Rico J. Puno Don't Want To See Richard Gomez in Politics

Puno, who answered 37 out of 40 questions, got serious when questions about politics were thrown at him.

First, he was asked who is the most corrupt politician for him. The Makati councilor answered vaguely, "Most corrupt is, of course, the one now in administration." Then, he added, "They say it's the First Gentleman [Mike Arroyo], I don't know if that's true."

One of the DJs asked, "Sinong artista ang ayaw mong makita sa politics?" Rico answered without hesitation, "Si Richard [Gomez] nga ayoko. I hope he changes his mind."

The singer further explained, "Kasi, first of all, he doesn't have the experience."

He also added that Richard should have started running for administrative office, like the mayoralty post, before vying for the legislative office.

"Making laws is different... You know, minsan mas makakasira doon sa iba na qualified kung tumakbo, kapag pinilit pa," said Rico J.

Puno, however, clarified that there's nothing personal to his comments. He just thought that, "If you're serious about entering the politics, maski na mas mababa ng kaunti roon—maski na barangay tanod, pwede naman."

When asked who is the most plastic politician for him, Rico answered Senator Lito Lapid. "I hope he doesn't mind this, si Lito Lapid kasi he was elected as senator for six years, pagkatapos he wants to go to Makati and tell people, tell the mayor [Jejomar Binay], he wants to continue what he is doing today in Makati.

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Cesar Montano Tatak Barko, Tatak Senado...

Comelec release an ultimatum order for Cesar Montano about his running for senate. He was ordered to strip down all his billboards in less than three days.
But before that, I am not in favor for showbiz personalities running for public office. I mean, they already excel on their craft in acting and people look-up them as that but if they will serve for the people, I don’t think so. I have no doubt Cesar Montano is world-class actor and a very good director and I look-up him for that. But to join politics is a dirty game, specially in the Philippines, worst he joined the Team Unity which also has been receiving a failed remarks from the people. Maritoni Fernandez, a fellow TV and movie personality aired her opinions on celebrities running or joining in politics and said “I’m not so much for it because I think it takes a certain amount of background, a certain kind of education, and a certain kind of upbringing to become a good public servant, you know. And you have to have the heart for the people talaga.”
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A Kagay-anon in Texas, USA writes ‘On Subtle Racism’

ON SUBTLE RACISM! By Thelma Macas

I had a clash with a colleague in our English Department when one of them made a lesson writing about Asia being not only POOR AND VIOLENT; but he made up a character of which he implied that the only way out of this poor lady was to marry an American.

Maybe he has not heard and knew how many world-class workers we have in the medical, business and other fields of endeavor all over the world. I talked to him about how offended I was and he in turn had to ask an apology.

But that was not the end of the story, the next day, I found my Holocaust Mini Gallery in the hallway was mutilated! Guess what, he came to me and told me he was the one who did it. He said one of the pictures we posted was not so good to post. It is one great example of ignorance as teachers, we are suppose to show the truth! There was even this big brouhaha about some group of people who wants to deny that the Holocaust was a big hoax! Again he apologized for acting irresponsibly by taking it off the wall, without even asking permission from me. We’ll I was just stunned at how he retaliated, I only expressed my opinion of which by law I am entitled, he sent me a scud missile instead.

It is tough! Tough indeed to stand for your right as an Asian and Filipino! One thing is also clear to me though, my American co- teachers know how to say sorry and apologize! And to say that I am a forgiving person, is an understatement. Indeed there are always two sides of the coin and these will teach us a lot in terms of developing our character.

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The Senatorial Candidates' Political Ads

It seems that most politicians today have become a running joke in every street corner, restaurant, office, and even in schools. Just turn on the TV and watch their political ads — you’ll realize how much they’ve started to look down on the intelligence of the Filipino people. Their ads are as tasteless as their so-called “public service.”

Take for example Pichay’s famous tagline: “Itanim sa Senado.”
Really? We don’t need the Senate to turn into a vegetable farm — a kangkongan or pechayan. What we need is a clean and honest Senate, not one that grows empty promises.

Then there’s Defensor’s “walking ’tol” and “standing ’tol.” Sorry, Mr. Defensor, but we’re not looking for brotherhood in the Senate — we’re looking for real senators who will serve the people, not their barkada.

And who can forget Ed Angara’s “Ang Gara ng Buhay” and his Nine-Point Agenda?
When will these never-ending promises stop? How can life ever become “gara” (grand) for Filipinos if it’s still the same people leading the country — the same ones who’ve already failed us countless times before?

