TITO SOTTO: Opppsss He Did It Again!

TITO SOTTO: Opppsss He Did It Again!

Comedian and now Senator-elect Vicente"Tito" Sotto's Privilege Speech today, September 5, 2012 side by side with Robert F. Kennedy’s speech during Day of Affirmation, June 6 1966.

Robert F. Kennedy:

Few will have the greatness to bend history itself, but each of us can work to change a small portion of events, and in the total of all those acts will be written the history of this generation.

It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is shaped.

Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.


Vicente Sotto III:

Iilan ang magiging dakila sa pagbali ng kasaysayan, subalit bawat isa sa atin ay maaaring kumilos, gaano man kaliit, para ibahin ang takbo ng mga pangyayari. Kapag pinagsama-sama ang ating munting pagkilos, makalilikha tayo ng totalidad na magmamarka sa kabuuan ng kasaysayan ng henerasyong ito. Ang mga hindi-mabilang na iba't ibang galaw ng katapangan at paninindigan ang humuhubog sa kasaysayan ng sangkatauhan. Tuwing naninindigan tayo para sa isang paniniwala, tuwing kumikilos tayo para mapabuti ang buhay ng iba, tuwing nilalabanan natin ang kawalan ng katarungan, nakalilikha tayo ng maliliit na galaw. Kapag nagkasama-sama ang mumunting galaw na mga ito, bubuo ito ng isang malakas na puwersang kayang magpabagsak maging ng pinakamatatag na dingding ng opresyon.

Sought for an answer for the alleged Tagalized version of the former US Senator's speech, Sen. Tito Sotto said he was not aware that the passages came from a Kennedy speech. He said a friend texted it to him then he had it translated in Tagalog.

The senator only laughed off the allegation that he copied from a Kennedy original. "Marunong na palang managalog si Kennedy ha," he said. "Sino ngayon ang kinopyahan ko na Tagalog? Meron ba silang alam na pinanggalingan na tagalog nun?" he asked.

Mukha ho yatang napapadalas na Senador Tito Sotto III. Sino ho ba ang gumagawa ng mga speech ninyo? Maari mo na po yata ninyong sibakin yan. Masyado ho niya kayong nilalagay sa kahihiyan hindi lamang sa sambayanan Pilipino kungdi sa buong mundo.

Buti ho kami ay hamak na BLOGGER LANG, eh kayo ho ay isang kagalang galang na senador, ang labis na panggagaya ang maghahatid sa inyo sa putikan este kapahamakan dahil pwede ho kayong matagurian na "Plagiarist". Pwede mo naman pong i quote, basta may attribution.

Maaaring ipinagkikibit balikat lamang po ninyo at pinagtatawanan ang nakaraang panggagaya ninyo sa mga sinulat ng isang Amerikanang blogger dahil sa estado at posisyon ninyo sa senado. Pero pag isipan po ninyong mabuti kung ano ang dulot ng pang aalipusta ninyo sa mga hamak na blogger lang na yan. Pinapansin at napapansin na po ang mga sinasabi ninyo. Pag isipan mo pong mabuti bago kayo magbukas ng bibig. Pag-aralan po ninyo kung ang inyong mga sinasabi ay sadyang galing sa kaibuturan ng inyong apdo este puso.
 

Bakit po ba puro mga sinulat ng mga taga Amerika ang laging ginagaya ng inyong tagasulat? Gayahin naman po niya ang Pinoy. Tangkilikin ang sariling atin. Go Pinoy!

Tagalog translation of ripples on google: galaw, bulwak, kulo.

Ripple of hope should not be translated verbatimly. Ripple of hope simply means "Nagbibigay ng kaunting pag-asa" and not "Kaunting galaw". You should tell that to your translator po.

Geez, I can't help reacting. Opps, may I go out now Siree.

Bawal akong ma stress.

QC: P2 Plastic Bag Fee Takes Effect StartingToday

Good News to Mother Earth! QC: P2 Plastic Bag Fee Takes Effect StartingToday!

All establishments in Quezon City will start collecting two pesos (P2.00) per plastic bag used every time customers in QC fail to bring their own bag regardless of its size starting today, September 1, 2012.  

Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance enforces a Plastic Recovery System Fee that charges and collect a fix amount of two pesos  The fee that will be collected will be part of Green fund that is intended to fund various initiatives for the benefit of the environment.

Exempted from this ordinance is the use of plastic bags with no handles, holes or strings that are commonly used for wrapping unpacked fresh foods and cooked foods.
 
Reusable Bag users will be given incentives in a point system scheme, giving points that can later on be used for purchase, and Green Lane, a special counter for customers with reusable bags.

QC government currently implements the ban in using plastic bags and Styrofoam in key city offices and hospitals particularly the QC City Hall complex, Novaliches District Center, Quezon City General Hospital and Novaliches District Hospital.

The fee is earmarked for a "green fund" that will be used by businesses to fund environmental initiatives. Violators of the ordinance would pay a fine not exceeding P1000 for the first offense, and P3,000 for the second offense. The third offense would warrant a fine not exceeding P5000, and the cancellation of business permit.

The Plastic Bag Reduction Ordinance was Introduced by Councilor Dorothy Delarmente.
 

Plastic recovery has been successfully implemented in other Asian countries. I believe it can be done in the Philippines too. I remember while we are vacationing in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia way back 2009 we had to pay for plastic bags. The good news is you can ask for your items to be put inside a small box. Well, that was in Malaysia, I just don't know if that is the same here in the Philippines. I'll update you guys on this next time.

