Commentspiracy Theory

My Facebook account was just hacked.

I thought so after receiving two separate email messages from Facebook Security that my account would be deleted because of violating the terms of Facebook and that someone from Makati City just logged in my account when I was in Manila that time and was still logged in at Facebook in my iPod Touch.

The first Facebook Security email did not elaborate the violation I committed. Nevertheless, I skimmed through the Facebook terms and conditions and found nothing I could possibly violate.

The second email instructed me to click a link if I was not the person who logged in at Makati City. So I did click the link which brought me to a window where I was asked to change my password, including that of the email account I use to log in at Facebook.

Upon doing so, however, my account could no longer be accessed using the new password. The Facebook log in page says the email I use was already removed from my account. And I thought only my password would be changed. But I remember from a window that opened before I changed my password that my account would be temporarily suspended because of possible "hacking" activity.

What's more puzzling is the emails I received from Facebook suddenly were gone in my inbox and were nowhere to be found even in the trash bin. I don't remember deleting them as I also received a third with a code to be used if I log in with my new password.

So my Facebook account is now up somewhere in the air beyond my access. I was told my page had a big "X" superimposed on it at first. Now the X is gone and a different, unknown email -- jiosafs@yahoo.com -- is displayed as the one I use (check my Facebook Badge on the right side of this blog to see it). I am a bit worried that my account would be used for some "evil" purpose or that it is being "played with."

Incidentally, this happened after I made a comment about the movie Social Network as a story about the "greed" in Facebook. But I did add: "... if what the movie portrays is accurate" to be fair. That was my last comment before the alleged "hacking" took place.

Could Mark Zuckerberg or anyone at Facebook be behind this then? Or is it me just getting carried away by the movie and being paranoid?

I read in the Wikipedia entry about Zuckerberg that he clearly thinks of himself as a hacker and he said that "it's OK to break things... to make them better." Now I am doubly paranoid.

Before I even delve deeper into an imaginary Conspiracy Theory, let me just say to whoever "played" with my account that you can gain nothing by doing this except to reaffirm my belief that the internet is really not a safe place to "put" ourselves into. It simply cannot be trusted because it is a human creation and therefore can be broken and torn apart if one who has the capacity and resources really intends to.

Though I can live my life without Facebook, a part of me still wants to have my account back.

But if I can't have it back, then Zuckerberg... I've just become one of your enemies.

Not at all Neutral

The internet can be considered man’s greatest invention since the wheel as it has shrunk the world we move in, revolutionized how we do things, and influenced our perspective on many different aspects of our lives.

All these happened because information can flow freely – without control and discrimination – in the World Wide Web. We all benefit from this set up and have embraced it as the norm. This gave birth to the concept of Network Neutrality, which says that Internet access providers should not discriminate with regard to what applications an individual can use, or the content an individual can upload, download, or interacted with over the network.¹

As the internet technology advances, however, its use has also become complicated and has become a burden to some who depend so much on it for much more important things than downloading games, updating social network accounts, or watching videos of some wanna-be stars. The so-called bandwidth hogs – such as YouTube, Facebook, and file-sharing sites – lord it over in cyberspace to the detriment of other useful internet applications and features.

Hence, Network Neutrality is under attack. Does it still really provide an incentive to internet users?

The advent of Web 2.0 has changed the landscape of internet use. Network Neutrality is well-suited in the world before that - when the internet is simply all clicking and browsing. Our standards have to change when the environment has changed.

Network Neutrality curtails the freedom to choose. It promotes a free-for-all world that is vulnerable to chaos and abuse. It is a pseudo-standard that serves the purpose of the internet but defeats the intention of the users.

As in real life, there is no such thing as free lunch in the cyber world. We pay for internet services – so we should get our money’s worth.

1 http://www.cybertelecom.org/ci/neutral.htm

Captured Message

WHAT WOULD you rather have: A phone that cannot send messages or one that can send messages but is open to the prying eyes of the government?

The people of India, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia – countries which are against the use of Blackberry handset’s encrypted messaging – are facing this unenviable dilemma.

On the one hand, these governments are arguing Blackberry’s use of the Research in Motion (RIM) network that boasts of having very strong security architecture is vulnerable to exploitation by terrorists and criminals in their illegal operations. So they want RIM to “open up” or be banned in their countries.

On the other hand, RIM is concerned that giving the government snooping powers would jeopardize business transactions through mobile phones and is an affront to the privacy of Blackberry users. It says it cannot compromise the strict security requirements of its enterprise customers around the world.

I believe these governments are too paranoid and do not know who their real enemies are that they bent their stress and frustrations on things that are indirectly, and probably even remotely, linked to their fears.

This policy of banning Blackberry’s encrypted messaging is too restrictive that it encroaches upon the people’s right to privacy. The use of national security as an issue against the use of secure communications platform is even misplaced and irrelevant because there is no “clear and present danger” in ordinary exchange of messages.

The governments cannot make use of the open line of communications as their intelligence source. They should monitor suspected terrorists or criminals through other means of surveillance and it is only when they have gathered enough evidence that they should be allowed to tap conversations or request decrypting of messages – which are allowed in other countries like the United States with proper court order.

The issue here is not really about Blackberry or RIM. This is an issue on trust.

A government who does not trust its people does not deserve their trust either. Just let the people practice and enjoy their freedom. Let them choose whether they want Blackberry or Nokia; whether they want a classic or a smart phone; whether they want to send messages through secure or unsecured channel.

The government need not spy on people because they will be known by the choices they make.

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Reference: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-10866417

Hostage Taken

Bloodbath at Rizal Park
 

WE ARE  put on the international spotlight again for a damning reason: bungling a hostage-taking crisis involving foreign tourists – so bad, so wrong, and so bloody messy.

I don’t know about the Rules of Engagement in this situation but it would not take a five-star general to see the gravity of it and the need to quickly resolve it. This did not involve a bolo-wielding street guy with just one or two hostages. There was a former police officer with an M-16 and perhaps a load of ammunition who could swiftly wipe off all his hostages with a swing of his automatic weapon. He was very much armed and dangerous. Any clear opportunity to contain him should have been taken when his imposed deadline had lapsed and no clear positive resolution was in sight. The snipers should have accomplished their job much earlier. What's the life of one deranged person anyway compared to 22 others and our (already suffering) national image?

