...Presidential Cheat Sheet: These are MY Words, Part 2...

Maria Ana Consuelo “Jamby” Madrigal-Valade

Who is she: Popularly known as Jamby Madrigal, she hails from a well-off family of known political figures; she is the granddaughter of former Supreme Court Justice Jose Abad Santos, while her paternal grandfather was former Senator Vicente Madrigal of  Ligao, Albay, who was one of the elected senators in 1949. The Madrigals are of the rich Spanish-Visayan Madrigal Family. Jamby is a philanthropist before entering politics, setting up various foundations for the benefit of the Filipino people. As a senator, she championed women’s and children’s rights. She declared her intention to run for president earlier than most of the presidential aspirants, determined to pursue her goal to “faithfully serve” the Filipino people despite massive criticism and doubts about her candidacy.

Notable Credentials: Among Madrigal’s foundations are Books for the Barangay, which provide books for public elementary and high schools, and Abad Santos Madrigal Foundation Inc, which empowers children and women through relevant and accessible livelihood programs. During the Estrada administration, Madrigal was appointed as the head of the newly created Office of the Presidential Adviser for Children’s affairs. She was a key figure in signing the commitment to uphold Child 21; a framework on which to anchor all action plans and strategies relating to children. She has also authored a number of bills in the senate, among these, a bill repealing the Mining Act of 1995, which seeks to protect the last remaining natural resources from wholesale plunder.

Presidential Platform: Madrigal’s platform is grounded on bringing the Philippines back to the Filipinos through people empowerment, bound by the desire for change. In her presidential platform, she presents 10 goals for New Vision: Genuine, pro-Filipino industrialization and national economy, Fair and equitable trade and debt, Local people’s control and anti-monopoly cartel policy, Genuine agrarian reform, Adequate, pro-Filipino protection and rehabilitation of the environment, Fair, equitable, and nationalist treatment and empowerment of overseas Filipino workers and migrants, and adequate living standards for the Filipinos, Truly nationalist, pro-Filipino, and pro-people government, Truly nationalist, independent, and pro-human rights Philippine security and peace, Selfless government service free from corruption, patronage, conflict of interest, and profiteering from government office, and Genuine equality empowerment, and dignity of women. She also presents pledges to different sectors of the government, all of which, you can find in detail here:

Campaign Thrust: To “reclaim and regain the wealth, sovereignty, and dignity of the Filipino People and Nation.”

Why you should vote for her: In a country marred by widespread corruption, what the country doesn’t need is a corrupt public official. Jamby takes pride in not being one of those corrupt officials, as she is a philanthropist, and from a modest family, one of the old rich, in fact, and says she doesn’t need to steal riches anymore. She also comes from a family of respected politicians, and as in the case of Aquino, takes pride in this heritage and carrying their family’s legacy. She has advanced women’s rights

Why you shouldn’t vote for her: Since the day she declared her intention to run for president, she has met several criticism about her motives about running, as well as her capacity to actually run the country, and has even led some detractors to liken her to a nuisance candidate. She drew the ire of the public for distributing Buddha beads bearing her image during former President Cory’s funeral.

Sources:

http://www.jambymadrigal.com/

http://www.eleksyon.co.cc/jamby-madrigal/

http://senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/madrigal_bio.asp

http://www.presidenteko.com/candidates.php?candidateID=13

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamby_Madrigal

http://www.pinoysoundingboard.com/2009/08/jamby-madrigal-bracelets-corys-funeral/
http://www.earthlingorgeous.com/2009/08/senator-jamby-madrigal-and-his-staff-just-lost-my-respect-completely.html
============================================================

Nicanor Jesus “Nicky” Perlas

Who is he: Not being a politician, Nick Perlas is a virtual unknown compared to his co-presidential aspirants. Perlas was educated in the Ateneo de Manila University for his primary and secondary education, and pursued his tertiary education in Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro. There, he was a university scholar, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Major in Agronomy, and Minor in Agricultural Economics. He pursued a Master’s Degree in Agriculture at the University of the Philippines in Los Baños but abandoned it after being involved in opposing the Bataan nuclear power plant during the Marcos era. He later worked as a technical consultant/resource person for several institutions, among them, UN Bodies, the local government, donor agencies, civil society organizations and movements, and businesses striving for social responsibility. He has also been tapped as a plenary speaker/resource person for over 90 global conferences and 140 national conferences. In June 2009, he announced his intention to run for president, offering himself as an alternative to traditional politicians.

Notable Credentials: As a student, he gained highest honors and was valedictorian at Xavier University. He also received an award for public service from the Municipality of Maasin, Iloilo, Outstanding Filipino award, UN Environmental Program Global 500 Award, and a Right Livelihood Award or Alternative Nobel Prize. He was a key figure in preventing the construction of 12 nuclear power plants in the country. Other than his various speaking and consultancy works, he also conducted hundreds of trainings on a wide range of topics convergent with his writings. He developed the Lemniscate Process, a framework which is “geared towards unlocking human creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment for creating a better world”. In 1996, he convinced then President and APEC Chair Fidel Ramos to advance sustainable development as a more appropriate paradigm than radical liberalization in Asia and the Pacific. He also co-authored Philippine Agenda 21, which became the highest government framework for development under the Ramos Administration. His book, Shaping Globalization: Civil Society, Cultural Power, and Threefolding, has been translated to 9 languages and is being used in several universities around the world.