Ladies Night at Buddha-Bar Manila

An Invitation to all the jovial, lovely ladies of the cosmopolitan Metro, brace yourself to celebrate this August 31, 2012, as Buddha-Bar Manila stirs up an enthralling revelry that will surely enliven Manila’s party scene. Buddha-Bar Manila is opening its doors for Ladies First!—a night for all women who know how to party in style. Manila’s hottest DJ trio of Ornusa Cadness, Mia Ayesa, and Sanya Smith—collectively known as The Zombettes, will provide the unique world-famous Buddha-Bar music, soothing yet sensual that will transport you to a place away from the clatter and clutter of everyday life. The affair will be hosted by iconic radio DJ Sam YG, plus prizes like an e-gadget and a French designer bag will be raffled to all the lady attendees. Ladies First! is truly set to fuel the fabulous crowd all night.

But what makes it even more exciting is that the place is not just a typical setting with an open dance floor and couches on the sides. As a franchise of the world renowned bar-lounge-restaurant chain conceived by the late Raymond Visan in Paris, France in 1996, Buddha-Bar Manila carries the Buddha-Bar signature sophistication that has awed even the crowds of Monte Carlo, Kiev, Prague, Budapest, Mexico, Dubai, Beirut, Cairo and Tblisi. Buddha-Bar Manila has the same grandeur and opulence, with mystical interiors coupled with a glorious expanse filled with ornate fixtures, subdued amber lightning, and eclectic Asian décor.

And of course, what’s a party without delicacies and thirst-quenchers? Palates are guaranteed to feast with Buddha-Bar’s wide array of drinks and dishes that are all conjured with first-class ingredients and gustative concepts. With cuisine that perfectly fuse the strong Asian flavors with delicate French influences, dishes like Seared Sesame Tuna with Shiitake Vinaigrette, Fillet Mignon cooked “Teppan Yaki” Style, and a full selection of sushi palates will truly lift any party up a few notches.

A Classy Destination in the Metro

With or without themed events, Buddha-Bar Manila is always poised to satisfy its guests. In addition to its luscious treats and drinks, the mix of original Buddha-Bar music— ambient tracks and chill-out grooves— complement its overall ambiance. And since Buddha-Bar is known for its world-class DJs, it also offers compilations of musical collections that are exclusively selected by these DJs and stamped uniquely Buddha-Bar.

The newest lifestyle destination that is nestled in Makati at Picar Place has now become the haven for people who want to escape the frenzy of urban life and bask in Buddha-Bar Manila’s fantastic backdrop. Formally launched in January, Buddha-Bar Manila’s opening was graced by the presence of top fashion models Tweety de Leon-Gonzales, Mariana Benipayo, Bianca Valerio, fashion designers JC Buendia and Randy Ortiz, TV personality Rovilson Fernandez, and other prominent and discerning individuals who all have a penchant for classy party spots.

So ladies, mark your calendars and experience the exceptional delight first-hand this August 31. Feel free to bring your gentlemen friends along and be dazzled as you revel in the spotlight on a stylish night of music and culinary delight—only at Buddha-Bar Manila.

Ladies First! is Buddha-Bar Manila’s special ladies night out on August 31. For only P1,000( One thousand pesos), every guest is entitled to two (2) complimentary drinks. Plus all the ladies will get the chance to go home with an

•  e-gadget 
•  or an iconic French designer bag. 

For ticket reservations, call (02) 856-6719/6859/5738.

Buddha-Bar Manila is located at Picar Place, Kalayaan Avenue 
Open six days a week from 12nn until 2am (3am on weekends). 

For more information, visit <www.buddhabarmanila.com>

VIDEO OF PNOY'S EULOGY TO JESSE ROBREDO

“Mission accomplished na siya sa mundong ito.” (He has accomplished his mission in this world.)

The wife of the late Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo said her husband often wondered if his works in the national government were appreciated. On the day he is laid to rest, Robredo got a resounding answer from his boss, President Benigno Aquino III.

Aquino paid a final tribute to Robredo, hailing him as a trailblazer in his administration’s campaign for a straight and narrow path.

Aquino delivered the eulogy for Robredo before a packed crowd of Robredo’s family, friends, Cabinet members, colleagues, supporters and well-wishers at the Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia in Naga City on Tuesday, August 28.

The President summed up the various roles Robredo played in his 54 years.

“Nawalan po ng asawa at ama ang kanyang pamilya; nawalan po ang bayan ng isang tapat at mahusay na pinuno. Nawalan po ako ng isang kapatid sa opisyal na pamilya sa Gabinete, ng kasangga sa mga ipinaglalaban, at ng kapartido,” Aquino said. (His family lost a husband and father; the nation lost a faithful and competent leader. I lost a brother in my official family in the Cabinet, a comrade in advocacies, a partymate.)

Ultimately, though, Aquino said his loss was personal.

“Nawalan po ako ng isang mabuting kaibigan.” (I lost a good friend.)

Aquino said during the hours Robredo’s body had not yet been recovered, he was hoping the Secretary would suddenly show up and apologize for getting everyone worried.

Robredo’s plane crashed off Masbate on August 18. Aquino led the search operations in Masbate. On August 21, divers recovered Robredo’s body.

HIGHEST HONOR. Leni Robredo receives the Legion of Honor award on behalf of her late husband from President Aquino.

‘What you see is what you get’

After days of tributes and testimonials from those close to Robredo, it was Aquino’s turn to answer the question: who was Robredo?

“Talaga pong huwarang lingkod-bayan si Jesse: nakatuon palagi sa kapwa at handang magsakripisyo. Sa lahat ng mga nakakausap ko, siya ang taong walang kapasepasensya sa bola. Kay Jesse, what you see is what you get.” (Jesse was truly a model public servant: focused on others and ready to sacrifice. Among the many I have talked to, he is the person who hates flattery. In Jesse, what you see is what you get.)

Aquino recalled fond times with Robredo, particularly when the Cabinet would unwind through songs. He said Robredo would look for someone to sing with and was happy to share the chorus with a colleague.

“Pinakabuo ang kanyang ngiti kapag pasampa na siya sa entablado; tawa po siya nang tawa.” (His smile was biggest when he is onstage. He kept laughing.)

Aquino said this memory represents Robredo’s brand of leadership.

