Panda Fire on Friday the 13th

This video was taken from my camera phone on a freaky Friday the 13th of April 2007. I went with DF to buy fruits at Panda when suddenly an announcer said something in Arabic. People then run away from the department store. We were left with no clue since we couldn’t understand Arabic. I thought that it was another terrorist attack since the same Panda was attacked by terrorist a couple of years back. The announcer then translated the earlier announcement that there was a fire and everyone should leave the premises of the department store. We both leave calmly and waited outside Panda. There was a smoke at the roof of Panda. The smoke turned from lighter to darker color. What amazed me is that while the fire fighters where spraying water with their fire trucks, small kids down are enjoying the scene and they are bathing. It took the firefighters 2 hours to finally control the fire but Panda never opened. I ended up buying nothing.

Ahijado

This is the picture of my newest Ahijado (Ihado in Ilonggo). His name is Denn Samuel. I am just sad of how much Jelibeth, his mother had to go through in bringing him to this world. I guess things do not really work the way we wanted it to be. Jelibeth is a proud mom to this boy and as his Padrino (Maninoy) and equally proud. I promised myself not to forget my duties as ‘Maninoy’ and I will meet my Ahijado when I’m in Iloilo.

Giant Hamour

Hosam sent me this video about the Giant Hamour in the Persian Gulf. Nobody really knows if the fishes are raised in industrial fish ponds or they’re in the wild.

Hamour is the largest coral dwelling fish that can only be found in and around the Persian Gulf. Arabs cook Hamour in all forms like stewed, grilled or fried. It is a highly prized delicacy here in the Kingdom and it would cost SR. 28.00 per kilo.

I really don’t know the Filipino term of Hamour but the English name of Hamour is Brown Spotted Red Cod. Hamour has a pale green – gray body covered with small circular brown dots but the belly is lighter in color. I tried frying Hamour and its color changed to orange. The flesh is very white, juicy and delicious.

Will Israel's incursion impact peace talks?

I've been saying this and I will say it again, the peace talk brokered by George Bush is doomed to fail, unless, the Palestinians unite.

Added Al Jazeera Website: Wednesday, 16 January 2008, 10:47 AM GMT

What now for Lebanon?

Lebanon is a very beautiful country with beautiful people. I've known several Lebanese friends and co workers who are harworking, cultured and honest people. For obvious reasons, the Lebanese people do not seem to realize this. If there's somebody to blame with these bloodsheds it's the Lebanese people themselves. They should not let outside forces influence their political system. If all Lebanese people will just show their love for their country and forget about their religious and political affiliations, their beautiful country will be restored to its former glory.

Added Al Jazeera Website: Wednesday, 16 January 2008, 11:11 AM GMT

Should Guantanamo be closed?

Guantanamo is the exact opposite of what America stands for. America brags about being the land of opportunity, equality and freedom. However, what the US Administration is doing in Guantanamo are infamous like detaining suspected terrorist without charges, inhumane treatment of the detainees, abusing the person and not respecting the suspect's human rights.

Guantanamo should be closed down and that infamous inclave should be turned over back to Cuba. But I don't see that happening in George's Bush term.

Added Al Jazeera English Website: Monday, 14 January 2008, 02:26 PM GMT

Iraq eases law against Baathists

The new law is an admission of the failed American invasion of Iraq. The Baatist party was involved in several murder and assinations of their fellow Iraqi people. In fact, Sadam Hussein was sentenced to death for his role in the tragic death of fellow Iraqis. The present Iraqi parliament and administration is helpless with the violence and for them, this new law is a bitter pill to swallow. Easing the restrictions of Baatist members to go back into public life may not be the only way to end the violence and bloodsheds but for a desperate parliament, all the alternative solutions must be tried.

Added Al Jazeera Website: Sunday, 13 January 2008, 01:59 PM GMT

Al Jazeera's Sarah Brown email

From: Sarah Brown
Sent: Friday, January 11, 2008 6:59 PM
To: Ian
Subject: RE: Hello from Al Jazeera

Hi Ian,

Thanks so much for below, it was extremely interesting. I actually thought you were from Saudi Arabia, but I was also looking for somebody from the Philippines so you have given me two perspectives for the price of one!
The piece will probably go up in a few weeks - I will email you the link when it is published but do remind me if you don't hear from me.

Many thanks again for your work on this,

Sarah

Sarah Brown
Senior journalist
Washington DC newsroom
Aljazeera.net/english

Bush visits the Middle East

President Bush visit to the Middle East is nothing but a publicity ploy from the White House for the history books to say that he brokered a peace deal before his tenure ended. He has nothing new to say to the Palestinians and Israeli camps since most of the things he would discuss have probably been relayed by his Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice. The road map for peace in the Middle East is doomed to fail unless the Palestinians will be united. Hamas should abandon terrorism, join and support Mahmoud Abbas before they should start the peace talk with Israel. Israel for its part should surrender and abandon all the settlements in question.

Added: Al Jazeera English Website Thursday, 10 January 2008, 06:54 AM GMT

Al Jazeera's Sarah Brown

Being a blogger and a regular poster in the Al Jazeera's website had paid off. They finally sent me an email asking me to answer some question for their show. Below are the exchange of email between me and Sara Brown, the Interactivity Producer of Al Jazeera.net.

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From: Sarah Brown
Sent: Friday, January 04, 2008 2:32 PM
To: braggart_21@yahoo.com
Subject: Hello from Al Jazeera

Hello,

Many thanks for your thoughts on the US election on our Your Views message board. My name is Sarah Brown and I am a senior journalist for the Al Jazeera website. I read your comment on the US elections with interest and was wondering if you would like to write me a small piece giving me your thoughts on the US elections. It would only have to be around 400 words and you would just need to answer these questions:
1) What do you think of the US election candidates in the primaries? Who do you think would be best for your country?
2) How will the US elections affect your life, or will it affect it at all? 3) What do people think in Saudi Arabia? Do they even care about the election?
4) Do you think it will make a difference if a Democrat or Republican will be elected?
If you would like to take part and could answer these questions and send them to me as soon as possible that would be great - I would also need a few details about you - your full name, age and occupation and where you live in Saudi Arabia.

Many thanks and look forward to hearing from you,

Sarah Brown,
Interactivity Producer

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REPLY TO SARAH BROWN:

Dear Sarah,

I’m very sorry for a very late reply. I don’t usually open my yahoo email. I really appreciate your email. It only goes to show how much Al Jazeera, my favorite news channel, really cares and love its viewers.

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1) What do you think of the US election candidates in the primaries? Who do you think would be best for your country? We see a mixture of independent, liberals and conservatives amongst this year’s presidential hopefuls. The primaries started in Iowa, Wyoming (for Republicans) and New Hampshire. Barack Obama and Mike Huckabee lead the Iowa caucus while Hillary Clinton and John McCain emerged victorious in the New Hampshire primary. There are more primaries and caucuses to follow but for me it’s a close call between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton for Democrats and John McCain and Mit Romney for the Republicans. I personally wanted a candidate from the Democratic Party to win this year’s presidential election. I prefer Hillary Clinton over Barack Obama since she’s more experienced and is ready to take on the job. Republicans are too conservative and I doubt if a new republican president would dare to change their foreign policy. I’m a migrant worker from the Philippines and currently reside and work in Saudi Arabia. The Philippines is a traditional ally of the US. Our country, a Third World Country, for decades have been dependent on US Aids particularly military equipment. Our government is a hostage to the US since we could not change our foreign policy, such as establishing closer relations with other nations that America considers as enemy, or we risk losing US Aids. Aside from the Aid, we could also face economic sanctions and it would mean economic collapse as US is our No. 1 trade partner. I see no difference in whoever wins the US presidential race. US have changed leadership for decades yet there’s no change in their policy towards their TWCs allies.

