Migoy's Journal

ESC Stand on the CRSRS Referendum

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:45:34 GMT

Towards A Better Selection Process:
The Engineering Student Council 2008-2009 Statement on the CRSRS Referendum

“(g) One Student Regent, to serve for a term of one (1) year, chosen by the students from their ranks in accordance with rules and qualifications approved in a referendum by the students;”

Based on the new UP Charter of 2008, Section 12g explicitly states that the Board of Regents must include a Student Regent, under the condition that the rules and qualifications for selection be approved by the students through a referendum. Clearly, RA 9500 gives due power to the students to assess the Codified Rules for Student Selection CRSRS), being that it is a step towards a more democratic and true student representation.

Direct democracy is one of the main rationales behind any referendum process. It seeks to see whether the proposal and/or amendment/s pass the standards of the public through a simple majority of votes.

Since its inception in 1997, the General Assembly of Student Councils (GASC) has battled over a myriad of amendments of varying natures. The past three (3) years have left the Codified Rules for Student Regent Selection untouched, thus possibly proving the primacy and validity of the Current Codified rules itself.

We, the Engineering Student Council, however, believes that the aforementioned Codified Rules have flaws that are not equivalent to the so-called primacy and validity of the Current Rules for selection. Over the past eleven (11) years, the amendments that have been proposed prove to be just, fair and representative of the very reason why the Office of the Student Regent was established: student representation.

On the Objective of Referendum

Before anything else, we have to know why this referendum is to be conducted. Republic Act 9500 states that the rules should be approved in a referendum. This simply means that the students are to choose whether they agree with the selection process or not. Students should primarily concern themselves if indeed, the selection process is valid or not. In essence, saying no to the referendum is not tantamount to the abolishment of the Office of the Student Regent.

On the Merit of Amendments

1. Addition of Minimum Academic Requirement as per University Rule

To begin with, UP is an academic institution. Thus, most of our titles come with the word STUDENT. [I.e. Student Council, Student Leader, Student Regent]

We are students first. The addition of the minimum academic standing qualification in the selection would be more beneficial to the students, knowing that they have an assurance that the sole representation to the Board of Regents would serve as a role model not only of leadership, but also of to ensure that the Student Regent, by the time he/ she assumes office, is qualified to hold it.

The College Electoral Board has STRICTER rules to follow on academic requirement for Student Council candidates. In the local scene, you cannot run or even be nominated to file for candidacy in the Engineering Student Council if you were not able to pass 75% of your units during the previous semester. In the School of Economics Student Council, you have to have a GWA of 2.0. In the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy, you cannot have a 5.0 in the previous semester to be eligible for Student Council Elections.

The minimum standing academic requirement is very lenient on the part of the system. As long as one does not have any probationary status whatsoever prior to nomination, you fulfill the minimum academic standing. In numbers, at least 50% of your units passed during the previous semester. Thus, it is supposed to be relatively easy to achieve minimum academic standing, under the assumption that we are fulfilling our primary duty as students in this University.

2. Removal of KASAMA sa UP

The Council recognizes that KASAMA sa UP has a historical role in the establishment of the Office of the Student Regent. We put this organization in high esteem as one of the organizations and/or alliances that fought for Student Democratic Rights and student representation. We, however, believe that with regards to the Office of the Student Regent, the very nature of the Office should not be affiliated with ANY political, academic, or any other, organization for that matter. Thus, KSUP should be removed in the provisions of the CRSRS. This will not only assure the students that the Student Regent will not lean towards any other ideologies, but to cast and remove any form of doubt on the OSR’s disposition.

3. Electoral System of Voting for Student Regent Selection

The current system of voting is not proportional to the number of students per college. Thus, we believe that the Law Student Government’s proposal of electoral voting should be used; being that the population is the best measure of the votes to be cast per College. The population of the College is not tainted nor biased in any way.

4. Three Year Effectivity of the CRSRS before ratification

The practicability of this amendment is at high level. Three years should be more than enough for the student body and the GASC to see if the selection process, upon amendments has been made, is reflective of the true essence of student representation or not. The annual amendment rule in the CRSRS proves not only to be taxing for the students, most especially if a referendum is to be made, but rather financially costly to College Councils whose location to the possible location of any GASC assembly is not as accessible as others.

The Engineering Student Council thus believes, after thorough review of RA 9500 as well as the current Codified Rules for Student Regent Selection, that the current Rules do not represent the very essence of student representation. The CRSRS is flawed, and it is imperative that this be manifested in this referendum. Our student regent should be our representation. We must then go back to what the University stands for.

The university’s culture has had a long history in the fight for Student Democratic Rights. However, we must also take into consideration the very reason why any University, let alone the University of the Philippines was established: education.

Our university is BOTH a center of educational excellence AND a forefront in student democratic rights. One cannot stand without the other.

This is the very essence by which the University stands for.

If the current CRSRS is used, will we be able to arrive at the Student Regent that best represents the students AND the University’s ideals? We beg to disagree.

Thus, we firmly believe that a vote of NO should be placed in the ballot.

Furthermore, the referendum should also involve two questions, being that the question “Do you approve of the current CRSRS? Y/N” is too simplistic and does not account the reason and plan of action should a no win the referendum. The addition of amendments as follow-up question should be implemented not only to guarantee the fairness of the process but also to ensure that a no will have a definite direction to follow.