“Hindi siya naging kuntento sa status quo; pinatunayan niya sa Naga na posible ang pagbabago. Posibleng madaig ang sistemang matagal nang nangingibabaw; posibleng madaig ang mga pulitikong napakatagal namayagpag at kinasangkapan ang pusisyon para sa pansariling interes.” (He was not content with the status quo; he showed in Naga that change is possible. He showed that the prevailing system can be overcome, that we can defeat politicians who have long ruled and used their position for their personal interest.)

Aquino added, “Trailblazer po si Jesse sa tuwid na daan. Pinatunayan niyang puwede palang magtagumpay sa pulitika nang hindi nagiging trapo.” (Jesse was a trailblazer in the straight and narrow path. He showed you can succeed in politics without being a traditional politician.)

Aquino’s frontman

As an alter ego, Aquino said Robredo was one of a kind. While there are those who wait for the President to take the lead in addressing problems, Robredo himself would take the initiative.

“Si Jesse po, kabilang sa mga bibihirang tao na ang sasabihin, ‘Sir, ako na lang ang haharap, ako na lang ang pu-pronta.’” (Jesse is among those who will say, ‘Sir, I will be the one to face this.’)

At the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the President said Robredo was a fast worker, whose policy was to do everything ASAP.

The President recalled the time that informal settlers asked for help via text message because it was flooding and they were in the danger zone.

“Nag-text po sa atin na nanghihingi ng tulong at saklolo; kinakabahan sila sa paglilipat, at nagtatanong kung may kabuhayan ba silang daratnan. Kinausap po sila ni Jesse. Matapos ang dalawang oras na meeting, ang mga SOS text, naging thank you text na po. Salamat Jesse!” (They texted us asking for help. They were nervous about being relocated and were asking if they will have livelihood. Jesse was talking to them. After two hours of meeting, the SOS text messages became ‘thank you’ text messages. Thank you, Jesse!)

IMPRESSIVE FAMILY. Aquino thanks the Robredo family for their strength and for carrying the nation despite their grief.

Loss like Ninoy

Aquino said he witnessed how devoted Robredo was to his family. In the times he treated his Cabinet to meals, Aquino said Robredo would beg off if the event fell on a weekend.

“Sagrado sa kanya ang oras kasama ang pamilya. Palagi siyang nagmamadaling makauwi sa Naga.” (Family time to him was sacred. He was always rushing to go home to Naga.)

The President also paid tribute to Robredo’s widow, Leni, and daughters Aika, Patricia and Jillian for their strength throughout the ordeal.

“Talagang pinapahanga n’yo kami, dahil kayo pa ang nagbibigay ng lakas sa amin, kayo pa ang nagbibitbit sa amin.” (You really impressed us because you are the ones giving us strength. You are the ones carrying us through.)

Aquino said Robredo’s loss reminded him of the death of his father, the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. Yet like the generation of heroes inspired by his father, Aquino said he was certain Robredo’s death would spark the rise of new Filipino heroes.

The President ended his eulogy on a joyful note.

“Kaya’t huwag na po tayong lumuha. Sa halip, magpasalamat tayo. Sa maikling panahong narito siya sa mundo, tayo pa ang nabiyayaan ng pagkakataong makapiling si Jesse Manalastas Robredo.” (So let’s not cry. Instead, let us be grateful. In the short time he was here in this world, we were blessed with the opportunity to be with Jesse Manalastas Robredo.)

VIDEO OF LENI GERONA ROBREDO'S ACCEPTANCE OF THE LEGION OF HONOR AWARD ON BEHALF OF MAYOR POGI JESSE ROBREDO.

VIDEO OF LENI GERONA ROBREDO'S ACCEPTANCE OF THE LEGION OF HONOR AWARD ON BEHALF OF MAYOR POGI JESSE ROBREDO.

To Jess,

Rest well, we will love you forever- Leni

EULOGY OF PINOY IN HONOR OF JESSE ROBREDO

Eulogy of His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III President of the Philippines In honor of the late 
Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Jesse M. Robredo

[Delivered at the Basilica Minore de Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia, Naga City, on August 28, 2012]

Bilang kawani ng gobyerno, tanggap na po dapat natin: Darating ang araw na bababa rin tayo sa puwesto—sa madaling salita, magreretiro. Ngayon pa lang po, nai-imagine ko nang magkikita-kita tayo sa isang restaurant nang may kani-kaniyang senior citizen card na nakasilid sa pitaka. Magkakainan tayo, magtatawanan, at pagkukuwentuhan kung ano ang mga pinagdaanan namin. Kung ano ang mga nagawa natin.

Hindi na po makakasama si Jesse sa mga kuwentuhang iyon. Hindi na po natin makakabiruan si Jesse tungkol sa pagkilatis sa mga manliligaw ng anak niya, at sa mga susunod pong taon, wala na rin siya para makipaglaro sa mga magiging apo niya.

Hindi madaling tanggapin ang biglaang pagkawala ni Jesse. Hindi po natin inasahan ang pangyayaring ito, ngunit sa kabila ng ating kaba at pagkabigla nang unang marinig ang balita, ginawa natin ang lahat ng ating magagawa upang mailigtas siya kung papalarin, at kung hindi man, upang mabigyan ng angkop at marangal na pagwawakas ang trahedyang sinapit natin. Habang humahaba po ang panahon, umasa tayo na isang minuto ay darating siya at sasabihing, “Pasensya na kayo, naabala ko kayong lahat sa tagal ng pagdating ko.”

Ngayon po, kaisa ako sa pagluluksa ng sambayanang napagkaitan ng isang tunay na lingkod-bayan. Kung mayroon pong Diyos na nagmamahal sa atin at bukal ng katarungan, sigurado akong kapiling na niya ngayon si Kalihim Jesse Robredo. Nawalan po ng asawa at ama ang kanyang pamilya; nawalan po ang bayan ng isang tapat at mahusay na pinuno. Nawalan po ako ng isang kapatid sa opisyal na pamilya sa Gabinete, ng kasangga sa mga ipinaglalaban, at ng kapartido. Nawalan po ako ng isang mabuting kaibigan.

