Merck Set to Release Fertility Count Scorecard at ASPIRE Congress

Population has always been at an all time high in the Philippines, and what better place to launch this new initiative by Merck: a Fertility Count Scorecard. It's also the best time to happen because it was all laid out during the ASPIRE Congress.

The matter has affected everything socially and economically but this counts as something that would encourage policy makers to incentivize those who choose to pro create and build communities especially in emerging economies like ours.  

Albeit having a slight reduction in birth rates compared to the past decade, they attribute this dip to fertility preferences and the various programs in population control.

Merck has noted this (our country) as a key market compared to those that are in the Asia Pacific Region. We should realize that the key should be making it sustainable, one that would not inhibit growth and development. Our choices will greatly impact what we need as a society, because as much as we don't admit it, a lot of the developed countries are having problems in workforce and declining birth rates.  

For those who don't know, the ASPIRE congress is a place to exchange information especially for those who have a say in decisions that affect a population. This also includes how to provide healthcare and plans on having a manageable birth rate at the end of the day. They also plan to have discussions about it in the event especially for local attendees and regional ones. We are after all, family friendly, and creating a society would be enabling us to implement great policies, and not just lip service.

For Merck to release this Fertility Count Scorecard, it would be quite valuable in a global perspective especially for business leaders or those who plan ahead. The methodology is also a bit more scientific, backed by data, which hopefully would get implemented well. So if you want to know more, just check out the data they have at fertilitycounts.com.

Senator Loren Legarda Issues Message on 126th Philippine Independence Day

It's the 126th year of Philippine independence and this June 12th, Senator Loren Legarda has released this message:

 The Senate surely has changed a lot these past few months, but I hope everyone's loyalty won't come from political sectors. They have the hand to help even more people, which I hope is the reason why they chose this calling.

I guess today more than ever, we need to celebrate it despite the threats that are looming in the region. This is the time for nationalism, and action. Her wish for a more developed and environmentally caring Philippines is surely in the horizon. I spent my Independence day outdoors helping spread the word about how to help in causes, hope you made your day productive too!

Happy 126th Philippines!

KORINA Interviews Juan Ponce Enrile at 99

If there's someone to ask about the path to immortality in the Philippines, there's probably one person you have in mind, former Senator Juan Ponce Enrile. The statesman turned 99 years old this year and what better way to ask about his life, politics and thoughts about the countless memes on the internet which he was able to also see especially during the pandemic. He will answer all these questions and more on Rated Korina which will be available on the Korina Sanchez Roxas YouTube Channel.

This will be a 2 part exclusive interview with JPE and will include stories about how he started working as a yaya, fisherman, farmer, sales man, construction worker, a tortured man during the Japanese war who was able to escape, became a lawyer and have worked with 6 Philippine Presidents in his lifetime. 

 

 

Make sure you subscribe here https://www.youtube.com/@KorinaSanchez1 as the first episode already has over 100K views in just a single day. If you're wondering why it's he's still sharp at 99, or what he feels about his detractors, or maybe how politics has been in the last few years, or if he saw Adam and Eve in the flesh, those will be seen on the show. So make sure you sub and get the latest episodes on the Korina Sanchez Roxas channel!

Does Bianca Manalo Deserve the Title?

Looks like show business talk has been really rough about beauty queen and actress Bianca Manalo. According to several articles, she has been tagged as a "Politician Hunter" because of the interesting people she was seen allegedly involved with. This "allegedly" includes Jonathan Tan of Antique, and recently seen Senator Sherwin Gatchalian.

She was first crowned in 2009 and did the Miss Universe pageant on the same year. She did several TV shows and movies, her colorful though has been the topic of local flock of "marites" and showbiz write-ups.  

Local TV News reports also covered a boat accident which included her, the Antique Mayor and Ehra Madrigal. This started a lot of talk about them in articles, entertainment TV news and social media, much of which includes their supposed connection. A few months/year after, Bianca and Senator Win Gatchalian were pretty much public. They already had very colorful showbiz-politics connections even before that. With all these, does it warrant the title?

Let's see... if the plot thickens!

KORINA INTERVIEWS: Lion of the North Hon. Luis Chavit Singson

This next interview by Ms. Korina Sanchez-Roxas is certainly going to be interesting. He's feared by many, and highly influential especially in the world of politics in the north, no other than former Governor Luis Chavit Singson.