The council steadfastly believes that the fight for student representation should forever be there. Democracy, as envisioned by its forefathers, should be the very inspiration by which we move forward with this referendum. Thorough scrutiny of the current working document should be made, and believe in the mandate of the students. We believe that in order to be able to reap the most honest and democratic results, we have to believe and make the students realize the truth amidst all this.

Not to shadow it with the fear of losing student representation, but stand for the very ideals that student representation, let alone the Office of the Student Regent was established to begin with:

Democracy. Integrity. Excellence.

Wee!

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:01:22 GMT

I'm no longer a teen. Wee!

ESC's Position Paper on the Rice Crisis

Fri, 16 May 2008 06:17:25 GMT

Position Paper on Rice Crisis
Engineering Student Council 2008-2009

The recent weeks have shown a dramatic increase in the price of our country’s staple food: rice. Though this sudden increase has brought about numerous assumptions as to how and why our country’s staple commodity has increased dramatically, one has to first note that such a crisis is a world phenomenon. Constant inflation of market prices has brought about sudden increase to local produce, including rice. The problem, therefore, is not that of a rice crisis. The issue at hand here is the price crisis and the eventual panic attack of local consumers to avail rice at a lower price. However, one of the major arguments that need to be pointed out is that this issue should not be taken lightly. It is important to recognize that rice is a universal commodity: it transcends political, social and economic classes. Thus, no one is exempted from this crisis. Most, if not all, are affected by the current crisis that the entire Filipino population faces. But when looking at it from the larger perspective, the current crisis is mainly the “tip of the iceberg.” The Engineering Student Council recognizes the government’s effort in stating that a price hike in rice was imminent to happen and that the Filipinos were able to anticipate it. Also, it is very much appreciated that the government has given out rice passes to give priority to the less-fortunate. However, as Engineers who strive for the most efficient manner to solve problems, such efforts are not enough. This rice crisis implies a lot more than just meager stocks in the country’s produce for self-sustainability. It is an implication of the political, social and economic problems that can arise or are currently happening in our nation. One must then look and scrutinize the current state of society to be able to realize the depth that this problem implies.

The current crisis is an implication of the government’s inefficiency to regulate and implement agrarian laws.

In every province, the Department of Agriculture has its implementing rules. One of which would be to support the region’s produce to which it is assigned to. [i.e. if you are a palay producer, The Department of Agriculture should support palay production]. Unfortunately, there is meager support from the Department of Agriculture. Occidental Mindoro is one of the major producers of palay in the Philippines. Recent reports have shown though that the Department of Agriculture highly encourages corn instead of rice production, being that corn can be sold at a higher price. One has to consider the improper implementation of law that then provides fewer avenues for the use of the land to which it is really for.

The current crisis is an implication of the government’s lack of support in the agricultural sector.

The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) has noted a continued decline in investment of the government in our agriculture. The agriculture sector has not received adequate resources for the funding of critical programs or projects, such as the construction of efficient irrigation systems. According to the World Bank, the share of irrigated crop land in the Philippines averaged only about 19.5 percent in the mid-1990s, compared with 37.5 percent for China, 24.8 percent for Thailand, and 30.8 percent for Vietnam. Though there have been initial allocated budgets for all of its aspects, budget cuts have been constantly implemented and one can easily see the disinvestment in agriculture through its outdated technologies and means of palay production.

It is also important to note that the failure of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) is from the government’s lack of support as well. The logic behind CARP was to be able to provide equal distribution of lands to its constituents and beneficiaries [i.e. farmers]. Although initially noble in nature, the equal distribution of lands did not match the equal distribution of finances and support from the government in order to finance and maintain such land. How can a family of 4 people maintain a hectare of land if they do not have the proper technology and resources to maintain and cultivate such a parcel?

The current rice crisis is an implication of the quality of GDP growth in our country.

The growth rate of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the Philippines in the 4^th quarter of 2007 has risen to 7.4% as compared to 5.5% last year. Although the quantity of GDP has risen dramatically and the potential output of our resources has grown, one still has to note the percentage contributions of such. The service sector has the largest contribution to GDP growth at 3.63%, followed by the industry sector with a contribution of 2.30%, and lastly, agriculture and forestry with only 1.47% contribution. Yet another major irony of it all is that as of the most recent statistical tables released by the National Statistics Office, Laborers in the agricultural sector account for 37% of our country’s labor force, just second to the service sector with 48%. These figures just prove the major notion that the agricultural sector has a major discrepancy with its potential output proportional to the number of laborers it has. One must then address the government over such inefficiency.

The current rice crisis is an implication of the country’s continued lack of resources and larger debt in the World Bank.

