PamagCUSA Blog

Capitol rakes in P137 M, near exceeding NRDC collections

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO---The Pampanga provincial government has collected a total of P136.488 million from June 29, 2007 up to Jan. 27, 2008, giving the capitol, seven sand-rich towns and 20 villages additional funds for social services to the people.

The revenues generated in the almost seven-month period is certain to surpass the P137.577 million that the Natural Resources Development Corp., the corporate arm of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, had collected for the provincial government in the whole of 2000.

The provincial government also collected nearly P295,200.00 in fines and penalties from 11 violators.

“The revenues we have generated in almost seven months indicate the vigilant efforts of the special committee Balas to stamp out irregularities in the field and remove any room for graft. It is also a strong sign that the holders of quarry permits have been really abiding with the law and are helping the government put in more income into the public coffers,” Gov. Eddie Panlilio said on Sunday.

Balas stands for Biyaya a Luluguran at Sisikapan, which Governor Panlilio created through Executive Order. No. 1, the first he signed upon assumption into office, for the strict implementation of Tax Ordinance No. 1-93.

Balas is staffed with 187 casuals who are assigned in not less than 30 checkpoints to check the validity of provincial government-issued receipts, ensure that those are not recycled or faked and that every truckload of sand that is hauled is properly paid with tax and administrative fee. The governor’s EO required permit holders to pay the receipts at the provincial treasurer’s office and not in checkpoints, which was the practice during the Lapid administrations. Pending the implementation of the new quarry law, Ordinance No. 176, the receipts presently cover payments for the P150 sand tax and P150 administrative fee. The tax is shared on a 30-30-40 percent basis among the province, towns and barangays. The fee is used to fund operations, the repair of government roads used by trucks and rehabilitation of old abandoned quarry sites instead of dipping into the general fund that is meant for social services like health and education for the whole province, among others.

Governor Panlilio also thanked Vice Gov. Joseller Guiao and the provincial board members for approving the P3 million in night differentials and overtime for Balas personnel for July to December 2007 during the public dialogue last Jan. 25.

The governor shall ask Vice Gov. Guiao and the provincial board to also approve the P40 million budget for the operations of the special committee Balas and P22.3 million for the wages of the 187 casuals. The former was removed from the 2008 budget. The latter was placed in the un-appropriated balance of the 008 budget.

“I thanked the Vice Governor, especially, for keeping a close watch on the sand industry and on Balas operations. His vigilance contributes to a whole wide range of efforts to protect our sand resource,” said Governor Panlilio.

As the total revenues reflect an efficient anti-graft system, the month-to-month turn-in give signs of supply and demand trends, the governor emphasized. Collections were P45,000 on June 29, 2007, the last day of former Gov. Mark Lapid’s term; P24.405 million in July; P20.910 million in August; P21.180 million in September; P19.095 million in October; P17.748 million in November; P16.110 million in December and P16.830 million up to Jan. 25.

“The reasons for the decline are the completion of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway and the off-season construction activities,” Governor Panlilio explained.
Sand-buying is expected to start peaking in February or March, as trends by the National Statistical and Coordination Board (NSCB) indicate.

At least 18 companies or individuals quarry sand on the strength of permits issued by the DENR’s Mines and Geosciences Bureau and provincial government. Some local government units and private individuals have been issued gratuitous permits. The desilting of rivers during the summer months is also expected to bring up the rate of collection.

“I assure you that your provincial government is exerting all efforts to make sure that the benefits from the sand of Mt. Pinatubo---whose eruptions in 1991 up to 1992 caused us tragedies---are used to improve the lives of our poor constituents,” Governor Panlilio said. END

Posted by pamagcusa at 08:24 PM | Permalink

Here is a good article sent by Dr. Arsenio Martin of Fort Arthur , Texas . Enjoy reading.

THE DIFFERENCE

The difference between the poor countries and the rich ones is not the age of the country.

This can be shown by countries like India & Egypt that are more than 2000 years old, but are poor.

On the other hand, Canada , Australia & New Zealand, that 150 years ago were inexpressive, today are developed countries, and are rich.

The difference between poor & rich countries does not reside in the available natural resources.

Japan has a limited territory, 80% mountainous, inadequate for agriculture & cattle raising, but it is the second world economy. The country is like an immense floating factory, importing raw materials from the whole world and exporting manufactured products.

Another example is Switzerland, which does not plant cocoa but has the best chocolate in the world. In its little territory they raise animals and plant the soil during 4 months per year. Not enough, they produce dairy products of the best quality! It is a small country that transmits an image of security, order & labor, which made it the world's strongest, safest place.

