "your honor" comes home with abrasions and contusions on his face and head, assaulted by five of his own basketball teammates from Liceo de Cagayan, after a heated argument with the team captain inside the school premises. Surprisingly, it was not the guy having the argument that started the punching but another teammate who happens to be the Sangguniang Kabataan Chairman (Youth Council) of Carmen town, a certain Sanchez, prompting 4 others to follow. Just shows how warped leadership can be in my country. "Your honor" took the blows claiming it would be futile to fight back five of them and that three were really of small built. His retaliation might have just killed one of them. I believe him. He once threw a punch and wrecked my main door!

Anyway, yesterday AM, the madwoman appears at the Department of Student Affairs and filed an administrative complaint against these 5 nincumpoops. The Dean of Student Affairs would like to hear the other side of the story first. What story? Huh? What would be their basis for an investigation? Is it to inquire what provoked the fight? Would an argument between two people justify a gang maul? Today, the team had a game and "your honor" insisted on playing despite my restraining order. Lo and behold - the coach, Mr. Noble (no-bleh) almost threw a punch at him, verbally threatened him saying "we are not done with you"....I see a fraternity or some order of the demon and not a basketball team here.

The SOB has barked at the wrong tree.

I am meeting with my lawyer tomorrow and I am all ready to support "your honor" as he files administrative and civil charges against the school, the coach and the 5 nincumpoops.

The madwoman is charged! Abangan!

Honestly, I am astonished...I cannot even resolve within myself how this particular calf has prolonged its fight for life and has transformed me into an advocate for its own cause. I continue to receive viewpoints from some friends who have joined the discourse and I intend to post the worthy some as they come, for you, my visitors to enjoy as well.

The calf is now a cow.

Let me clarify some points.

First, the point of forwarding the veal mail was to dessiminate information. I had trusted my friends would recognize its purpose.
Second, it was unfortunate that not all did, prompting one of them to reply in a philosophical, hostile, and freezing manner, claiming it was intended for the original author, but had addressed it to all those I forwarded the mail to. Talk about intention
Third, I would certainly not take an insult (from anyone for that matter) simply because I forwarded some information on the now famous veal meat.
Fourth, my response to the hostile mail, which was purposely sent to all addy book friends, was meant to remind him that I am entitled to my opinion, no matter the cause. HELLO - DUH - !!

The email was meant for the sender who sent it to you. No bones to pick with you. Anyway, I must have attached the names when I highlighted your name, sorry.

You are right about rich countries, that is why we are doing a research on how to equalize the situation especially where the Philippines is concerned. I have a vested interest in developing solutions for the children in the Philippines. Besides, I really do not think it is the fault of the poor families to have children nor are they ignorant. It is the lack of opportunities for them as a result of serious social inequalities that bring about their social and economic condition.

The real point is that when a stand is made it should have universal applications of the doctrines and ideologies being embraced. When advocacy specifity is utilized in any given issue it does have the risk of running into the realm of limited thinking resulting in blinded realities. This is the very reason I have not attempted to express my advocacies. I believe it is prudent to weigh in all the factors before anyone makes a serious statement.

I actually am attempting to email the author of the article. The email was an attempt to let the sender understand the parameters in which arguments should be made. No nerve was hit but if you read the content in its context you might find that the intent was purely from an academic perspective, nothing more. If by chance I have insulted you or the sender, then that was not the intent.

So, perhaps I deserve your email and apologize for highlighting the names. I was writing the email at school before entering the classroom. So if you prefer not to respond again I will understand. Where do you want the donation sent for the children in the boondocks?

Curious about my response? Well, here it is:

Apologies accepted.

Further, I am interested to know what that vested interest is in developing solutions for the children over here.

I do not know the original sender of the e-mail. And it does not matter. I appreciate her concern therefore forwarded the e-mail.

May I remind you there is nothing wrong with idealism, except that it is extra-ordinary. As the saying goes: The difference between ordinary and extra-ordinary is the little "extra". And it is the little extra that takes a lot of heart, soul, work and persuasion; it is that little extra that matters most when one has an advocacy, that is precisely what it is all about: giving support, helping promote, offering encouragement.

It is unfortunate that you keep them to yourself, hence the "limited thinking" and "blind realities". Because reality is truth and it can never be blind. Your arguments are most welcome...

Hay-yay-yay-yay-yay!

Memorable to me in so many ways, describing it as chaotic would sound too ordinary. To start with, I got implicated in a drug smuggling case with three others while working as a flight attendant for Philippine Airlines. Made headlines in newspapers, tabloids and TV newscasts. This may sound strange, but I have to thank Pepsi Paloma, she took over the news after committing suicide a day after. With all the hullabaloo, I insisted on proving my innocense and so the case was re-investigated, eventually establishing my point.

However, this came a little too late as I have been prematurely judged by Roman Cruz, Jr. - (may he rest in peace), the Inflight Management, media and the so-called "hostile friends". They left me with no options. I was determined at first, just had that fervent hope I would get back the job I dreamt of all my life after having to wait for six long months.

I found out from Fiscal Bernabe of Pasay, ( - yes, father of the murdered Cochise, - may they both rest in peace too) on the very same day the favorable resolution was released, that PAL had already spoken to him to convince me on their behalf, not to return to work or insist on being reinstated in exchange of all the benefits I merited. For that, he would receive a round trip ticket to any destination of his choice. At this point, I was somehow elated as I knew PAL had committed a blunder.

After being present practically daily at the Pasay City Hall, my friendship with the Fiscal, his family, Mayor Pablo Cuneta (may he also rest in peace) grew and on this basis, my lawyer, Atty. YQJ and my new found circle of friends, considering all other aspects including the slow process of justice, pass over the threats I have been receiving from the Customs personnel, agreed it would be difficult for me to retain my job and seniority, so settling for a quiet exit with all benefits due me would be best.