According to statistics, the Philippines’ yield per hectare of land has dropped down to an average of approximately 3 metric tons per hectare. There is a large discrepancy to the ideal yield set by the National Food Authority (NFA) of 5 metric tons per hectare. 5 metric tons per hectare is the anticipated yield of agriculture in order for the Philippines to sustain itself for at least two months. Such reserve is called the buffer stock, the 2-month worth stock assuming good yield. This then turns our attention to the lack of arable lands that can be used for agriculture due to commercialization and industrialization of such assets [i.e. Golf courses, residential subdivisions, and industrial parks]. In 1993 the nation was losing irrigated rice lands at a rate of 2,300 hectares per year due to commercialization. This gives the National Food Authority no choice but to continuously import rice to sustain the buffer stock and provide rice at a cheaper price. And since the NFA sells such imported rice at a lower price than its current market value, in only increases the 120 Billion dollars debt we have in the World Bank.

We, the Engineering Student Council 2008-2009, believe that such matters should not be taken lightly. We firmly propose that such measures should be made in order to alleviate, if not eliminate, the current rice crisis. We then recommend the following alternatives:

Revamp of the current agrarian reform and agricultural laws

There should be a thorough perusal of the by-laws of the agrarian reform bills as well the agricultural laws that govern the Philippines. Such rules though are not implemented as rigorously and not as devotedly followed as it is supposed to be. That being said, we propose a formation of a more solid foundation for the passing of new agrarian reform and agricultural laws. That way, proper sanctions can be prescribed for non-implementation of the law, as well as disobedience to the said laws.

More budget allocation to the agricultural sector

It is true that a country’s economic advancement is primarily measured through its technology and capital resources. Although such statement is a sweeping generalization, we should never forget that The Philippines is still primarily an agricultural country despite the plan to make it an industrialized economy by 2000. Most citizens still live in rural areas and support themselves through agriculture. Thus, government should prioritize agriculture in its budget allocation. The government should invest on technologies that would aid in the production of agriculture so as to be able to make potential output of agriculture proportional to its labor force contribution.

Encourage population awareness

Rice yield of 3 metric tons per hectare is not proportional to approximately 89 million Filipinos living here today. Moreover, population is expected to increase to approximately 94 million by the year 2010. A nation’s safety and well-being does not rely on its sovereign alone, but with its subjects as well. We should then encourage population awareness. With the price hike of even our country’s staple food, the people should also realize that overpopulation may serve as a threat should the increase in average output not be proportional to the increase in population in the long run.

Invest on general education, graduate studies and Research and Development efforts

The College of Engineering has proved its excellence through its long line of duly-recognized research works not only by its graduates but also by its faculty members. Government investment in education is thus imperative. One important aspect to note that educational attainment has one of the highest indicators of poverty incidence here in the Philippines. In 2003, 69% of those who are in a state of poverty are those who have finished at most elementary education and 76% are in rural areas. Thus, investment on provincial education is essential so as to be able to instill awareness to the people as well.

Encouragement to pursue graduate studies [i.e. Master’s and Doctorate degrees] is yet another alternative with a long-term effect in our country’s current state. Having these people with further studies at a more specific vantage point would be an assurance of tireless efforts in pursing research and development efforts in order to improve and cultivate our current agricultural technology and production. One should also realize that maximizing the fact that the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is in the Philippines, having collaborations with the best Engineers in R & D efforts would bring about further strengthening in our agricultural sector, one that was once the best in South East Asia. This way, long-term effects can be made possible for a more stable economy and quality growth in potential output.

Focus on anti graft and corruption measures

It is important to note that 2 out of the 10 of the most corrupt leaders in the World hail from the Philippines—the only country with such a distinction [i.e. Ferdinand Marcos (2) and Joseph Estrada (10)] Corruption thwarts the growth of strong institutions over time. We should strive to stop corruption in our country, simply because corruption control is an essential role in effective governance. Current government can reduce corruption through coordination with the Ombudsman and the Commission on Appointments. A big fish has been caught already. Let this not be the end of the road for our battle against corruption.

As a college that prides itself in its long line of excellence in providing the most efficient solutions to the problems at hand, we ought to take the measures by which we can slowly address the problem. This issue has not just become a fleeting issue. It has become a wake-up call for all of us to be aware and ponder on the things that we want to happen for our country. Recognition of our roles as students would be one, but in recognizing ourselves as iskolars para sa bayan, we ought to make the move to instigate awareness not only within ourselves but to other people as well. Eventually, the nation’s future will be literally in our hands. Being in UP is a gift simply because it gives us the privilege, opportunity and responsibility to give back by becoming more: more aware, more passionate, and ultimately, more nationalistic.

Excellence through quality education is the key to survival, but striving for excellence through UP Education is the key to nation-building and in turn, national change.

Sources: World Bank, International Rice Research Institute, National Statistics Office, Department of Agrarian Reform, Department of Agriculture, Nation’s Encyclopedia, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism

(Prepared by the Engineering Student Council’s (ESC) Externals Committee with inputs and reports from other members of the ESC)

/rma0809

Sat, 19 Apr 2008 14:49:20 GMT

We should love, for the right reasons. Enough said.

We Are A Lot Of Things...

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 15:12:57 GMT

We are a lot of things, but who would ever thought that people would be subject to judgment not only by the righteous law of the land but by the critical eye of people themselves?

Sometimes, I find it too sickening to be given a half-meant remark. It just sucks the life force out of you that you just have to accept that bitter pill, swallow it and move on. But for me, I have to write down my thoughts first before starting to move forward. We're rational beings here, and we better have sound basis for judgment. Pure reason is supposed to be the mode by which we think, and not by passion alone.