Executives from rich countries who communicate with their counterparts in poor countries show that there is no significant intellectual difference.

Race or skin color are also not important: immigrants labeled lazy in their countries of origin are the productive power in rich European countries.

What is the difference then? The difference is the attitude of the people, framed along the years by the education & the culture & flawed tradition.

On analyzing the behavior of the people in rich & developed countries, we find that the great majority follow the following principles in their lives:

1. Ethics, as a basic principle.
2. Integrity.
3. Responsibility.
4. Respect to the laws & rules.
5. Respect to the rights of other citizens.
6. Work loving.
7. Strive for savings & investment.
8. Will of super action.
9. Punctuality.
10. and of course...Discipline

In poor countries, only a minority follow these basic principles in their daily life.

The Philippines is not poor because we lack natural resources or because nature was cruel to us. In fact, we are supposedly rich in natural resources.

We are poor because we lack the correct attitude. We lack the will to comply with and teach these functional principles of rich & developed societies.

If you do not forward this message nothing will happen to you. Your pet will not die, you will not be fired, you will not have bad luck for seven years, and also, you will not get sick or go hungry.

But those may happen because of your lack of discipline & laziness, your love for intrigue and politics, your indifference to saving for the future, your stubborn attitude.

If you love your country, let this message circulate so that many Filipinos could reflect about this, & CHANGE, ACT!

Posted by pamagcusa at 08:50 PM | Permalink

The following is the speech delivered by Bishop Ambo David before the crowd gathered at the Capitol grounds 18 January 4-8pm for the Prayer rally

2 Chronicles 7:14

"If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, pray, seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land"

Dear bothers and sisters, I do not think we have come here today to ask God to do something for us. Today, it is God's turn to ask us to do something for him. We always ask God to listen to our prayers; today, it is our turn to listen to God.

It should not be difficult because God talks to us all the time; the only problem is we do not know how to listen anymore. Today we ask heaven to open up. We ask the Spirit to come down; we ask God to speak to us as the Father spoke to Jesus at the river Jordan. For that to happen, the Bible tells us what we need to do, first and foremost: "to humble ourselves, to pray, to seek God's face, and to turn from our wicked ways."

Inia pala Mayap a Balita ing aus da king mensahe nang Kristo, uling sumangid ning sabla tang kamalian, sumangid ding kapalpakan at ketasan, ating pag-asa. Bakit? Uling malyari ta pang magbayu!

Kahit kailan hindi tayo ipinapako ng Diyos sa nakaraan. Lagi at lagi binibigyan niya tayo ng mga bagong pagkakataon. Ang natisod, puwede pang tumayo; ang nakasira ay puwedeng mangumpuni; ang may atraso ay puwede pang bumawi; ang nagkamali ay puwede pang magsisi; ang nasaktan ay puwedeng magpatwad; kung paanong ang palikha ay patuloy, patuloy din ang gawaing pagtubos para sa Diyos! At mangyayari lamang ito kung handa tayong magbago.

This is the good news, brothers and sisters. There is hope because God is always ready to give us another chance; not just a second but a third, a fourth, a fifth, etc. He will keep leading us to new opportunities. There is hope because we can change; and change can begin with ourselves. And today I have good news for you. For the whole country, change has already begun in Pampanga!

My dear brothers and sisters, there must be a reason why Pampanga was already a highly civilized society long before the Spaniards came and colonized us.

There must be a reason why Pampanga became one of the most fertile grounds for the Christian faith.

There must be a reason why Pampanga has always been foremost among the country's sources of leaders & rebels, artist, intellectuals, and visionaries.

There must be a reason why God has allowed Pampanga to be tested by Mount Pinatubo.

There must be a reason why we are living during these times when Pampanga is making a serious impact on the whole country; why we have a Kapampangan for president; why we have another Kapampangan as Chief Justice of the SC; why we have a Kapampangan leading the biggest leftist movement in the country; and why we have a priest as governor in Pampanga.

There must be a reason why people power which died in Manila after EDSA Dos resurrected in Pampanga and witnessed the birth of a moral crusade for good governance and good citizenship that all other provinces now regard as a role model to imitate.

There must be a reason why the most serious moral challenge to the leadership of a Kapampangan president should come from a Kapampangan governor.

There must be a reason why Catholics, Protestants, evangelicals, many other Christian denominations, and even Muslims are uniting themselves in Pampanga around a common cause such as we are witnessing today.

There must be a reason why. May dahilan! Kabalen – ating kasangkanan nung bakit. At atyu ta keni ban pakibaluan ta ya at panindigan iting kasankanan. The Bible tells us "To whom much has been given, much is expected in return." And we all know how much Pampanga has been blessed in terms of natural and human resources. Today we are gathered to ask ourselves I prayer: what is God asking of us?