Although Korina Interviews have turned into a very lighthearted format, Governor Chavit was more than game in answering issues, and promises to do it  no holds barred.

Much to Ms Korina's surprise, they talked about what happened with Governor Chavit and former President Joseph Estrada wherein he confirmed to have had a rift in the past few years. Aside from that, they also have talked lengthily about his feared persona which he says was just made up by those who are just trying to bring him down since politics has always been full of mudslinging especially during elections.

Governor Chavit also toured Ms. Korina Sanchez-Roxas in his Narvacan Resort and Baluarte in Ilocos where they encountered some of the fiercest animals on earth - all of which will be shown on January 8 at 5PM on free TV via NET25. Make sure you watch this season opener as it'll be a great jump-off of things to come on her show Korina Interviews.

Anthony Taberna Joins AMBS Group's ALLTV

After having a really good showing and recovery year with Taberna Group of Companies and Outbox Media Powerhouse Corporation, Broadcaster, Radio Commentator and YouTuber Anthony Taberna is taking another step with his recent move to Villar owned Advanced Media Broadcasting System's ALLTV. The new player just recently signed him last September 6th at the Mella Hotel in Las Pinas City, known hometown of the Villars.

The event was witnessed by AMBS President Maribeth Tolentino, Atty. TJ Tolentino (AMBS General Counsel), Maryknoll Zamora the current AMBS CFO and Ms. Rossel Taberna (his wife and Outbox Media Powerhouse Corporation head honcho). Surely, his talent will be put into good use for news and current affairs shows or public service programs that are planned for and by ALLTV.

Tolentino says "Ka Tunying will certainly be a welcome addition to our ALLTV family. Aside from the shows with current events, news programs, we plan to include him in entertaining productions to serve viewers of ALLTV.

Mr. Taberna says "I'd like to thank the AMBS group for making me part of your family. I thank you for your trust, we've been talking about what we could offer programming, and my wife told me I'm too young to leave the TV industry. I'll do what I can to be a worthy part of ALLTV and do what I can on my 30th year in the industry."

There will be more personalities to be announced in the coming days.

Questions Hound PH Executive Secretary Post: Strategist Reacts

I've always heard the saying "Experience is the best teacher" when it comes to hiring people for a specific position. This is true in a corporate setting, also in government positions that hold a lot of responsibilities. After all, it's the people that you serve, and salaries come from the taxes they pay. 

While browsing YouTube this afternoon, I caught a portion of UNTV Director for News and Current Affairs Michael Fajatin and Ina Andolong's show at POLITIKOTV called Politiskoop where they were interviewing Ma. Lourdes Tiquia, a political strategist and founder of PUBLiCUS Asia Inc.

She was reiterating the importance of the Executive Secretary position and tells how the mandate is huge as it includes decision  making on a national level. She says "It is a powerful position and it isn't a post for pushing papers. It's not a glorified clerk. It really is a little President." She adds "I don't think the current Executive Secretary (pertaining to Vic Rodriguez) has the experience for the work to be done considering the style of the President. You need someone who had years of experience both in the national and local as well as the "can do" policy. Yes, there is a whole bureaucracy under the office of the Executive Secretary, but at the end of the day, the decision maker is the Executive Secretary."  

She certainly made valid points on the her interview that afternoon as executive posts like these are offered to experienced statesmen and political figures in the past; whom mostly have years of practice in the industry. Imagine, names include Ernesto Maceda, Joker Arroyo, Oscar Orbos, Franklin Drilon, Teofisto Guingona, Alberto Romulo have all held this position in the previous years. This is, among other names on the same list that also have related work prior to becoming part of the office. 

That's quite interesting. Questions are being asked and certainly, deserve answers.

"Bagong Henerasyon" Partylist Pushes for Health, Education and Jobs Generation

The BH Partylist or Bagong Henerasyon (New Generation) just concluded their Miting De Avance last May 4 at the Elements Tent in Centris Quezon City. With throngs of people coming from different parts of Metro Manila and nearby provinces, they all converged there to show support for Congresswoman Bernadette Herrera (1st Nominee) and businessman Marlon Manalang (2nd Nominee) for their group.

I am very familiar with Congresswoman Bernadette's work since I reside in Quezon City wherein she served as councilor in the early 2000's. When the partylist system was started and BH Partylist had sufficient votes, their goal to help those who need help in hospital payments, health, education (scholarships and higher education), and those who want to find jobs, businesses (SME's) so people can put food on their table and survive their daily lives. So far, they've gotten over 130 Principal Authored Bills to address this and needs to help even more this coming elections. 