Sino po ba si Jesse Robredo? Talaga pong huwarang lingkod-bayan si Jesse: nakatuon palagi sa kapwa at handang magsakripisyo. Sa lahat ng mga nakakausap ko, siya ang taong walang kapasepasensya sa bola. Kay Jesse, what you see is what you get. Tahimik at masipag siyang nagtatrabaho. Hindi siya nagpadala sa kapangyarihan. Sa kabila ng naabot niya, nanatiling simple ang kanyang pamumuhay, hindi nalalayo sa karaniwang taong napakalapit sa kanyang puso.

Si Jesse po ang tipo ng tao na batid ang kanyang mga kakayahan at limitasyon. Halimbawa po: sa kantahan. Kadalasan, kung may kasiyahan, kami-kami lang din ang nag-e-entertain sa sarili namin para makatipid. Si Jesse po, hahanap ng mga kasangga para may kasabay siyang kakanta ng chorus, at hindi na siya mag-i-individual performance. Pinakabuo ang kanyang ngiti kapag pasampa na siya sa entablado; tawa po siya nang tawa. Sa dami po ng mga talentadong nagkukumpol-kumpol, nakakapagtaka na halos wala kaming marinig sa mga boses nila bagama’t may mikroponong tangan o hawak.

Dalawa raw po sa paborito niyang kanta ay “My Way” at “Impossible Dream.” Tatak nga po siguro ito ng mga paniniwala niya. Hindi siya naging kuntento sa status quo; pinatunayan niya sa Naga na posible ang pagbabago. Posibleng madaig ang sistemang matagal nang nangingibabaw; posibleng madaig ang mga pulitikong napakatagal namayagpag at kinasangkapan ang pusisyon para sa pansariling interes. Trailblazer po si Jesse sa tuwid na daan. Pinatunayan niyang puwede palang magtagumpay sa pulitika nang hindi nagiging trapo.

Hindi po madali ang pagtahak sa landas na ito, lalo na noong nagsisimula pa lamang siya sa serbisyong pampubliko. Malawak at malalim ang mga pagbabagong inasam niya, at sinimulan niya ito ng hindi nakakatiyak kung may patutunguhan nga bang tagumpay. Katambal ng kanyang mga pangarap ang napakaraming mga praktikal na konsiderasyon, ngunit pinili niyang lumihis sa mga nakasanayang mga pormula sa pulitika. Alam po ito ng mga taong malapit sa kanya: mas pipiliin pa niyang makulong kaysa bumitaw sa mga causa na aming pinaniniwalaan. Nang nasa oposisyon po kami, hindi naman puwedeng suspendihin ganon lang ang mga nasa lehislatura, pero sa katulad niyang Mayor, laging nakabinbin ang banta ng pang-aapi o dineretso ngang inapi na. Mas marami at mas mabigat ang pagtatayang ginawa niya sa kanyang buhay pulitika. Ito pong isyu ukol sa kanyang citizenship, alam naman natin ang motibasyon. Pero hindi siya nagtanim ng galit sa mga nagsampa ng mga paulit-ulit na walang katuturang kasong ito.

Alam po natin ang katotohanan sa pulitika: may ibang nakangiti kapag kaharap mo, pero kung tumalikod ka, pakiramdam mo sasaksakin ka. Napahanga talaga ako ni Jesse, dahil miski ang nagpakita sa kanya ng di-kagandahang ugali, kaya niyang harapin nang walang bahid ng galit at pagkayamot.

Bukod sa mabait, matino, at mahusay si Jesse, mabilis din siyang umaksyon. Lahat, ASAP sa kanya; hindi niya ugaling patagalin sa mesa ang mga magagawa naman ngayon. Kung kayang simulan, sinisimulan agad niya. Naalala ko nga po, minsan may mga informal settler na kailangang ilipat, dahil nakatira sa danger zone sila kapag bumabaha. Nag-text po sa atin na nanghihingi ng tulong at saklolo; kinakabahan sila sa paglilipat, at nagtatanong kung may kabuhayan ba silang daratnan. Kinausap po sila ni Jesse. Matapos ang dalawang oras na meeting, ang mga SOS text, naging thank you text na po. Salamat Jesse!

Iba po talaga si Jesse. Kapag mayroon tayong matinding problemang kinakaharap, palagi naman pong nandiyan ang mga taong sumosuporta at magsasabing, “Nasa likod mo kami.” Pero si Jesse po, kabilang sa mga bibihirang tao na ang sasabihin, “Sir, ako na lang ang haharap, ako na lang ang pu-pronta.” Hindi po nasa likod. Talagang kasama sa pilosopiya niya sa buhay ang hindi maging pabigat sa kapwa; ang palaging mag-ambag ng pinakamalaki niyang maiaambag, o lagpas pa, para makahanap ng solusyon.

Kay Leni, at kina Aika, Tricia, at Jillian: Sa totoo lang, medyo nahihiya ako sa inyo. Kayo ang pamilya; sigurado akong pinakamabigat ang kalungkutang nararamdaman ninyo ngayon. Pero talagang pinapahanga n’yo kami, dahil kayo pa ang nagbibigay ng lakas sa amin, kayo pa ang nagbibitbit sa amin.

Leni, alam mo naman, hindi tayo masyadong nagkakakilala, dahil na rin pinilit ni Jesse na magkaroon siya palagi ng private time kasama ang kanyang pamilya. Alam ng Gabinete ito: Sa hirap ng aming mga pinagdadaanan, ang pinakagantimpala ko po sa kanila ay paminsan-minsan ang pagpapakain ng isang kaaya-ayang hapunan. Pero pag weekend ako nagyaya ng kainan, siguradong magpapaumanhin na si Jesse. Sagrado sa kanya ang oras kasama ang pamilya. Palagi siyang nagmamadaling makauwi sa Naga.