Presidential Platform: Perlas’ platform is inspired by his own Lemniscate Process, and is simplified to six pillars. These pillars are Eradicating poverty and enhancing the quality of life, Advancing moral and effective governance, Upholding the integrity of creation, Building partnerships for social justice, Promoting creative education and inner change, and Mainstream visionary initiatives. For a more detailed discussion about these pillars and how to implement them, click here.

Campaign Thrust: Preserving the environment and “New Politics for a New Philippines”

Why you should vote for him: Unlike any of the other candidates, Perlas is no politician, nor is he a leader of a multitude of people. He is a revered public speaker, and a respected consultant, who has championed his advocacies through his various consulting jobs, activism, public speeches, and writings. Perlas truly represents a new kind of politics, as he has never held public office before.

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: His being unknown to the public may work both ways for him. On one side, it’s positive, considering he presents something totally new, and those who are tired of traditional politicians may see him as a refreshing candidate to effect genuine change. On the other hand, it may work against him as people would not know his capacity to run a country, because despite his proven track record of proposing concrete, believable, and effective frameworks, he has no experience running a government post. He becomes a gamble for those who do not know him, and would rely on a small percentage of testimonials to be able to trust his capacity to be the head of the state.

Sources:

http://www.nicanor-perlas.com/About-Nicanor-Perlas/biography-nicanor-perlas.html

http://www.nickperlas.com/?page_id=333

http://www.eleksyon.co.cc/nicanor-perlas/

http://apeopleforperlas.ning.com/profiles/blogs/statement-or-why-we-shouldnt

============================================================

Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro, Jr.

Who is he: Only son of former Social Security System Administrator Gilberto Teodoro, Sr. and former Batasang Pambansa member Mercedes Cojuanco-Teodoro, who is also former President Corazon “Cory” Aquino’s first cousin. Educated at Xavier School for his primary and secondary education, earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce at De La Salle University, completed his law studies at the University of the Philippines, and finally went to Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Massachusetts for his Master of Laws. Upon returning to the country after studying abroad, was elected congressman representing the first district of Tarlac in 1998 until 2007, after serving the maximum allowable terms for a congressman. He was appointed as the Secretary for National Defense in August 2007 at age 43, the youngest to be appointed to the said post. He declared his intention to run for president in March 2009, and left his old party, the Nationalist People’s Coalition, which is led by his uncle, Eduardo “Danding” Cojuanco, to join the administration’s Lakas-Kampi-CMD. He earned the nomination over then-MMDA Chair Bayani Fernando by way of a 42-5 secret balloting by the members of the party’s executive committee. .

Notable credentials: Topped the 1989 Bar exams, and was also awarded a Dean’s Medal for Academic Excellence in UP. A licensed commercial pilot, he is also ranked as Colonel in the Philippine Air Force (Reserve). As the Secretary for National Defense, Teodoro advocated human rights, institutionalized reforms within the department, was instrumental in the AFP Capability Upgrade Program, among others, which may be viewed more completely here.

Presidential Platform: Teodoro’s platform can be viewed here. Teodoro’s platform is grounded on effective leadership and implementation, with concrete plans of actions on how to actualize his proposals. He speaks of national leadership and a leader’s strong will, education and how to prepare the children for the future, governance; particularly about pork barrel and regional autonomy, and innovations in economy. His main site discusses the party’s platform in more detail.

Campaign Thrust: “Renewing the Filipino spirit for a dynamic nation”

Why you should vote for him: He speaks the truth when he claims “galing at talino”. He is a proven leader, and I daresay he might be the smartest (in terms of education) in the pool of candidates. He has a relatively unblemished record as his cousin and rival, Sen. Noynoy Aquino. He has concrete a concrete plan of actions if elected, and does not propose abstract ideas to implement these.

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: Teodoro’s main flaw in this election is probably his affiliation with the current administration. After almost a decade of Arroyo’s administration, people desperately want to see a change in governance, and as he is an administration bet, there are perceptions that he might lean towards favoring GMA even after she steps down. As a brilliant young man with exceptional leadership skills, and the manner in which he has positioned himself to be where he is now, he seems to be going on the same path as a former president by the name of Ferdinand Marcos. Being the chairman of the National Disaster Coordinating Council, he was also criticized for how he managed the two worst tragedies that hit the country recently, the Ondoy flooding in the metro and the storm Pepeng that ravaged Northern Luzon.