A lot of questions have been thrown after the tragedy: Did we send the best negotiator? Who was giving orders? Did the police have full control of the situation?

The answers to all these questions would help us understand what went wrong. I am particularly concerned about the last because I believe everyone contributed to making the situation worse – the police, the media, and the public.

Hostage-takers are desperate in getting attention – that’s what they primarily need in order to sound off their grievances. If we make a hostage situation a media circus, then the hostage-taker thinks he has succeeded in his goal.

The media’s presence in a hostage situation can be a boon or a bane. It depends on how the police are able to control them and not the other way around. The media, for instance, should be kept at a distance from the crime scene and should not get hold of sensitive information that could jeopardize the negotiation.

The “curious” public should also be held off. How a bicycling man was able to get near the bus was indicative of how loose the police cordon was. Those claiming to be relatives and friends of the people involved in the hostage-taking should be restrained from making a scene of their own.

We trusted that our police could guarantee that no life would be lost at the end of the hostage crisis. We had experienced so many of this that we never seemed to have any doubt. They say nothing can go wrong as long as there is negotiation and that there is virtue in patience.

What we did not realize, however, is that sometimes we cannot afford to wait for the end to come, especially when so much is at stake. It is a judgment call - a tough one to make. But we have to, or it will be too late. 

Sorry, pilot error

The recent diaspora of Philippine Airlines (PAL) pilots has caused so much trouble not only for the company but also for the general public. While these pilots have a reason to gripe for receiving lesser salary and compensation than their counterparts in other airlines abroad, it remains their duty to honor their commitment to PAL and much more to the company’s clients whose life or business may be at stake every time they book a flight with the airline. So much so that this has become such a big issue even if there are alternative airlines or means of transportation available to the public.

The root of the problem was probably the failure to communicate. PAL has a labor union and it should have done something if the pilots have issues to be brought up to the management. As no smoke ever came out of PAL’s chambers before the incident, it means there were no issues at all to settle. Hence, it is just a matter of the pilots not being able to communicate what they want or what they think they deserve to PAL's decision-makers.   

Or maybe the temptation to change ship, or plane to be more appropriate, was too irresistible. In this case, partly to blame are the other airlines that dangle golden offers to pilots still under contract with their companies. This is piracy and it should be dealt with harshly by the industry’s international regulatory body.

No matter where we look at it, however, the pilots have made a huge personal gamble in their decision to just suddenly discontinue their service to PAL. They may have every right to take off and seek for a greener pasture elsewhere. But recklessly abandoning their duty is totally uncalled for, only making them soar to the height of irresponsibility.

Cup of Life

Ask me to name a player in each of the teams which made it to the 2010 World Cup and you will most probably get a blank stare. Frankly, I know only a few international football players and all of them are the really well-knowns. Heck, I can’t even name all the countries who qualified at South Africa.

I am just one of the many Filipinos who were smitten by the World Cup because of its prestige and the unutterable passion that goes with it – from the players down to the fans. But I do not embrace everything football. The World Cup is the only football tournament I got interested in ever since I caught a match on TV in 1998 when it was held in France.

I have no particular team as a favorite. I admired France’s tenacity when Zidane was still playing. Brazil is good at its worst but I don’t usually root for perennial winners. Of course I dream of seeing the Philippines compete in the World Cup but since it would probably remain as it is – a dream – for a long time, I would just cheer for Asian teams that take the battlefield against the mighty Europeans and Latin Americans. This year, I have my eyes on Spain since my sentimental choice France and the three Asian squads got booted early.

So what’s exciting in a game that is played for a grueling 90 minutes on a 130-yard field by 22 frantic men who use every part of their body but their hands to snitch and kick the ball into the goal but sometimes ends up with no score at all?

I cannot even try to give a decent answer but it would suffice to say that the thrill is in the waiting for that beauty of a goal which comes not so very often in a game. This sheer moment gives the euphoria of triumph – no matter how fleeting – that transcends from the field to its boundaries and to every single soul in the stadium who anticipates the goal. People spent so much of their time and energy to be there when that moment happens. Their passion to the sport is without equal they sometimes are willing to put their lives at risk even outside the gates of the arena.

Sadly, it is a thing that we only see in sports. If we can only have this same drive and enthusiasm on the most important aspects of our lives, then we can achieve more than winning games. I speak of noble pursuits that seem unattainable no matter how our world leaders try – peace, unity, humanity, and prosperity.

Then it dawned on me: What if we take our experience in sports and apply it to achieve these universal goals? How do you like the idea of a Peace Cup, Unity Series, Love Olympics, or Prosperity Bowl?

Imagine countries competing to determine which among them enjoys more peace. Imagine countries engaging in a show of unity. Imagine countries vying to prove they have love. Imagine countries battling to ensure that they prosper. 

What a wonderful world we would have.  

Or maybe I’m just thinking way, way out of the box. 

Blame the World Cup Fever for this.

Signs of the Times

I happened to pass by EDSA recently and noticed a refreshing change in the “scenery”. The bright-pink was gone, in comes the cool-green. Am talking, of course, about the paint job on those ubiquitous fences, urinals, and center-island metal works that the MMDA put up along the highway. I quite agree with the change in color as green is more pleasant to the eyes than (ugh!) pink. If we are promoting environmental consciousness, anyway, we better paint the town green.

When I was about to heap praises for the MMDA for this move, I suddenly saw a familiar “hideous” sign that was changed, but was not changed for the better. I am sure you have seen this before:

I did not particularly like the choice of words in the above billboard. While it may be true, it sounded a bit on the gory side. So with the changes I saw, I thought the billboard would also be improved. But lo and behold! Here’s what I saw:

Not quite what I expected, the message even went above board. I can imagine John Lloyd Cruz blurting out, “Nag-level up ka na!” For heaven’s sake, why can’t they just say: BAWAL TUMAWID DITO (or WALANG TAWIRAN DITO), DELIKADO.

But wait! I thought I was the only one pissed off by these signs. Until I came across this really, really bold statement:

Okay, this last one was obviously a spoof. Not my work, though. But I think this means there will now be at least two persons lining up at the MMDA office to ask for the head of its editor.

Anyone has a guillotine I can borrow?

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Photos:
http://alizarinred.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/bawal-tumawid-300x214.jpg
http://28.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_l03rc452QB1qa38i6o1_500.jpg
http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w214/linemonitor/tawid.jpg

Are they smarter than a fifth grader?