Hindi lang ang mag-anak na Robredo ang nawalan ng Padre de Familia. Pati ang buong DILG, ang mga nagtatrabaho sa field, ang lahat ng natulungan niya, ang buong Naga, parang nawalan ng ama. Kaya nga po bukod sa kalungkutan, matinding panghihinayang din ang nararamdaman ko ngayon. Ang dami niyang mga plano, at talagang kitang-kita na po ang direksyon ng mga reporma. Namuno siya sa pagpapa-totoo ng mga teorya sa pamamahala na pinag-uusapan lang sa mga libro. Ginawa po niya iyan sa Naga, at iyan din po ang nasimulan na niyang gawin sa pambansang antas. Kayo na po ang mamili– sa Bureau of Fire Protection, kung saan nakakuha siya ng mga fire trucks na mas mura pero mas maganda ang kaledad at mas marami ang kakayahan; sa BJMP; sa PNP; pati na ang mga informal settlers. Maraming mga lumang problema na, sa tulong ni Jesse, sa wakas, ay nakikitaan na natin ng solusyon. Sayang po talaga.

Ngunit wala naman sigurong magsasabing may kulang pa sa mga inambag ni Jesse. Dapat po yata, tayong mga nakinabang sa kanyang buhay at pagsusumikap, ang tumumbas sa kanyang mga nagawa, at mag-ambag naman ng parte natin.

Naalala ko pa po ang mga agam-agam namin nang biglaan ding pumanaw ang aking ama noong taong 1983. Marami po sa amin ang nagtanong: Paano na tayo? Sino ang magtutuloy? Parang ligaw na ligaw po kami; nawala ang aming pinuno.

Pero sabi nga po ng aking ina, “If cowardice is infectious, then bravery is all the more infectious.” Ang nag-iisa, dumami nang dumami hanggang nakamit na nga ng buong bayan ang pagbabago. Hindi mauubusan ng mga bayani ang lahing Pilipino. At kung si Jesse ay isa sa mga naging bunga ng sakripisyo ng aking ama, sigurado po akong may ibubunga ring mga bagong bayani ang pagpanaw ni Jesse.

Sa ipinapakitang pagpupugay at pagmamahal ng taumbayan ngayon, sigurado ako, may isang henerasyon na naman ng mga Pilipinong mabibigyang-inspirasyon, at mahihimok na maglingkod sa ngalan ni Jesse. Sila po ang magdadala ng katiyakan: Katiyakang makikita natin ang plano ng Diyos sa likod ng pagkawala ni Jesse. Katiyakang makukuha natin ang gantimpala ng katarungang nagbubukal sa pagmamahal ng Diyos: Na lahat ng kagandahan at kabutihang naidulot at naipunla ni Jesse, ay tunay at buong-buong mapipitas dahil sa dulot niyang inspirasyon.

Ang sabi po sa pangalawang liham ni Paul to Timothy, Chapter 4, Verses 6 to 7: “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith…” Angkop na angkop po ito kay Jesse; mission accomplished na siya sa mundong ito. Marapat lang na matamasa na niya ang mga gantimpala ng isang buo at mabuting buhay, sa piling ng Diyos Ama. Nasa hanay na po si Jesse ng mga bayaning sumusubaybay sa atin mula sa kalangitan, at nagbibigay-lakas sa atin upang ipagpatuloy ang kanilang mga mabuting gawain. Kaya’t huwag na po tayong lumuha. Sa halip, magpasalamat tayo. Sa maikling panahong narito siya sa mundo, tayo pa ang nabiyayaan ng pagkakataong makapiling si Jesse Manalastas Robredo. [Applause]

Paalam, Jesse. Sa ngalan ng sambayanan maraming, maraming salamat.

OPERATION SMILE PHILIPPINES: Giving the Gift of Smile One Child at a Time

OPERATION SMILE PHILIPPINES: Giving the Gift of Smile One Child at a Time

Do you happen to know anyone with BINGOT or NGONGO from this places: 

• Cavite
• Batangas
• Mindoro 
• Laguna

Help them get the chance to have a FREE reconstructive surgery through Operation Smile Philippines. 

Please text the following to 0905-558-0206:

•  Patient's name
•  Age
•  Birthday 
•  Complete Address 

Registration are ongoing in DLSU Medical Center in Dasmarinas, Cavite. 

Kindly Repost this on your social networks, so we can help more people. God bless your heart,

JESSE ROBREDO: Funeral Arrangements and Burial of Sec. Robredo

Bulletin No. 1 (Aug. 21) on Funeral Arrangements and Burial of Sec. Robredo

I. Schedule of public viewing of the remains of Secretary Robredo in Naga City

As Secretary of Communications Ramon A. Carandang announced in Naga City today, the following is the schedule for the public viewing of the remains of the late Secretary of the Interior and Local Government, Jesse M. Robredo:

August 21, 2012, Tuesday
11:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. – The remains of Secretary Robredo will be moved from Funeraria Imperial to the Archbishop’s Palace, Naga City, at around 11 p.m.

August 22, 2012, Wednesday
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. – Mass
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – wake
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Mass
6:00 p.m. onwards – wake

August 23, 2012, Thursday
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. – Mass
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – wake
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. – Mass
6:00 p.m. onwards – wake

August 24, 2012, Friday
9:00 a.m. – Remains to be transported from Naga City to Malacañan Palace.

*Note: The wake is open to the public

II. Masses to be held in Metro Manila

The following is the tentative schedule of Masses to be held in honor of Secretary Robredo:

Philippine National Police Chapel, Camp Crame
6:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m., and 5:15 p.m., daily

National Police Commission Office, Makati
9:00 a.m., Wednesday

Department of the Interior and Local Government Central Office
8:00 a.m., Wednesday
12:00 nn, Thursday to Friday
Department of the Interior and Local Government Regional Offices
Starts tomorrow morning; exact schedules to be published tomorrow

III. National Flags will be flown at half-mast for six days starting tomorrow (Aug. 22)

In accordance with law, the President signed Proclamation No. 460, s. 2012, today, commencing the Days of National Mourning that will continue until the date of Secretary Robredo’s interment.