Sources:

http://gibo.ph/index_ie.html

http://www.eleksyon.co.cc/gilberto-gibo-cojuangco-teodoro-jr/

http://propinoy.net/2010/01/20/gibo-on-new-governance-con-ass-arroyo-danding-and-lucio-tan/

http://2010presidentiables.wordpress.com/2010/02/24/gilbert-teodoro-interviews-on-ondoypepeng-floods-shows-teodoros-incompetence-and-mismanagement-of-ndcc/

=============================================================

Eduardo “Eddie” Villanueva

Who is he: Best known as “Bro. Eddie”, Villanueva is the founder of the Jesus Is Lord Movement. He finished his tertiary education with a Bachelor’s Degree in major in Economics, minor in Finance in the Philippine College of Commerce, which has since been renamed Polytechnic University of the Philippines. As a student, he was an active student leader who fought for student rights, among other advocacies. He also has 6 doctorate degrees from various institutions, and pursued Law in the University of the Philippines, although he was not able to finish this as he was jailed for advancing his principles as a student activist. He fought for the rights and welfare of workers, farmers, and fishermen of Bulacan during the Martial Law era, and was jailed twice and faced assassination attempts because of his actions. In 1978, he founded the Jesus Is Lord Movement through his bible studies, which has millions of followers to date, here and abroad. In 2004, he ran for president under the Bangon Pilipinas Movement, but failed in his bid that finished 5^th in a pool of 5. In 2009, he declared his intention to run again for president, taking a leave of absence from his duties in the JILM to focus on running the Bangon Pilipinas Movement, and advancing his vision of a clean, honest government.

Notable Credentials: As a student, he was an outstanding student leader, named best debater, and was a consistent dean’s lister and scholar in college. Being a student also did not stop Villanueva from fighting for the rights of the oppressed. He served as the longest tenured regent of PUP, giving his full salary to PUP’s scholarship fund. Founded the Jesus is Lord Movement, which now has millions of followers worldwide. Villanueva has been active in fighting for the rights of the oppressed, from OFW’s in Hong Kong, to the cases of Flor Contemplacion and Sarah Balabagan, to the Sumilao farmers, among others. He was also named Ulirang Ama in 1996 and completed various special studies. He is also the President and Chairman of ZOE TV 11.

Presidential Platform: Villanueva’s presidential platform is grounded on true and genuine change, and the party’s platform is summarized to 6 E’s: Eradicate bad governance, Energize the economy, Elevate the living standards of the people, Empower the people, Emancipate the people, Educate the people, and Establish peace and order in the land. For a more detailed explanation for each, click here.

Campaign Thrust: “Six years of a government without corruption”

Why you should vote for him: As a relative newcomer to politics, Villanueva offers a fresh perspective on governance, as his main political background is not of being part of the administration or any political dynasty, but rather, of the leftist opposition who advances the rights of the oppressed. As a Man of God, he offers a clean government, one that people can trust to deliver if only to trust his faithfulness and truthfulness to God. He pushes for positive campaigning, where he advances his platforms and visions without him nor his supporters slinging mud at any of the other presidential candidates.

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: There is a provision in the constitution about the separation of Church and state, which could work negatively for Bro. Eddie. Although he has addressed this issue, the people’s perception of him as a religious leader remains despite his decision to focus on campaigning for Bangon Pilipinas. As a leader of a Christian sect, other religions or sects may see this move as working towards favoring his own sect. There are also critics that argue Bro. Eddie’s claim that he is God’s chosen leader for the country. As a preacher, Villanueva usually cites biblical passages to justify his running for office, which rub people the wrong way, as they see this as using the Lord’s name in vain.

Sources:

http://broeddie.ph

http://spirituality-page.blogspot.com/2010/02/eddie-villanueva-for-president.html

http://www.eleksyon.co.cc/eddie-villanueva-biography/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eddie_Villanueva

http://www.jilworldwide.org/about.php

http://www.juancountry.com/politics-of-god-bro-eddie-villanueva/

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=561740&publicationSubCategoryId=63

===========================================================

Manuel “Manny” Villar, Jr.

Who is he: One of the pioneers of real-estate development here in the Philippines, Villar takes pride in building his empire through “sipag at tiyaga”. He worked his way into proper education by being a working student while studying in UP to earn his undergraduate and master’s degree in business administration and accountancy. He tried his hand at the corporate world, but decided on going on his own twice, the second time using a P10,000 loan to start a sand-and-gravel business, which eventually became the start of what has become the biggest homebuilder in Southeast Asia. He started his political career in 1992, when he ran and won by an overwhelming margin as a congressman of Las Piñas and Muntinlupa, where he served for 3 terms while posting landslide victories in each bid. During his term as congressman, he was voted as Speaker of the House of Representatives. In 2001, he was elected as senator, and in 2006, he assumed Senate Presidency. Citing the country’s need of an able leader with excellent managerial skills in these trying times, he took it upon himself to seek the highest post in the country. With the same determination that brought him to where he is now, he seeks the Presidency of the Republic by inspiring people that through “sipag at tiyaga”, anything is possible.

Notable credentials: Housed millions of Filipinos through his affordable housing projects. Villar was named the Most Outstanding Alumnus by the University of the Philippines, the highest recognition given by the said university. As a legislator, Villar steered Las Piñas and Muntinlupa to cityhood during his first term as a congressman. He oversaw various infrastructure projects, and succeeded in passing RA8003, which formalized his program of rehabilitating historical and cultural landmarks in Las Piñas. He is also the only post-war political figure to be named both Speaker of the House of Representatives and Senate President. To see his legislative record, you may visit his site here; while his other accomplishments are here.

