Independence Day

This month Filipinos mark the 113th anniversary of Philippine Independence from Spain. It is important to emphasize that freedom gained was won from Spain. It was this victory that Americans snatched away from Filipinos in connivance with Spain who said that it could not surrender to an inferior race and instead gave the country, lock stock and barrel,… Read More »

A Tribute to Papa: Mission Accomplished!

After three agonizing years of untreatable illness, my father (Papa as we fondly call him) finally succumbed and quietly passed away this month. Over the years, I’d seen him fought long and hard, using his every strength, humor, and motivation to get physically and emotionally better. But his aged body had to give up . . . And… Read More »

Cronyism in the Aquino government

Once again, President Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III appointed a family friend to an important – and sensitive — government position notwithstanding allegations that his appointee, Domingo Lee, does not have the qualifications and experience required of the job as Ambassador to China. And to think that China is the second most important ambassadorial post, next to the United… Read More »

PH should stop China’s bullying

CHICAGO (jGLi) – When China looks the other way when the Philippine government raises concerns over Chinese incursions into Spratlys Islands that the Philippines considers its own, the giant neighbor is nothing but a good-for-nothing bully who hungers for attention. So, what does the Philippines need to do? It should stand up like David and tell Goliath not… Read More »

Independence Day stories

Filipinos everywhere are celebrating the 113th anniversary of Philippine Independence this month, specifically June 12 – in Toronto. The festivities were held June 11-12 at Nathan Philips Square, featuring a lechon parade. The roasted pigs were chopped and served to the people after the parade. Various presentations from different organizations featuring some aspects of Filipino culture entertained the… Read More »

Gloria and Erap

In a desperate attempt to protect herself from prosecution for plunder, former president and now congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo informed the Judicial and Bar Council (JBC) of her opposition to the nomination of retiring Supreme Court justice Conchita Carpio-Morales to be the next Ombudsman. While it’s not uncommon for anybody to lodge an opposition to a nominee to… Read More »

The Gutierrez Family: Lessons on Proper PR

From the late‘50s to early ‘70s, movie idol Eddie Gutierrez became a well respected and most loved showbiz personality. His name was synonymous to a real gentleman, responsible and never a kiss and tell person. In mid-70s, Eddie hired this writer as his pro when he branched out as movie producer under Mabuhay outfit. The more his professionalism… Read More »