He is asking us to lead the way in the path of national renewal. For this to happen at all there is need first of all for spiritual conversion. God is calling us Kapampangans to a radical change from within that along can effect a radical change in our society. He invites us to make a conscious choice to reject evil and choose the good in all circumstances.

Concretely, this renewal that God is asking of us will involve the following:

ONE, that we totally renounce corruption as a way of conducting our affairs in government, in our communities, our families, and even in our individual day to day activities. ARE WE READY FOR THAT?

TWO, that we renounce laziness as a way of life. ARE WE READY FOR THAT?

Three that we resolve to fight all forms of addiction – addiction to drugs, addiction to smoking & alcohol, addition to gambling (legal and illegal), addiction to money and power, and to any other selfish ambitions.

ARE WE READY FOR THAT?

FOUR, that we renounce all forms of greed and envy and promise to be mindful of the last, the lease and the lost. ARE WE READY FOR THAT?

FIVE, that we reject the attitudes of apathy and indifference, that we resolve instead of being part of the problem, to be part of the solution, by being ready for whatever sacrifices good citizenship might demand of us. ARE WE READY FOR THAT?

If we are ready for all of the, I invite you then to shout together: ABAK NA BALEN!

Posted by pamagcusa at 08:49 PM | Permalink

On August 14, 2007, I had an unexpected life-threatening heart attack while vacationing with my family in the Philippines . After a series of medical tests/procedures, a heart by-pass operation was deemed imperative. At first, I was quite hesitant to go through the surgical procedure considering that I personally know of some friends/relatives who went through the same procedure and did not survive the surgery. But then, the doctors have advised me that since the medical tests revealed 100% blockages in 2 major left heart arteries with the third major one at the right being 80% blocked as well, I did not have much of a choice. Pondering whether I should go through the surgery or not, I was inspired by Psalm 23:4 which states…"Although I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil, for You are with me. Your rod and Your staff shall comfort me." With this biblical assurance coupled with prayers and moral support from family and "very special" friends which included no less than Bro. Mike Velarde of the El Shaddai DWXI-PPFI (who visited me twice at the hospital), Bro. Eddie Villanueva of the Jesus Is Lord (JIL) movement (who prayed over me via long distance from Australia) and Bishop Oscar Solis of Los Angeles, CA., I decided to go through the surgery at the Asian Hospital with no fear or apprehension whatsoever. The quadruple heart by-pass surgery turned out to be as successful as it can get. As such, I wish to extend anew my heart-felt gratitude and appreciation to everyone who prayed and bombarded the heavenly realm to make my heart surgery and recovery process as fast, uncomplicated and with not much painful discomforts.

At this point in time, I wonder if there is any particular plan, purpose or mission assigned to each one of us while in this earthly life? Indeed, after such a momentous life-threatening episode in anyone’s life, Philippians 1:20-22 becomes quite relevant. It states…"I am hopeful, even certain, that I shall not be put to shame because of my hope in Christ. I feel assured that now, as before, Christ will be exalted through me, whether I live or die. For me, to live is Christ, hence dying is so much gain. But I am to go on living, that means productive work for me." Come to think of it, I believe that there is indeed, some unfinished work for each Catholic/Christian alive, to do while living on this earth. Most notably, there are quite significant plans/purposes yet in store for the likes of Bro. Mike Velarde of the El Shaddai DWXI-PPFI Catholic Charismatic community, Bro. Eddie Villanueva of the JIL Movement, Bishop Oscar Solis, Gov. "Among" Ed Panlilio of Pampanga and Tony Meloto of the Gawad-Kalinga Movement, among others. In my opinion, they aptly personify what is embodied in Ephesians 2:10 which state…"For you are God’s masterpieces, created in Christ Jesus to live a life of good works which have been prepared for you in advance." There is no question in my mind that these individuals have been so chosen by our God to make a substantial difference not only on the spiritual level but on the temporal level, i.e., social, political and economic aspects of the Filipino society and people.

Which begs the question? Will these same individuals ever come together as one united group and realize that the Filipino people desperately needs their solidarity in spirit and ideals if only to provide and install morally upright political leadership thereby, effectuating drastic and hopefully, lasting reforms in our morally bankrupt Filipino culture/society and graft and corruption-ridden government bureaucracy especially in light of the 2010 elections in the horizon? Many political pundits contend that it is next to impossible to reform the existing political system in our country. On the contrary, I believe it is a distinct possibility. After all, if only all the above individuals agree in prayer to ask God in Jesus Name for the accomplishment of the above social/political goals, it shall be granted…Amen?