Spur of the moment blog entries for spur of the moment happenings. That's what this is.

Ciao.

Confusion

Tue, 08 Apr 2008 19:14:47 GMT

I could vividly remember how the hues of rainbows collide when they disappear into thin air after appearing after the rain. Beautiful, isn't it? But can't you just stop and think about the things that can be attributed to it?

I wonder all the time, of course. Wonder as to how these things come about and disappear. Such melodramatic memoirs sink in right now. Hmm... But of course, we cannot help but reconcile ourselves with the fact of an imperfect life. Colors do come and go. Sometimes you can be just all vibrant, yet there are those rare times wherein you are just dull, boring, and "dead."

Confusion then sinks in. In those times of dull-colored chapters, I just always complicate things by probing questions of why? how? when? where? all those sorts of things that aren't really necessary, thus confusion arises.

Confusion in the sense that you don't know where you're going. That weird feeling of both discontent and contentment all rolled into one. That feeling that you have no idea if you should move forward or take a step back. Those stages that just leave you immobile both in heart, mind, soul and physique. Those things that ultimately kill you eventually, without you even knowing it.

I don't know, maybe I just over analyze. There are a lot of things that cannot be masked, nor can be treated lightly. But one thing is for sure, colors may come and go, but it's your hand that paints the portrait. Go figure.

Wahahahaha! Senseless blog entry. Comment if you have something to say? I guarantee not.

:-)

Worth

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 02:42:16 GMT

It's in the simple things in life that you'd actually know your worth as a human being. Note, the SIMPLE things.

Conflicts

Sun, 06 Apr 2008 16:08:29 GMT

Sometimes, we can't say when will conflicts arise, or when will conflicts cease to exist.

All we know is that there will always be conflicts, no matter how careful and meticulous we are about every minute detail of our lives.

I for one am encountering a lot of conflicts at this very moment, mostly within myself. It's just unfortunate that I have to vent out all my personal conflicts to people who I think doesn't really have anything to do with such things that I have to say. There are those rare times that I just want to sit back and just enjoy the view of the sunrise and how it sets in the evening, where "the sky meets the sea."

How I wish conflicts can be avoided with all the things that are physically possible to to. How I wish that I am not of this caliber to think about a lot of things over and over and over again. It's getting to be a really really bad habit, so to speak, but I always get by. Though sometimes people view these things that I think of as worthless and a waste of time, I just sigh and say to myself to just chill, grab a beer or two to forget these things, sleep it out and hopefully upon waking up, it's a brand new day.

Sadly though, that isn't the case in real life.

We live in a world of a lot of inevitable things, and conflicts are one of them. Deal with it and embrace it. That way, maybe you'd find life at a different perspective.

Sacrifice

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 04:31:07 GMT

What is your form of sacrifice?

Me? I tend to go out of my way to spend time with people whenever the circumstance calls for it. Yes, I may be a jerk 86.54% of the time, but I will be there for you, most especially if you are someone really special. Well truth is, sacrifice is very inevitable, so to speak. Whether you're in a relationship or not, you always to have to sacrifice. As for me? I can sacrifice my own world for your sake, just as long as I see that you're worth my time. That's how I sacrifice. Even for my friends.

You, what's your form of sacrifice? I want to know.

You'll Know Soon Enough...

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 02:43:46 GMT

Lately, I have had this feeling of utmost spite on something that should have been done already. I cannot help but realize how painful it still is not to have one of your closest friends as your co-workers in the Council.

I could vividly remember the initial reaction that I had when the results were announced to us last Wednesday around 12:30 in the morning. I couldn't contain myself. Anger... Disgust... Disappointment... Rage... Sadness... Everything all rolled into one. Words can't describe the plethora of emotions that I have felt during that day, and up to this point in time, I am still not over that fact.

When such unfortunate events happen, all we could ask is... "Why?" Why did my friend lose even if the posters say that she's perfect for the job? Why is is that the Engineering populace misjudged some of the candidates?

Jeez. All these things I ask right now. But now that all is done, I have to let go of this rage I have... day by day.

You'll know soon enough that my rage will be gone. But time can only tell when I can mend myself and be in harmony... again.

-_-

When would you know...

Fri, 07 Mar 2008 02:27:07 GMT

There are those times of the day when you just sit back and laugh at how you have lived your life. It makes me wonder though if things will ever change. Sure, I have had the most blissful memories of my life so far, but I've also had my share of the bad times as well. I always question myself if I am worthy of such a life of misery and bliss all rolled into one, and all I can muster to myself is, "Maybe."

Whenever we do feel that way, what do we remember? Do we reminisce the sweet times we've had or just plainly the worst of times. The first lines in the book, "A Tale of Two Cities" ever-so-perfectly realizes my current memory, "It was the best of times. It was the worst of times." Whenever I take a peek at what I have done, I feel mistakes crawling up my sleeve, but never did I regret anything.

As I have always said, "Regrets can only stay as regrets only if you want them to be. If there's a will, then there should always be a way." This statement would be granting that the desire to fix things is mutual.

But if there's one thing that cannot be erased from this lifetime, it's the fact that you can never please anyone. Even the people you care and treasure deeply. It's sad, isn't it? But it's true I guess...