Then we have Joker Arroyo with his slogan, “Kung bad ka, lagot ka!”
Really? Since when have the “bad” ever been punished here in the Philippines? Please don’t make a joke out of us, Mr. Joker — we’ve had enough broken promises.

“Magsaysay is our guy!” Hahaha! I honestly thought I read it wrong — maybe if it said “gay” instead of “guy,” I’d at least get a good laugh and maybe even vote for Ate Gay instead.

Senadora Tessie ‘TAO’ Oreta, you say you’re for the people — TAO — but when did you last really look at us as people? That slogan’s long expired.

Then there’s Ralph Recto’s ad with the dancers. What’s that supposed to mean? Cha-cha? Is that a subtle hint that you’re pushing for Charter Change again?

As for Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, I barely remember hearing your name mentioned in the Senate before. Were you really there? Winks.

Migz Zubiri, Mr. Biofuels himself — “Boom! Boom! Boom!”
Well, at least you supported the Biofuel Law — I’ll give you that. I just hope it wasn’t another way to fuel your political ambitions.

And what about Cesar Montano? “Tatak Barko, Tatak Senado”? What does that even mean? Or Chavit Singson — “Pag madaldal ka, Chavit ka!” Well, you sure got yourself chavit-ed into plenty of controversies already.

Finally, the whole Team Unity with their proud claim:

“Pro-poor, pro-growth, pro-modernization.”

Seriously? If you were really pro-poor, maybe there wouldn’t be this many poor people today. The truth is, you’re pro-poor because you need the poor — without them, your political careers wouldn’t survive.

Pro-modernization? We’re still far behind other nations.
Pro-growth? The only thing growing in your offices is your wealth — money, money, and more money.

And now you expect us Filipinos to still believe these recycled promises?
For me, that’s a big NO. HINDI. NO WAY.

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Askmen's Top 10 Tips To Do This Valentines Day

It's that time of year again: relationship "make it or break it" time. If you want to make sure that you keep your girlfriend and not slip up, then perhaps you should examine the following suggestions of things you could do for your lovely lady on Valentine's Day.

Number 10
Reenact your first date
One of the most romantic things you can do is get nostalgic with your girlfriend. Women go gaga for guys who remember the details of the past, such as the restaurant you went to on your first date, what you ate and you did afterward. It will be like celebrating your anniversary and you can combine gifts with cards that mention how happy you are that you met her.

Number 9
Partake in a physical activity
No, not that kind of physical activity; I mean something that will get your heartbeat going, like ice skating or going for a hike in the woods and bringing wine to drink on the way. Such activities are perfect to boost an old and predictable relationship, and nothing will kick start a new relationship better than such a thrill ride. If you take her out, take her to a pottery and painting shop where you can actually talk, be creative and share your thoughts. If you want to invite her over, make sure you cook something together so you're both engaged in the activity.

Number 8
Go for the massage
Either you give her a full-body massage or better yet, reserve a double massage for him and her. You should both take some time off and enjoy some relaxation together. It is lover's day after all, not just girlfriend's day. Any kind of spa getaway is perfect for Valentine's Day.

Number 7
Make a path of rose petals
Girls flip over temptation, flirting and teasing, so buy a lot of rose petals or even potpourri, and leave a trail from the entrance of the house to your bedroom. Leave her a little gift on the bed and she'll feel like it's a romantic treasure hunt, and the rewards will be spectacular.

Number 6
Rent a hotel room & pretend you're tourists
There is something exciting about not having to clean up the bedroom afterward, so rent a hotel room, grab some bubbly, and use all your senses as you pretend to be out-of-town tourists on a love journey.

Number 5
Don't forget to do your homework
Nothing spices up a mundane relationship as much as staying at home, renting an erotic movie and "getting to know one another" better all over again. This is obviously not suitable for a first date if you catch my drift, but perfect for couples who have been together for some time.

Number 4
Have sex in public
Although this may not be for everybody -- and all climates -- some couples will get a thrill of a lifetime if they perform the act on risky grounds. It definitely serves as a bonding period and is sure to serve as a great inside joke between the two of you for years to come.

Number 3
Get away
If your work, time and budget allow it, plan a two or three-day vacation getaway, specifically at a ski or spa resort. This is guaranteed wild action, and may even take place outdoors.

Number 2
Dress up
Dress up as if you are going to the opera, and go to a restaurant or just have dinner at home. Girls love an excuse to get all dolled up and the fact that you'll be getting dressed up will make anything you decide to do seem like a special occasion. This will be telling her you think she is special, and she'll love it.

Number 1
Pop the question
If you think that the time is right and you have that look in your eyes... if you are sick of the single life, and if you are... well, when the I's are dotted and the T's are crossed, then maybe, just maybe, there is no better time to propose to her.