2) How will the US elections affect your life, or will it affect it at all? I don’t think that the US elections will affect my life directly. The results may affect my country and Saudi Arabia but not me. However, the devaluation of the US Dollar has affected the economies of so many countries. The Philippine Peso is at the all time high. The downside of the rising peso is that migrant workers’ earnings are reduced. The Saudi Arabian Riyals is a fix currency so the declining rate of dollars does not affect Saudi Arabian economy. With the rising oil prices at 100 USD per barrel, it will only make Saudi Arabia richer.

3) What do people think in Saudi Arabia? Do they even care about the election? People in Saudi Arabia wanted a change in American Leadership. In fact, when the Democratic Party won the Congressional election, everyone in the in Kingdom celebrated the Democratic victory. It simply means that they care about the result of the US elections. Saudi Arabian society wanted a 360 degree turn in the US policy in the Middle East. The US have been critical of the Arabs after the 9/11 attack in the US. Saudis and Arabs are treated as criminals and disrespect when they reach the American soil. Most of them also wanted a long lasting peace in the Middle East (Palestine, Israel, Lebanon and Iraq). Obviously, the present US administration’s roadmap to peace in the Middle East is not working.

4) Do you think it will make a difference if a Democrat or Republican will be elected? Everyone in the US wants change and it was demonstrated in the congressional elections, democrats winning over republicans. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton have been leading the US Polls because of their slogan for “CHANGE”. It would be a breather if a democratic president is elected. However, 360 degree changes in US Foreign policy maybe too idealistic.

Regards,
Ian

What impact will the US elections have on your country?

Third world countries see no change in their relationship with the US. The TWCs as usual will be very afraid to change it's foreign policy or risk being totally cut off by US Aid. These Aids, usually through military equipments are essential for Third World Countries that they don't have a choice but support the US. Whoever seats in the White House the American diplomacy will remain in the TWCs. TWCs consider US as their ally. You can't stand up against the US unless you're Russia, Venezuela, Iran, NoKor and Cuba or you'll risk Economic Sanctions and cut off in foreign aid.

Added Al Jazeera English website: Wednesday, 02 January 2008, 01:16 PM

Reasons of the US led War

This article was forwarded on August of 2003 to me through email. It’s interesting since it tickles your mind into thinking about the real reason why Bush and the neocons pushed through with the war though the intelligence says otherwise.
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Reasons of the US led War
In the last 50 years the US dollar is the main currency in the world. USD bills and coins are made in only one place Federal Reserve, USA (which is a consortium of private Jews banks) If France or any other country wants to buy anything for $50 million or more, they must "work" for those money. But if USA wants that money they need just to print those bills. That is what USA did in the last 50 years. They flooded the world with USD without having any gold coverage in the bank. That is why the American terms of trades have a huge budgetary deficit, which is about $2.5 trillions, and it is anticipated to grow in the next years. As per Bush budget plan the budgetary deficit will be $3.5 trillions in next 3 years that is 50% of the GDP. This is just the beginning of the problem because Iraq is the first Country from OPEC who stopped selling oil for USD and starts to sell oil for EURO. On November 6th 2002 when 1EURO=0.8USD Iraq lost lots of money because they made this change. The investment was worth. Meanwhile EURO grew bigger than USD so as a result Iraq gains money. This was the big mistake that Iraq did and America will never forgive that. At least two OPEC countries (Iran and Syria) want to switch to EURO for the oil they sell. At the end all OPEC countries will switch to EURO. Including Venezuela who produces 7% of world oil, already sells part of the oil for EURO. That means Venezuela has changed half of reserve currency into EURO. Russia's central bank and China's central bank did the same. That's the reason there is a shortage of EURO and a surplus of USD on the International market. That's the reason the USD is falling and EURO in rising. This is the worst nightmare for American economy. As per Alan Greenspan who prognoses a lost of 13 trillions of dollars just in the first phase. If EURO will become the world currency as USD was in the last 50 years the USD value will go down seriously. America won't be able to put printed USD on the market as they like, without gold coverage in the bank. Most countries will give away the USD and get EURO to buy oil from OPEC. The biggest investors will move from America to Europe. Living on debts and printed money will vanish. Already the USD is artificially kept by US political tricks with China, North Korea, Taiwan and Japan. These countries produce almost every product that USA needs. America is lending money to these countries. This way those countries can produce what is going to be sold back to America. The profits are going back to America to pay the debts. Bankers and economists have estimated long time ago that if Asia continues to support American dollar using such political tricks then American economy will go down badly. Asia will change to EURO because of the necessity of oil, which is coming from OPEC countries. So looks like Bush called "Axis of Evil"all countries which changed USD with EURO. They will attack these countries (Iraq, Syria, and Venezuela) and change the governments with new ones which do what America says. This way America will try to force these countries to use the USD again. This is the reason why Great Britain has not changed to EURO otherwise they could not be on American side. British are like fox as usual. If USA will win, then they will keep their pound, if EU stops the war Britain will switch to EURO which they just delayed to see what's going to happen despite that they lose money at the moment. The bet of this war is huge. If USA won't start the war then she will lose the superpower title, against the EU. That is why France and Germany would like to fight the whole battle. Iraq is just the beginning of the battle. Whoever is going to win this ....war will last much longer

Kenya Election

In a Third World Country, not just in Kenya, it's a perceived fact that the winner wins because they cheated and the losers lose because they were cheated. So what's new with this rigging bhuhaha? The election process must be credible in order for the elected leaders to have moral authority to change and bring their country forward, without credibility, the leader could not lead.

Added BBC World Website “Have Your Say” Section: Monday, 31 December, 2007, 08:24 GMT

Benazir Bhutto

Benazir Bhutto's death is dramatic but she did not die a heroine to all the Pakistani people. Please remember that she was perceived as a big headache by the present government. She also has several enemies like the Taliban, Al Qaida and the people who cried when they learned that she died (Nawaz Sharif). She's no saint either, being accused of corruption while in office. I believe that the Pakistani people will move on without Benazir Bhutto. Let's just wish Pakistan good luck.
--------
Added BBC World Website in “HAVE YOUR SAY” Section: Sunday, 30 December, 2007, 10:11 GMT 10:11
UK

Somalia in crisis

Africa is a continent with the most potential but the governments / countries in Africa are the most corrupt and mismanaged governments in the world.

Added: Al Jazeerah English Website 30 Dec. 2007

Cuba without Castro?

Fidel Castro should retire and give way to his brother Raul Castro. He's old and sickly and must think of his country's welfare. Raul's entry into the Cuban leadership would surely usher a new direction to the poor and destitute country.

Added Al Jazeerah English Website: Sunday, 30 December 2007, 09:51 AM GMT

What next for Pakistan after Bhutto's death?

Benazir Bhutto died a dramatic death and this will forever be remembered by Pakistan People's Party. I don't really know if she's a heroine or what but Benazier Bhutto was perceived as a threat to the present political system of Pakistan. She also have several enemies including those who cried when they learned that she died, the Al Qaida and the taliban. Heroine or not, Bhutto's death will forever be ingraved in the hearts and minds of Pakistani people. I'm sure that the Pakistani people will move on with or without her.

Added Al Jazeerah English Website: Sunday, 30 December 2007, 12:53 PM Mecca time, 09:53 AM GMT

Migrant Workers

Published 28 January 2006, Arab Newspaper, Letters to the Editor.