Presidential Platform: Villar’s platforms can be seen here. His platforms are anchored on his response to what he perceives to be the country’s main problems; social injustice and widespread poverty. In his platform, he tackles agriculture and rural development, agrarian reform, developing manufacturing and local industries, rights of the working people, basic social services, environment and disaster response, good governance and public accountability, human rights, the peace process with armed hostilities, and foreign relations.

Campaign Thrust: To “emancipate the people from poverty and injustice”.

Why you should vote for him: His track record as a businessman and as a politician may speak for itself. His managerial skills may be unparalleled by any of his competitors. He appeals to the masses by claiming his roots to be among them, and his life story inspires the many underprivileged in our country. Oh, and his campaign jingle is too catchy, even 2-year-olds can sing it..

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: Massive advertisements have led to speculation that if elected, he will do what is necessary to get back what he spent. He is also linked to the C5 controversy, which claims that Villar influenced the construction of the C5 extension to pass through a number of his villages. There are also questions regarding his claim on being raised from the poor. Finally, speculations and conspiracies are being drawn up that Villar is being backed by the current President, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, which they believe to be an alliance made so that GMA would not be made to answer questions about her administration, should Villar win the presidency.

Sources:

http://www.mannyvillar.com.ph/index.php

http://web.archive.org/web/20060702203122/www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/villar_bio.htm

http://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/villar_bio.asp

http://caffeinesparks.blogspot.com/2010/02/manny-villars-c5-at-taga-explained-in.html

http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=562010&publicationSubCategoryId=64

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20100406-262585/Stop-Villarroyo-talk-Arroyo-orders-party

 

...Presidential Cheat Sheet: These are MY Words, Part 1...

I should be excited, really, being given the chance to write for a publication such as FHM. Sure, it was for the website, but hey, my name's there, and it's a known title. (Check out Election Cheat Sheet article at www.fhm.com.ph)

But no, I'm not proud. I honsetly am not. I thank Mikey for giving me the chance to show my stuff, but I don't want to claim those words as mine. I, as a reader, wouldn't read that article as it seems like a personal blog by someone who doesn't have the credentials or credibility to write the stuff he wrote. Yes, I'm talking about me. That's why I originally cited the sources from which I gathered the information from, because I didn't just write what I think about those candidates; I read through fanpages, official websites, and discussion forums to be able to present a profile of the candidates as objectively as I possibly can.

I'll post what I wrote, so that if time comes that I get burned for having written what I wrote (as my name is there), I can direct them to these pages to show them I actually credited them (for webmasters of the sites), and I have basis on claiming what I claim to be their flaws (for supporters).

*UPDATE* Alright, so I guess having posted my unedited 2-part work helped out my being a whiny bitch writer. I got a hit back from Mikey, and frankly, I do feel proud that my name's up there in their website. I know it's pride talking as I whine about my work being edited, but it's my first time to be edited and published, so imagine the shock of it all. Anyway, that's how that works.

===================================================================

(This first part in italic, I sent in late, after the article was already put up. Sa nakalimutan ko eh.=P)

After almost a decade of being under the same regime, the upcoming May 10 national election is creating a buzz among Filipinos owing to the fact that this is the first time after a long while that they will be given the chance to appoint a leader. 10 hopefuls have qualifed to be considered to hold the top national position of the country.

This article seeks to provide you some information about the candidates, so that you may be able to choose ably and wisely. We show you the ills and benefits of each candidate for your discretion, and as no one is perfect, they each do have flaws. But at the end of the day, we must choose, and make our vote count. Remember that win or lose, your vote matters, and choosing no one does not excuse you from the downfall of whoever wins. We must choose a candidate we believe that will help our country move forward. His/her loss, though, would not mean your vote was wasted, nor would it mean that the country wouldn't move forward as you envisioned it. Rather, it means that you made your voice heard, that you believe that this great country has a chance to move forward, and the next step would be to do what you can as a citizen to help our leaders realize their visions. No man or woman in the current pool of candidates will be able to effect change alone.

Don't be selfish. Choose, and be counted.
===========================================================================

Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III

 

Who is he: Third child and only son of two prominent political figures; Sen. Benigno “Ninoy”Aquino Jr. and former president Corazon Aquino. Essentially began his political career when he joined the Liberal Party and was elected as the representative of the second district of Tarlac in 1998. In 2007, after his third and last allowable term as representative, he ran for senate under the Genuine Opposition and placed 6^th among the top vote-getters, where the top 12 would have a seat in the senate. After his mother died in 2009, a clamor from the people rose for him to run in the upcoming 2010 elections. One of the contributing tipping points was when Sen. Mar Roxas, who was perceived to be the Liberal Party’s presidential candidate, declared his intention to slide down to vice president in favor of Noynoy’s presidential bid. After 40 days from the passing of his mother and taking a retreat, Noynoy declared his intention to run for president.

 

Notable credentials: Graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics, and held several positions in private companies prior to entering politics. Currently the Vice Chairman of the Liberal Party, and also served in other capacities for the party. In three terms as a member of congress, Aquino served in numerous committees. During this time, he focused on the fiscalizing role of a legislator, as he felt that there were already too many good laws but lacked proper implementation. In his first term as senator, he has authored a number of bills and senate resolutions. You can find more information on these bills and resolutions here.