Congresswoman Bernadette Herrera says "Since 2010, this is the first time we are doing a Miting de Avance. From our hearts, thank you so much for being here. Thank you Brother Marlon for organizing this today. I go around looking in communities, hearing people what they need, and I'm thankful you visited us here to give support to our cause. I already feel we have won the race. We are excited to provide public service. I have been here for 21 years and I feel so overwhelmed when people tell us that they were helped by our partylist Bagong Henerasyon. With MCGI and us, I see a very huge support from you all. When Brother Marlon and I visit Kuya Daniel, I feel like I'm part of MCGI. Our goal is to help in Health, Education and Job Generation. We need to teach our neighbors, those who are in the provinces to vote for a partylist representative. It's not hard to campaign as people know we have done remarkable achievements with the Universal Healthcare Law. The government should be able to shoulder private hospitals next, we need to work on this and we hope you would help us do this in the next congress. There's only a few days left before national elections and I hope in the few days you would ask your family, relatives, who would want to push for the same projects we do with Bagong Henerasyon. You are our inspiration, for the people you help are also the same ones we want to represent in the lower house. Number 35, Bagong Henerasyon Partylist!"

Check out the highlights of the event on this video, this includes a short interview with Brother Marlon Manalang (2nd Nominee) who also introduced us to some of his kids who were with him that afternoon:

If you want more information about their cause and projects, you may like their social channels by searching Bagong Henerasyon on Facebook. If you want them to represent you, make sure you shade number 35 this Monday.

COCO MARTIN and AP PARTYLIST Intensifies Support for LENI ROBREDO

It was sincere, very timely and so uplifting to see that a lot of organizations have supported VP Leni Robredo's Presidential run including action star Coco Martin's AP Partylist which happened last March 20 at the mammoth crowd in the #Pasiglaban rally (now second largest crowd during this peoples campaign). They did the same pronouncement in Tagum, Davao on April 7, further intensifying their support for the Vice President on her bid to run this country. They had Moira and Jason sing for the crowd with their hits before festivities started in this region. 

For those who don't know, AP Partylist represents the transport and livelihood generation sector. This is fully supported by the premiere action star Coco Martin and by Rep. Ronnie Ong (their first rep) to further help Filipinos who are in this field and their families. It has been evident that a lot of them during the pandemic lost their means of earning a living and representation in congress is needed to further have laws and bills passed that would help them even more.

Man of the hour Coco says "Let us not be afraid anymore because we have AP Partylist. Let's take this trip where all Filipinos will get to improve their lives, come join me to support AP Partylist!"

Rep. Ronnie Ong adds "We have had the pleasure of working with VP Leni during the blended learning system and online module classes August 2020 and now have similar projects with their office to help transportation for health workers and frontliners through our Libreng Sakay. Our values align with hers and we will support her together with Coco Martina and the whole Taskforce Agila. We need to win for the people."

Just so you know, Taskforce Agila include some celebrities like John Prats, Raymart Santiago, Angel Aquino, Michael de Mesa, Marc Solis ad John Medina. Today they are continuing to intensify their support for VP Leni and her Angat Buhay Lahat vision for the Philippines.

#164APPartylist

Monsour del Rosario Pledges Support for Vice President Leni Robredo

This Thursday March 24, 2022, Presidential aspirant Ping Lacson announced that he is officially leaving Partido Reporma and is running as an independent candidate for the highest post in the land. This as former Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and party officials in Davao Del Norte province informed him of their decision to support a different candidate this afternoon. The announcement was done in a press conference held at General Santos City.

Later that evening, Rep. Alvarez lauded Lacson and his accomplishments, then endorsed Leni Robredo who cited the urgency of fixing the country's issues by working together with their brand of good governance. Party members also supported and appeared during the meet in the province. Olympian, Senate candidate and former Makati Congressman Monsour del Rosario recently released a statement in reaction to this matter and his support for Vice President Leni Robredo.

Aside from being a Taekwondo champion, Monsour del Rosario has filed 282 House Bills and Resolutions. He's also the author of the Work From Home Law, also known as the Telecommuting Act of 2018. He's also pushing for healthcare which he deems important for Filipinos in the medical industry. He has done quite well during the 17th Congress and hopes to do even more for the ordinary Filipino when his turn comes to serve.