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The report “Low-Paid Migrant Workers Narrate Their Plight” (Jan. 25) by Abdul Hannan Faisal Tago about the working conditions of South and Southeast Asian workers in the Kingdom did not tell us anything new. I had heard them all before, first hand, from my Nepali and Bangladeshi friends. In the case of most migrant workers, the decision to accept a job in the Gulf is not a choice made from many available options. The need to provide our families with the minimum necessities of life and the hope of a better future for them forces us to make a decision that we know is full of risks and uncertainties.
The governments of manpower-exporting countries in South and Southeast Asia should enact and enforce laws to regulate recruitment agencies in order to avoid exploitation. They must also impose minimum-wage conditions for their skilled work force. If a Filipino skilled worker receives more than his South/Southeast Asian counterparts, it is not racial bias; he is receiving the minimum wage agreed in the bilateral talks by the Philippines and the host government.

Newsweek Retraction

Published 21 May 2005, Arab News, Letters to the Editor.

--oo0oo--

Newsweek retracted its report about the desecration of the Qur’an not because its story was wrong. It was forced to do it because of the mounting pressures from the US government and the violence that the story caused.
Guantanamo Bay is the place where human rights abuses are the norm, and it is not surprising that the Qur’an was desecrated there. Aside from that, nobody can rely on any investigation conducted by the US military. It would never put itself in bad light.

Rewriting History

This Letter was published on 25 April 2005, Arab News, Letter to the Editor Section.

--oo0oo--

The Chinese people are right to protest Japan’s effort to rewrite history so that Japan’s future generations will not know the atrocities their forefathers committed during World War II. All over Asia, invading Japanese forces murdered countless thousands of civilians and raped women and even children. Up to now, the Japanese government has not compensated the women forced into sexual relationships with Japanese soldiers — they were known as “comfort women” — in Korea, China and the Philippines. They have not apologized for this grave violence against human dignity either. The Japanese Foreign Minister deserved the diplomatic slap that the Chinese government gave him when he visited China.
I hope all those in Asia who were victims of Japanese atrocieites during the war years will follow the example of China and condemn the arrogance of the Japanese government.

In the land of the free dissent can be dangerous

This letter was published on September 2004, Arab News letters to the editor section. I wrote this letter when I haven't realized wrongdoing of the Aquinos and the injustice that they did to FM. I lost my faith with Cory and Ninoy's legacy when she started to campaign against PGMA.

--oo0oo--

The analysis “In the land of the free dissent can be dangerous” by Linda S. Heard made me recollect the history of my own country the Philippines. During the Marcos dictatorship that lasted 20 years, people and institutions that oppose to the regime are vulnerable to the abuses of the government (Police, Intelligence and military).

Freedom of the press, speech, expression and human right are virtually inexistent. If you criticize the government, you are at risk being jailed or killed. Activists are tagged as terrorist and are treated as threat to democracy. Oppression and Warrant-less arrest are enforced to the individuals and opposing parties of the regime. The regime does this in the name (disguise) of protecting democracy. It wasn’t 20 years later that people took their flight to the streets and topple the regime.

I don’t see any difference of what happened to my country before to what is currently happening in the United States. Cartoonist, actors, singers, filmmakers, peace advocates, teenagers, anti war groups and ordinary citizens who oppose to the American government are oppressed and their rights violated. FBI and military are doing this in the name of protecting the American democracy, presidential institution and fighting terrorism. Maybe what is happening today is just an execution of what President Bush said right after 9/11 “If you’re not with us, you’re against us”.

What is ironic here is the fact that during the Martial law years and the dictatorial regime of the Marcoses, the United States is the frontrunner of criticizing the human rights abuses of the regime.

Banking Stories

Published 12 Sep. 2004, Arab Newspaper, Letters to the Editor Section.

--oo0oo--

Exactly 15 months ago, I applied for an ATM Card at a major international bank where my salary is deposited by my employer – and I am still waiting for it. Over four months after I applied, they returned the application form because, they said, SAMA required all banks to update all client information. I resubmitted the application, giving all my personal details along with copies of my passport and iqama. After four months, the application form was returned to me because I had not filled out the “grandfather’s name section”. I left it blank because as Filipino, my grandfather’s name does not form part of my name. Explaining this, I resubmitted my application, leaving again the “grandfather slot” blank. Up to now, I received no information as to the status of my application.

What is taking the bank years (over a year in my case) to process ATM card? In the Philippines, a third world country, you can get your ATM card in 30 minutes after you apply and make banking transactions after getting it.
The root cause of the problem is the lack of customer service orientation on the part of the banks and their employees. Customer service is not a priority in the kingdom. This will not change until banks begin to care about their customers and train their employees in the proper ways to deal with them.

Indonesian Election

This was published on July 2004, Letters to the Editor, Arab Newspaper.

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The article Indonesians delighted at first direct presidential vote (Bill Tarrant of Reuters - Arab New s 6 July 2004) proved that Indonesia is moving forward to achieve greater democracy.
As a stalwart member of the ASEAN, Indonesia have contributed so much in the economic and political stability of the region and it is also credited for its massive anti terrorism programs.
The direct presidential vote is a very significant event in the history of Indonesia as a nation. Indonesia will surely be an inspiration to other ASEAN member nations to follow its example. The vote manifested the institution of democracy in Indonesia.
Kudos to the Indonesian people.

Arroyo’s Mandate

This was published to the Letters to the Editor of Arab news on 27 June 2004.

--oo0oo--

The analysis “Doubts Linger over Philippines’ Future, Despite Arroyo’s Victory” (June 22) asks if President Arroyo can unite her people, fight poverty, defeat coup plotters and handle the questions raised by the opposition with regard to the legality of her fresh mandate. What is ignored here is the fact that, in the Philippines, the received wisdom is that nobody really loses in any election: The winners win because they cheat and the losers lose because they are cheated. The losing camps will always complain of cheating no matter how honestly an election was conducted. They never show the maturity to concede defeat. This is what makes me admire the Indians. The BJP that lost the recent elections accepted defeat gracefully.

For Arroyo, this fresh mandate is a start, and I urge every Filipino, in the Philippines or outside, to support her presidency.

Pyramiding Scheme

This letter was published on 9 Feb 2004 in the Letters to the Editor Section of Arab News. This letter generated so much publicity that an Arab News staff was forced to write a lengthy article regarding FQ. Because of this letter, a lot of people were angry at me. Some of them resorted to name calling. In the end, I felt vindicated because I was always right in the first place.

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The “Multilevel Marketing” which is commonly known as “Pyramiding Scheme” has reached the Kingdom through Mike Defensor’s “First Quadrant”. The Overseas Filipino Workers who want to earn “easy money” are effortlessly convinced to join this scheme and are tricked out of their hard-earned money. We should be vigilant about where we invest. Money earned through sweat and labor should never be invested in risky schemes. Permit from the Securities and Exchange Commission are no guarantee of the legitimacy of this scheme. Most of the multilevel marketing schemes have turned out to have violated SEC regulations several months or years after operation. Aside from that, this has not obtained permits from the kingdom’s government. I appeal to my fellow OFW to exercise extreme caution while dealing with the agents of this scheme.