Atty. "Bro." Ramoncito P. Ocampo, is a licensed lawyer in CA. by profession and a lay Catholic/Christian by vocation. For comments, please e-mail ocampolawusa@yahoo.com

Posted by pamagcusa at 07:56 PM | Permalink

The latest scandalous and shameless attacks on Pampanga's Gov. Ed Panlilio and his supporters are plain and simple bitter spiteful opponents of good governance based on unpalatable concoction of story telling a lie unbelievably landing in the "news". SunStar Pampanga came out with a "report" on a "caller" that supposedly threatens to blow up Pampanga's Best factory, by Marna H. Dagumboy in one of the latest unbelievable if not laughable "story" in a desperate attempt to destroy the credibility of Pampanga's most honest man alive, Among Ed Panlilio.

Pampanga's Best is owned by Lolita Hizon a former supporter turned bitter spiteful opponent of Governor Ed Panlilio, supposedly the subject of "threats" and text messages for her "role" in the recall rumors being waged against Panlilio. I do not and will not categorically state that it was part of a demolition job; I leave that up to you by quoting the " report" and you can deduce why she became Among Ed's opponent which is more of spitefulness or grudge if there is basis to the text:

The text message reads: "Lolita Hizon, the owner of Pampanga's Best and former supporter of Among Ed is financing the move to have him recalled as governor of Pampanga because her barangay captain son was penalized P100,000 for hauling lahar illegally. Let's teach this wicked lady a lesson. Please stop buying Pampanga's Best product and patronize other Pampanga products that support good governance. Please pass to your friends nationwide. Thanks."

Clearly this implies that this big time supporter turned bitter enemy after her son gets penalized for hauling lahar illegally, so what has this got to do with the unbelievable "news" telling a story a lie on the "bombing threat"? What are these people and Dagumboy trying to imply here, that supporters of good governance composed mostly of PPRCV people mostly priest, former seminarians, religious lay leaders and charitable organizations like Gawad kalinga are a bunch of "terrorist" intimidating a poor helpless woman? Are we supposed to take this hook line and sinker that Lolita Hizon is a "martyr" in the making intimidated and "terrorized" by religious people? Yeah right, excuse me while I throw up……… I am sorry but I am not amused or entertained by this web of unpalatable story not even worthy of filmdom's corny movie like Banana Heart star Mark Lapid's.

We don't need a text message to boycott her products because if the reports were true regarding his son operating without a license then it's the impunity and shameless display of arrogance of a hypocrite with perverse sense of values who thinks she is so special above the law that is the point of contention here. If this is the hypocritical character of a business owner then it follows that we cannot trust the quality of her products and that alone if you are a discerning consumer is enough to compel consumers from patronizing her products. If the business owner resorts to short cuts and shamelessly breaks the law having the gall to smear those who impose the laws equally without favor in the interest of good governance for the sake of their constituents, what kind of products especially food products that consumers consume are they peddling to the public? Do I support the boycott? A big no because this is not worthy of a campaign but I will definitely not patronize her food products and dissuade others knowing that they are risking their health until the business owner is proven otherwise and not a hypocrite supporter of her son's illegal lahar operation.

Hypocrisy has no place in a moral crusade for good governance and it is obvious that we should see by now that Among Ed cannot be put down by talangkaism (small crustacean crab relative) because he is steadfast in his moral crusade being transparent, accountable, and responsible as an elected official.

While they play the dirty game of the usual political smear campaign against Fr. Ed Panlilio instead of getting provoked like a true man of god despite the dirty tricks will not approve of the text message going the rounds. They can try to smear a good man but no matter how they make it difficult for Among Ed and gang up on him like Mafiosi mob Among Ed and his followers are responding by showering the poorest of the poor of Pampanga with kindness and charity as seen on the Gawad Kalinga (an organization similar to Habitat for Humanity) and Among Ed Partnership .

Then another unpalatable spin errrr so called report comes on a story telling a lie that Kapampangans in the US are having second thoughts on the One-Dollar Campaign Against Graft & Corruption. They allege that the fundraising was allegedly dwindling due to suspicion of internet scams. Yeah and guess where that ridiculous tall tale came from? Lolita Hizon, as the sole "source" of the "newspaper" with inconspicuous lack of a reporter filing the report. Is this more likely a part of the demolition job or poor reporting? It was obvious that no journalist worth his salt even the ATM kind will file a report solely on the claim of ONE person in the name of Lolita Hizon who if the text message was true had a score to settle with the Governor. Did they try and get feed back from Filipino Kapampangan Americans? Here is a quote from Sun Star:

"Our attention was called by our members residing in the United States because of a fund-raising being waged for Governor Panlilio," Hizon wrote US Ambassador Kristie Kenney.