Social Democracy: Meet Presidential Aspirant Norberto B. Gonzales

Meet Norberto B. Gonzales. He's a National Security Adviser and general director of the National Security Council - and former Secretary of National Defense. He's a presidential aspirant this 2022 elections under the Philippine Democratic Socialist Party (PDSP). He's also bringing in 20 years of experience in political/peace negotiations, very well a part of what has been done in three different presidential terms and always, have been trusted in these matters.

Mr. Gonzales says "Since PDSP's inception, the youth has been instrumental in change and reform. The organizations sprouted during that time including non religious ones, and we advocated then something that would challenge the dictatorship without resorting to violence and communism."

He adds "The pandemic has been a very serious problem, it has continuously been a part of our lives for a while. It's important to re-organize our medical community, an integral part of what we need to solve this, to have a common position and address this immediately. It's time to invigorate our pharmaceutical industry, so we can make and create our own when things like these happens. The pandemic has made our lives change, but also showed us that nature can renew itself."  

"When I went around the country, I talked to people. When I was in the government, I knew we had the ingredients of a much better nation than what we are today. Our people are good, and we can fix our lives, especially the young ones who are already a part of local government units. When they become politicians, they lose their identity, the system breaks them... and I hope a new one would fix this. I've been working for a decade in the government and I see this would make a huge difference. It's sad to see someone who has been already proven in court is making a comeback, and trying to destroy the truth. I've experienced martial law, and I've suffered that time, we cannot allow those to change history, lives were lost during that time and it is unacceptable. The election is supposed to be a time to choose new directions, new system. The most important asset of a country is its people. The opportunities should be for all, capital should be for everyone. We should stop some politicians from giving away resources to only a few people in this country."

"You know, it's sad to see what's happening to us. When we had the People Power Revolution, I thought this has ended Marcos' reign and all that was stolen from us will be brought back to the Filipino people. This election is important, we need to explain and tell the truth, and tell them about the atrocities of the Marcoses. We need to tell them now, especially the activists that are still living. I promise to tell the youth about history, we should never let them spread lies. It's hard for me to tell the other candidates, so I will try my best to tell the people instead. I believe in my countrymen who can discern right from wrong, I will not put myself in contention with Marcos' campaign."

"My difference is what would make me win from others, I hope that I can be that better person that people can choose among the candidates."

With experience in the matters of the state, he is one qualified individual to run this country. Aside from that, he identifies the pandemic as something that is a huge threat in our national security and believes in the ideologies of social democracy. You now have options, make that vote count in May.

MONSOUR DEL ROSARIO Mulls Better Frontliner Benefits

Former Congressman for the 1st District of Makati Monsour del Rosario is running for Senate this 2022. In a recent voter education forum organized with Rotary District 3830, the Taekwondo Champ moved to file stronger policies to benefit our new heroes, the medical frontliners who faced the troubles of the pandemic til now. He quips, a lot of health workers choose to leave the country for a better life. Exemplifying their role during these hard times, he wants to improve their benefits, standardize and increase their salaries.

Monsour Del Rosario says "When I was young, nationalism has been embedded in me and I've had a few terms in public service. I've been exposed to problems in the grassroots, even in sports and movies. I saw what people need, Congress was a big picture, I figured I could do more in the lower house and people told me that I would lose my identity in public service. I went around before I decided to run, I saw how I can contribute and serve in a national scale. I threw the towel and asked them if I can perform as a leader in the Senate. Asking some people in the position, they told me they need the senate hall filled with men of integrity, who loves the country and people, they say I can competently do the job because they know I was always fighting for something bigger. Most people know me as an actor because the reach of the shows and movies I've been in is nationwide. My experience as an athlete, sports leader, councilor and congress bids my kind as a new perspective, something that people are looking for because I love my country. I think I can make a difference."

He adds "I believe our healthcare workers are heroes. This pandemic has opened the eyes of so many people, that they have been so important especially during this pandemic. I would want to file a bill that would get their benefits and salaries be standardized, also have the same benefits as PWD's, Senior Citizens, also with their family. I know so many professionals who have undergone training different fields but have done so good in public service. We have seen in the country that some who don't actually tell honestly that they can't. The challenge is there, and I am ready for it."