________________________

Setting that one aside, I have to respond to my last entry.

I got a shot at serving the College yet again, though the victory is so bittersweet. :-s

Finally Back...

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 14:56:03 GMT

After the long wait, I can finally leech some wifi signals from somewhere in my room. It has probably been ages since I last wrote here so let me just update you with a few things that I have been up to lately.

I'm venturing into yet another year of good stress. Go figure out what it is.

Basically, I am happy. Contented with what I have as of the moment, but there are things that I want to dwell on just for this entry's sake, and it's about service.

What defines service?

Service is the act of selflessness that is geared towards giving back to the people who you rightfully owe to.

More when I get back to this. It's getting late. Academic modes first. :-)

Ciao!

Back

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 09:28:46 GMT

I have changed and I just know it. I don't know if the circumstances of life permitted me to have this change but nevertheless, I really don't care what the circumstances in life are. All I know is that I feel a lot better about myself and I owe it to a lot of people who have made this one possible.

The weaknesses that I have always been able to let myself be eaten is slowly getting into becoming a strength, channeling everything into something positive with the hopes of making things better.

Life has its ways of making you fall and making you realize things, and it is in your darkest hours and moments that you realize a lot of things. For one, you realize who your true friends are. Two, you get to see the real you in all aspects: self, others, world, etc. Or whatever parallel universe there may exist. And lastly, we see it as an opportunity for us to become better.

Maybe it's time I apologize for the things I've done. I'd like to think I may have paid or am paying my dues already, considering how much of a psychotic being I was a few days back. Jeez. I can't believe that I was that monster.

Everything comes through a process, and though the process was long and arduous, I still came out victorious. Regardless of everything negative that was meant to throw me aback, I just stood tall and just gave it my all.

For the first time in many years, I can say that I am proud of myself. Not for the reason that I have achieved something extraordinary, but because I was able to achieve a much better vision: a better outlook in this lifetime. :-)

.....

Sun, 20 Jan 2008 17:05:04 GMT

Why... that's the only word I can think of... Search the lyrics, maybe you could realize something.

http://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/avrillavigne/why.html

Relieved

Sun, 20 Jan 2008 12:34:05 GMT

You know how it feels when you want something so bad that you try so hard to keep but it slips away?

NOT GOOD!

If there's one things I have learned today, it's that you just have to be, democratic, with the things that you want. There are a lot of things that I need to learn in this lifetime, and this is one of them.

I'm really not in a blogging mood so I'll just end it here. These are the things that make me genuinely happy. :-)

Is It Okay If I Call You Mine?

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 15:21:49 GMT

Is It Okay If I Call You Mine?
Paul McCrane

Is it okay if I call you mine?
Just for a time
And I will be just fine
If I know that you know that I'm
Wanting , needing your love
Oh

If I ask of you is it all right
If I ask you to hold me tight
Through a cold, dark night
'Cause there may be a cloudy day in sight
And I need to let you know that I might
Be needing your love
Oh

And what I'm trying to say isn't really new
It's just the things that happen to me
When I'm reminded of you

Like when I hear your name,
Or see a place that you've been
Or see a picture of your grin,
Or pass a house that you've been in
At one time or another.

It sets off something in me I can't explain.
And I can't wait to see you again.
Oh, babe, I love your love
Oh
And what I'm trying to say isn't really new
It's just the things that happen to me
When I'm reminded of you

_________________________________________

It's rare to have these feelings, right? It's just something surreal to find that someone who you'd wish was yours. I for one have a lot of things that I wish I could call mine: from the want of California Maki to the wanting of something people call rest. :-)

Yet with all these things, we all just dream. We dream of all the things that we wish were ours. Sometimes, we wish for happiness, at times love, at times comfort, at times peace of mind, and when you become a little to drawn with the hardships of life, death. Yes, there are a lot of things that people can with they could have. But keep in mind that these things, they're not just for a time, they're for a lifetime.

Yes, here comes the great question on commitment. When do you say that you're committed? Commitment is a word with a lot of meanings attached to it. When we say commitment, do we automatically mean "romantic commitment"? What is it in commitment that gives it that "you're together" connotation? For once, I really don't know. Maybe it's these cliche sites such as Friendster that actually make commitment connote romantic attachment.

Commitment comes in a lot of forms, and each of us have our own personal reason/s for such a commitment. But true enough, ANY type of commitment entails passion in order for it to survive. You have to keep that flame burning up your asses if you want that commitment to stay. Commitment is something that's not just about being able to do or say what is due to you, but it's something more about loving and wanting what you do, and giving it your all.

Jeez. I'm talking gibberish here, again. I am just a lost soul hoping for redemption. Help me. Or maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic. Or maybe I am just a chatterbox with all that gibberish up his sleeve for weapons. It helps at times, biting wit. :-)

Uncertainties

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 06:06:11 GMT

I'm slowly wilting away, and the sad part is none of the people who surround me actually believe.

With losing grip comes a lot of uncertainties, about the things you should have done and the things that you wish you never did. I don't know where I should actually be scared of: the fact that there are things that I should never have done, or that there are things that I wish I should have done?

