EVOLUTION OF DANCE
ACHMED THE TERRORIST
The adorable charlie! hehe
GUITAR LEAD OF CANON PACHELBEL
Sports related bloopers
lets end this with an adorable laugh..
ENJOY!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Philippine Politics Today
Here I literally mean today, Monday, October 27, 2008. After an exhausting day, I'm glad to still be able to watch news and relax a little bit. The news hit me particularly the return of the infamous Jocjoc Bolante tomorrow after some years in the US. The issue is whether he should be arrested at his departure or not. His lawyer believed that he must not be arrested since the warrant of arrest issued by the Senate in 2005 had lapsed already. Moreover, he argued that 1987 consitution gives only the authority to release warrants to the judges of the Judiciary. However, the Senate and other critics assumed that Bolante could still be arrested. Atty. Harry Roque mentioned that the Senate as an institution did not change even if its personnel, particularly the senators during the period did change. Hence, the arrest could still have legal basis. As of the time of writing, a flash report coming from Senate President Villar has stated that Bolante will be arrested tomorrow.
The crux of the matter, I suppose is this. We know that Bolante tried to escape the Senate investigation hearing for his alleged involvement in the fertilizer scam. Now that he is coming back, why would we let him slip this time? As they said in tagalog, "kusa ng lumalapit sa pain, bakit hindi pa hulihin?" Why should Bolante let the oppurtunity to clear his name if he really is not involved? If the administration tries to silence him, and coverup the real issue, why in the first place, they would allow Bolante to go back? As Miriam Santiago addressed, "Ang Kapal naman ng mukha."
The crux of the matter, I suppose is this. We know that Bolante tried to escape the Senate investigation hearing for his alleged involvement in the fertilizer scam. Now that he is coming back, why would we let him slip this time? As they said in tagalog, "kusa ng lumalapit sa pain, bakit hindi pa hulihin?" Why should Bolante let the oppurtunity to clear his name if he really is not involved? If the administration tries to silence him, and coverup the real issue, why in the first place, they would allow Bolante to go back? As Miriam Santiago addressed, "Ang Kapal naman ng mukha."
Get your friends close and your enemies closer
This should be the foreign policy of US right now. Why would McCain and Palin mock Obama for trying to have a bridge to communicate with rogue leaders Venezuela's Hugo Chavez and Iran's Ahmad Ahmadinejad? Is it really smart to declare to never talk to such leaders? Is it really in US long-term national interest to shut US off from one of the most important and powerful states in the Middle East—Iran—or one of US major suppliers of oil, Venezuela?Should isolation of the potential enemies be the way to go in the current affairs? I don't think so.
"of course we should talk to difficult adversaries—when it is in our interest and at a time of our choosing"--these words have been the position of senior diplomats serving from Carter to Bush administration. This holds true most importantly nowadays."You don't make peace with friends, you make peace with very unsavory enemies." (Israel's Yitzhak Rabin)
"of course we should talk to difficult adversaries—when it is in our interest and at a time of our choosing"--these words have been the position of senior diplomats serving from Carter to Bush administration. This holds true most importantly nowadays."You don't make peace with friends, you make peace with very unsavory enemies." (Israel's Yitzhak Rabin)
So, why should the United States approach the world any differently now? We inhabit a rapidly integrating planet where dangers can strike at any time and from great distances. Americans are not excluded. And when others—China, India, Brazil—are rising to share power in the world with America, it needs to spend more time, not less, talking and listening to friends and foes alike.
The real truth Americans need to embrace is that nearly all of the most urgent global challenges—the quaking financial markets, climate change, terrorism—cannot be resolved by America's acting alone in the world. Rather than retreat into isolationism, as we have often done in our history, or go it alone as the unilateralists advocated disastrously in the past decade, we need to commit ourselves to a national strategy of smart engagement with the rest of the world. Simply put, we need all the friends we can get. And we need to think more creatively about how to blunt the power of opponents through smart diplomacy, not just the force of arms.( obtain form Newsweek)
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Sunday Gospel and Politics
Its been two months since I was reunited with my God. I've been regularly attending masses and about the homily today, I would like to share my reflections. The gospel for the 30th sunday in ordinary time came from Mt 22:34-40:
WHEN THE PHARISEES HEARD THAT JESUS HAD SILENCED THE SADUCEES, THEY GATHERED TOGETHER, AND ONE OF THEM, A SCHOLAR OF THE LAW, TESTED HIM BY ASKING, "TEACHER, WHICH COMMANDMENT IN THE LAW IS THE GREATEST?"
HE SAID TO HIM, "YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD, WITH ALL YOU HEART, WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND. THIS IS THE GREATEST AND THE FIRST COMMANDMENT.