Needless to say, I was impressed how he wasn't like the run of the mill politician who would read off papers about what he wanted to say. He came across knowledgeable, confident, paid close attention to the cause he wants to further rally for. The opportunity to serve in a national scale is something that he'd want to do and rightfully so, because his eagerness to be of service to a sector that's done a remarkable lot of men and women in the healthcare industry deserve it. If you would want to know more about his work, visit his official site https://monsourdelrosario.com or his social channels.

ARJO ATAYDE Runs for Congress in QC's 1st District

Yes, ladies and gentlemen... the internationally acclaimed actor and head honcho of Feelmaking Productions is taking his passion for service a notch higher as he filed his certificate of candidacy today as he runs for a seat in congress for the 1st District of Quezon City.

Present during his appearance in Intramuros, Manila was his mother Ms. Sylvia Sanchez and Mr. Art Atayde. He was also flanked by current Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte. Arjo reiterated "The pandemic has made me realize that I needed to be the person to provide service to the people in my district. I've been really interested in doing this since highschool and the COVID situtaion made me ask when and how. I know the public deserves leaders that are sincere, the dignity and compassion to serve the people. Everyone deserves help."

He was also asked about Maine and said that she fully supports his decision to run in District 1. The district by the way is composed of 142 Barangays and he's planning to champion causes for healthcare, employment and education. Ms. Sylvia also stated "I told him that I will support him, he needs to serve his constituents well, not fool anyone or steal otherwise I'll throw him a punch!" she said jokingly. Arjo says "Trust that I will serve District 1 of Quezon City well. I will not fool them, nor will I steal from the city's coffers."

That statement alone is a testament of his eagerness to serve, you guys and gals from District 1 are lucky.

Legarda Aspires Senate Re-election, 1st National Candidate to File COC

Legarda files COC in Pasay City. Credits: Melissa Lopez

Looks like Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda is seeking re-election as she filed her COC yesterday morning at the Sofitel Tent in Pasay City. She's been a Senator for three terms and currently representing the lone district of the Province of Antique.  

In the Senate, she's noted to have chaired committees on Finance, Foreign Relations, Economic Affairs and Environment and Climate Change. She's authored several laws aimed to help Filipinos improve their lives and make servies accessible to the masses. She has previously garnered some of the highest votes in the 1998 and 2007 elections and vows to pursue more of her advocacies in health, economic recovery and the actions she could do about the climate crisis.

She also wants to enact laws that would help generate jobs, quality education and an efficient healthcare system. She also wants to push for stronger laws for environmental protection and cultural preservation which she has continuosly done in the congress, and do it for those who are marginalized, vulnerable and promote sustainable growth and recovery especially during these times. You may see her advocacies on her site lorenlegarda.com.ph today!

TODA One I Love with Ruru Madrid and Kylie Padilla

I have been watching their early teasers early January and these upcoming shows about elections caught my eye. The show TODA One I Love stars Kylie Padilla and Ruru Madrid who also made their mark during Encantadia where their pairing KyRu started. It begs for a show especially for the fans who seem to have affinity with the teamup, it was bound to happen and it did in this very socially relevant show.

Ruru says “Nagka work ulit kami ni Kylie and I am so happy to see even KYRU fans didn’t give up on us. I do drive bikes and driving tricycles are different, it is heavier and it helped because we have experience. The way we vote in Iglesia is different, we only usually know two days before the elections who we have to vote and the system is different.”

Kylie adds “This is my comeback show and I want someone who has been in a working relationship with me, we already have a following so it is so much easy. I think real change depends on us, whoever leaders are it won’t be good if we do not have that in us. Things that we want to say, I have already said it in my lines on the show. I have experience in driving motorcycles and I had to adjust, I am a little boyish and I had to just over act a bit.”

David Licauco says “It is on people, I believe what Kylie said. My character is not evil, they are both respected leading men, so it is up to her character.”

Gladys Reyes says “We are on a blocked vote in Iglesia and it is a sacred right for us to vote. People spend time to actually learn about the ones we would write on our ballots. This character is very political, all smiles when there are people, but clash when in private so I can play with the character. It is fun to see because it is more situational, dead people, graduation, birthdays, the mayor’s tarpaulins is going to be there. It’s inspired from a mix of different people.”

Kimpoy says “It is a reminder for Filipinos to still instill principles whenever we choose leaders.”