Isa na yata sa mga paboritong ipangako ng mga kandidato sa tuwing eleksyon ay ang pagbibigay ng magandang edukasyon para sa lahat. Libre pa nga sana kung nararapat dahil ito daw ang sagot sa kahirapan; ito daw ang susi sa ating pag-unlad.

Nang magtanong naman sa Facebook ang isang naging kandidato kung “Ano ang iyong bibigyang prayoridad kung sakaling ikaw ang maging Presidente?” Sagot ng karamihan ay edukasyon pa din dahil dito umano tayo parating nagkukulang.

Nakakatuwang isipin na halos pare-pareho tayo ng iniisip at pinapahalagahan subalit hindi natin nakikita na maaaring ang inaasahan nating magtataguyod nitong ating gintong layunin ay siya mismong walang sapat na edukasyon para ito ay maisakatuparan.

Ano ang aking pinatutunguhan? Simple lang. Paano mabibigyang halaga ng pamahalaan ang edukasyon kung ni hindi nga ito ginagawang mahigpit na batayan para sa pagpili ng mga magiging pinuno ng ating bansa?

Ang itinatakda lamang ng ating Saligang Batas sa usaping ito ay dapat na maalam bumasa at sumulat ang isang Pilipino upang maging kandidato sa isang posisyon sa gobyerno. Hindi mahalaga kung siya ay nakatapos ng pag-aaral, lalo pa kung ano dapat ang kanyang pinag-aralan. Ang katwiran dito ay dapat pantay-pantay ang karapatan ng lahat na maglayong magsilbing tagapamahala ng bayan.

Subalit hindi ba mas higit na mahalaga sa pang-indibidwal na karapatang ito ang pagbibigay proteksyon sa interes ng lahat, at ng bansa sa kabuuan, sa pamamagitan ng pagtatakda ng mataas na pamantayan sa kwalipikasyon ng sinumang nagnanais na maging pinuno ng sambayanan?

Kung ang mensahero o sekretarya sa isang simpleng opisina ay kinakailangang nakapagtapos man lamang ng high school, bakit hindi ito kinakailangan para sa isang mas mahalagang posisyon bilang halal na opisyal ng gobyerno?

Paano natin itatanim sa isipan ng ating mga anak ang kahalagahan ng edukasyon kung ang ating mga kagawad, kapitan, konsehal, mayor, gobernador, kongresista, senador, o maging presidente ay hindi nakapagtapos ng kanilang pag-aaral o walang sapat na kaalaman?

Hindi ba’t isang malaking kalokohan ang ituring na susi sa tagumpay ang isang bagay na hindi naman natin lubos na pinapahalagahan?

Malaking insulto na ang mga kadalasang nahahalal na mamuno sa ating bansa ay silang kapos sa karunungan. Kung kaya naman hindi natin tuluyang makamit ang pag-unlad bagama’t nababatid natin ang pamamaraan upang ito ay maabot at maisakatuparan para sa lahat.

Ang pagiging pinuno ng bayan ay may kaakibat na tungkuling nangagailangan ng kaukulang antas ng karunungan. Nararapat na ang mga mga tagapamahala ay may alam sa pamamahala at ang mga mambabatas ay may alam sa batas at sa paggawa nito.Hindi kailanman magiging sapat ang pagkakaroon lamang ng kakahayang makapagbasa at sumulat para makapamuno maski ng isang maliit na komunidad. Hindi dapat sabihing matututunan din ang mga bagay na iyon kapag ang kandidato ay naluklok na sapagkat hindi lugar ng pagsasanay ang gobyerno. Lalong hindi dapat iasa sa mga tagapayo ang tungkuling gagampanan dahil ito ang kalimitang pinagmumulan ng anomalya at kontrobersiya.

Madalas nating sigaw na ang edukasyon ay karapatan ng mamamayan. Sa ating bawat pagsigaw, nawa’y umalingawngaw na karapatan din nating pamunuan ng mga taong kumakatawan sa kahalagahan ng edukasyon na siyang tunay na magsisilbi at magsasalba sa ating bayan.

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Photo from http://www.flickr.com/photos/27652182@N08/2687957034/

Collapse!

What went wrong?

That is the biggest question in the minds of Cleveland fans.

The Cavs did everything it could to ensure at least a trip to the NBA Finals this season. Got in Shaq and then traded for Jamison in the mid-season, but still nothing happened.

One thing: Mike Brown and LeBron James don’t really sync well.

This was obvious after their Game 2 defeat in the series against Boston. Brown sees panic, James disagrees. The coach and his best player are not seeing things on the same level. That is catastrophe.

Brown and James have been together for five years and have been through ups and downs season after season. We could assume they are already very familiar with each other that they would have already acquired that Michael Jordan-Phil Jackson mystique. But no, James seems to refuse to see eye to eye with Brown and has a mind of his own approaching a game.

James has got to realize that a coach still is the crafter of a ballgame. He may be the gem that makes the team sparkle, but it is the coach who must fit him to the rest of the ornament to complete the ring, so to speak. Mike and Phil understood these roles so well they successfully created a basketball dynasty and made themselves legends in the sport. Of course, it did not come easy for both, Chicago had to wait seven years before Jordan could hand them a championship trophy. James eyed the same goal seven years ago when he arrived in Cleveland, but so far he only has his eyes on the trophy and not his hands.

James’ stubbornness eventually did him in. He takes no criticisms and yet cannot prove his critics wrong.

Brown simply cannot control him.

One has to go.

And your guess is as good as mine. 

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Photos from http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/slideshow/photo//100514/ids_photos_sp/r1002167348.jpg/ andhttp://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20100428/i/r2304191144.jpg

Personality Complex Case #2

He is television’s so-called man of the masses. His career, a storied one, is built on a foundation that he laid through constant proclamation that he cared for the poor. He made them stars of his show. He made them winners. He gave them laughter. He gave them hope. He sings and dances with them. He cries with them.

Everything seems perfect. Until we realize this is, literally and figuratively, all just for a show: Wowowee.

It is not a wonder that people fall into the antics of Willie Revillame. The guy can tickle one’s soft spot and funny bones in one jibe. And though his acting sucks as much as his singing, his real-life drama and controversies ignite interest and cult-like following with the force of Eyjafjallajökull’s explosion.