"THE SECOND IS LIKE IT: YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. THE WHOLE LAW AND THE PROPHETS DEPEND ON THESE TWO COMMANDMENTS."
---the gospel of the lord. (PRAISE TO YOU, LORD JESUS CHRIST)
A famous line in law books, "DURA LEX SED LEX" states that "the law maybe harsh but it is still the law." I think this holds true even with the commandment of our God. What God's law asks seems too difficult to uphold and to follow. This I suppose points to a reason why we are all hypocrites. We tried our very best to follow God's commandment but because of its impossibility, following god's rule is tantamount to pretention. and pretending because we believe in something (in this case our faith in god) we tend to be hypocrites. I dont know if this holds true to all, but this is why we became human because we cannot love god with all our heart, soul, and mind. Because if we really religiously follow this rule there is no reason for mistakes and sins to exist.
Moreover, if the first rule is difficult a task, more so is the second rule. Can we really love our neighbor as we love ourselves? Human nature theorists clamor for a self-dependent individual pushing selfishly in maximizing interests and personal gains. Thus, can we really equate love for oneself with love for others?
Law is indeed harsh. But the law stands as is. It is true most especially with God's commandment. Though it is difficult to follow, as a christian and a believer, we must strive and put our very best efforts to try to at least love god with all there is to offer and love our neighbors like we love ourselves. This maybe a path to greatness, and this is the path that god envision for us. To live trying to follow him. With Him, mistakes are unimportant compare to the efforts that we give to mitigate it.
If everyone of us would take this into consideration politics would not be as problematic and complex as it is. If our leaders could act altruistically, no corruption can be allowed. If our decision makers decide not for their personal gains, we might reach a peak of stability and growth. If we can all have "the love God with all our heart, soul and mind and love our neighbor as we love ourselves" principle, I think life will be happy, fruitful and prolific up to a level we never have imagined.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
ASAP vs SOP: who's got talent?
I woke up late Sunday morning. It was already 11:31am and I'm still sweetly and lazily having my moment with the bed. Then, an alarming invitation for lunch by my Ate provide impetus within me to work my muscles and to get out of the bed immediately. After a quick stretching and light exercise, I saw myself near the table ready for my brunch (breakfast and lunch).
I had a bountiful feast (exaggeration to make a point). I turned on my TV right away to watch shows. Since today is Sunday, I have expected another showdown between ASAP and SOP, two flagship Sunday entertainment show of the archrival stations---the kapamilya station (channel 2) and the kapuso network (channel 7).
It's a debatable issue on the table right now. Between ASAP and SOP, who has the talent to entertain? To compare and contrast the two, its imperative to give a standard where we can analyze the competing parties. But I would like to focus the camera on who really has the talent?
ASAP is composed of artists like Gary Valenciano, Zsa zsa Padilla, Martin Nievera, Vina Morales,Billy Crawford, the singing champions (Sarah, Erik, Christian, Yeng,etc), groovy dancers (Vhong Navarro, Gab, teacher georcelle, Raven, John Pratts), pretty faces such as Bea Alonzo, Anne Curtis, etc; Hunks and macho gwapitos (John Lloyd Cruz), respected hosts like Toni Gonzaga, Lucky Manzano and many more.
SOP, on the other hand, is represented by Regine Velasquez, Ogie Alcasid, Jaya, Janno, Jay-r, Jolina, and other unfamiliar faces.
From the presentation of members per se, you will see where I am coming from, where I attest my inclinations. Definitely, everyone has its own talent. But I reckon ASAP having the advantage because of the great, recognized, versatile artists, singers and dancers that they have. Who can beat Gary V in his performance? Is it Janno or Ogie?NOBODY in SOP can level the pure energy GaryV provides. Who can surpass Vhong Navarro's comic performances? Ruffa Mae Quinto?I don't think so. Who can best the hosting style of Toni?
Yes, Regine Velasquez maybe a respected and a great singer, the Asia's songbird. But can she dance like Sarah Geronimo? Almost all singers can have that belting skills Regine has. She may hold the highest range and pitch but is it always important? I think what matters is the versatility of artists, one who can sing and dance, can host and can make you laugh--that's what you call entertainment.
Another standard, the manner of presentation entices audience to watch as well. Whatever talent you may possess if not express and utilize efficiently, its plainly imbecile. SOP clamors creativity. Almost everyweek they have new theme and new customes. After a typical introduction, sing and dance, they will have a model or fashion show, nothing more nothing less. Is that what you call entertainment? For avid fans maybe. SOP almost everyweek promote GMA shows. It will present for example, Dyesebel, display their casts in full costumes. Once again, modeling and posing skills were utilized. This style sucks most of their time and the ability to show real talents of their performers.