A time to shine
Hopefully this article gave you some fresh ideas for what to do with your girlfriend on Valentine's Day. You can combine some of them to make it an all-day event and you can modify as you see fit. Remember: Use the special occasion to make her feel special, and she'll be on cloud nine. Have fun and happy Valentine's Day.

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Showdown for the Senate Elections

The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) main office in Intramuros and the nearby Manila Hotel where an administration political convention was being held, were deluged with the candidates’ supporters including entertainment stars backed by brass bands.

Huh! Philippine elections are now so showbiz, the candidates really proved the masses that the Traditional Politics was gone and Showbiz Politics is in.

The crowd buildup began when Mega Star Sharon Cuneta Pangilinan accompanied her husband Sen. Francis Pangilinan followed by Sen. Ralph Recto, who was with his wife, Lipa Mayor Vilma Santos. Not only that, Richard Gomez bring with him his lovely Lucy Torres, Singson was even accompanied by boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and some other candidates filed for their certificate of candidacy make some gimmicks to draw crowd at the Commission on Election. Despite an order barring them from leaving their workstations, COMELEC personnel went out of their offices to gaze at the movie personalities. Filipino nga naman o, kailangan pa ba na pag fiestahan yun?

They are even making dry gimmicks for their slogans and TV campaigns. Like Mike Defensor’s "walking ‘tol" and "standing ‘tol" posters, saying they showed his frustration to become tall. ‘Tol is a street word for brother. Some even used the church by attending mass at the Cathedral

If these candidates will get a position in the senate, what will be there platforms, more to showbiz and less to the people? I don’t think politics is for popularity or good looks; Politics is more on serving the people not entertaining them. We already seen the performances of these people and I hope you think before voting for them.

Paenggoy even said “Filipinos are poor and have local economies that do poorly against Asian neighbors. That is why more have to work abroad and look for anything that will make them earn more (dollar), whether it is Care giving, nurse, OFW, etc. But such achievements will not be able to provide sufficient livelihood to most. Human capital flight also has incredible costs to those who remain; for example, the PMA reports that the country may soon experience sever crisis due to a shortage of doctors and nurses. And that is taking place in a country where many shortages already take place, from rice to medicine to police men to teachers.”

Since May 14, 2007 elections is near, think carefully who’s candidates to vote for that you think and are sure can make or help our economy better not for worst. Let us STOP too much politicking, think for the good of our country and fellowmen, VOTE WISELY.

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The B^$^&$t Memo

While in the middle of writing and replying some emails, I received a memorandum from a newly promoted Shift leader about my being a latecomer. But why is it that only me and the other two got a memo? And what about the other latecomers next to me? Is it because I am the one who has most late? Whether you are late for only 10 minutes compared to an hour late is still late, so why not give the others a memo too? That made me thinks there is unequal treatment going on in this company. Anyway, they are deducting every minute on my late and that is additional profit to the company because even if I am late or not, the client still pays the company in full. That’s b$^$&t… I am doing my job satisfactorily for the client but they keep on worrying about my being late. There are some people in the office who come in an hour or two earlier for their shift but what are they doing here in the office? Playing, chatting, loitering and hanging around in the office without doing anything for the good of the company. And what makes it more b$^%$^t is that they are being recognized and was given merit for doing it. I am not that idiot grabbing for that recognition just to have extra hundreds of pesos in my pocket and a fancy certificate for just coming in the office an hour or two earlier.

I admit, I am a BIG latecomer but I just want fairness.

This is not a hate post or what, I am just expressing what I have to express. I am pissed off.

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Apple challenges music firms on anti-piracy stance

SAN FRANCISCO (MarketWatch) - Steve Jobs on Tuesday issued a challenge to the music industry, saying Apple Inc. would support an open online music marketplace if the four largest music companies would allow their music to be sold in digital form without anti-piracy protections.

Jobs' proposal is controversial because record companies would have to drop their insistence on the use of digital-rights management software that blocks unauthorized downloads. But Jobs, outlining his stance in an essay posted on the Apple Web site, maintained that by doing so, the entire music industry would benefit.

Jobs said the so-called DRM software hasn't "worked, and may never work, to halt music piracy," and said the music companies receive few benefits from selling 90% of their music on CDs, which don't have the software built in, and the balance online with DRM technology.

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Daniel Radcliffe in "Equus"

I just want to share these photos of a grown-up Harry Potter Daniel Radcliffe from his upcoming play entitled Equus. This might be of interest to those Harry Potter fanatics out there; your little boy Harry is now Hairy Potter.

More Photos here

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