Hizon raised the issue of US laws against mail fraud and similar crimes done under dubious fund-raising campaigns for various causes.

The Internet fund is allegedly being led by certain Dr. Philip Chua, chairman of the Filipino United Networks (USA), said Hizon, who also cited "various fund-raising campaigns before that victimized Filipino residents by exploiting patriotic sensibilities and philanthropic emotions of people."

Anyone can write to US Ambassadors anywhere in the world but did the lieporter errr reporter check if the Ambassador even read the garbage of a letter? If she thinks she can fool Amb. K. Kenney she is wrong because they are aware what is happening in the Philippines as well as Filipino Americans that can launch a powerful lobby to rally support from their US Representatives in the US congress against corrupt government such as the Philippines. Do they expect us to take this hook line and sinker into thinking this will discourage people from supporting good governance? Well, if the report is insinuating that one dollar campaign is a scam then they should come up with credible reporting and not from the jueteng congregation rumor session source.

The Nigerian internet email scams are done by groups of scam artist and to insinuate the one dollar campaign as similar will not fly and is just ridiculous. Filipino scam artist victimizing fellow Filipinos "exploiting their patriotic sensibilities and philanthropic emotions" go to jail and hunted down by US authorities. Hmmmmn, I wonder which fish market they got that one, name names so we can send them to jail because the justice system in the US is very efficient compared to the Philippines.

People love underdogs and if the lieporters errr reporters are trying to portray Lolita Hizon as the underdog, I am sorry to say that it is failing miserably to a point of ludicrous pathetic lame desperate attempt……. In case these morons did not notice, it is Among Ed and San Fernando Mayor O. Rodriguez that are the underdogs here and being ganged up by Mafiosi mob style politicians all the way to the top honcho garcified president down to local politicians by hook or by CROOK will do anything to get their hands on a very lucrative Quarry tax collection by the hundreds of millions thanks to Among Ed to puny 10 million if we the people allow them to succeed in their sinister maneuverings.

Conscience, what in the name of buko vendor was that name all about? aaaaarrrrrgghhh excuse me while I throw again maybe in the land of cheats this kind of slanted reporting are able to influence the Cobra Men and Women (Jueteng bet collector) but oh please do not insult the intelligence of US based Filipinos because they can discern spin from real news. If you are a Kapampangan and a member of the "Conscience group" of this woman will you still support her bitter fight against good governance? If indeed this is a group of Kapampangan with conscience, does it not bother you what this woman is doing to Among Ed and his moral crusade for good governance?

In an email sent by Dr. Philip Chua, the man they smear with their vengeful mean spirited demolition job has just been repudiated with Among Ed being declared Gov. Ed Panlilio is Inquirer's Filipino of the Year 2007, here's an editor's note on the mechanics of the award:

Now on its 17th year, the Inquirer's Filipino of the Year honors a living Filipino who made the most positive impact the past year. Eligible to vote were Inquirer editors and assistant editors. There were 44 voters this year. Fr. Ed Panlilio topped the nominees with 20 followed closely by Chief Justice Reynato Puno with 15 votes. Other nominees were Justices Teresita de Castro, Diosdado Peralta and Francisco Villaruz Jr. of the Sandiganbayan special division that tried and found ex-President Joseph Estrada guilty on two counts of plunder. (4); Sumilao farmers (2); Filipinas who made it to the summit of Mt. Everest (2) and Team Sinag (1), the country's first solar car team that finished 11th out of 20 teams in the race of solar-powered cars in Australia.

I say on with the One-Dollar Campaign Against Graft and Corruption …… click on the one dollar campaign, copy and paste in your email then send this to as many people as you can and urge them to do the same, and don't forget to send in your dollar. Your One Dollar is our potent weapon to repudiate the evil dark forces to free us from the embarrassment and humiliation these shameless cretins in Philippine society subjugate our people in their corrupted stranglehold of our government. What is hapenning in Pampanga maybe the start of a MORAL REVOLUTION........ I wish I can say that with certainty but I believe you and all those desiring the dawn of a new beginning are the ones in position to confirm this by how you respond to this development...........

Posted by pamagcusa at 07:54 PM | Permalink

GK SPEECH

Fellow partners in government, members of the board of GK. Distinguished guests, friends and supporters of GK. Ladies and
Gentlemen.