On the other hand, ASAP makes full use of talents and skills of their performers. Gary V is always on his concert style performances. The singing champions seem always on the competition and on their winning moment. Dancers have their new moves. ASAP has in fact, what they call dance school where new moves were instructed by teacher Jercel demonstrated by Rayver, Gab and Mickey among many others. This manner of presenting is a plus because it gives the audience something to watch for every week.
Hence, in terms of manner of presentation. ASAP excels over SOP because the former provides real entertainment, real talent! SOP, meanwhile, after some boring sing performances of their stars commit most of their airtime on fashion shows of unknown and talent deficient casts.
Admittedly, this is just superficial analysis. Some may agree others may not agree. Nevertheless, this article is a wake up call for both of the "entertainment" shows to provide real entertainment. That's their purpose and that's what the audience at the end of the day need. Right? 
The Effects of the Cyprus problem on Turkey
*This article is an excerpt from my term paper for my "Geography as the context of International Affairs" subject with Prof. Clarita carlos.
(Conclusive remarks)
The effects to Turkey’s bid of the Cyprus problem could generally be seen on the political level. For one, Cyprus (Greek-Cypriots officials) has warned Turkey that it must recognize the Greek Cypriot government if it wants support for its EU application.[1] We must remember that the international community does not recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus created when Turkey seized the area in 1974 after a short-lived Greek-inspired coup, and Turkey in return does not recognize the south or Greek Cypriots government. Following what a state wants is clearly not a requirement for membership in the union. However, according to Daniel Schroder, “fulfilling the criteria for EU membership is no longer merely a matter of procedure, but can also involve a political decision” and this could provide negative implications. This could be seen affecting Turkey’s bid for membership through Cyprus political lobbying and threatening to use their veto power. For example, in a news article from Turkish Daily News, Greek Cypriot government has raised the controversial cases of the seizure of the Çukurova Elektrik (ÇEAŞ) and Kepez Elektrik to alter the course of Turkey’s negotiations with the European Union. With this case, the Greek Cypriots have found a way to push the European Commission to put a benchmark in the chapter on energy to ensure that Ankara complies with the result of the pending arbitration claim filed by Cypriot company Libananco Holdings against the state of Turkey. This perhaps implies an effort to slow down the negotiation process of Turkey. The Republic of Cyprus can use such, among many others to induce Turkey to recognize first them.[2] This recognition is deemed important since, for instance, the port and seaways of Turkey and the area of Turkish-Cypriot could be open to this south part of Cyprus and other members of EU that could subsequently attracts more benefits according to some Greek-Cypriot scholars.
However, Turkey refuses to open such ports to the Cypriots’ plane and vessels and insists that it will only do so after the EU proposal to open up a direct trade with Turkish Cypriots and provide them the €259,000,000 in funds to help them upgrade their infrastructure is fulfilled. The bone of contention involving Cyprus may sound like a mere technicality, but for Turkey, it means recognizing the Greek Cypriot government as the only legitimate authority on the hotly contested island.[3] And this they will not allow since it inflict and contradict their previous stance.
Nevertheless, developments have been higlighted recently. Turkey, despite several setbacks, closed its first chapter of negotiations as regards accession in June 2006. The earliest date that Turkey could enter the EU is 2013, the date when the next financial perspectives (the EU's six year budgetary perspectives) will come into force. Ankara is currently aiming to comply with EU law by this date,[4] but Brussels has refused to back 2013 as a deadline.[5] It is believed that the accession process will take at least until 2021.
To what have transcribed, it shows that Cyprus particularly the Greek Cypriot government wanted first the solution of the Cyprus problem --- the division of Cyprus to Greek and Turkish communities. Ironically, Greece leaders, supposed to be on the Greek Cypriots side, have proclaimed its support for Ankara's membership.[6] Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis has described Turkey's recognition of Cyprus as "an obvious condition", but at the same time has apparently advised his Greek Cypriot counterpart not to rock the boat. [7]It means that they should not be aggressive enough because it might cause further problems. The Greek officials have also hinted at the prospect of a compromise as a way around the dispute.
The crux of the matter is; the issue of Cyprus plays a crucial part in Turkey’s bid for membership. However, this does not suggest that EU is one in asking for the solution of the conflict first before Turkey’s membership to EU could be granted. In general, Europe is divided on the Turkey’s accession issues. Concerns on security, strategic importance, religion and culture, have been the source of debate on whether Turkey’s bid to be a member of the European club will flourish or not, will expedite or slow down. Consideration on the importance of Turkey, probably its strategic location and power, on EU could be one reason on why they cannot force Turkey to help provide solutions on the Cyprus conflict. “The EU's basic dilemma now is how to register its displeasure without provoking Turkey to walk away from the negotiating table.”[8] This issue however, could be raised up by further discussion that concedingly not taken up by this paper.