 

Presidential Platform: Aquino’s official website shows his platforms here  and his action plans here. His platforms are mainly centered on what he calls “transformational leadership”, where he proposes to exercise his executive powers in a manner that is opposite of what he perceives to be how the current president exercises hers. His main points are on economy, government service, gender equality, peace and order, and environment.

 

Campaign Thrust: Transformational leadership: a commitment to good governance and fighting corruption.

 

Why you should vote for him: Given his personal heritage, he carries a name that people respect, and to taint this good name that two icons have built up is simply inconceivable. An apple doesn’t fall off too far from its’ tree, so it is logical to conclude that “leadership by example” is going to happen if he happens to win. In a country ranked among the top 10  globally in terms of corruption, having a leader of his moral character could be a start of turning our country’s reputation and manner of governance around.

 

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: Having competitors with impressive track records, they look to point out Aquino’s lack of laws passed in his 3 terms as a congressman, and 3 years of serving as a senator. Additionally, his parents’ legacy to him is not only their good name, but also the criticisms and problems they have to deal with concerning their family property, Hacienda Luisita, and its farmers. 

 

Sources:

http://hubpages.com/hub/Short-Biography-Noynoy-Aquino

http://www.mahalo.com/noynoy-aquino

http://www.noynoy.ph/v3/index.php

http://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/aquino_noynoy_bio.asp

http://vimeo.com/10915516
=========================================================================================

 

Juan Carlos “JC” de los Reyes

Who is he: Son of the late Sonny de los Reyes, who served as President of the Council of the Laity of the Philippines for 9 years, and Barbara Gordon, elder sister of Sen. Richard Gordon, JC hails from a political dynasty of the Gordons of Olongapo. He was educated in the Ateneo de Manila University for his primary education, De La Salle Zobel in high school, the Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, U.S.A. for his Bachelor’s Degree in Theology, the University of the Philippines for his degree in Public Administration, and a Bachelor of Law in Saint Louis University in Baguio City. He is a two-term councilor, with his terms of office 10 years apart from each other, as he decided to take a hiatus from local politics after his first term to pursue further studies in the US. He returned in 2007 to emerge as the lone winner for the Ang Kapatiran party, winning his bid as City Councilor. He also taught Philosophy in the University of Asia and the Pacific, a proprietor Legobrick Systems and Designs, and Executive Director of Breaking the Yoke of Poverty Foundation. He was nominated as the Ang Kaparitan Party’s presidential candidate.

Notable Credentials: At 40, de los Reyes is the youngest presidential aspirant in the pool. He is the lone winner of Ang Kapatiran party’s 27 local and national nominees during the 2007 elections, winning with the second highest number of votes despite being absent from the local political scene for 9 years. He also has an informal project named Justice Crusade which is a free legal assistance program. As a councilor, he spoke out and campaigned against illegal drugs, rampant violations of human rights and welfare. He also led protests against the proposed coal power plant and was at the forefront of criticizing the government for its proposed construction of casinos in Subic.

Presidential Platform: De los Reyes’ presents a platform anchored on a moral government and upholding his party’s vision of a new kind of politics in the country, breaking away from traditional politics. He proposes a Spiritual dimension to ground his government according to God’s righteousness, a Moral dimension which seeks to build a nation of characterthrough values formation, a Social dimension promoting the culture of life, peace and active non-violence, and a Multidimensional approach to peace and order. He also presents his plans of action regarding good governance, economic development, the political culture, and foreign policy. For a more detailed discussion of his platforms, click here.

 

Campaign Thrust: Advancing “principled politics” and radical change in the government.

 

Why you should vote for him: His solid Roman Catholic and Christian background puts his good moral character beyond doubt. Together with his party, they are united and dedicated to presenting a break from traditional politics, and offer one that with a moral, God-fearing foundation.

 

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: If only through the saying “with age comes wisdom”, we may say that de los Reyes is the least qualified in terms of this. Despite being a two-term councilor in Olongapo, he faces criticism regarding his actual support, with some family members claiming that he won his second term as councilor because he was a Gordon. Additionally, this jump from being a councilor to being a president may seem like an ambitious move by a relative unknown, considering he doesn’t have much to say about his experience in public service.

Sources:
http://www.angkapatiranparty.com/Candidates%20Profiles/jc.html
http://ph.politicalarena.com/john-carlos-de-los-reyes/news/kapatiran-s-jc-de-los-reyes-files-coc-for-presidency-2

http://www.eleksyon.co.cc/jc-de-los-reyes-profile/
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philippineselections.com%2Fpresidentiables-2010%2Fwill-you-vote-for-john-carlos-jc-de-los-reyes-for-president.php&h=d6eb2
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Carlos_de_los_Reyes

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/11/24/09/gordon-president-its-not-dick

============================================================

 

Joseph Marcelo “Erap” Ejercito-Estrada

 