Killer Highway

This letter was sent to Letters to the Editor of Arab News and was published on 14 January 2004. This letter generated so many reactions from Arab News readers specially my colleagues.
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The notorious Dhahran Road, dubbed by expatriates as “Killer Highway”, is the most dangerous street in Alkhobar. Even though it is a major thoroughfare located within the city, vehicles scream by at maximum speed. There are pedestrian lanes but people crossing the road at those points are not safe. Last week also the killer killed anew. The victims were expatriates. Hit-and-run cases are frequent according to shopkeepers within the vicinity. There is a school adjacent to the highway and small children frequently cross it. One solution would be to build an overpass or underpass. However, even with that, that would not prevent death on the highway. The way to do it is to post traffic officers on the highway and for them to bring the full force of the law to bear on reckless drivers. Underage youngsters should not be allowed to drive. Most importantly, traffic laws should be for all — not for expatriates only. They should not exempt Saudis from the laws.

Freckle minded?

This piece was publised by Arab New on September 2003. PGMAs decision to run for a full 6 year term of office created so much controversy. In the end, she came out victorious. This is what I love about PGMA, she fight for what she believed in and she loves our country with passion.
---oo0oo---
A Woman is entitled to be freckle minded even if she’s a President.
President Arroyo’s December 30, 2002 declaration of not running on May 2004 election is merely a political scheme. The President could not afford to risk to divide the nation at that time.
The Coup attempt that was staged by the Junior Military officers in Ayala Center was plotted by political oppositions to destabilize and discredit the Arroyo government. The failure of the Coup attempt made the opposition hit the weakest link who is Mrs. Arroyo’s husband since they could not question Mrs. Arroyo’s integrity.
The decision (Arab News 5 October 2003) of Mrs. Arroyo to run for a full six year term of office is a well thought political decision. Mrs. Arroyo has advantage of being elected since she is the incumbent President. She has the Political machinery and it won’t be a surprise if she wins.

Ninoy’s Death

This was publised in Arab News 23 August Issue to commemorate the death anniversary of Ninoy Aquino. In 2003, I am still an Aquino family admirer but it all changed when Cory took part in rallies to oust PGMA. After that incident, I begun to hate all the Aquinos including Ninoy, Cory, Kris, Noy Noy and anybody related to the Cojuanco's and Aquinos.

--oo0oo--

Ninoy’s Death

Though 20 years have gone by since the assassination of Ninoy Aquino, the symbol of popular opposition to the martial-law rule of Ferdinand Marcos, on Aug. 21, 1983, the culprits behind that dastardly crime have not been identified.
The assassination provided the spark for the EDSA revolution that drove the Marcos dictatorship out of power. Though Ninoy’s widow Corazon C. Aquino became president of our shattered country, her government failed to identify the mastermind behind the assassination. The 15 soldiers who were sentenced to double life imprisonment for their involvement in the actual murder were mere instruments. The brain or brains that used those instruments are still free.

Another worrying aspect is that though Ninoy’s assassination was instrumental in the restoration of Philippine democracy, its survival remains under constant threat. The Ayala Center mutiny proves that. We now know that in our armed forces there are power-hungry young officers who would like to grab power through military coups. Those selected, trained and paid to defend our people and their rights seem to pose the biggest threat to our rights and freedom.

It is a national failure, not just one of our armed forces. At such times as this we must reflect on Ninoy’s famous quotation: “Filipinos are worth dying for.” Are we really worth dying for? I think not. We Filipinos have not proved ourselves to be capable of learning lessons from history.

MW 2007 Review

The below review was posted in Critical Beauty and was selected as one of the best letters to the webmaster. Big thanks for Rafa of Critical Beauty.

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The pageant was very boring. The choreographed dance number of the delegates in swimsuit was rehash, they did it in previous Miss World Pageants. A lot of people are condemning Scott Grossman but Scott's Miss Universe is much better in terms of production value and excitement. Duncan James' is very handsome but singing in a large stage with only four dancers feel like the stage is very empty. Angela Chow keeps on shouting her spills and her co host is very old. Tim Vincent would have been better. There was no real judging and they do not even have an official tabulator. Miss Universe has Ernst and Young but Miss World only has Julia Morley.

Miss China is beautiful but her victory is very questionable. It's like they handed the crown to her because she wanted to be a bridge between Miss World and Olympics Committee. Miss Angola would have been a better Miss World, she placed top 10 in the 2007 Miss Universe.

Tirades, Braggadocio, lies and Overblown Ego!

I sent this email to Mohamad when he tried to patch up my difference with Arnel.

===

Dear Mohamad,

I really appreciate your effort in trying to bridge my gap with Arnel but I’ve decided not to make amends with him. HSS, my boss specifically told me not to talk and make friends with Arnel anymore. Friends are supposed to lift you up and not let you down. As far as I’m concerned, I’ve apologized to Arnel for whatever wrongdoing that I made to him. If he’s a gentleman, he should have done the same thing and apologize to me for calling me a DRUG ADDICT several times against my back and for calling Hamza of Administration when I joked to him that I am going home because HSS not around. He called me and all my friends’ derogatory names, insulting us but he never apologized for it. Arnel thinks that he is entitled to say bad things / sarcastic remarks to other people. However, if you fight back and he hears bad things said against him, he feels that the world is against him and he’s a victim.

Have you ever wondered why Arnel doesn’t have a single Filipino friend in this building? This is because of his personality. One Filipino said that out of 10 words that he utters only one is true. Arnel talks about himself incessantly and brags like there’s no tomorrow. I got tired of his tirades against the people from the group who were successful like Egay Aquino (now a project manager) and Danny Mijares (trusted Office Manager of Sulaiman Al Zamil) and a lot of more. The real reason why he’s angry is because I’ve found out that several lies that he made like, Mr. Hamad’s offer for him to be a secretary, his continues boasting of his CAR which is a company car and a lot of more. He could not accept the fact that his lies are uncovered.

Arnel has a big mouth and talk things without thinking. He was punched at a Filipino party about two weeks ago for insulting a fellow Filipino. It was also last week when he was almost stabbed by a scissors by another Filipino who worked in ZAC for insulting the former. People are fed up with his braggadocio, overblown ego and lies. This are just some of the things that he did to other people, now tell me, is he a good person? Who would want to make friends with him?

I can write a very long email about Arnel and the people he offended. Arnel has offended my sensibilities yet his pride would not let him apologize to me. He keep on insisting that I’ve draw the line but he never thought for once that he offended my sensibilities too. Now he starts to bad mouth me and even called the guy from Canam Asia that I have a gap with just to say bad things about me. He can deny it but I still remember one time when he said that “I’m a good person because I always cry when I’m praying”. I don’t want to judge him about his religion but I never felt that he’s a good person. I will never be friends with him again.

How will the strikes test France's new president?

Nicolas Sarkozy should not back down from the pressures of the Unions because he has the mandate to introduce reforms in French Social Security. Retirement at 55 with full pension is draining the French Social Security and will eventually bankrupt the government if reforms are not introduced drastically. It's about time to jail the union leaders in order to discipline them.

Added: Saturday, 17 November 2007, 12:33 PM Mecca time, 09:33 AM GMT

Should the death penalty be abolished?

I don't agree with the abolition of the death penalty. People nowadays commit crimes as if they were going to a grocery store. It's insane and the only way to protect innocent lives is not by jailing criminals but by subjecting them to the death penalty. Reclusion Perpetua (Life in imprisonment) is just a waste of taxpayers money since you have to feed them, give them medical care etc.

Added Al Jazeera English website. 15 November 2007

Chavez refuses to "shut up"

That summit's goal is to foster ties among nations and Mr. Chavez should have been more diplomatic. Mr. Chavez should have realised that he was with world leaders and must mind his manners. He triggered the Spanish King's outrage and must be gentleman enough to apologise. I personally admire Mr. Chavez's politics but in this instance I don't like what he did.