Call it charisma or plain rapport with his audience, what is certain is Wowowillie has enamored the masses and is really bringing in money for his TV network.

Problem is Willie is drowning in his success. He begins to think he is influential and untouchable. He believes he can do anything and lambast anyone in his show. He threatens those who oppose or criticize him and blackmails the management he serves.

The latest of his silly tantrums (involving Jobert Sucaldito) only confirms what his critics say about him. He knows no boundaries on decency. He does not respect individual rights. He sets the bar for cheap arrogance. Worse, he is a recidivist whose “crimes” are beamed live on satellite TV. A day of fun or a wad of cash giveaways cannot be made an excuse for all of these.

This afternoon delight has clearly turned into a sour day creature. He is no different from the man he endorsed for President recently – they both thrive at the expense of the masses. They claim to feel for the poor yet live the King’s riches. They speak volumes on values yet seem to have nothing on their own.

The Kapamilya Network executives ought to teach this guy a big lesson for the station's and his own sake. Else, his jokes will forever be on them.   

Photo from http://www.lugaluda.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/willie-revillame-will-return-to-wowowee.jpeg

 

An Appeal from a Non-Voter

I confess that I have yet to exercise my right to vote. I have not registered as a voter since I qualified a long time ago. I am not really bothered though, as I know there are a lot of Filipinos who grow old and never voted. We have our own reasons.*

People say those who do not vote have no right to criticize the government. This is like saying those who do not pay taxes will not be allowed to use roads and bridges. It does not follow and this should not be the case. We vote or pay taxes not for our personal benefit, but for the common good. So it does not matter who votes or pays taxes because we all share the fruits, bitter or sweet, of this societal obligation.

I dare say that those who will vote, therefore, have a great responsibility to choose the right person to lead our government. Those who will not must accept the consequence of their non-participation. Nonetheless, those who will not vote can still play a critical role by being advocates of fair, honest, and credible elections or by supporting worthy candidates.

Obviously, the credibility of the coming elections will depend largely on the performance of the PCOS machines. We have been hearing numerous reports about malfunctions in the testing of these machines. If that is an indication of what’s to happen, we can expect the Election Day to be chaotic.

While I am in favor of a computerized election, I still doubt our capacity to implement it in haste and with so much at stake. But since it is already happening, we ought to give our support, be patient, and be vigilant of attempts to sabotage the result of the elections. Let us hope and pray that everyone will cooperate and do their part faithfully, especially the COMELEC.

In choosing the candidates to vote for, I beg everyone to decide with reason, not with passion.

Do not vote for candidates who pretend to be poor, exploit the poor, or give the poor false hopes – these candidates will make us all poor.

Do not vote for candidates who extol themselves for things they are supposed to do or claim personal credit for things their office performed using taxpayers’ money – these candidates are bosses, not leaders.

Do not vote for candidates who once betrayed or rebelled against the government they served – these candidates do not know the value of loyalty and do not trust the rule of law.

Do not vote for candidates who merely bank on a clean reputation – having one does not equate to having competence.

Do not vote for candidates who seek out endorsements – these candidates will have to pay back what they owe sooner or later.

Do not vote for candidates who have been in public service for a long time and yet have never made any significant contribution to helping improve people's lives – these candidates may be the reason why the nation never really progresses.

Do not vote for candidates who are surrounded by unscrupulous people – we may be voting for the people who surround these candidates.  

Do not vote for candidates who change their mind as quickly as they change the company they keep – these candidates are not trustworthy.

Do not vote for candidates who appeal to the emotion – or we might find our lives having lots of twists and turns.

Remember that when one votes, one is voting not only for himself or herself, but also for everyone else, including those who will not vote, those who cannot vote, and even those not yet born at the time you vote.

So please, vote for us... wisely.

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* I want to register in my hometown in Northern Samar and not in Manila where I actually live. But someday I might just register in Manila. Note: Finally, I registered as a voter in the City of Manila

Photo from http://westinspect.files.wordpress.com/2009/09/philippine-flag-face.jpg?w=300&h=199

LeBron the wonder kid

LeBron James is a wonder kid. He is a wonder on the basketball court and at times he makes us wonder about his erratic perspective of the game he plays.

Remember him not wanting to shake hands after a series loss to Orlando? Well, he gave his reason but nobody bought it, except perhaps his Momma.

Recently, LeBron refuses to see panic after his superb team was trashed by Boston in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals. To think his team was just lucky to escape with a victory in Game 1, yet this young superstar acts like he has every ballgame under control.

While I believe Cleveland has what it takes to win the Championship this year, I said this would depend on James asserting himself more as the leader of the team without trying to impress too much. In the last two games against the Celtics, LeBron is not being that. He does not attack the basket as he used to during the regular season and is focusing too much on making plays for his teammates.

This attitude is baffling considering the talent and power he has. I do not think his injured elbow has anything to do with this. I blame his mindset.

I believe he can make the team win just by his sheer effort. He only needs his teammates to pass the ball to him. It is still teamwork even if James alone would shoot the basket for Cleveland so long as everyone works hard to give that basketball to him. That is, I think, the perfect formula for Cleveland to clinch it all the way this season.

This would only happen if LeBron would stop forcing himself to grow too fast as a basketball player. He has to realize he remains a kid on the basketball court - a kid who would not give up the ball to anyone else, including his teammates, until he makes a shot.

The path to basketball superstardom starts with individual brilliance. To be a basketball god – like Russell, Bird, Johnson, and Jordan – this brilliance should be consistently on display until it reaches a point where the distinction between the individual and his team could no longer be made.

LeBron is rushing to get to that point. But despite what he has achieved so far (two MVP awards and scoring titles) he is still far from achieving that goal if he cannot get his team to win when it matters the most. He has to recognize that he pouring his might going to the basket is the key to Cleveland’s success and not the plays he can create for his teammates.

The time to mature in the game would eventually come, but for now – bad elbow and all – LeBron should just be acting like a selfish kid who badly wants to make that shot again and again and again.

* Photo from http://www.flickr.com/photos/james_clear/4200924467/

Desperate measures

It is not hard to decipher what the little lady in Malacanang is up to in the twilight of her ignoble reign.

The computerized elections in danger of turmoil.

The midnight appointments.

Her seeking a Congressional post.