Who is he: Born Joseph Marcelo Ejercito, this man popularly known as “Erap” entered public consciousness as an actor, taking on the screen name Erap Estrada. He starred in more than a hundred movies portraying a champion of the poor. In 1967, he tried but failed in his bid for mayor in the municipality of San Juan, but was proclaimed mayor in 1969 after protesting the results. He served ably as the mayor until 1986, when then-proclaimed president Corazon Aquino replaced him with an officer-in-charge. Erap then proceeded to run for senate, and placed 16^th of 24 winners. In 1992, he ran for vice president under the National People’s Coalition, where the party’s president, Eduardo Conjuanco lost his bid to Fidel Ramos, while Erap was able to assume vice presidency. In the 1998 presidential elections, Fidel Ramos endorsed House Speaker Jose De Venecia over Erap’s own bid. Despite the administration’s effort to discredit Estrada, Erap still won by an overwhelming margin, in fact, the largest in a free election held in the country. Late in 2000, however, he was faced with controversies and was subjected to an impeachment trial. The said trial culminated on what we know now as EDSA 2, and on January 20, 2001, then-Vice President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo ascended into presidency. On September 2007, Erap was convicted of plunder and was sentenced to a maximum 40 years in prison. However, he was pardoned with full civil rights the following month. In 2009, he expressed his desire to regain his lost position and to continue what he had started.

 

Notable credentials: As San Juan mayor, Estrada developed the then-municipality’s infrastructure to new heights. He improved and renovated school buildings, constructed additional school structures, barangay halls, and playgrounds in all barangays, as well as concreting 98 percent of San Juan’s roads and alleys. He founded the Movie Workers Welfare Foundation (MOWELFUND) that benefits people who work in the industry from producers down to crewmen. He founded Erap Para sa Mahirap Foundation, which offers scholarships to poor but deserving students. As a Senator, he was credited for a number of legislations, among these, the bills on irrigation project and the protection and propagation of carabaos, the beast of burden in the rural areas. He also voted to terminate the RP-US  Military Bases Agreement. As Vice President, he served as Chirman of the Presidential Anti-Crime Commission (PACC) which was instrumental in keeping the peace and order by eliminating various kidnapping and robbery groups. As President, he pushed his pro-poor platforms, and most notably ordered the removal of all sovereign guarantees on contracts for public contracts, which requires that the sovereign people assume the financial responsibility of the losses of private companies doing business with the government. In his whole term of office, he never once signed a single government contract with a sovereign guarantee.

 

Presidential Platform: Estrada’s platform is essentially grounded on pro-poor programs, as well as peace and order, two main thrusts that he has been known to do well, and now, he also stresses the need for transparency and accountability. For a more detailed view of his platforms, click here. He addresses the economy’s revival, eliminating insurgent movements, alleviating hunger and poverty through budget prioritization and strengthening the agricultural industry, ending graft and corruption through transparency and accountability, balancing the budget and gaining investor confidence through peace and order and good governance, education, generation of jobs and prevention of workers‘ exodus, infrastructure, the power crisis, and strengthening foreign relations.

 

Campaign Thrust: A truly pro-poor government.

 

Why you should vote for him: He has a proven track record in governance, and his programs directed at the poor continue to appeal to the masses. This appeal is not simply blind admiration for the former actor, but rather an appeal brought about by actual benefits they reap from the programs by Erap. His determination that he has learned his lesson could also be a plus factor for him, considering he had a relatively good performance as president, save for controversies regarding friends, gambling, and drinking, among other things.

 

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: In his inaugural speech as president, he said “walang kai-kaibigan, walang kama-kamag-anak” (“no friends, no family”) in terms of giving favors. That was quickly busted, as he gave friends favors upon assuming presidency, which also eventually contributed to his downfall. He carries that burden of being the first president to be ousted from power. He doesn’t hold exceptional educational degrees, as he chose to drop out of school in his early days to pursue his acting career.

 

Sources:

http://erap.ph/409/

http://www.eleksyon.co.cc/joseph-estrada/

http://www.biography.com/articles/Joseph-Estrada-39942

http://erap.ph/409/about-erap/

http://erap.ph/409/organizations/erap-para-sa-mahirap/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEQkxXTVsrw&feature=youtube_gdata

http://www.malayanghalalan.com/2010/02/28/joseph-erap-estrada-being-bribed-to-back-out-of-2010-presidential-race/

============================================================

 

Richard “Dick” Gordon

 

Who is he: Fondly known as “Dick”, Gordon comes from a well known political family in Olongapo. He earned his Bechelor of Arts, Major in History and Government in Ateneo de Manila University, and completed his studies for Barchelor of Laws in the University of the Philippines. He worked as a brand manager for Proctor & Gamble from 1966-67, and was part of the Constitutional Convention of 1971. He served as Mayor of Olongapo City, and was instrumental in improving city from a perceived “sin city” into a “model city”. In 1993, he relinquished his post as Mayor of Olongapo, after winning by landslide in 1992, in order to serve full time as Chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority. During this period, he brought billions in investments and created more than 100,000 jobs. World leaders who attended the 4^th APEC Leaders’ Summit were impressed at the results Gordon has brought to Subic Bay. He was appointed as Secretary for the Department of Tourism in 2001, and brought Philippine tourism to new heights with his “Wow! Philippines” program. In 2004, he ran for senate and won with the fifth highest number of votes. As a senator, he is credited for the passing of the Automated Elections Law. Late in 2009, former MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando and Gordon talked and agreed to form a tandem, where Bayani decided to hold off his plans on running for president and run as vice president for Gordon’s presidential bid. They dubbed their team as “the transformers”.