Added Al Jazeera English Website. Thursday, 15 November 2007, 11:23 AM Mecca time, 08:23 AM GMT

Should Musharraf have declared state of emergency?

People might raise their eyebrows but I believe that Musharraf did the right thing in declaring Martial Law. Politicians in Pakistan including Benazir Bhutto are contributing to the destabilization of their country. What Pakistan needs right now is not an immediate restoration of democracy but stability. The Pakistani forces are combating the Islamic militants, and destabilization created by politicians does not help. That is why jailing the dissidents and making the country stable is Musharraf's only option.

Added Al Jazeera website. Wednesday, 14 November 2007, 02:27 PM Mecca time, 11:27 AM GMT

Obet, my bet!

Regardless of what I’ve heard from Sutla, Obet I think is one of the best person I’ve known in Saudi Arabia. Obet is very warm, nice and accommodating. Last Wednesday, we dropped by at Obet’s shop and he invited us to his birthday party on Thursday.

As agreed, we waited in his shop from 7:30 – 8:30pm but he wasn’t there. We were so hungry so we decided to dine at KFC. While we were ordering, Obet called me up to help but we’re in a very compromising situation. We ate what we ordered at KFC and then went to Tamimi Safeway. I was planning to buy a cake but (Tamimi’s cake) it’s not very fresh. I ended up buying Dyer Ice Cream so we will not go to Obet’s place empty handed.

Obet’s place is in King Khalid Street at the top of the optical shop. The place is well kept, contrary to what Sutla has been telling me. His guests from ASTRA and Al Rushaid arrived at around 10:30 pm. I asked Obet whether he prepared everything but said that as much as he would love to cook, he couldn’t because he’s very busy. We did not stay long at the party and leave Obet’s flat at 11PM.

---oo0oo---

The Burmese military cracked down on protesters who are composed of Buddhist monks. The UN and the ASEAN joined hand in condemning the atrocities committed by the Burmese military junta. It’s one of the most secretive states in the world. Foreign journalists are banned from reporting inside Burma. The most recent report states that a Japanese freelance journalist was killed by the Burmese military.

Triumph of Law

Former Philippines President Joseph (Erap) Estrada was found guilty by the special division of Sandigan Bayan (Anti Graft Court) on 12 September 2007. The verdict was predictable but the calmness was not really expected. In fact, the government was expecting the worst and sent PNP and military reinforcements within Sandigan Bayan.

The PR machine of the Estrada camp was evident before the sentencing. They used media hype and surveys in order to condition the minds of the Filipinos. However, no amount of PR machinery could ever stop the Sandigan Bayan from rendering the guilty verdict.

The positive gains in the Philippine Stock Exchange (Phisex) and low turnout of Erap supporters in the streets are indicators that the guilty verdict for Former Philippines President Erap Estrada for plunder is just. It should also warn all Filipinos especially those who are in office that they cannot get away with crimes.

Ramadan Karim

This is the way to greet your muslim friend during the holy month of Ramadan. Although I am not a Moslem, I really love the month of Ramadan. There’s something magical in this month and everyone is kind. The working hours are also shortened that you can go home from work very early. I’ve been here long and I’ve observed the characteristics of the Moslems during this season.

Generally, the office environment is very quiet. Muslims have different working schedule but they’re always late. They would report to the office very groggy and disoriented. It’s not because they can’t eat but because they have no sleep. The Muslims are only allowed to eat before the sunrise and after the sunset. The reason why they’re very weak during the day but full of energy at night. Malls are closed during the day and opens only at night.

The Bitchy Diva Malu Fernandez

I have never been insulted all my life until I’ve read the article “From Boracay to Greece” written by Malu Fernandez of Manila Standard Today. I am privileged to be schooled in a Chinese School (with so many rich kids) and I’ve been constantly surrounded by rich people as friends yet they’re true and not racist like Malu Fernandez.

Malu Fernandez is a self proclaimed Bitch and Diva when she wrote the offensive article against all the OFWs. She claimed to have jet set the world yet she pinched money in order to buy economy class ticket and complained about the size of the couch and her seatmate. The problem was not the couch but her size because she’s SUPER BAKULAW NA BABOY. She was upset when she was mistaken as a Domestic Helper and she wanted to slash her wrist by the thought of being surrounded by OFWs. I really hate it when she flaunts her expensive perfume and her 17kg make up kit. Malu is a pig and did not look human since she had to rely on heavy make up in order to look human. Maybe her maid looks more human than her.

What Malu Fernandez did not realize is that more OFWs earn more than she earns in one year. She is not aware that OFWs are not just Domestic Helpers and Tindera ng Perfumes in Dubai Duty Free. We are engineers, doctors, HR Managers, scientist etc. Malu brags about her political connections with the Zubiri’s. Is she aware that Zubiri’s are one of the most corrupt political dynasties in the Province of Bukidnon? Malu Fernandez and people like her is one of the reasons why the Philippines do not prosper as a nation.

Lipat Bahay

Last week, Boss told me with finality that I must move back to Al Khobar. He suggested that I take a residence in Bandariyah, Al Khobar Shammalia and King Abdulaziz area. He was impatient of me since I only kept on promising to move back to Khobar yet I never really take it seriously. That same day, boss issued a memo for the issuance of my 1 year housing allowance. I expect to receive my cheque at the end of the month.

Boss’ ultimatum made me look for a house seriously. Besides, I won’t have anymore excuses since the company will release my housing allowance. On Wednesday night, I was meeting DF so we can go together to the new building. Fortunately for the both of us, we saw BDG at Al Jawhara and he has the same purpose. We went together and we spoke to the caretaker named Abdul Monem. The problem is, the guy doesn’t speak English and we have to converse with him in Arabic. I am not really fluent with Arabic and I could only speak a little of it. Abdul Monem told us to come the following day so we can talk to his Mudir.

As instructed, DF and I went back to the new building the following day. We were supposed to meet Bong S. but we couldn’t contact him. We inspected the rooms and I selected the corner room (No. 315). I really like the place because it’s compact and new. Abdul Monem told us that the place will be ready in 10-15 days. It’s just right for me since I will be receiving my housing allowance at the end of the month.

We weren’t able to talk to the Mudir but we came back on Friday and yesterday evening. Good thing, Remus drove me to the place while we meet Bong S. there.

I really don’t know but I am very confident that the room will be mine. We talk to Abdul Monem and asked him to reserve the room for me. I think I would have to give him a bribe so I can get the room.

Kargamento

A month before going home, I’ve packed 2 boxes intended for my homecoming. I initially decided to send the baggage through LBC. In fact, I dialed LBCs number that morning (5 May) to schedule a pick up. But five minutes after calling LBC, Remus arrived in my office and convinced me to send my baggage through Filex instead. They’re charging less and Remus vouched for Pipo and the cargo company. With Remus’ persistence, I was forced to cancel the pick up with LBC.

That night Pipo of Filex collected my stuffs and he told me that I will receive my baggage within 15-20 days. I keep Pipo’s word in mind and on the 20th day since I sent my baggage, I called Filex Manila Office. I spoke to a girl there who keeps on promising that my baggage be delivered in CGY. I was still here in the kingdom and I just want to be sure that I will have something to give to my family. From then on until I exited the kingdom, my baggage was not received as promised. I was beginning to be worried that the cargo company is a hoax but Remus told me that it isn’t. I just have to wait and that he promised to follow up everything with Pipo.

I arrived at DVO with nothing since I also lost my baggage on transit. The only good thing that happened was that my family was able to enjoy DVO. They hired a van, went to the beach and shop at SM DVO.