I would like to express my most sincere appreciation for your gift of presence today. It is a gift that will truly be paid forward, as it
were, by thousands, no, millions of Filipinos who are now wallowing in lives that do not measure up to their dignity as human persons, and as a children of a just and loving God, the same God who call us to share our lives as a gift that will give our people a sense of meaning and purpose. We all have a vocation of love, especially and more relevantly to our brothers and
sisters in need. And quite mysteriously, by responding to this call to serve and to be instruments of God's care and concern, we gain our own life's meaning and purpose.

This vocation also implies our partnership with the poor, because we, too, stand to gain from the effort to improve our social landscape.
When we give the best for the least, it becomes wonderfully evident that nothing is lessened in our lives. In fact we are all the more blessed; for in helping others become more human, we ourselves gain our own humanity. This is the theology that attracts me most to the Gawad Kalinga effort. It respects so full both donor and recipient, because it runs counter to the world view that the most helpless are only worthy of the scraps that a from our tables. By the best for the least, we acknowledge their innate dignity, so that in the end, the
distinction between the two becomes blurred and even immaterial. We become equal partners, for I believe that there is no person so poor that he or she has nothing to share to this divine effort. In the background of nation-building, we become equal stockholders.

For what is at stake here? GK is not only about Houses, It is about homes. It is not only about infrastructure, it is about social structure. It is not only about life, it is about love. In essence, at stake here is a new nation that should be worth the beauty and abundance it has been so graciously given by a generous God. At stake is the future of a great majority of our people who are getting poorer and poorer with each passing day, their poverty worsened by their despair. Cursed is the nation where its people have forgotten to dream, and yet we are supposed to be so blessed, so divinely ordained. If the greatness of a country is measured by the manner they assist the most vulnerable and the most helpless in their midst, there is no other choice for us than to respond positively, actively and effectively. The uplift of the masses is not only a fundamental option, it is our ONLY option.

By getting involved with GK, we confirm this option and affirm that we are a people of conscience in action. Attending a technical meeting
with Tony and the rest of the GK directorate, with local officials and NGOs also in attendance, I was amazed at how equally expansive and detailed the Gk vision is. It does not stop at the building of infrastructure. It commits itself to a more socially stable community within the context of a safe, secure and healthy environment. Nothing is left to chance; the bahala na attitude has no place in any GK site. Employment and income-generating activities are programmed among the adults. Children are given access to basic literacy. As a
priest, my personal vision-mission is the establishment of the Kingdom of God where people imbued with the fullness of life are indwelling. GK, I believe, has blazed a trail towards this dream.

Today, the nine GK projects in Pampanga are beacons of hope for our citizens, and more are waiting in the staging area. We would like to thank our brothers and sisters who have set up their own communities in different parts of the country. They have set a bar for which we can aspire. They can be the envy of first class subdivisions, with their ecologically friendly practices, well-trimmed gardens, painted roofs and complete utilities. If we may call it a friendly rivalry, the GK projects in Pampanga can always aspire and strive to reach that bar, and even further on besides. If a house is a reflection of a person, we indeed have communities of dignity in GK project.

For our part in the government of Pampanga, we have sworn our full, irrevocable, and unquestionable support for the GK effort. We shall
endeavor to accomplish this in two ways: first, by providing our share of funds and other support systems necessary; and second, by
striving, with the grace of God, to govern with honesty, transparency, accountability and efficiency. In keeping with the spirit of honesty, I have to be candid and admit that we have a present technical difficulty in the Provincial Capitol, since our 2008 budget proposal is yet to be approved. But I believe in the sincerity of the local government officials of our province, from the vice governor to the barangay councils, in their willingness to assist our people. This, I think, is the best way we can uphold the dignity of the poor, by providing them with a government that will not treat them as beggars who can be bought with a few pesos, or as cannon fodder for political wars. In fact,
GK shall serve as model by which we shall pattern our manner of service: with hope, charity and respect, believing in the nobility of all Kampangans and their capacity to open their hearts for a better province.

So many Kapampangans have given their share. I would like to make special mention of the Couples for Christ in Pampangan for incarnating the spirit of Christ by being the spearhead of GK. Also to be commended are the mayors and other local officials who have given much needed assistance in realizing the dream communities in their specific municipalities. Also, so many of the civil society groups, like the Kapampangan Marangal Inc. have networked with other NGO's and even with other Kapampangans from abroad. But there is still so much to be done. Our dream is for Pampanga to be the center of excellence for the GK communities, with at least two in every municipality by 2010. With your partnership, this will be an achievable target.

Again, thank you very much for your gift of presence. May God go with you.