With these questions, I dream. I dream of an idealistic utopia that just enables me to feel and see things at the simplest light. Sometimes, we just have to keep things simple for us to get by. They say it's not easy to make things simple. Well, we all have a choice, right?

The Confusion Has Been Silenced

Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:50:35 GMT

We have been confused all throughout our lives, and what more can it be oh-so-comforting than being able to sort out the things you are very confused about, right?

There are so many things that I have not been able to fathom these past few days, and one of which is how incompetent people are at times. People are put in different responsibilities, whether little or large in scale, with an expectation to do what is due of them, or if better, surpass what is expected of them. But sadly enough, the innate negative contentedness of people with what they do is what makes things eventually fall apart.

For those who can't seem to have an inquiring mind about surpassing standards, I do suggest you to read "Sophie's World" by Jostein Gaarder. Actually, you don't really have to read it. Just read the "Top Hat" Chapter. Maybe it would tuck some sense into your head and perk you up to do something.

As what Sister Mary Clarence says,

"If you wanna be somebody,
If you wanna go somewhere,
You gotta wake up and pay attention."

Decisions . . . decisions . . . decisions . . . Let's talk about them shall we? How would you actually know if you have made the right choice? How sure are you that the choice you have already made will be the best choice for everyone? We don't know right? We won't know until we are actually living out the decisions we've made. Sadly enough, regrets go last on our pool of emotions. Once you stop believing in those things and ones you start doubting the decisions you have made, that's where you go into regret.

As what I have written down in my Elementary Yearbook Write-Up:

"Nothing is prized by the value of each day." Someday, I know I will look back and assess the way I have lived my life. I will not mind seeing failures, but I would definitely fear seeing regrets. This is what drives me to seize the day - to wake up every morning and grab every opportunity to improve myself and the lives of those around me.

The fire and the passion that I have for live is dwindling at times, but I know for a fact that it would grow and be wild once again if I have the chance to do it. So far, there have been no regrets in this lifetime. I have done a lot of mistakes that I know I may have done, but I have never regretted those mistakes even if it has cost me a lot. Everything in my life is nothing but a learning experience, and as optimistic as it may sound, things can only get better.

We have to learn to accept the things that we cannot change, but there are lot of other things that we can change. Let us not wallow on the things that we cannot change and be frustrated about it, but let's change other things that are far more important than anything: ourselves. If we can only just strive and change to be more empathic with our environment and our contemporaries, then I can say that we are in a better world.

Carpe Diem!

Let's Talk About Something

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 02:46:27 GMT

Being an idealistic is hard. Why? Because you are fighting a losing battle.

For one, confiding to other people may make or break you. There are just people who make you feel like you are the most loved person in the world, whereas others just kick you in the curb and leave you to be. And when you ask them why such a behavior, they go and say stupid things that just leave you dumbfounded.

You see, it's tiring to explain all of these things and end up being misunderstood or being dismissed. It's tiring not to be believed that sometimes you just want to prove them right by doing it for them to shut up their nagging voices, get over it, and hopefully move on. Why is it that you have to deal with such mundane people who can't even fathom the simple fact that this is real life. For one, you can't wash off your hands by blaming it on other people. That's just pure stupidity, and quite frankly, I can't think of a better word for that one. Just plain stupid.

If people think that they are the perfect epitome of a good person, then we don't have a conversation. I hate it when the people who claim to care are the ones who actually think they are picturesque and perfect. It's sickening.

For all you know, YOU'RE JUST HUMAN. Just like the rest of us. Humans who err and stand up to learn from it. But it's not just in personal experiences that you actually learn, it's from the SHARED experiences and the experiences of the people who SURROUND you. Never forget that.

Ugh, this is such a short and trivial entry. I'll try another one next time.

Recess

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 15:16:35 GMT

I'm just going for a recess from this. The past few days have been odd and I need to recollect my thoughts before I even attempt to write about it. It's hard when you're just too real and true to yourself.

And yes, some people just "Fake it 'til they make it." No offense done, but true enough, it's people like them that make this world so much worse. People like YOU. :-)

This entry is not a spiteful entry. In fact, it's a satirical one. Don't you think? *grins*

Memory Lane 101

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 10:11:43 GMT

Here's something I wrote for my persuasive speech in Comm 3 class back during my very first Semester in UP [AY 2005-2006]

______________________________________________________________________________

The Sense of Value of A Filipino Politician
by: Ramon Miguel E. Abeleda

“Every year, we meet here, in this great hall, to celebrate democracy.” These were the first words spoken by Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during her State of the Nation Address a few months ago. Democracy was a gift to us by the Americans during their colonization during the early parts of the 20^th Century. A gift that was meant to aid our land and people in pursuit of excellence among the leaders of our nation. But democracy, that was once free from error, has now become a substandard form of government due to the political system that has brought about, in my own words, a political catastrophe.

Most Reverent Archbishop Gaudencio Rosales stated that “we need not change our form of government. What we need is a change in the value system of the Filipinos” Moreover, the people who run our government. Thus, the title of my speech. I aim here to reiterate how important the values of dignity, responsibility, and morality are in order to bring about balance in the moral system of the Filipinos and in so doing bring about progress in all aspects.