I finally received the package on the 11 Jun, 1 month and 6 days after I send it. I promised myself not to send through Filex again!

Jetset Jinx

On the 1 June 2007, I went to King Fahad International (DMM) for my flight to DXB. I’ve already checked in 2 hours prior to my departure. Unknown to me, the flight was delayed. Khalid, a customer service officer of Saudia looked for me and told me that I couldn’t possibly board the plane. I was so upset but I did not show it. I called Inday Bam right away and informed her that I couldn’t arrive on schedule. I was stuck in the airport for another hour or two because Khalid has to fill up several papers in order to cancel my exit visa with the immigration office.

I then went down to collect my luggage at the arrival. It took me half an hour waiting for a taxi as I wouldn’t ride with a Saudi driver. I called Ahmed, our department driver and later talked to boss about what happened in the airport.

As instructed by Khalid, I went back to the Airport the following day and checked in again. The check in guy told me that my connecting flight DXB to SIN was not confirmed. I waited for another hour because he has to send a request for my reconfirmation. I finally, checked in my luggage and the guy told me that I can get it in my final destination in DVO.

The flight to DXB was so smooth and SV served a very delicious dinner. When I arrived at DXB, I right away looked for the transfer station so that I can get a boarding pass. There were several Japanese tourists that came from Turkey and I was seated next to one of them. I would have to say that SQ is the best airline in terms of service. One girl that impressed me most is named YI SHUJI. She’s the sweetest girl in the airline world. I was so happy that there were no Filipino in SQs staff, Filipinos cabin crews are mean.

I was left with only two hours to connect to Davao. Changi Airport is so huge that you will have to walk at least 2 kilometers in order to reach the transfer stations. When I reached Transfer Station E, I was told that I might not be able to ride the plane since my ticket is rescheduled. Luckily, the Indian girl from the station E was able to secure a seat for me.

I was expecting to arrive to DVO at 1:30PM but Silkair dropped by at CEB first so we were delayed for another hour. I wasn’t feeling very well in my last leg of flight. When the plane finally arrived, I’ve learned that my luggage was missing. Kim of Silkair DVO told me that we have to come back after two days to collect the luggage and I’ve asked Val to collect it in my behalf.

My family was in the airport when I arrived. Leo’s wife Olive was also there but I wasn’t able to give the Barbie dolls since I’ve lost my luggage. I thought that the worst is over but when we arrived in our place, it’s raining heavily and there’s a power outage.

Taxing OFWs

I got so angry by the news that Jon Jon forwarded to me today. The article talks about a study conducted by De La Salle Economic Team and they’re proposing to tax OFWs. Well, I’m an OFW and like so many of my compatriots here, we’re very angry by their proposal. These people do not really care about us. They’re like leeches and they’re hungry for our blood. Here’s the letter that I wrote to the Editor of Philippine Daily Inquirer.

--oo0oo--

Taxing OFWs

Doris Dumlao’s report taxing OFW on 11 April 2007 have generated a lot of angry comments from fellow compatriots here in Saudi Arabia. The De La Salle Economic team composed of Teresu Tullao, Michael Angelo Cortez and Edward See are obviously born into a silver spoon that they could not relate to the flight of OFWs. We are all victims of circumstances. Due to lack of job opportunities in the Philippines, we were forced to work abroad, away from our family. We may be reaping rewards from our hardship but we have to pay the price, like broken relationships / families. The elitist from De La Salle should know our story before they propose something outrageous.

Why won’t De La Salle Economic team instead conduct a study on how the BIR could collect more from big time Chinese Tax Evaders like Lucio Tan and other elitist like them who have been evading taxes since time immemorial? Why take it on us OFWs? Why are we treated like a doormat in our own country by our own countrymen?

[SIGNED] Yours Truly.

Letter of Complaint to SABB

I’ve had enough of SABB and I decided to cancel my account with them. I am not bitter or whatever but sometimes, you really gotta do what you gotta do. If you’re not satisfied with the service, there’s no point in prolonging the agony. Here’s my letter of complaint to SABB.

The Customer Service Manager
Saudi British Bank
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Subject: LETTER OF COMPLAINT

Dear Sir,

On 6 January 2007 my ATM was captured by SABB Dhahran Road Branch in Dammam. I called 800-124-8888 and was informed by the call center agent that he will have the card replaced immediately. I’ve waited for months and called 800-124-8888 a dozen of times yet I did not receive my ATM Card.

Unknown to me, the reason why my ATM Card (Card No.2) was captured is because it’s already expired. A week after reporting the capture of my ATM Card No. 2, I received an ATM Card in my mail. I called 800-124-8888 to inform them that I’ve received an ATM Card. The call center agent told me that I don’t need a new PIN for the card that I received. That same day, I made a transaction and guess what? My card was captured again. I have to skip work just to claim my ATM Card in the Dhahran Road Branch in Dammam. I called 800-124-8888 and reported the capture of my ATM and they told me that I needed a PIN. I went to Ibn Khaldoun to collect the PIN and they give me a new PIN. I tried transacting at the machine at Ibn Khaldoun branch and my ATM was captured again. I went back to the customer service personnel inside Ibn Khaldoun branch and was assured that all will be well and I should wait for another 4 hours before making another transaction.

I waited for 4 hours but I did not make any transaction. I called 800-124-8888 first and ask for the status of my ATM. I was afraid that the machine will capture my card again. The call center agent specifically asked me what card am I holding and I told him it’s card no. 3. This was the case according to the call center agent, the card that I am holding (Card No. 3) has been CANCELLED on 7 January 2007. No wonder the machine would capture it. He also told me that the PIN that I am using is for Card No. 4 which is still on transit. I never received that ATM Card in my mail.

I complained through customer voice and a certain Mr. Bandar (01-4050677 Ext. 4621) called me and offered to assist me in the issuance of my ATM Card. He gave me a time frame to wait for the card and then if I won’t receive it in a certain period I should call him. I never received Card No. 4 so I called Mr. Bandar. Unfortunately, he’s on leave so a certain Mr. Ahmed (01- 4050677 Ext. 4649) offered to assist me with my problem. Last week, he cancelled Card No. 4 and promised me that he’ll send Card No. 5 with the PIN at Ibn Khaldoun branch. On 28 March 2007, I called Mr. Ahmed in Riyadh to check the status of my ATM and was assured that it’s with the branch. I followed up with Ibn Khaldoun branch and I was transferred to Majid Hassan (03-8425242 Ext. 229). After ages in calling them, I finally got hold of Majid Hassan. Unfortunately, he sent the Card No. 5 to my mailing address, totally ignoring Riyadh’s instruction to him that the card should be in the branch since I have difficulty in receiving cards in my mail. His only excuse is that he’s very busy. I felt bad but he was reassuring and right away cancelled Card No. 5 and requested a replacement Card no. 6. He also told me to follow up today for my card. I followed up and called the branch but everybody seems busy that whoever I call and whatever extension I’ll dial nobody will answer.

I decided that I have enough of this ATM Card. It is like a poorly written Mexican soap opera that would never end. I visited the branch today and closed my account in that branch. The customer service agent there asked me why I am closing my account. I told him that I just feel like closing it. I never bothered to explain my reasons. All of a sudden he showed me my ATM Card No. 6 but I don’t want anything to do with it and I was determined to cancel the account regardless if I receive the card or not. He also told me that if I want to cancel my ATM, I should also cancel my Master Card. I replied that I don’t care anymore and if it makes him happy to cancel my Master Card at the same time, its fine with me. He asked me whether I would still want my ATM before he’ll cut it into pieces but it never bothered me. Later, the customer service staff told me that he doesn’t need to close my Master Card.