All this time, while losing an income, having to face judges, investigators, and falsehood, I was carrying "your honor" in my tummy as his father disappeared in thin air. Also, in some little way, I had to financially assist my mother who was tending to an ailing father.

This part of my story was never told.

I used this part of my life to show an example of what any ordinary individual in his everyday living may encounter. Bad judgement calls? Whatever!

But definitely it has led me to see my world today in a broader sense, it is much lighter - less the heavy load of guilt, anxiety, and anger I had towards those who have judged me. I have forgotten some and forgiven many. On the other hand, those who believed in me have stuck by me.

This leads me to the issue of morality which I promised to talk about in some "ganadocious" day. Guess today is that day. My comments would be short and sober but hopefully logical.

Morality is controversial to me simply because I see societies connoting it to judgment of right and wrong, and these societies believe they have the "holy cloud" hovering upon them. It becomes even more apparent in the pinoy as we live in a highly hypocrital, very clannish and over "pakialamero" (mindful) society that it becomes difficult to lay the grounds for what may be considered moral and immoral. What may be moral to Petra may be immoral to Cordapia! Morality serves more a hindrance rather than a contributor to ones advancement. Morality should be a personal issue, kept within oneself, lived within oneself and should not compel one to disregard his own values and principles for the sake of another. After all, the best judge is oneself. The best teacher is one's own experience. The best lifestyle is one's own righteousness. And the best way to keep in touch with the "Good Spirit" is to allow it to manifest itself within.

I may be wrong or I may be right. But at least, I look forward each day and hope it be a great day.
Do you?

"Teddy Bear" and "Your Honor" are both out at the moment and I can say it is so cool!

All the above used to be something I enjoyed while hanging around on weekdays in coffee shops in the malls of Makati and Cagayan while I people-watched. But ever since the smoking ban was enforced in public areas, I feel deprived of my basic right to free choice, so I instead opt to relax at home.

Come to think of it, our poor society has developed suppression as a way of life, and free expression a steep alternative, and it totally sucks. It basically molds the Filipino mind to be plain followers, lacking of any leadership instincts. Fault Martial Law and its cohorts. My generation has been completely corrupted and because of this, have turned phlegmatic.

On the other hand, those who do not know me enough, think I am full of antipathy, forever non-conforming, "fastidiosa" and detached, scrupulous and perpetually hard to please. It is most likely because I hate fudging, lies, and irrationality. I have this thing that compels me to work out my brains as much as I can, (with the constant fear of aneurysm and migraine haunting me though.)

There are times, however, guilt shadows me. Times when I target honesty, then eventually wonder if it is truly a virtue. As I observed, majority of the pinoys are horrified of the truth. Frankness can break the heart, often times leaving those like me in limbo, doubting the very thing one is sure of - the self.

But then, that is exactly what makes one different. And I like that! No way would I hope to return to my youth where one is considered unstable, powerless, and incapable. Youth can be groovy, fun, flirty and a fantastic figure - while at it, one must enjoy it to the fullest. Being at the "prime" of life certainly says it all. It allows me to do exactly what I feel, like giving up the 11:00 PM showing of Matrix Revolutions to be home before midnight for my good eight-hour sleep. It is my right, therefore, I shall avail of it with utmost geniuneness. Tomorrow is another day, and it may just make a difference.

So much to say, but my bed is calling...I surrender!

Marriage is a social institution under which a man and a woman establish and commit to their decision to live as husband and wife by legal commitment or religious ceremonies. On the other hand, I also see the need to make divorce a social institution as well.

Unfortunately, the Philippines is ruled by a church who continuously turns a blind eye to the reality of life here. And unless the "honorable" men of the congress break free from the spell cast upon them by the church, I see more men and women undergoing the painful and harsh reality castigated upon them by our phony society - in addition to the experience of a tedious, excruciating, and costly annulment. The idea of a Filipino family in the Constitution is proper, however, it remains an ideal, therefore, extra-ordinary. Fact is, not everything in this world is ideal. I've said in the past, morality can be a controversial and debatable issue, so I would keep that for another "ganadocious" entry day.

My thoughts pushed me to re-write this article after recalling a story of a girlfriend, (who has recently filed for annulment from a philandering husband) and her 11-year old son, who has just learned the Ten Commandments in religion class. He comes home that day, and tells his mother "Do you know that you are an adulteress"?Apparently, "Thou shalt not commit adultery" zipped in his brain. At that point, it was rather comical than inexcusable. However, in a family gathering a couple of days after, the 11-year old boy approaches an elder cousin and says to her the same thing -"are you aware that our parents are adulterous? Luckily, his elder cousin explained some detail to him and made him realize there exist one saintly tita (aunt) in the family. Another story involves a couple who have been married for over 35 years, yet they eventually agree to dissolve their marriage. He has found a younger girl, while she is totally captivated by the machines in the casino.

As the saying goes, it takes two to tango: black and white, good and bad, happy and sad, hot and cold.

My friends in the boondocks also experience this breaking of bonds, however, it is less complicated. The couple prepare a "kasulatan" (promissory note), present this to the Barangay Captain, turn their backs to the past and move on with their lives and the ones they choose to love. It is probably because no cleric bothers to show up in the mountains with terrifying homilies in exchange of few coins (or barya).

There goes an example of true democracy! The freedom to live and love, and love again with no apprehension.

I look forward to the day that Filipinos gain this right to be voluntarily blissful in their own ways. Or have we forgotten the true authors of destiny?