The proclamation also states that “for a period of six (6) days, the national flag shall be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset in all government buildings and installations in the Philippines and in our posts abroad.”

Today, the City of Naga, Malacañan Palace, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, its attached agencies, and the Philippine National Police have lowered the national flag to half-mast.

However, in accordance with law, the six days that the national flag will be flown at half-mast nationwide begins tomorrow, August 22, 2012, as the proclamation was signed after sunset of August 21, 2012. All government offices are enjoined to comply. — Committee on Funeral Arrangements, Malacañang

EXCLUSIVE UNDERWATER VIDEO OF THE ILL-FATED PIPER SENECA PLANE

EXCLUSIVE UNDERWATER VIDEO OF THE ILL-FATED PIPER SENECA PLANE

Video: Gma7

VIDEO: HON. JESSE ROBREDO'S BODY WAS RECOVERED

Mar Roxas: Nakausap na ng pangulo ang asawa ni Jess. Aquino was very quiet, sought absolute confirmation. Nung kumpirmado na, he wanted to make sure may malapit kay Ma'am Leni.

Source: Ancalerts

VIDEO OF MAR ROXAS: Sec. Jesse Robredo's Body was Found

"May malungkot tayong balita. At 7:25 this morning, 'yung volunteer divers natin nakita ang fuselage. May mga katawan sa loob pero 'di nila talaga ma-identify. Nung nakalapit sila at about 7:45 am, may mga indications na isa doon sa mga katawan sa loob ng fuselage ay kay Sec Robredo. At that was at about 7:45 (am)," Transport Secretary Mar Roxas said in a press briefing shortly after 9 a.m. Tuesday in Masbate City. 


Robredo, Bahinting, and Chand went missing after their Piper Seneca plane plunged into the waters off Masbate City, just a few hundred meters short of the Moises Espinosa Airport in the city.

A fourth passenger, Jun Abrasado, Robredo's aide-de-camp, survived the crash. He was rescued by local fishermen moments after the crash.

The plane, coming from Cebu's Mactan International Airport, was on its way to Naga City when it encountered engine trouble.

The plane was attempting an emergency landing when it crashed into the waters of Masbate Pass, between Masbate and Ticao islands.

The DILG chief was on his way home to Naga for the long weekend.

Matt Reed, a volunteer British technical diver, was the one who saw Robredo's body underwater, said Roxas.

Robredo's body was found in the cabin of the plane; he was the first to be receovered and brought to land. At least one other body was seen in the cockpit area, Roxas added.

Robredo's body was immediately brought to a coast guard vessel. As of posting at 10 am, the body is now at Las Internas funeral parlor in Masbate.

Aquino, who is back in Manila, personally relayed the news to Robredo's widow Atty Leni Gerona-Robredo via a phone call at around 8:20 am, Roxas said.

Roxas told Sarah Bahinting, daughter of pilot Jesse Bahinting, who is also in Masbate: "I'm sorry for your loss."

They are seeking the help of the Army and Police forensics in handling the late secretary's remains, he added.

The plane's fuselage was found 800m offshore, at a depth of 180 ft, Roxas told reporters.


Souce: Rappler

Jesse Robredo’s Body Recovered

Jesse Robredo’s body was found by Matt Reed, a volunteer British technical diver. He was the one who saw Robredo's body underwater said Roxas. The technical divers found the fuselage of the missing Piper Seneca plane 800 meters from the shore at a depth of 180 feet at 7:45 a.m an emotional Sec. Mar Roxas broke the “sad news” at a briefing at 9:15 a.m.

The divers were able to get near the fuselage and spotted three bodies, including that of Robredo and the two missing pilots Jessup Bahinting and Nepali Kshitiz Chand.

Mar Roxas said that the body of Robredo was surfaced by the divers at around 8:40 a.m. and it was immediately placed in a body bag and transported to a waiting ship of the Philippine Coast Guard.  It is now on its way to Naga City, Roxas said. 

"Ongoing pa rin ang operation for the other bodies in the fuselage," Roxas announced.

They said that recovery was difficult as the fuselage had overturned but operations continued to retrieve the bodies of the two pilots who were found inside the Piper Seneca plane. 

“Nakasubsob ‘yung dalawang piloto sa loob ng cockpit kaya si Sec. Jesse ang unang nakuha ng diver (The two pilots were inside the cockpit that’s why they recovered Sec. Jesse’s body first),” said Roxas.

Photos from Jeff Canoy's Twitter account

President Benigno Aquino III has been told about the development and has personally informed the DILG chief’s wife, lawyer Leni Robredo.

“The President has already called Mrs. Leni,” said Roxas.

Our condolences to Hon. Jesse Robredo's wife Atty. Leni Gerona-Robredo and to his three children as well as to his parents, 3 sisters and 1 brother.

Source: Mar Roxas

JESSE ROBREDO UPDATE: New Debris found

JESSE ROBREDO UPDATE: New Debris found

Picture of debris found roughly 200 ft 2.5 km from shore 

4-man navy tech divers just returned. Confirm debris field in same area as Matt + 30 feet. Glass pieces of cockpit.#Robredo

Pictures and info from Mar Roxas

JESSE ROBREDO update: Robredo plane’s Wing Portion

JESSE ROBREDO update: Robredo plane’s Wing Portion

“Debris – appears to be (the) right wing. Numbers are part of aircraft designation RPC-4431,” Roxas posted on twitter.

Recovered so far are the following:

• Right Wing portion of the Piper Seneca plane, 
• Flight plan
• Flight manifest
• Fuel tank of the plane

Members of the search and rescue teams have yet to recover other parts of the ill-fated aircraft.

JESSE ROBREDO update: Robredo plane’s flight plan, manifest found

Robredo plane’s flight plan, manifest found.