This letter is not just about my discontent or your unsatisfactory service. This should serve as a tool in learning how to serve your customers properly. I’ve learned from my constant conversation with your branch staffs and call center agents that they are not well informed about your policy. I think they’re just working there without training and their responses are inconsistent. Try calling another call center agent and ask the same question, chances are you’ll get different and conflicting replies from a single question.

Thank you very much.
Sgd: YOURS TRULY

Korean Essay on the Web

I received a forwarded email containing the essay that was written by Korean national Jaeyoun Kim.

Here are my comments about his essay. For sure Kim means well and I can feel his love for us Filipinos.

1. Filipinos always complain about corruption in our government. Kim’s right, the pastime of the Filipino nation is complaining. We complain but we do not have any effort that would solve our problems. We complain and expect too much from our government yet we do not pay our taxes. We criticize the people in the government yet we do not participate in the election process. We complain about our elected official when in fact we voted them to office.
2. Korea emerges from the ruins of two wars. Korea rose from being the poorest in the region to become one of the economic superpower in Asia. They have to rebuild their nation from scratch without natural resources. They use to envy us but now we envy them.
3. Korean migrant workers. Koreans had to work outside their country in order to survive. Like our OFWs, they send money to their love ones and at the same time helps the Korean economy. The good thing is that their professional engineers, nurses, professors came back home and shared what they learned from other countries to Korea.
4. Catholic Upbringing. I personally believe that something is wrong with the Catholic Faith. South American countries, Mexico and other small countries in the Caribbean are predominantly catholic countries and they’re poor. The same thing is true with the Philippines. There is something oppressive about the Catholic faith.
5. Love of Country. We are not a patriotic people and we do not love our country.

Truth hurts but that’s how Jaeyoun Kim and other nation perceive us. I can accept being poor but the accusation that we do not love our country is too much to bear. But that’s the fact, Filipinos do not love their country. As long as we don’t love our country and accept responsibility for our failure, we will not prosper as a nation.

ORPO

A friend in Al Khobar coined ORPO because of the opportunistic behavior of my officemate Tony. It became a buzzword because it can be used generally. People from work, a family member, a friend or even an acquaintance is a potential ORPO. When somebody wanted to take advantage of you or the situation, he is an ORPO.

You may find ORPO, the newly coined word amusing but it isn’t. It’s not funny when somebody takes advantage of something, especially when he does it so deviously, deceitfully in an unprincipled way. It is even harder if the person doing this to you is a person whom you considered as a friend.

Below are ORPO moments:

· He carpools (offers a service) but charges you with exuberant amount. When you take a trip from DMM-ALK-DMM it would cost you SR150.00 / month. If you have a regular bus service like those of the Indians you may be charged with SR. 80.00/month. With ORPO you may be charged with SR. 200.00.

· Trip from DMM to ALK would cost you SR. 5.00. When you ride in taxi it would only cost you SR. 3.00/ride.

· He sells PEPSI (Alcoholic Beverage) for SR. 25.00. Remember it is illegal in Saudi to sell Alcoholic Beverages. The prevailing market price for that is SR. 15.00.

· He sold his AC for SR. 200.00 but charges you with additional SR. 50.00 for handling. You will learn later that he wouldn’t pull out his AC so you lost your SR. 50.00.

· He sold his foam for SR. 35.00. He said it’s brand new but you found out later that it’s old.

· He sells magic cream for SR. 45.00 but the actual price for that is only SR. 30.00.

· His will tell you that his daughter will undergo an operation and need you to contribute at least SR. 100.00 so he can send money to his home. He promised to pay you back but didn’t keep it.

· He will charge you with a TFC connection even if you don’t have a TV.

The list could go longer and in the future there will be additions in the entry.

What Daddy’s death means to me

I consider myself lucky that I spoke to Dad minutes before he died. My friend Nonoy (Narcuadic) didn’t have that opportunity to bid farewell to his father. When I learned that Dad died, I couldn’t explain what I felt. I didn’t shed any tears at all. It took me 5 days before I felt empty and helpless. It was when I started crying.

Being fatherless is something that you really can’t explain. In my case, I really don’t care and I do not take everything seriously. I don’t care because I have this feeling that whatever will happen to me, my Dad would be there to support me. If I fail in my career, I can anytime move back to our house and Dad will help me pick up the pieces. But when he died, I felt so susceptible and emotionally weak.

It took me awhile to realize the repercussion of Daddy’s death. Daddy’s death means that I will have to take care of my family. I will be my Mom’s support structure not the other way around. I’ve realized that Mom’s old and I have to take care of her. All of the sudden, my career has a value to me.

I miss my Dad from time to time but I know that he’s with his Creator, happy watching over us. To Dad, I love you with all my heart.

(16 March is Dad’s 3rd Death Anniversary)

What will make HS Key leave the Philippines

I thought that this would end soon but when TV Patrol featured Harvey S. Key, it only started a new debate in the cyberspace. It made Harvey an overnight sensation not because he looks like Doland Castro but because of the boob tube. I was appalled when DF called me to tell me that he saw HS Key over TV Patrol on 2 March 2007. DF and I were both angry of how idiotic and stupid HS Key’s reasons for leaving the Philippines. Since I am very upset, I sent him an email and this is the translated version of my email to him:

Stupid! That’s you Harvey S. Key! Very stupid! Why do you base your life on the political situation of our country? If you want to leave the Philippines, do not make the politics as your reason for leaving. Your reason should be for you to provide for yourself and your family. You do not leave your country just because those people on your list win the election. Who do you think you are? Those politicians will not waste their time on you. FYI you’re only an insignificant voter.

Please, I beg you let other people say what you do. So what if you help the charities? There are people out there who have helped more charities and in larger amount of money. I don’t like people who are self promoting! It irritates me! You should listen to the priests (who have done nothing but to rally and run along EDSA) and only let God know about your charitable works.

I also advise you now to get a visa since most likely somebody from your list will win. In case you do not know you need a visa to gain entry to other country.

The good thing is that HS Key replied to my email the following day with a thank you and a smiley icon. At least he did not justify his stupidity.

I’m not ready to make nice

If you’re kind, people will abuse you! It’s a human nature that people usually abuse those who are kind to them. Filipinos are generally brought up to be kind to everybody. In the olden days it’s applicable and even encouraged but in a globalized world, it’s archaic. Being kind (or pretending to be) is one of the reasons why the Filipino nation is still backward. That’s why as much as possible, you shouldn’t be kind, but not really mean. You should set a boundary so that people will know where to place themselves. If you feel that somebody is taking advantage of you, you should tell that person right away. Hurting his/her feeling should be the least of your concern. You should look after yourself and your welfare first before them.

I gave Ali, the Indian guy who works in our Admin Department a good scolding yesterday. I asked for 100 pieces of A4 size envelopes but he talks too much. He was saying that they’re gonna charge our department and a lot of stuff. This is what I told him. “Ali, if you want to charge those envelopes to us, charge it. I don’t care because it wouldn’t be charge to me but to my department. You talk too much!”