 

Notable Credentials: Youngest member of the 1971 Constitutional Assembly. Instrumental in developing Subic Bay into a model city for peace and order. Is currently the chairman of the Philippine Red Cross, where he has been an active member since 1986, and where his leadership has guided the . “WOW! Philippines” Program for the Department of Tourism was one of the most successful campaigns to raise the Philippine Tourism industry, doing so even under trying times of terrorism scares and disease outbreaks. As a two-term senator, he acts as chairman of the Blue Ribbon Committee and Government Corporations and Public Enterprises Committee, was appointed vice chair of the Ethics and Privileges Committee, Finance Committee, and the National Defense and Security Committee, as well as a member of 23 other Senate committees. For more details on his achievements, click here.

 

Presidential Platform: Gordon’s platform revolves around his vision of a “new” Philippines, grounded on people empowerment and effective leadership. He presents a 10-point Manifesto for Change in his official website, discussing his vision of how the Philippines will work toward development. He says in order for change to effectively come, Filipinos must take responsibility for our country, reinvent the government, fortify law and order, build a strong and growing economy, prioritize education, provide adequate health care, create jobs, assist in securing homes and lands for the people, strengthen and reinforce the family as the major foundation of our nation, and protect and preserve the environment.

 

Campaign Thrust: To “transform the minds and hearts of Filipinos to build character and community for a better Philippines.”

 

Why you should vote for him: His experience in the local government speaks for itself. What Gordon started with the Subic Bay Freeport continues to be a model for peace and order, while his Wow! Philippines campaign boosted local tourism to unimaginable heights. His active membership and actions with the Philippine National Red Cross are admirable to say the least. He is a proven leader who takes pride in the actions he has taken. And because he is arrogant, as one person points out here.  

 

Why you shouldn’t vote for him: Despite a proven track record on action, Gordon faces tough criticism as an “all-talk” guy, most notably as head of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee, as the controversies that allegedly involved the president did not seem to gain closure. The Gordons are also a known political dynasty in the City of Olongapo, which could help Gordon’s case in the sense that they have the political pedigree of leaders, but at the same time, damage him, in the sense that political dynasties are constitutionally prohibited. At the aftermath of the Ondoy typhoons, news also circulated about his handling of the PNRC’s handing out of calamity assistance goods, where the organizers allegedly held out handing out the goods until Gordon’s (failed) arrival, insinuating to the public that Gordon wants his good deeds to be properly documented and publicized.

 

Sources:

http://www.dickgordon2010.com/about.php

http://www.senate.gov.ph/senators/sen_bio/gordon_bio.asp

http://www.istorya.net/forums/politics-and-current-events/246010-richard-gordon-and-bayani-fernand-for-2010-a.html

http://www.eleksyon.co.cc/richard-dick-gordons-platform/

http://www.iamburaot.com/2010/03/non-conforming-with-dick-gordon/

http://www.juancountry.com/senator-dick-gordon-under-fire-on-facebook/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkukfC9u1tI

...NBA Playoff Matchups and Predictions...

I should be packing my bags, really, but I don't think I'd have time to make a blog in Bora to make it in time to make predictions. Last year's predictions were a couple of games off (had Orlando pushed by PHI, but losing to BOS/CLE ultimately or something like that), but at the end of it, I got Lakers winning it all. This year's playoff match-ups are actually quite interesting, and I'm really excited about it. If only I could be a bum for the rest of the playoffs to watch the games, I would. Anyway, I'll make predictions for the first round, and go with Dallas and LA going for the West, Cleveland and Orlando (wishing Miami would be there though) for the East, and ultimately, Orlando winning it over Dallas (it's time to get over the hump, Dirk). But of course, that's my perfect world. Reality points to Cleveland winning it all, but I'd rather piss people off by not picking them. I hate favorites. 

East Picture:

(1) Cleveland vs (8) Chicago

Chicago's match-up with Boston last year was epic. This season, they clinched the 8th spot only with the last game of the season. I like that team, but they pretty much underachieve after every season. They show flashes of brilliance by the end of their seasons, acquire talent in the offseason, then fail miserably, acquire sparks at trade deadlines, then make a push, only to fall short in the playoffs. This matchup is an easy call, but not to say that Cleveland won't get a scare. 

Winner: Cleveland in 4

Watch Out for: Antawn Jamison gelling for Cleveland. If that works fast, this team is scary good.

(2) Orlando vs (7) Charlotte

My dark horse for the season is Charlotte. To some extent, I think Jordan's acquisition of the franchise re-energized them. Stephen Jackson may not be "superstar" material, and Gerald Wallace is no LeBron, but then again, they're coached by Larry Brown, who steered the "superstar-less" Detroit Pistons to a title. But I think the hunger is going to win this series. Charlotte got their first playoff berth in franchise history, so that's an achievement for them this season. Orlando still has a chip on their shoulder, falling short last year, and proving nothing by reaching the playoffs. 