The Cyprus problem and its effects to Turkey’s bid for membership to the European Union could at least be viewed as having direct correlation. When, Cyprus problem is solved, or at least nears to finding a solution, the Turkey’s bid for membership could be affected positively. Yet further events and developments may mitigate the nearing solution of the problem or it may start a fire that can bring the parties in their old ways of conflict. Who knows? Only time can tell.
However, Turkey refuses to open such ports to the Cypriots’ plane and vessels and insists that it will only do so after the EU proposal to open up a direct trade with Turkish Cypriots and provide them the €259,000,000 in funds to help them upgrade their infrastructure is fulfilled. The bone of contention involving Cyprus may sound like a mere technicality, but for Turkey, it means recognizing the Greek Cypriot government as the only legitimate authority on the hotly contested island.[3] And this they will not allow since it inflict and contradict their previous stance.
Nevertheless, developments have been higlighted recently. Turkey, despite several setbacks, closed its first chapter of negotiations as regards accession in June 2006. The earliest date that Turkey could enter the EU is 2013, the date when the next financial perspectives (the EU's six year budgetary perspectives) will come into force. Ankara is currently aiming to comply with EU law by this date,[4] but Brussels has refused to back 2013 as a deadline.[5] It is believed that the accession process will take at least until 2021.
To what have transcribed, it shows that Cyprus particularly the Greek Cypriot government wanted first the solution of the Cyprus problem --- the division of Cyprus to Greek and Turkish communities. Ironically, Greece leaders, supposed to be on the Greek Cypriots side, have proclaimed its support for Ankara's membership.[6] Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis has described Turkey's recognition of Cyprus as "an obvious condition", but at the same time has apparently advised his Greek Cypriot counterpart not to rock the boat. [7]It means that they should not be aggressive enough because it might cause further problems. The Greek officials have also hinted at the prospect of a compromise as a way around the dispute.
The crux of the matter is; the issue of Cyprus plays a crucial part in Turkey’s bid for membership. However, this does not suggest that EU is one in asking for the solution of the conflict first before Turkey’s membership to EU could be granted. In general, Europe is divided on the Turkey’s accession issues. Concerns on security, strategic importance, religion and culture, have been the source of debate on whether Turkey’s bid to be a member of the European club will flourish or not, will expedite or slow down. Consideration on the importance of Turkey, probably its strategic location and power, on EU could be one reason on why they cannot force Turkey to help provide solutions on the Cyprus conflict. “The EU's basic dilemma now is how to register its displeasure without provoking Turkey to walk away from the negotiating table.”[8] This issue however, could be raised up by further discussion that concedingly not taken up by this paper.
The Cyprus problem and its effects to Turkey’s bid for membership to the European Union could at least be viewed as having direct correlation. When, Cyprus problem is solved, or at least nears to finding a solution, the Turkey’s bid for membership could be affected positively. Yet further events and developments may mitigate the nearing solution of the problem or it may start a fire that can bring the parties in their old ways of conflict. Who knows? Only time can tell.
___________________________________________________________________
[1] http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/4085283.stm
[2] Cyprus uses controversial Çeaş-Kapez case to demand recognition
http://www.turkishdailynews.com.tr/article.php?enewsid=73474 May 18, 2007
[3] Daniela Schröder http://www.qantara.de/webcom/show_article.php/_c-301/_nr-62/_p-1/i.html
[4] Kubosova, Lucia (2007-03-30). "Turkey targets 2013 for EU legal compliance", EUobserver. Retrieved on 2008-08-26.
[5] Kubosova, Lucia (2007-04-17). "Brussels declines to endorse 2013 date for Turkey's EU entry", EUobserver. Retrieved on 2008-08-26.
[6] http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/4085283.stm
[7] Ibid;
[8]
Daniela Schröder http://www.qantara.de/webcom/show_article.php/_c-301/_nr-62/_p-1/i.html
[1] http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/4085283.stm
[2] Cyprus uses controversial Çeaş-Kapez case to demand recognition
http://www.turkishdailynews.com.tr/article.php?enewsid=73474 May 18, 2007
[3] Daniela Schröder http://www.qantara.de/webcom/show_article.php/_c-301/_nr-62/_p-1/i.html
[4] Kubosova, Lucia (2007-03-30). "Turkey targets 2013 for EU legal compliance", EUobserver. Retrieved on 2008-08-26.
[5] Kubosova, Lucia (2007-04-17). "Brussels declines to endorse 2013 date for Turkey's EU entry", EUobserver. Retrieved on 2008-08-26.
[6] http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/4085283.stm
[7] Ibid;
[8]
Daniela Schröder http://www.qantara.de/webcom/show_article.php/_c-301/_nr-62/_p-1/i.html
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