Morality has declined of the past years. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi once said that “True morality consists not in following the beaten track, but in finding the true path for ourselves and fearlessly following it.” Morality, according to Catechism, is doing what you are ought to do. Our society’s morality is rooted under the tenets of generosity, selflessness and brotherhood. Indeed, this sad reality filled with lust for power and vested interest is ever there, especially among the people who run this country. Recent scandals involving the Presidential family from Jueteng to even the Garci tapes, pointless and senseless debates in the Congress, and harsh rebuttals here and there prove testament to the declining moral system of our nation’s governing body.

Patriotism is nothing but a word devoid of its true essence and meaning. Patriotism is a word often prostituted by politicians. Why? They claim to love the people and run the government in the service of the people but upon induction to office, this word is nothing but mere lip service to get the votes of our people. Sad, ladies and gentlemen, but true.

Dignity goes hand in hand with everything else. Bob Richards once stated that “You are what you think. You are what you go for. You are what you do.” Now, tell me. Has the President’s untiring denial been a justification of her dignity as a human being? Did her Excellency think that maybe her induction to office might all be a lie? Sure she had clear motives, but was the means by which she reached that goal a moral and dignified one? Ultimately, is her continuous existence as the present head of this nation despite the truth of her acts all exposed to the people of this country dignified? Again ladies and gentlemen, “You are what you think. You are what you do. You are what you go for.” That, my dear audience, is the true measure of one’s dignity: Your own thoughts, words, and acts.

A wise man by the name of Anthony Robbins said that “Life is a gift, and it offers us the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility to give something back by becoming more.” This simple yet substantial quotation simply means that the only way we could ever repay life is by becoming a better person. It is our responsibility to become better people. Better people who would make this world a better place to dwell upon for future generations. As this goes for all people in general, it is more so with the leaders of our nation. Vested interest is the defilement of the tenet of responsibility among the politicians of our society. The lust for power and fame has consumed the minds of most, if not all of our politicians. We can see the grandiose mansions, luxury cars, and even their own personal bank accounts flashed before us. Isn’t it painful to witness how the people we put in those positions defile his or her responsibility to serve the people with all their heart and soul? Isn’t it saddening to see how their own irresponsibility as officials brought us to this Utopia that not even in our wildest dreams would happen? This is our reality, my dear audience. This is the harsh reality we continue to dwell upon to this day.

Ma’am Caparas, dearest classmates, I hope I have shed light to you on the situation at hand. This harsh and sad reality shall continue to linger on if we do not put a stop to it. Political scandals are at its peak. Some people even deny their own faults in the pursuit of more power. Patriotism has been an overrated remark in order to capture the ballots of our dear brothers and sisters. Our dear politicians are solely fulfilling their vested interest instead of dedicating their work to the Filipino people. I do not wish to generalize. I only wish that after this, we would all be aware of what the future holds for us if we do not start to act and have a metanoia at this point in time. Act now people, act now.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Whenever I read this persuasive speech of mine, I cannot help but get frustrated with what I have become. Where is that fire in me that wants to take action? Where is that old me that gives a damn? Have I become too apathetic and self-contained with my own well-being and have become too obsessed with other trivial things that aren't really that big of a deal in the long run? What I have become is someone who I did not want to become: apathetic. Sure, the concern for these things are still there, but I miss that fire in me. That fire I had when I wrote this. The fiery passion that was in me while I was delivering these words in front of my class. I miss the satisfaction of writing something about the current situation of what this country has become. I just want that fire in me back, and this time, I want to do something.

People tend to tell how much they care for others and how much they care about their future, but it's THEIRS for the taking alone. I ask myself, have I been one of these people? Have I been too trivial and mundane to actually forget this side of me? Well, as frustrating as it may sound, yes. I have become such.

These issues aren't just mere things that a politician alone should think about. Everyone should give a damn to think about these things. You want to know more? THIS IS OUR FUTURE. So yes, since it's part and parcel of it, I guess we should just wake up and get our own asses working to get something going. We may be facing quantitative GDP increases, but that should not stop us from actually doing something about it. We can't just stand there and do nothing. In Jostein Gaarder's words, "People tend to bury themselves in the bottom of the rabbit's fur." People are, in general, contented with what they have. Or if they aren't, they actually opt to not to do something about it and just go about their ordinary lives.

This is what drives me now to actually think of ways to get people involved, and ultimately, volunteer for this endeavor. It may be a Utopian goal to make a perfect and ideal country, but setting that standard and fearlessly following it is just about enough to get us by. :-)

Idle Time

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 11:47:07 GMT

There are people in the world who can go on with one day by just eating, sleeping and bumming out. I would be one of them. Haha.

Upon the early announcement of class suspension in the afternoon, I practically had the whole day to myself. I didn't bother going to school so that I could rest myself, be merry, but more importantly, THINK.

Yes, that is the ultimate joy of solitude at times. When you are alone, you tend to have all these questions and for some odd reason, you answer them yourself. Yes, the human brain does have these weird functions, but hey, that's human nature. You can't be perfectly functional if you're human, that's the way I deal with it. Here are a few thoughts I have had today:

1. Absence makes the heart grow fonder. Yep! As cliche as it may sound, it is the absolute truth. I kept on thinking of various situations when I have had that, and true enough, it just does make you miss people more. True enough, going away isn't really saying goodbye, it's saying see you later. And truth be told, that "see you later" would probably be a better beginning than where you left off. :-)

2. The people with whom you share the same empathic prowess towards each other will give you light or realizations with these two conditions: a. when you least expect it and b. when they least expect it. These two things are the true measure of one's friendship. True enough, such a friendship may seem too rare to find. Thankful enough, I have a number of them. Life is good. Here here!