Winner: Orlando in 6

Watch Out for: Falling 3's everywhere. Charlotte won't give much lay ups, and Orlando is going to make them pay for that. JJ Reddick is emerging as the shooter that he was expected to be.

(3) Atlanta vs (6) Milwaukee

There were doubts with Brandon Jennings when he chose to play in Europe rather than go to college. There were times in the season when he looked raw, then he scored 55, then became ordinary. Now, he's an integral part of the rotation, and has handled the point pretty well. However, without Andrew Bogut, "Fear the Dear" isn't such an accurate slogan for them. Atlanta's going to devour them.

Winner: Atlanta in 5

Watch Out for: Jamaal Crawford's first playoff appearance. He could be jittery, but hey, that's why Joe's there, to be the main guy. Jamaal can focus on being the spark off the bench.

(4) Boston vs (5) Miami

When Boston revamped their roster to get Garnett and Ray Allen, they did so with the idea that they were building a dynasty. Just a couple of years removed from their championship, they don't look as invincible as they were when the Big Three was first formed. It's not just Garnett's injury woes, nor is it just their age, I think it's more on the glue that makes them stick together. Only there do you see the value of a PJ Brown and a James Posey. Dwayne Wade has been going crazy leading his team, since going 35-34, they made a 12-1 push to end the season. Sure, they had an easy schedule, and that one loss came from a struggling Detroit team that lost 13 straight prior to that win, but hey, in the NBA, every team is as dangerous as any other. It could work both ways for the heat: either they're too tired or they got their groove on and got used to winning. 

Winner: Miami in 6 (oh yes, fanboy in me says that.)

Watch Out for: The Truth vs Flash is the matchup to see, of course, but what would dictate the winner here will probably fall more on no.2 pick Micheal Beasley, who seemed like a dud compared to Derrick Rose's emergence in Chicago. 

West Picture:

(1) LA Lakers vs (8) Oklahoma

I like Oklahoma. They even had a chance to gain homecourt advantage in the first round, at least, but fell short. Durant has been a monster, and Russel Westbrook is looking like a Jason Kidd lite, getting triple doubles almost at will for a stretch of games. But LA is LA, and Kobe is still Kobe. Oklahoma has been the surprise team of the season, and with their talent (and LA's depleting point guard depth), they probably might go on surprising people. If LA doesn't get its act together, this is going to be an upset.

Winner: LA in 7

Watch Out for: No, not Andrew Bynum. Most people say that Andrew Bynum will be the X-factor for LA winning it all, but I think it will be more on the two other forwards, Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol. These guys were franchise players before coming to LA (Odom for Miami, Gasol for Memphis). They carried their teams to win, and now take a backseat to the Lakers alpha-male in Kobe. Now that Kobe's production has dipped since his finger injury, these two have got to step up if they want to win it all.

(2) Dallas vs (7) San Antonio

A Texas showdown. San Antonio has been a powerhouse for the longest time that it seemed weird that they almost didn't make the playoffs. Hats off to Pop for dealing with the injuries that he's had to deal with and still make the playoffs. But watching the Spurs, it has been a Manu Ginobili show. The guy's playing like it was 2004. And now that Tony Parker's back, they've got bench depth again. But Dallas didn't retool for nothing. They don't have a player on their roster who isn't capable of scoring 20, and with Jason Kidd quarterbacking the team, it's possible.

Winner: Dallas in 6

Watch Out for: Brendan Haywood. San Antonio will bully much of the inside, with Dajuan Blair and Tim Duncan, and Eric Dampier doesn't stand a chance manning up to those two, but deadline-acquisition Haywood probably can. He gives Dallas that dimension in their team that "EricA" was expected to, but never really provided.

(3) Phoenix vs (6) Portland

Steve Nash is playing better than his 2 MVP seasons, and Amar'e has just been a monster. Portland was plagued by injuries all season long, and just when things were looking great, Brandon Roy gets injured. It's sad, really, that Portland had to deal with everything they had to deal with. Funny how Phoenix is a desert, but apparently, the fountain of youth is there. 

Winner: Phoenix in 5

Watch Out for: Nicolas Batum. He's got the skills, and he's got to step up for Portland. For Phoenix, I think Robin Lopez will be a big factor in their success.

(4) Denver vs (5) Utah

George Karl is doubtful to re-join the team for the first round. Adrian Dantley has done a solid job keeping the ship afloat, but I think not having Coach Karl on the sidelines hurts Denver's chances. Utah, on the other hand, was one of the hottest team after the All Star break. Boozer is doing an Amar'e, playing like a monster on a contract year. 

Winner: Denver in 7

Watch Out for: This is probably the closest series in all, as it could easily go either way. Utah has bench depth that will bring them to the second round if they were matched up with, say, Portland, probably, or any among the top 5-8 teams in the East. But still, you can't count Carmelo Anthony out. And now that their team is relatively complete (I don't know who else is injured, but Kenyon's back), they're going to be a force inside (Nene, K-Mart, Birdman), and will have to force Utah to the perimeter. Problem is, Utah IS a perimeter-shooting team. So, I say Denver, just because of Melo, but Utah could provide an upset. Look for Deron Williams to be the superstar, and Chauncy's steady leadership in Denver to keep his team's head in the game.