Director Jeffrey Hidalgo says “There will be scenes to be seen especially on issues that happen in real life. It is going to be delivered funny but it is serious. You will get to connect personalities but it is more talked about on scenes, you will fall in love, you will see action, you will see Kimpoy also do drama. This is very grounded, tricycles haven’t been seen on tv to be a lead in the community. The politics, the talk between afternoon moms, it will all be seen. There would be no real politicians in the show because if there is a need to we have characters to do that. Also, politicians won’t be able to campaign and appear as a rule indicated by comelec. It may be TODA but it reflects society as a whole. There is corruption, funds go somewhere, politicians using them, things like that affect us all.”

TODA One I Love will start airing on February 4 on GMA Telebabad and will replace a Korean series.

The Soldier, the Rebel, the Revolutionary Gringo Honasan

Sitting across the table of this man might actually get someone starstrucked, feared, proud, or curious. I've had the privilege of interviewing him a couple of years ago when he ran for Senator and we got to know him a little more personal that time. Today, we heard he was running for the second highest position in the land and I really wanted to know of all people, he was running with Binay, a question that resonated in the room but most people were afraid to ask. And so we did.

He knew since day 1 that  he would probably end up just answering that same question and defend the current vice president each time he's in the pedestal. In the beginning he wasn't really keen on being the nominee but in the hierarchy inside the UNO party just had him next in line. During the search, he was asked and felt a little hesitant. The Vice President position wasn't really a joke for him, it was a big undertaking and during the previous interviews, we felt that he wanted to spend more of his years less in the public eye and office, but in the arms of the most important people in his life... his family, his kids and grand children.

When asked why Binay, he said "I've gone against 3 Presidents, I was a soldier and didn't know what to do... but this coming elections, after 42 years, I know exactly what to do. I believe in the platform and program of the Vice President. I want him to be judged through due process and by applying the rule of law, in the proper courts. I know the standards are high with public officials, before public opinion renders judgement, I've gone out of the system in the past to solve problems because laws were not being followed. That's mob rule, that's not freedom, if that's the case, why don't we all just abolish the judiciary and close law schools... and remove the profession and practice of law, that's a huge saving in the budget. Let's all just go to MOA, Luneta or Araneta Coliseum and just raise hands if we want to choose who's guilty or not. Let's decide by consensus, referendum if necessary, but if we do not want things like that, let's all go back to the rule of law. It takes time, it takes effort, but let's not make that an excuse for trial by publicity. 

I've been a victim of that, like the PDAF issue. The amounts are ridiculous that I already know it's already partisan politics in the beginning. Corruption is serious, the issue of corruption must be met from the head, it's as old as mankind.What's happening now is a breakdown in control mechanisms, this is why there are tons of people who abuse it. I am not the one who will risk 42 years of public service, risking my life, my family, my honor, my future for 1.7 Million pesos. I could have easily just borrowed that money from my compadres, that's just money to buy a high end Innova. Would I gamble everything for that? Well, I guess it just comes with the territory. I've already said, until proven otherwise, I have full confidence in our justice system , again until proven otherwise."

" I don't want to be melodramatic, I was praying hard to communicate to you what this is all about. I'm a senior citizen, this is not about you or me, but the future of the country. I was a very reluctant candidate, because after all from the little you know about me, I was a soldier for 17 years. The starch in my body, my mind, my heart is to show for it. I think you know that I was a military rebel also, depending on what information you got, I can account for 1986, next month is the historic EDSA People Power revolution, and this is my 18th year being a Senator of the republic. Modesty aside, when I first ran in 1995 and won, we became the first truly independent candidate to win in the national Senatorial elections but I guess there are valid reasons for that. I think the public has a hand in that, instead of trying unsuccessfully trying to overthrow the government, they put me in the Senate and see how I can help make laws reforming society and government from the inside instead of outside the system. That's one perspective. "

 

"I've been called a coup plotter, a power grabber, self righteous messiah, but one thing that can't be taken away from me and my group is the consistency of our struggle. In 1986, we didn't break away from the military against Marcos, we broke away as a movement for the government. In other words, the one we're doing is systemic changes and not just changes in personality. So that's the other reason I have decided to run for the second highest position in the land. Because this would be the last time I would stand in the national platform and say to those who were born and not born during that time that when the Filipino people get together with their soldiers, under moral leadership, change is possible. Systemic changes and re-engineering of the society and government can actually happen and take advantage to tell our people how change takes place. 