These are desperate acts to save herself from immediate retribution for all the anomalies that spawned during her term. How else could the rush and brash in decision-making involving these matters of national interest be explained?

She used to be the hope of this nation before the Presidency. But nine years of almost absolute power have poisoned her mind and soul – trampling even the Constitution that put her up there in the first place.

She could have saved face by bowing out with a bit of honor. But no, at the very last minute, she still stood firm for her meaningless acts that only divide this already fragile nation.

She says she’d rather be right than popular. Her son says history will judge her mother fairly.   

Well, she was never even right all these years. And yes, she will be fairly judged, not by history, but the court of law if she finally runs out of cover. 

* PGMA photo downloaded from: 

http://meiyah.i.ph/photo/v/Photos/MyFirstPhotoAlbum/gloria+arroyo.jpg.html

Hong Kong At First Sight (Travel Tips for First Timers)

Going to Hong Kong (HK) for the first time is exciting but daunting as the place seems crowded with establishments. The language barrier may also add to the difficulty finding your way around or getting what you want. Fret not, however, as HK is very tourist-friendly and has a very reliable transport system that can take you anywhere without a hassle. For you to truly enjoy exploring HK, you need to stay at least 3 days with enough money to spend.

Guides and tips for first-time tourists can be found in the internet. You can also get free information materials once in HK. To augment your pre-visit knowledge and help you prepare for the trip, I am sharing here some of my own pointers and suggestions.

Here they go.

Booking a Plane Ticket:
Travel has become affordable nowadays because of promos offered by local airlines. Cebu Pacific, in particular, offers discounts and promos year-round to and from HK and Macau. You can get cheaper tickets if you travel Clark-HK-Clark, but I advise you book Manila-HK-Manila if the price difference is not that big. It is a hassle to travel from Manila to Clark especially if your flight to HK is too early and from Clark to Manila if your return flight is scheduled at night (that is if you are commuting).

Travel preparation:
Know the weather in HK on the dates you will be traveling so you will know what clothes to bring. Do not rely on a plain jacket if it’s cold weather, you need thick or multiple clothing to keep warm. If it’s hot, you know what to wear as you experience heat in Manila.

Book a hotel in HK in advance. There are several options depending on your budget. You search the internet for the kind of accommodation you want. You need a credit card to get a reservation. Highly suggested for budget travelers is Golden Crown Court (HK$350/night) in Tsim Sha Tsui or Railei Hotel (almost same rate) in Mong Kok. I prefer Golden Crown because of its very strategic location. If you plan to visit Macau for a day or two, book a hotel there too. I suggest Royal Hotel (HK$700/night) because it is not too expensive yet it is classy. They also have good freebies. You can find cheaper accommodations, of course, if you search the internet.

Exchange your pesos to HK dollars. Make sure you go to a trusted money changer. (I suggest you go to Edsen Money Changer along Mabini St. in Malate near Hyatt Hotel.) A budget of P20,000 per person is already enough. The more money you can spare, however, the better. Have a Visa or Mastercard credit card with you for your “emergency” needs.


Pre-departure:
If you have booked Clark to HK, you can travel by bus to Clark. Philtranco offers direct service to Clark Airport, just check its schedule. If your flight is in the early morning, however, you leave around midnight and take any bus (P120 fare) going North (in Cubao or Pasay). Get off at Dau Terminal in Pampanga. From there, you can ride a tricycle (P50 fare) going to the terminal at the gate of Clark Zone near SM Clark. Then you take a special jeep service to Clark airport (P200) or take a taxi (much expensive rate).

Once in the airport, prepare your Airplane Ticket and Passport. Make sure your Passport is still valid within the next six months or you’ll forever regret not checking it. You will fill up a form for your travel, to be given as you enter the departure area. You will pay Travel Tax (P1,620) and Terminal Fee (P600).

In Flight:
Another fill up sheet for immigration will be distributed by the airline crew. Make sure it is completely filled up, including where you will stay in HK.

Arrival:
Welcome to HK. Go down the tube and head to the immigration section. Have your passport and filled-up sheet ready.

Proceed to the Baggage Carousel after getting through immigration. After getting your baggage, head out passing through Custom's “Nothing to Declare” lane.

Post-Arrival:
You will bump into the Tourism Desk going out. Make sure you get a Map of Hong Kong and other information materials. A few meters away will be a foreign exchange desk just in case you need to exchange a few more pesos but it is advised you exchange your money outside the airport as the rates there are higher.

Proceed further and you will be in the arrival area lobby where there are shops, restaurants, and ATMs.

Before going out the airport, buy an Octopus Card at the Customer Service Desk found at the center of the lobby. You need the Card for your transport fares. It costs HK$150, with HK$100 load. The HK$50 is a deposit. You can reload your Card if it runs out of credit. The Card works like a pre-loaded MRT ticket plus more (see notes at the end).

Going out of the Airport:
Look for the exit to the Airport Train Service. This will be your first train ride. The ride is free and will connect you to the other MTRs which will bring you to your exact destination.

Just consult the MTR map and trace the route of each train line (route colored accordingly) to know where to get off and what train to hop on to next. It is fun and easy to ride the MTRs. HK’s transport system is so efficient, you won't worry about getting lost and you won't feel any discomfort. Enjoy the view while riding the trains.

You should know the nearest train exit to your destination as there are many exit points in a station. The exits are indicated by letters and sometimes combined with numbers. Do not be shy to look at the map in the stations if you get confused.

Official Start of Day 1 (Suggested itinerary):
Now you are in your hotel. Once you are settled, plan your itinerary for the day and the days to come if you can. Sometimes your itinerary will have to change because of circumstances beyond your control such as the weather, delays, or other concerns. The itinerary also depends on your hotel location. I suggest you book a hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) area, which is a strategic location in Hong Kong. There are high-end hotels and there are cheap ones in the area. If you are on a budget, try Golden Crown Court along Nathan Road near D1 exit of the MTR Station in TST. The place is quite small but it is clean, safe, and has basic amenities including free wi-fi connection. It is sandwiched by Standard Chartered and Citibank to the right of D1 exit.

If you have taken the morning flight, you might want to spend time until early afternoon to survey the vicinity of your hotel. Look for restaurants, shops, bus stops, tourist spots, and convenience stores. There are 7-11 stores in almost every corner of TST and perhaps in other areas as well.