I went to Fahad Supplies yesterday afternoon (lunch time) to buy some snacks. I gave the cashier a new 50 SR bill but changed me with a defective 5 SR. Naturally I asked him to change it into something good. The Indian guy pointed his fingers on me and told me that I’m a causing him a problem everyday and said a lot of stuff. I walked out of the groceries because there are a lot of people and I don’t want to cause a scene. After 10 minutes I came back to the grocery store and confronted the Indian guy. I asked him why he’s so rude to me? What does he think he is? I was so mad at him that I gave him a good scolding. He couldn’t face me because he’s afraid of me and I’ve already said too much. I don’t know if he understands me because he doesn’t event speak English. I don’t want to be a racist but the situation calls for it. I mean, I am a respected person in my workplace and a mere ITIK would insult and embarrass me in front of other people. I got so mad that I even spoke to the manager (Abdullah Basi) and complained to that guy. Indians are really hard to deal with. Based from experience, they will think highly of themselves and if you allow them, they will put you down. However, if you stand your ground and fight back, they will be afraid of you and in turn will respect you.

Why should I be nice to people who are not nice at all. That’s why I really love the Dixie Chix song “I’m not ready to make nice”.

A reaction to H.S. Key’s Open Letter to Filipino

H.S. Key’s a sentimental fool who believes that helping the less fortunate Filipino children will make him a hero. If he’s truly sincere about his charitable works, he should stop bitchin’ about it. I hate it when people pretend to be kind when in fact they’re doing the opposite.

Our country is hopeless. It doesn’t matter who gets elected it’s still gonna be the same. I wasn’t at all surprised when Tito Sotto and Tesse-Aquino “Dancing Pok Pok Queen” Oreta moved to Administration Party and Manny Villar’s moving to UNO. Revolving door (Balimbing) is common during election season and it’s part of our political culture. Who cares about Jesse Robredo and Josie Dela Cruz wouldn’t be elected in national positions. Nobody knows them and they don’t have the machinery to win a national post.

H.S. Key says that he’ll leave the Philippines when these people get elected come May.

· Virgilio Garcillano
· Queen Tessie “Dancing Pok Pok Queen” Oreta
· Richard Gomez
· Gringo Honasan
· Manny Pacquiao
· Lito Lapid
· Chavit Singson

If he’ll leave the Philippines, who cares? Nobody would miss him. If he wants to leave the country he should start now. There’s no need to be dramatic and sentimental about it. The Filipino people are better off without him!

Poorly written Teleserye

Like a poorly written teleserye, this ATM brouhaha wouldn’t end. Boss gave me permission to go to the bank today and I got my card from the branch where it got stuck. I went to Ibn Khaldoun branch to collect my PIN. Mustafa, the customer service agent told me that I can withdraw using my ATM card. To be sure I asked him several times about the subject but he said that I can now withdraw. I tried to withdraw but my card was captured again. When I got my ATM back I spoke again to Mustafa and he said that he already set up the card. He said that I should wait for another 4 hours for it to be activated.

After 4 hours, I had to make sure that my card wouldn’t be captured so I called 800. I told the call center agent about my ordeal. This is what he has to say:

On 6th of January I called 800 to report that my card (Card No. 2) got stuck in an ATM booth. The reason why Card No. 2 was captured is because it’s already expired. Card No. 3 which was issued on 11 November 2006 is on transit. When I called that night the Call Center Agent cancelled Card No. 3 and issued Card No. 4.

What I received yesterday, Card No. 3 can’t be used anymore since it’s already been cancelled. That explains why when I tried to use it yesterday evening it was retained by the machine. I took the card this morning from the branch where it was retained and brought it to Ibn Khaldoun branch. They gave me the PIN and I used it for Card No. 3, it was again retained. Simple explanation, it’s a cancelled card and can’t be used. When I asked Mustafa to activate the Card, he actually activated Card No. 4 which is still in transit. The PIN that I claimed today is for Card No. 4.

I guess I have to wait for Card No. 4 to arrive. Nakakainis but what can I do?

ATM

I still haven’t received my ATM card from SABB. I called the 800 number and they told me that they mailed my card on 7 January. I guess I have to be patient when it comes to this coz I don’t have a choice. What bothers me though is that I received my bank statement yesterday and it was sent on 16 January (about a week later when they sent my ATM card).

Jason from Jubail might lose his job in the establishment that he’s working. The good thing is that his boss is willing to transfer his sponsorship. He’s the classic example of the migrant worker who receives their salary through ATM. It’s the ATM that stands for After Three Months. In short, their companies release their salaries after three months.

I received an SMS from my good friend and batch mate Joyce. She said that she has a confirmed flight come Sunday to Barbados via London Heathrow. She will work in an exclusive cruise liner in the Caribbean. I am very happy for her. Joyce, please don’t forget to send emails.

I received the course materials for the Strategic Marketing seminar and the certificates today. Boss blamed me for not inviting Bara in the course. I know that boss totally forgot about him. MBM’s not included in our initial list. I actually noticed that his name wasn’t there but I purposely excluded him. Reason: I DON’T LIKE HIM. I wonder how he found out about the course.

In the eyes of MBM I was at fault since Boss actually stormed into my office and scolded me for not including MBM’s name. I am use to this kind of situation since I am always my boss’ shock absorber. What I did was I apologized to boss and MBM and then confirmed his attendance. LOL. I’m pretty sure that Christine Sharp of IIR is already irritated by the late cancellations and additions.

Ras Tanura House Warming Party

13 January 2007
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Before the year ended last year, my friend Ruben told me to mark my calendar on 11th of January. He’s planning a house warming party in his new flat inside Aramco Ras Tanura. We communicated throughout the week on the logistics and on how I could reach his place. I’ve been to Ras Tanura once in Ruben’s former flat but that was outside Aramco. I could hardly contain my excitement since it would be my first time to be in Aramco Ras Tanura.
I was supposed to go with GM but Ruben called me on Thursday at 10:30 AM and told me to meet him at Ramis beside Mc Donalds by 12:30NN. I was there on time and we traveled to Ras Tanura. We reached Ras Tanura at 1:30PM, and Aramco gate at around 1:45PM. Ruben told me that the SOP for security is to register all guest outside. The guard gave me a temporary ID in exchange of my Iqama.
I was very amazed of the beauty of Ruben’s apartment. It’s a detached bachelors flat complete with amenities. It’s has a small garage, garden, receiving area, kitchen, laundry, 2 toilets/bath and a terrace. The décor is American inspired. Ruben told me that his British colleague helped him design his house. While we were looking around, Ruben introduced me to Julie, his 4 month old kitten.
We both grabbed a couple of bite for lunch and then we started cooking. It took us almost four hours to finish cooking. The first batch of Ruben’s guest arrived at around 7:30PM. They were Ruben’s former colleague at Al Hussaini’s. The party was fun because Ruben’s guest brought a guitar and they started singing Visayan novelty songs.
At 10:30PM Aries, a good cook and his wife arrived. They brought Pancit Malabon, Ube Cake, Brownies and Leche Flan. We served another meal and the guest seems to enjoy the ambiance and fun in Ruben’s place. Ruben just warned everyone to minimize their voices because his neighbors are both white American females and might complain to the security. At the same time, GM texted Ruben and said that he couldn’t make it. He also received an unexpected SMS message from Bong. Bong said that he’s coming. Ruben does not expect anything from him though. He’s used to breaking promises that people lose their faith on him. Although we do not expect Bong to arrive, he SMS at around 12:30AM informing us that he’s on his was to Ras Tanura with Arvin. They arrived inside Aramco at 2AM, apparently they lost their way in Safwa.
The guests really enjoyed the party. The first batch of Ruben’s guest left Aramco after Salat. We left later at 6AM and we arrived at Dammam at 7AM. I went with Alex, Aries and his wife. They were kind enough to drive me home. I slept the whole day from 8AM to 6PM.