Posted by pamagcusa at 09:14 AM | Permalink

It is unfortunate that some people's integrity are being disparaged while doing something for a good cause. While it is a reality that the scum of the earth will exploit any which way just to take advantage of unknowing others, we at the same time should be discerning enough about things worth taking a risk for. In this case this dollar movement by the good doctor – imagine, a mere dollar – for Governor Panlilio and his crusade for good government is something that needs our immediate, wholehearted support.

As all of us can see, it is not the amount, it is the commitment. That is what the dark forces seek to destroy – to prove to one and all that we people of good intentions are just that, big in words and good intentions but lacking in real, honest-to-goodness commitments. In reaction to these dastardly efforts, I commit to do more in broadcasting the governor's vision and initially increase my, and my wife's, dollar contribution many times to represent those yet to come.

We all say we want our beloved people and homeland to finally be freed of the scourge of graft and corruption. Now, here's one man – Governor Panlilio – leading the way, selflessly staking his name and life in line against the worst of entrenched interests, the very despicable insatiable monster exploiters who are mainly behind the plague that beset our country.

As expected, parties who stand to gain most in maintaining the status quo – including all those shameless mayors and other elected officials and greedy business folks and myriad other scoundrels ranged against the governor – are doing their darnedest worst to block the proposed changes that would, hopefully, start the ball rolling towards a new dawn.

Let's give the governor a hand. Better still, let's be the wall he could lean on for the much needed support. Let's say enough of big words!!! Let's prove that the spirit of the original EDSA is still in us. Let's stand behind Governor Panlilio and the others, if any more are forthcoming, who could be the guiding light for a saner, cleaner Philippines.

D. Grava, Los Angeles

Posted by pamagcusa at 11:29 AM | Permalink

January 12, 2008

GLOBAL FILIPINO NATION SUPPORTS GOV. ED PANLILIO'S MINISTRY OF POLITICS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

There is a convergence of the goal and strategic directions of the Global Filipino Nation and those of Gov. Ed Panlilio of Pampanga.

The goal of the Global Filipino Nation is effective governance in the Homeland.

Gov. Ed Panlilio has demonstrated that the pursuit of politics could be a clean process, a Ministry of Politics and Good Governance, without the support of special interests and vote buying.

Victory involved the voluntary and offered use of the personal resources of the people, and formally accounting for all political contributions – reversing the opaque practice in Philippine politics.

The centerpiece of Gov. Ed Panlilio candidacy and tenure is effective governance, anchored on good leadership and good governance: inter alia, leadership by example, earned trust, credibility, a vision and rational program for constituents, performance, responsible citizenship, and modest and moral lifestyle.

Within his first 100 days, among others, Gov. Ed Panlilio:

· Introduced transparency, accountability, integrity and performance in public office;
Rationalized the evaluation and funding for projects at the provincial and town level;
· Initiated steps to streamline and tighten operations of local government units;
· Raised by a significant multiple the level of quarry income; and
· Attained notable strides in activities relating to health care, education, agriculture and aquaculture, livelihood, and others.

Gov. Ed Panlilio has kindled a light of hope that public service can be honorable and meaningful to the lives of the citizenry.

There are elements that are bent on preventing Gov. Ed Panlilio from continuing to pursue his good governance goal – but they shall not prevail over the will of the people.

The Local Government Code grants a Provincial Governor supervision power over mayors, defines the grounds for disciplinary action that could be brought before the Ombudsman or the Sangunniang Panlalawigan, and empowers the Governor to impose preventive suspension.

The Global Filipino Nation strongly supports Gov. Ed Panlilio's leadership and program of government.

The worldwide community of Filipinos – at home and abroad – will take all steps necessary to prevent special interests and traditional politics from destroying Gov. Ed Panlilio's Ministry of Politics and Good Governance.

The people have spoken. Let their word be enshrined forever.

GLOBAL FILIPINO NATION

(A multi-sectoral association committed to effective governance in the Homeland, composed of overseas Filipino organizations and leaders, their onshore families and onshore Filipinos, located in the Philippines and countries with Filipinos.)