Then you might want to check the museums or go on a Star Ferry cruise for the rest of the afternoon. By the evening, head to Avenue of the Stars and await the Symphony of Light show which starts at 8:00pm. Have your dinner near the area.

[How to go to Avenue of the Stars/Star Ferry: To be included soon]

After the show, you might want to go to Jordan for the Temple Street Night Market or to Mongkok for the Ladies Night Market. Jordan and Mong Kok are accessible by MTR, bus, or taxi. The MTR operates, I think, only until 10pm and some buses stopped plying their route by 12:30pm. Consider riding the taxi only if the two are no longer available. You can get to anywhere in HK just riding the MTR and the buses.

The Mong Kok area has better shops and wider variety of quality goods available. You can find lots of Nike shops in this area, but only a few products are on sale. (I was able to buy a good-priced Nike jacket at The Venetian in Macau.) You will enjoy shopping or just looking around in Mong Kok or Jordan that you might not notice it is already past midnight. Make sure to go back to your hotel in time to catch enough sleep for another series of activities the next day.

[How to go to Jordan/Mong Kok: To be included soon: ]

Second Day (Suggested itinerary):
In the morning, you might want to go to Ocean Park (Ticket costs HK$250) or to Macau via ferry. In Ocean Park, you can try many exciting rides such as The Abyss, Cable Car, and Roller Coaster and see amazing shows and attractions such as the Dolphin Show, featured 3D movie, and other animals of various shapes, colors, sizes, and origins. You can spend almost the entire day in Ocean Park and still not cover the entire expanse of the place.

[How to go to Ocean Park: To be included soon]

If you choose to go to Macau, prepare for a 2-hour ferry ride (Ticket costs around HK$140). The ferry, much like the SuperCat in Cebu, is safe and has comfortable seats. Have your passport ready and, again, fill out an immigration sheet, which is available upon arrival in Macau. If you do not plan to spend the whole day in Macau, get a city tour being offered by taxi operators in Macau Ferry Terminal. The tour will take you to key tourist attractions in Macau quickly to be able to go back to HK before night time. Do not fail to visit Macau Tower, St. Paul Ruins, and The Venetian or your Macau experience will not be complete. Free hotel shuttle buses (The Venetian, City of Dreams, Sands, MGM Grand, Wynn, etc.) have their own waiting areas outside Macau Ferry Terminal.

[How to go to Macau: To be included soon]

If you are back to HK by 6pm, head straight to The Peak for a spectacular view of Hong Kong Island at night. The tram station going to The Peak is near the HK-Macau Ferry Station. The tram will take you to The Peak (Round-Trip Ticket costs HK$56; because you can also take a bus to and from The Peak). You can find Madame Tussauds Wax Museum at The Peak but you need to buy another ticket (Costs around HK$200++) to get in.

[How to go to The Peak: To be included soon]

Since you are still in Hong Kong Island and if you want to experience night fun in HK, go to Causeway Bay or Lan Kwai Fong to cap the evening. These areas are high-end so prepare to spend a good chunk of dough.

[How to go to Causeway Bay/ LKF: To be included soon]

You can head back to your hotel by taxi. If you are nested in TST, the taxi ride would cost near HK$70.


Third Day (Suggested itinerary):
Try to wake up early despite the hangover and prepare for the Ngong Ping 360 cable ride (Round-trip ticket for Standard Cabin [slower, longer waiting time, and no glass floor] costs HK$107 per person or HK$169 per person for the Journey of Enlightenment Package; for Crystal Cabin [faster, shorter waiting time, with glass floor] it costs HK$157 per person or HK$219 per person with the package). If you have the money, I suggest you take the crystal cable car for a unique experience. Just buy the round-trip ticket without the package (featuring the shows "A Monkey’s Tale" and "Walking with Buddha"), which are just cartoon movies, if you want to save money.

You will enjoy the breathtaking view inside the cable car. At the peak, you will see the Big Buddha Statue and the Po Lin Monastery. There are restaurants and souvenir shops as well.

You can take your lunch at the peak or at the Tung Chung Station (which connects you to the Ngong Ping 360 terminal) where there are more restaurants to choose from.


[How to go to Ngong Ping: To be included soon]

After your lunch, ride the train from Tung Chung Station to Sunny Bay for the Disneyland adventure.

There is a dedicated train going to HK Disneyland (Ticket is HK$350 each) from the Sunny Bay Station. It is a very cute train which is by itself an attraction. The ride is a short one so your excitement will not be much delayed.

HK Disneyland is not as big as Ocean Park, you can actually cover the entire place in half a day. But you wouldn’t want to leave without seeing the Disney Fireworks display which starts at 7:30pm. In Disneyland, you should not miss the shows (Lion King and High School Musical), the train ride to take you around, the photo opportunities with the Disney characters, and the Disney parade. You can also enjoy Disney-inspired food and buy cute souvenir items there.

You will leave HK Disneyland feeling like a child again and singing “A Whole New World.”

Before going back to your hotel, you might want to cap the night at a coffee shop nearby. There are Starbucks Coffee shops in HK but the price of drinks is a lot more expensive than in Manila. Try the local coffee shops for a change.

[How to go to HK Disneyland: To be included soon: ]

Fourth Day (Suggested itinerary):
This is probably your last day so you need to catch up on some last-minute shopping. For this, you should not go far and just look around the area near your hotel. In TST, you can find shops for cheap perfume, gadgets, clothes (Giordano, Bossini, H&M), and the usual pasalubongs (key chain, magnets, purses, etc.).

To go to HK airport, just ride the MTR (by now you probably have already memorized the MTR routes) and in a few minutes you will be checking in for your flight back to Manila. If you are traveling Macau to Manila or Clark, you take your hotel shuttle bus or taxi to Macau Airport. There is no terminal fee in Macau or HK airport.

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Actual Itinerary

The above itinerary is suggested for you to maximize the time you have in HK or Macau. Our own travel itinerary was different. We missed the Symphony of Light Show, Star Ferry Cruise, and we failed to really experience the HK night life. But it was okay, we thought we can go back to HK if time would again permit and money is in hand.

So just for your reference, here is our actual itinerary.

We spent the first 4 days, 3 nights in HK and the last 1 day, 2 nights in Macau.

We took the Clark-HK route and arrived around 9:30am in HK.