A diver taking part in the search and rescue operations for the small plane of Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo that crashed off Masbate Saturday has found the aircraft’s flight plan.

Aside from the flight plan, the flight manifest with the names of the passengers on board the downed Piper Seneca  was recovered floating in the water about 750 meters from the shore at 4:30 p.m. August 19, 2012. Listed on the flight manifest are the following names:

1.  Jesse Robredo 
2.  Jun Abrazado 
3.  Jessup Bahinting (P.I. C)
4.  Kshitiz Chand ( Nepal)

I captured the photo above from Mar Roxas' Twitter post today, Sunday, August 19, 2012. He post the following description:

1630 update: Diver who found flt pln confirms it was at 150 ft alongside “tracks” on sea bed along N-S heading.

PLANE CRASHED: DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo Missing

PLANE CRASHED: DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo Missing.

At about  5 p.m. on Saturday, August 18, 2012, Department of Interior & Local Government (DILG) Secretary Jesse Robredo was declared missing after the plane carrying him and two others crashed in the waters of Boulevard, Brgy. Ibingay Masbate.

Robredo along with his aide boarded a private, white, six-seater Piper Seneca twin engine plane heading to Naga City from a conference in Cebu City.

Capt. Jessup Bahinting, owner of Aviatour Flying School, was the pilot of the ill-fated plane. The two others were flight student Kshitiz Chand, a Nepalese, and Robredo’s aide.

Hon. Jesse Robredo is a fellow Bicolano, who I happened to know personally. Our dad used to work as an accountant for Robredo's family business. 

Leni, Robredo's wife, happened to be my brother's classmate in the college of law in Naga and my brother's co- lawyer. Leni confirmed that Hon. Jesse Robredo called at about 4:30 p.m. to say that the airplane was having an engine problem. The call was immediately cut off. There was no contact after that. 

The pilot after experiencing engine trouble sent a distress call to the Masbate Airport at around 4:30 p.m. requesting for an emergency landing but crashed more or less 500 meters short of the runway.

Citing initial reports, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (Caap) head William Hotchkiss said the plane took off from Cebu at 3 p.m.

Robredo was in Cebu for the national summit of the Convenors of the Community Investigative Support (CIS) National Summit and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) in Mandaue City.

Hon. Jesse Robredo had initially booked a flight with Cebu Pacific but eventually flew onboard the plane which was owned by one of the pilots.

Please say a little prayer for the safe return of Sec. Robredo. I hope and pray he's still alive. As of 8:30 p.m., Robredo remained missing along with the two pilots. His aide, identified as Jun Abrazado, survived the crash with only slight injuries.

Photo Source: PTV

OVERPRICED LPG

CALLING THE ATTENTION OF DOE, DTI, PRICE WATCH, CONSUMER WELFARE OF THE PHILIPPINES!

There are unscrupulous individuals who present themselves as businessmen with no proper receipt that sells LPG at Php 730 to 750 per 11 kg. tank.

Reason # 1 given: Sunday daw ngayon kaya walang resibo! Uhuh! That was their exact words when we ordered LPG the last time. I wonder kung may resibo sila kapag Monday ako nag order? BIR??

Reason #2: Mahirap ang supply. As in pahirapan makakuha ng delivery. Some independent refillers and small retailers, are still waiting for their supplies as transport ships have been unable to dock and discharge their cargo of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) due to the rough seas at the Bataan port.

DOE, sabi ninyo there was enough supply for residents of Metro Manila and nearby provinces ano nangyari?

Upon checking DOE's website today, August 12, 2012, merely eleven days after DOE posted the suggested retail prices. I found out that these businessmen increased their prices from Php 568 to Php 730, that is more than 100 pesos, my golly!

Yes, you read it right! As of August 1, 2012 the price for an 11 kg. LPG is pegged at Php 568.00. However, LPG players raised the prices of cooking gas by P7 per kilogram this month or P77 per 11-kg tank. This hike was due to the $168.50-per-metric-ton increase in the international contract price of LPG to $775 per ton, from the previous month’s price of $606.50 per ton.

According to a news report, LPG prices must not exceed Php 700.00.

Petron Genuine Gasul with FREE DELIVERY sells LPG at PHP 676.00 more than fifty pesos (Php 50.00) cheaper than those unscrupulous businessmen.

DOE appeal to customers to report to DOE retailers who are selling overpriced products, by calling (02) 840-2184. Overpricing of petroleum products such as LPG is sanctioned with an administrative fine of at least P10,000 and an appropriate criminal offense.

I believe that businessmen should NEVER raise prices especially after the flood.  I hope hindi sila manamantala, sa mga flood victims at sa iba pang Filipino in general. On behalf of the Filipino People, I urged distributors of basic commodities to be compassionate and not to take advantage of flood victims and Filipino people in general. Please do not hike the prices of goods and services. Maawa po kayo sa kapwa ninyo please.

Sa mga Government agencies: Paki aksyonan po please. Salamat.

LIST OF LOCATIONS OF SMART LIBRENG TAWAG STATIONS

LIST OF LOCATIONS OF SMART LIBRENG TAWAG STATIONS

Smart is continuously providing free call services to people affected by the recent flooding. Libreng Tawag stations are currently operating in 12 sites as on 9:00 AM today (Aug 9):

Marikina

- Malanday Barangay Hall
- H. Bautista Elementary School, Concepcion
- Concepcion High School, Tumana
- Nangka Elementary School

Rizal
- Sta. Ana Covered Court, San Mateo

Navotas
- Dagat-dagatan Elementary School

Quezon City
- Sto. Domingo Church, Quezon Avenue
- Atherton Subdivision
- North Fairview Homes

Manila
- Vicente Cruz St., Sampaloc

Muntinlupa
- Tunasan Elementary School
- Muntinlupa Sports Complex

Pampanga
- Plaza Burgos, Guagua
- Poblacion, Floridablanca

Cavite
- Cavite Coliseum, Bacoor

To follow: Malabon and Valenzuela

Smart is also coordinating with the local governments of Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela and other affected localities for the immediate deployment of Libreng Tawag personnel.