Posted by pamagcusa at 11:27 AM | Permalink

The recent rumors that recall proceedings are being contemplated against the incumbent Governor "Among" Ed Panlilio by the Vice-Governor Guiao, members of the provincial board and mayors, most, if not all of whom are identified with the GMA administration leaves a bad taste in one’s mouth. These rumors complemented by the almost orchestrated, blatant non-cooperation and practical boycott by the same political personalities of the fiscally sound policies/government projects by Gov. Panlilio seem to indicate some kind of a political conspiracy of the most despicable kind especially in light of his recent exposure of the receipt of an unsolicited and unaccounted amount of P500,000 after a meeting with Pres. GMA in Malacanang. It is quite clear that the well-entrenched political dynasties of Pam panga funded perhaps by the jueteng-funded Pinedas or even the filthy rich via graft Lapids and with the subtle consent/encouragement of the present administration have no qualms about using harsh/coercive and obviously destructive/self-defeating techniques to stifle and impede the adoption of sound fiscal policies in the implementation of much-needed government projects. After all, Gov. "Among" Ed Panlilio simply desires to institute morally upright and transparent governance in his province of Pam panga . For one thing, most if not all of these well-entrenched politicians seem hell-bent to perpetuate the status quo system of political patronage in which government funds in the millions of pesos used to be dispensed to them directly much like the P500,000 in the brown paper bag, without the benefit of any particular project in mind totally oblivious and in utter disregard for the basic safeguards of accountability and responsibility. This is precisely the very reason why graft and corruption continue unabated in our beloved country albeit in Pam panga. Indeed, this callous disregard for the general welfare of the people in the pursuit of the self-centered political and pecuniary interests of the likes of Vice-Governor Guiao and his local cohorts is so frustrating and irritating, to say the least. Indeed, it is totally contrary to Romans 13:1-7 which states, "Let every person be subordinate to the higher authorities for there is no authority except from God and those that exist have been established by God. Therefore, whoever resists authority, opposes what God has appointed and those who oppose it will bring judgment upon themselves. For rulers are not a cause of fear for good conduct but to evil. Do you wish to have no fear of authority? Then do what is good and you will receive approval from it, for he is a servant of God for your own good."

Which kind of begs the question? Why is it that many, if not all, political contests in our country are reduced to being a "choice of the lesser evils" such that wolves in sheep’s clothing... "Alibabas" (thieves) disguising themselves as trustworthy stewards of the people inevitably get elected as so-called public servants? How long will the supposed-fearless "Davids" remain cowardly, easily disheartened/intimidated by the seeming invincibility of the political dynasties "Goliaths" of their respective localities? How long will the ordinary yet chosen "Gideons" of the Philippines remain intimidated into submission by the high/mighty "Midianites" (the goons/armed forces) or just be financially induced like "Judas" (local politicians/high-ranking provincial board members) into compromise? This is now the time for the Nehemiahs and Ezras…God-fearing, albeit Christ-centered, Holy Spirit-inspired Filipinos based overseas…to come together as one cohesive political party and/or advocacy group and once and for all, be the much-needed catalyst in installing morally upright political leadership in 2010 and beyond. The likes of Gov. "Among" Ed and/or Bro. Eddie Villanueva need not be alone in this noble cause and endeavor. Enough is enough! This is now the time to rise up to be counted! TAMA NA! PANAHON NA!…Di ba?

Atty. Ramoncito P. Ocampo, "Bro. Mon", a licensed attorney in CA/Philippines, is also a lay Catholic/Christian preacher of the Word of God for more than 14 years. He welcomes your comments. Please e-mail him ocampolawusa@yahoo.com.

Posted by pamagcusa at 07:50 PM | Permalink

We had a wonderful time today. After what we have been told about Among Ed's peculiar political situation, I found our meeting this morning a rather strange contrast. It was meant to be a technical and working meeting, a chance for Tony and Luis to discuss operational matters with Among Ed's staff and the KMI (Kapangpangan Marangal, Inc.) representatives who have also volunteered to help GK in Pampanga. But when we arrived, it seemed a few other people knew about our meeting, and I saw a crew from ABS-CBN and a reporter/photographer from Inquirer. On our end, we also "expanded" as " Hapagasa" painter, Joey Velasco, and business consultant/writer, Willie Arcilla, were invited by Tony to attend the meeting. Willie is Kapangpangan and Joey's wife is as well.

Anyway, our Mabalacat GK is a truly multi-sectoral village with a private land donor and spouses of the Macapagal cabinet as the main sponsor for houses and facilities. The LGU is also getting more involved, and after today, should be even more active. Tony and Luis declared that Mabalacat will be the flagship village of Pampanga and will inspire the province to raise its levels of excellence. That means that extra effort and resources will be dedicated to the village so that it becomes a showcase. Provincial and municipal task forces will be established and will link up with GK National.

What topped it all was that Willie Arcilla got in touch with the vice-governor who is a long-time friend from childhood days and asked him to work with Among Ed for GK, and the vice governor assured Willie he would. I do not know what that assurance is worth, but I must put on my optimistic hat until proven wrong. It is GK's way, after all, not to prejudge even politicians. Let us pray for the best, and prepare for the worst.

Boy

Posted by pamagcusa at 08:17 PM | Permalink