First Day:
• Checked in at Golden Crown Court
• Roamed around TST
• Went to Temple Night Market

Second Day:
• Went to The Peak via Star Ferry
• Proceeded to Ocean Park
• Went back to TST (was not able to catch the Symphony of Light show)
• Shopped at Mong Kok until almost 1:00am

Third Day:
• Rode the cable car at Ngong Ping
• Proceeded to Disneyland
• Rested for the night


Fourth Day:
• Checked out at Hotel
• Travelled to Macau
• Checked in at Royal Hotel (a very nice 4-star lodge) in Macau.
• Went to The Venetian

Fifth Day:
• Checked out of hotel; left baggage at the counter
• Went to Macau Tower
• Proceeded to Senado Square in front of St. Dominic Church
• Visited St. Paul Ruins (walking distance from Senado Square)
• Went to City of Dreams and again at The Venetian
• Back to hotel
• Went to Macau Airport (two hours before flight schedule)
• Arrived in Manila almost 12 midnight

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Some Important Notes:
• Only a few locals in HK and Macau really speak and understand English. So be patient when communicating with them
• The Octopus card can also be used in buses, 7-11, and other establishments. It is reloadable. Minimum of HK$50 for each reload.
• Prepare exact fare when you ride the bus (if you do not have Octopus card). The driver does not give change.
• Prepare also exact fare when riding the taxi. Do not ask for receipt as it might incur you additional charge. The Octopus Card is not accepted by taxis.
• To save on bus fare in Macau, you can ride the free shuttle buses of hotels which stop at certain areas.
• Always bring your Map with you
• Bring a notebook computer or handheld device with wifi connection so you can consult the internet every now and then for more tips and keep in touch with the rest of the world (read: update Facebook status and upload photos).
• Be careful shopping in TST especially in gadget stores. Do not give money or your credit card right away unless you are very sure of a credible and quality purchase.
• Most restaurants open around lunchtime. If you are in TST, you can try Café de Coral in the 3rd floor of Cke Shopping Mall beside Chungking Mansion along Nathan Road for sumptuous yet affordable meals.
• Prepare to walk and walk and walk. So don’t wear high heels.
• Life in HK is fast-paced. People walk and move fast. Their escalators even run twice the normal speed.
• If the weather is cold, it’s really cold. If the weather is hot, it’s really hot.
• It would be more convenient to bring a traveler’s sling bag where you can keep your money, passport, and other essentials.
• Make sure your have access to a calculator not unless you are very good in Math. Trust me you will not stop computing the peso value of your would-be purchase, especially if you are budget-conscious.
• Do not be shy to take pictures, you are a tourist and people would not mind. Bring a video camera if you have one.
• Do not miss the Grand Canal Shoppes in The Venetian.
• HK$ is accepted in Macau, which has the Pataca as its currency.
• The power sockets in HK and Macau have three holes. Hotels usually provide rooms with adaptors or universal extension cords. If there is none, you can buy an adaptor from a hardware store at HK$10.
• Vehicles in HK and Macau are right-hand drive. Traffic flows in the opposite direction. This also applies when walking on the streets or taking the stairs, so always keep left.
• Always carry around your passport.
• Hong Kongers don’t laugh often even if they are in groups. They are usually silent, minding their own business. If you hear a noisy bunch of people, they are definitely Pinoys.
• The honesty system works in HK. Stores have no security guards and their merchandize just lay there for shoplifters to feast on. But don’t be one. It would be a shame.
• Malls implement no security check, which is done only at the airport.
• Try the grilled squid with chili offered in food stalls. Smells good and tastes even better. Just make sure you have hand sanitizer.

NBA 2010 Playoffs Prediction

It’s been a while since I wrote something about basketball. Usually at this time when the NBA Playoffs are about to start, I would turn into a Nostradamus trying to predict winners in the Conference match-ups, only to end up always with the Detroit Pistons – obviously my team – winning the Championship. I am convincing no one with my predictions though. I am just a fan who loves to watch and analyze the game.

So with a heavy heart (because the Pistons fumbled it this season due to bad acquisitions), I present here my forecast for the 2010 NBA Playoffs. I would do away discussing each potential match-up and just focus on the teams that I think have chances of winning it all the way.

My list only has two: the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Los Angeles Lakers. Half of me is saying this is LeBron James’ year, while the other half says Kobe Bryant could rain on his parade.

The Cavs have the regular season’s best record (61 wins as of today) because it assembled a solid supporting crew for King James. Now Cleveland has one foot in the Finals and it needs the other one to step up to get them the Larry O’Brien trophy. This means Cleveland has to show something more in the Playoffs where the teams become a lot stronger and more competitive. The Cavs’ success would depend on LeBron asserting himself more as the leader of the team without trying to impress too much (like making unnecessary jump shots and dishes) and on the other players effectively playing their roles as back-up when he is on the court.

I see Cleveland dominating the East Playoffs in big fashion. But the Cavs should be careful not to show a slight weakness against any team because it would give the West contender a tactical edge, especially if it’s Kobe and the Lakers who have been through ups and downs in the Finals.

LA is the only team, I think, that can give the Cleveland a good challenge. Kobe does what LeBron can do, even better sometimes. The Lakers became a tougher team with pesky Ron Artest who can definitely hound James to displeasure until he loses his focus. A healthy Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum will be daunting for O’Neal and the other Cavs big men to match up with. I believe LA’s only weakness is at the pointguard position though Derek Fisher cannot be discounted as he always carries a surprise in his pocket.

Unlike the Cavs, however, the Lakers face a stiffer challenge in the West. Dallas, in particular, worked up its roster well and can give the Lakers a serious threat for the Conference crown. Denver is a danger in the second round. And even Kevin Durant’s much-improved Oklahoma City is capable of upsetting LA in the first round.

The key for LA is not to tire out. The Lakers are not a young team but they have enough arsenals to outduel opponents. They just have to spread them out evenly through four quarters and they will be fine. The Lakers will always be doubted but Kobe would carry them on his shoulders each time the team would be down.

As for the other teams: Orlando and Boston have not improved despite significant changes in their line-ups. One of the two can only go as far as the Conference Finals. Denver and Dallas have many individual talents but their prowess as a team is not yet enough to bring them to the NBA Finals. Oklahoma would be exciting to watch but they will only be learners in the Playoffs.

So will it be LA or Cleveland?