3. Anything too much is not good. Yes, even too much passion and conviction is not good. Why? Because sometimes, when you are too passionate about certain things that you want everything to be just as picturesque as you want them to be, you end up screwing things up because you tend to focus on the minute details of the whole picture that when the real gargantuan shit comes in, you just tend to rattle and have clouds for a train of thought.

4. It's all a matter of communication. One of my friends have told me that death isn't the no. 1 fear of people, it's public speaking. Well, I couldn't agree more. But life in general is all about communication. Even if we know that we're wrong, it pays to communicate our thoughts and emotions even if it's at the expense of being misunderstood. That way, you won't give yourself enough reason to be an insomniac for being bothered all the damn time and you'd give yourself that personal peace that everyone deserves. Well, in this case, you deserve. :-)

5. The people you know are innately good. Never forget that. True enough, I think being too analytical just makes things worse. Sometimes, you just have to remember this simple fact and everything would be fine. Of course, sly people would be on the way but hey, that is their own lookout all right? As long as you have a clean conscience and you speak of what is on your mind with all honesty, then it's up to them to pass on judgment. Just always believe that people are innately good. Of course, you have to pray that the people you are with are naturally good. Innately good ain't enough if the person chooses to be evil. :-)

These are just few of the many things I think about. Of course, I would not divulge things that may deem to be too provocative or too personal here. I just thought I'd share my two cents worth and have these share of realizations. To the people who read my entries, I suggest you do comment. I would greatly appreciate that. All right? :-)

Thanks! :-)

On Cynicism

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 11:07:22 GMT

A good friend of mine once told me that being a cynic is something that makes your life a little less stressful.

Fact of fallacy?

Traumatic experiences may lead to such cynicism, as I'd like to believe. In life, people are innately and naturally good, and it is the society and the experiences that drive them to do evil things. Some may be the compulsive liar who can't just help but lie to everyone's face whenever he/she wants to, to even the psychotic, neurotic serial killers who probably just end lives just for the kick of it (i.e. Kiriyama of Battle Royale).

But what is it that makes the person cynical?

Ahh. The central answer to that one would probably be betrayal. Yes, betrayal of a family member, a friend, a lover, and all the other people that you empathize and genuinely care for. That's what leads to cynicism. We tend to become indifferent because of these things, and in the process we lose the people we used to love and care for.

Take for example Person A, who grew tired of all the grave squabble that he/she has been through. In turn, he/she eventually channels his/her time elsewhere in the hopes of forgetting the dark past he/she has been through. In the end, he/she ends up hurting and leaving behind the people who genuinely care for him/her, and in turn goes to a life of cynicism and has become just so numb to almost everyone around him/her. Sometimes, it just gets to me how he/she goes by with that kind of life, and how he/she manages to sleep at night. Sure, I may have been the object of his/her cynic attitude, but after getting all pissed off at him/her, all I could feel is regret for him/her. Regret that he/she never gave it a chance to be the way he/she is. I pity him/her. I really do...

Take for example Person B, who just grew tired of being rejected so many times that he/she decided to stay single for the rest of his/her Earthly life. Jeez. Sometimes, the people who give up are the ones who really have a shot at having a great life, don't you agree? We tend to be mundane, let alone materialistic, with the hopes of covering up for the emptiness that we really feel. Well guess what? The people who care can see right through you. Give them a chance. Give yourself a chance...

We use cynicism as our defense mechanism to avoid getting hurt, but if there is one thing that I have realized over the course of the year 2007, it's that even though our expectations revolve around perfection, we have to realize that we are in an imperfect world where everyone and everything has its own pros and cons. At times, we just like to give up and let go of everything we have, but keep in mind that we only live once, and we cannot afford to regret the decisions we make. Keep in mind that regrets may only be regrets only if you want them to be. If there is a will, there is a way.

As for me? Let's just say I've had my share of mistakes and regrets, which is very much unfortunate. Sometimes, I wish I could just turn back time and make things better and maybe, just maybe, I could have made things work. I am when I want to be one, just to get away from the toils of this life. But even if I'm such a cynic when I choose to be, the innate goodness that everyone has still is the dominant figure. As much as I want to escape from risking my own self, I'd rather do what's due unto me. Carpe Diem!

Of course, giving up may be an option, as always. But remember, you only live once. :-)

Greetings

Sun, 06 Jan 2008 12:07:46 GMT

This is the first entry I am going to make here. Hopefully, this wouldn't be the last

A lot of things have transpired ever since the New Year began and I cannot help but wonder why on Earth are these things happening already. I am not very particular with every detail of it all but in general, it sucks. I am optimistic for this 2008 but from the things that have started to transpire as early as New Year's Day, all I can do is hope that things would turn out just fine as the year progresses.

I am not going into any melodrama on my opening entry. I just thought I'd have a feel of what it's like to finally get myself into writing again.

Ciao.