Second, I decided to run because I am the Vice President of UNA. The party I am leading and helping organize after running in 4 recent national elections as an independent. I was looking forward at retiring in 2019, when VP Binay was high in surveys, there were tons of VP's that wanted to be his running mate and I think that's how the law of nature works. The nature of politics is that when he was high as 40% there were tons of them who wanted to run with him including a whole senatorial lineup. One year after the senate investigations, he was in a bump and everyone was gone. One Sunday morning as the executive committee was meeting, they just said "Senator Honasan, what you you think?" I laughed and I said "What do I think of what?" they said "Maybe you can run for Vice President" and I replied "I told my family that in 2019, my 4th term ends..." and I told them that I would be with my family that whole time, 17 years as soldier, 7 years as a rebel and 18 years as a Senator, that's 42 years of public service already I was thinking the country wouldn't ask more from me."

"I had to confront that issue with my family and explain to them, even my youngest daughter. She cried and said that when she was born I wasn't there, when she was christened I wasn't there, when she graduated from High School I wasn't there, on her debut I wasn't there. She's only had these past few years to make me her friend, so I had all that against me. I told her I'm a good soldier, I don't expect her to embrace this decision but asked her to try and understand. She told me they wouldn't be very supportive, we don't agree, but once you run and whatever result it may be, just come back to us alive. They told me to come home and never come back to it. They wanted me to make more time to enjoy my 5 grand children. That was the first situation, second I told my party that I don't have star complex, I have no ego to contend with if I'm the last choice or just a prop, we cannot afford ego with our leaders. I want to feel that I'm not just a wallflower, give me the moral, the logistical support, the prayers, that will allow me to wage a national campaign, and put anybody in front of me and I'll beat them.

Both of these were met, and I'm a good soldier, I wouldn't just leave anyone in the air like the others. I know the feeling, I'm always independent. In 1995 I was almost declared as a nuisance candidate, everyone had a negative feeling, but I had 9,000 volunteers, an army. I landed number 9, I did it again in 2001 to fill up the vacancy of former Senator Fernan. I was jailed and accused by the administration then of inspiring the Oakwood Mutiny. That I did a lot to encourage then Colonel Trillanes. I was only given a few weeks to campaign, and I won, landed number 10. The last election I was number 13, in a convincing margin. This is about your future and the problems of our country are serious, and it needs serious answers." 

"I suppose I know that all of you are younger, a generation apart, you are the future. But you are your own future, we can only show you by example so you could be dependable. I do that for your generation and my own children, the changes must happen between elections, it will be given to you by UNA, not just the Vice President Binay or any personality. I want to help a party that will organize and present a platform for the future characterized by party discipline. Actually I don't think we even have a party right now, you name me a party supporting this or that. If our candidates do not make these changes between elections, people will have national impatience, and go into national self help. If you don't want to do these changes, the people will do it and call it People Power. There are a lot who say people are already tired of doing it, maybe, and now I ask for your help and your precious time to take it out there."

He adds "I'm not a techie, winning is secondary, I want to promote unity after May, develop a common national agenda that will be characterized by a system of priorities. I am looking forward to meet other candidates from other parties while it's still fluid so we can talk about what to do after the elections. We don't know yet who will win, so it's better to talk about it now. The other difficult way to to force your candidate to win by cheating, this country would become ungovernable, this country is such a beautiful one, any thinking sector that I've talked with said we know how blessed our country is because we just wake up and see we're growing 6-8% GDP... can you just imagine how bigger that could be if we all get our act together? The potential if we can hammer out a long term economic policy, a long term foreign policy, a long term security policy, how pivotal, how strategic, how we can develop issues like poverty, hunger, ignorance, health, security, that's what we're facing right now. That's why in May, if the elections do not warrant clean results, then I'm afraid things will become worst before they become better. That's why I'm asking for your help not for my candidacy but to find that Vice Presidential candidate that's for the country, for people to make an rational, intelligent, informed decisions based on facts and not on perception."    

I told him point blank that I didn't have any Vice Presidential candidate yet in mind and he didn't force me to vote for him. He's got a stellar number of laws passed which he authored, co-sponsored and supported during his term. He's also a good man, I can see it in his eyes when he talks to me and I can feel how sincere he was to give public service a priority when he had to. I'm not in any way shape or form endorsing him, but he's already proven to be a good choice. Choice, we need tons of that. He also emphasized the need for rational informed decisions instead of bloating out his accomplishments during our interview. That to me tells a lot. Make sure you read up and learn about the one you're voting because there's a lot on the line. It's our country and our future, he's right.

For more information about him:

Gringo Honasan for Vice President

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