The smart choice to win the Finals is the Cavaliers. But I’m picking the Lakers to repeat because they remain strong and they KNOW how to win a championship.

What goes 'round comes 'round

It was in the afternoon of Holy Thursday when I received a text message: “TO ALL FRIENDS OF MR. X (Name withheld to protect privacy). WE ARE SORRY TO INFORM U THAT MR. X PASSED AWAY EARLY IN THE MORNING DUE TO A MOTOR ACCIDENT. PLS PRAY FOR HIS SOUL.”

The message was sent through the cellphone number of Mr. X, my friend. Distraught by the news, I thought at that moment that someone cared to use my friend’s cellphone to inform his relatives and friends about what happened.

I asked in reply: “Is this true?”

The texter briefly answered: “YES.”

I dialed the number twice from a different cellphone to confirm the news but my calls were not taken. I surmised the person at the other end was hesitant to take the call.

Mr. X is a childhood friend. We grew up in a neighborhood in Sta. Mesa. While he has not been to our old place for a long time since he found a job to keep, I still frequently go there to visit my mother, sister, nieces, nephew, and recently an apo (from a niece).

Since I planned to go to Sta. Mesa that Holy Thursday to while away time, I thought I should also ask around if the news already reached my friend’s relatives who still live in the area. I sent my sister as an emissary. It turned out they had no contact with my friend and they were very shocked to hear what happened. My friend’s uncle, who was taking an afternoon nap when my sister came knocking at their door, immediately went up to me to check the story. I showed him the text message and even tried calling my friend’s number in his presence. When no one answered again, I just gave him my friend’s number so he can try to contact it himself.

A few hours later, I received a text from my friend’s number: “Sorry pre, Happy April Fool’s Day. Langya ka, ang dami nag-text sa akin. Hindi ko na uulitin ‘to next year.”

“Pusang Gala,” I blurted out as I read the message. I shook my head in disbelief – not because I was fooled but because it was foolish for someone to joke about his own death.  I also felt bad – not because I worried too much but because I made my friend’s relatives worry over nothing.

I gave my friend a subtle tongue-lashing for his awful prank. I told him I was about to collect donations for his funeral; that I would have been richer by a few hundreds had he not revealed the joke in time.

I don’t know how the others reacted to his prank text. Maybe he would never hear the end of it from his relatives.

What I certainly know is that he learned something important on a Fool’s Day: Choose your prank wisely.

Party Poopers

I am aghast by the audacity of some groups who throw themselves in the national election arena as Party List candidates.

As far as I know, the Party List System was created to give the sectors representing the minorities in our society special seats in the House of Representatives to espouse their welfare and causes in the crafting of laws. But it is turning out to be just an avenue for power seekers to become honorable members of the House by disguising themselves as representing the marginalized sectors. Thus, we can see Party List candidates campaigning around the Metro with a caravan of SUVs bearing their election posters. How can these supposed marginalized sector organizations afford such means to support their campaign?

The term minority or marginalized has also been abused that even small segments of society whose interests are clearly not for the advancement of the common good can all of a sudden become one. For instance, I don’t think it is necessary to have representatives for professional and commercial associations in the House.

The COMELEC should weed out candidates for Party List which do not represent the real minorities. I even think the nominees should be among the minorities themselves to give authenticity to the party. And yes, the names of the nominees should be divulged for transparency.

Unless something is done to cure the loopholes in the Party List System, it will gradually become just a foolish exercise of representative government.

Lessons From a Jellyfish

In a recent swimming expedition in Puerto Prinsesa City (Palawan), I got acquainted with a fierce sea creature – the jellyfish. And this is one encounter I will remember quite painfully.

Prior to this, I was never really threatened by a jellyfish. I knew, however, that it is dangerous to get close to one after watching a scene in Finding Nemo where Merlin panicked when he found himself and Dory amid a swarm of jellyfish in the deep sea. But is this thing really that harmful?

I screamed ouch several times learning the answer. The pain of a jellyfish sting can be compared to a thousand needles pressing against your skin with a bit of electric shock. I was lucky only a few of its stingers caught my arms. My girlfriend was not, it got almost her entire right arm bruised.

Just like any experience, it taught me some lessons that I would like to share with everyone to serve as a caution or reminder whenever you swim in a beach or anywhere in the sea where a jellyfish could be present.

• Be wary of things floating in the water whether you are in the shallow or deep portion of the sea. As jellyfish are almost transparent, they blend with the water. Experts say jellyfish usually swim in the deep but during the summer when the water is warm, they swim towards the shore. Wear goggles so you could see better when you are swimming.

• Do not wear bracelets, anklets, or necklace with shiny or colorful beads when you are swimming. This has no scientific basis, but I just surmised that perhaps the jellyfish came near us because it saw the tiny beads of our anklets and bracelets as food. FYI: Jellyfish have up to 32 eyes called ocelli.

If and when you are attacked by a jellyfish (hope this does not happen, of course). Here are the things that you should do:

• Do your best to stay calm when you feel the sting of a jellyfish. I was advised by a boatman that you should not make sudden movements as the stingers would just smoothly run through your skin like satin. If you jerk uncontrollably (which would be the normal initial reaction), the stingers would cling tightly to your skin and you would feel more the pain.

• When you got yourself out of the water and you still have stingers attached to your skin, the best thing to do is to pour lukewarm water on the affected area to remove them. The warm temperature will help loosen the grip of the stingers on your skin. You have heard of course about pee being a first aid cure  for jellyfish sting. Yes it is because pee has a warm temperature. So if there is no lukewarm water available, find someone who can pee on you. Seriously.

• Use vinegar to disinfect the affected area of your skin. But do this when you have removed all the stingers. Because according to the trusted boatman, the stingers would seep into your skin as a reaction to vinegar.

• See a doctor immediately if the sting caused considerable harm on you. The doctor would give you further treatment and recommend what medicines to take to ease the pain and prevent any infection. Some jellyfish have venomous stingers.

• If there is swelling aside from the bruises, doctors say it is just water that seeped through your skin. You would be advised to keep that area (arms or legs in particular) raised so that the water would be distributed in your body.

After this encounter with the jellyfish, I will never see or think of it the same way again. I never saw it in the first place and might still not see it if I get near one again (fingers crossed). But at least now I know more about jellyfish, including the fact that it is spelled with one word.

This is one hell of a lesson learned.