Smart is reminding its subscribers to stay alert and to keep their mobile phones ready for emergencies. Charge batteries whenever possible and conserve power. Save emergency numbers and store extra prepaid load cards. As of this time, Smart’s network is up and running to provide services to its subscribers in the affected areas.

NOTE: This is not a paid post I just to share this Free Information.

LIST OF PASSABLE AND NOT PASSABLE ROADS AND AREAS IN METRO MANILA

Below is the list provided by MMDA of flooded roads and areas in Metro Manila after rains intensified again on Wednesday afternoon.

As of 7:10 PM

C5 NB Market to Bagong Ilog-(ML),lanuza to J Vargas-(M),after light to Katipunan,C5 SB-light #mmda

As of 7:10 PM

Edsa SB Muñoz to N Ave-(M),NIA Road to Aurora-(MH),after light to Magallanes 


As of 7:10 PM

Edsa NB Macapagal-(M),Magallanes to Aurora Blvd-(H),Cubao-(M),Trinoma to Muñoz-(M)

As of 6:57 PM

Cubao underpass now closed to traffic

As of 6:47 PM

BMC, BBB Puregold & Calye Uno; already subsided  Quezon Ave BIR u-turn slot; above gutter.

Sct. Reyes/ Sct. Chuatoco; 13014 inches. Not passable to light vehicles

Andrew Domestic; 1 lane passable both direction

Sta. Ana pandacan; waist deep

Kalentong, Mandaluyong; chest deep.

As of 6:46 PM

Along Chino Roces from Don Bosco to Makati Square, not passable

As of 6:42 PM

For those who are heading south,c5 market market traffic is not moving. Take mckinley hill instead.

As of 6:20 PM

• South Super Highway Buendia & Osmeña Highway-Makati, both direction, above knee. Not passable to light vehicles.

As of 5:20 PM

• C5 NB, near Market Market and Ortigas
• EDSA-P.Tuazon tunnel

As of 5 PM

• Katipunan Road, Balara; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• C.P Garcia UP; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Ateneo SB; knee-deep. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Timog Avenue/ Tomas Morato. Not passable to light vehicles.
• RMB Pureza, both direction. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• ERB Araneta. Not passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 4:11 PM

• C5 Eagle St. SM Hypermarket, both direction; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Shaw Araullo; waist-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• EDSA-Santolan NB; above gutter-deep. Passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 4:04 PM

• Quezon Ave. ground level, both direction; above gutter-deep. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Puregold Dagohoy Samson Rd/ Lascano. Not passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 3:41 PM

• Quezon Ave.-Banawe. Not passable to light vehicles.
• MIA Rd. going terminal; half tire. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Andrews Ave. going to Del Mundo; gutter-deep, 2 lanes occupied.

As of 3:29 PM

• Aurora tunnel NB & SB; not passable to light vehicles.

As of 3:37 PM

• Bonifacio Monument Circle; 10-12 inch-deep. Not passable to light vehicles.

As of 3:25 PM

• Capitol, Balara. Not passable to all types of vehicles.

As of 3:06 PM

• Quezon Ave.-Banawe WB; 6 inches
• Quezon Ave. westbound - Biak na Bato; half tire. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Maria Clara St. - Araneta Ave; Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Wilcon, Commonwealth; 3 inches

As of 3 PM

• Recto/ Morayta - half tire. Not passable to light vehicles
• Araneta Ave.-Sto. Domingo St. - 4 ft-deep. Not passable to all types of vehicles.
• Taft Rotonda SB & NB; half tire. Not passable to light vehicles.
• Araneta Ave/ Maria Clara; 6 inch-deep, both direction, one lane passable.
• Lacson towards UST. Not passable to light vehicles
• Pureza RMB both direction; half tire, Not passable to light vehicles.
• Plaza Avelino, 5 inch-deep. Passable to all types of vehicles.

GREEN WARNING SIGNAL FOR METRO MANILA

GREEN WARNING SIGNAL:
Issued at: 03:30 PM, 08 August 2012 (Wednesday)
Target Areas: Metro Manila

Torrential rainfall (30.0-50.0 mm/hr) over Manila, Pasig, Mandaluyong & San Juan, Heavy to Intense rainfall (15.0-25.0 mm/hr) was recorded over Pasay, Marikina, QC, North of Caloocan, Taguig & Makati while Moderate to Heavy rainfall (7.5-15.0 mm/hr) over the rest of Metro Manila.

Due to the effect of the series of thunderstorms embedded in the Southwest Monsoon, expect Heavy to Intense (15.0-30.0mm/hr) rains with occasional Torrential (more than 30.0mm/hr) rains over CAMANAVA, Manila, Pasig, Pasay, Taguig, San Juan, Mandaluyong, Marikina, Makati & QC within 2 hrs.

Residents in flood/landslides risk areas are advised to take precautionary measures and WATCH OUT for the next warning.

Ortigas Extension towards Junction was no longer passable to light vehicles as of 3 p.m. 

Wednesday according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority.

CLASS SUSPENSION
Adamson University has announced the suspension of work and classes in all levels Thursday, August 9, 2012.

Xavier classes are said to be suspended until Friday.
 

SOME GOOD NEWS

Smart Communications said they had begun to offer free call and text services in key areas and evacuation centers around the metropolis and surrounding areas.

The San Miguel group said its Philippine Airlines subsidiary had waived rebooking fees of passengers unable to take their flights Tuesday. Rebooking for affected passengers would be subject to fare and booking class seat availability.

The SM group said its malls would stay open, wherever possible, for customers “looking for basic necessities or simply seeking alternatives venue for home away from rains and floods.”

Please refrain from going out of the house if possible. Be safe and dry darlings! God bless us all! Pray!