SOUNDING BOARD is an outlet for opinions on good and crazy things going on at home (wherever I may be). All are welcome. You are not expected to bring anything except your common sense & sense of humor.
'If the automobile had followed the same development cycle as the computer, a Rolls-Royce would today cost $100, get one million miles to the gallon, and explode once a year, killing everyone inside.'
-Robert X. Cringely (from geek wisdom)
SOUNDING BOARD
Monday, December 30, 2002
_____________________________________________
President Arroyo will not run for president in 2004: feigned retreat?
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo of the Philippines in a very unusual announcement, said on Monday she would not run in 2004 elections, citing the negative effects of political infighting in the country.
Arroyo was elected vice-president under president Joseph Estrada and took over the presidency in January 2001 when Mr. Estrada was ousted in a popular revolt backed by army generals and the influential Roman Catholic church, dubbed as EDSA II (a popular revolt also happened in 1986 when the dictator Ferdinand Marcos was ousted).
Ms. Arroyo foresees that the 2004 elections may be the most bitterly contested elections so far in Philippine history because of the deep political and social divisions Filipinos now have. Tell me something new.
Is this is a feigned retreat? One of the most unusual tactics in war is a feigned retreat. It seeks to draw enemies out of their defensive positions so that they can be defeated - appearing to withdraw, buying some time until the opponent lets down their defenses, or exposes a vulnerable position or, until some time that the retreating party has gained mass support.
The last implication - gaining mass support (through donations and projects for the masses without being interpreted as campaign tactic) - may well be effective for Ms. Arroyo for some time. But she will not completely fool her opponents and the not-so-gullible minority among the Filipinos.
The feigned retreat tactic in politics is quite unusual --- especially for a traditional politician like Ms. Arroyo.
posted by Allan at 9:00 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Sunday, December 29, 2002
_____________________________________________
Filipinos are easy to spot on the beach
John MacLean's BBCnews.com feature on the extra holiday break imposed by the Philippine government to its working population says that the extra holiday is expected to boost domestic tourism. Boring. But his side comment on Filipino behavior is more interesting:
"Filipinos do sometimes go to the beach. They are easy to spot. They are the ones swimming with all their clothes on."
Quite sweeping and I'm not sure if Mr. McLean is trying to be ridiculous. But as I ponder upon it, his comment may have more than a glimmer of truth in it.
posted by Allan at 8:15 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Erap prepares team for 2004
Former President Joseph Estrada told the Inquirer in a phone interview Saturday that his Partido ng Masang Pilipino (PMP) had been "reorganized," with his former campaign manager, Horacio "Boy" Morales, named as party president.
Erap's party would be renamed "pwersa" (force). Indeed, this party is a force to reckon with. With the action king Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) being eyed for president, and an election that is traditionally nothing more than a popularity contest, non-allied politicians have a valid reason to be concerned about.
The gullible majority who votes on popularity basis may again decide the outcome of the 2004 election. Erap's "pwersa" is banking on the CDE socioeconomic classes to once again delliver votes for them. If nothing much has changed on the level of maturity of these groups, then we may see Erap's "victory" once again through the votes of the gullible majority.
This has been the fate of Philippine politics in particular and the whole nation in general - our lives are constantly being decided by the gullible majority. How unfortunate, to say the least. No wonder the CDE socioeconomic classes are so popular to politicians at this time. We see gifts, donations and even policies for them. But what we do not see much is voters' education programs to facilitate better political involvement of everyone especially the CDE crowd. Asa pa 'ko.
posted by Allan at 7:46 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, December 28, 2002
_____________________________________________
Iran stops stoning women adulterers - a first step in the right direction
A senior judiciary official in Iran has been quoted as saying Iran has abolished stoning as a form of capital punishment for women.
This is indeed a very welcome move. There are still a lot more room for reform if Iran really want to be a part of the modern world. But putting an end to stoning is a first step in the right direction.
NewScientist.com News Service reports that the Bahamas-based cloning company Clonaid claims that they were able to "give birth" to the world's first cloned baby on 26 December 2002. However, there has been no independent confirmation of the claim as of press time.
Just as I thought. All the talks on cloning ban may end up futile, especially that talks on cloning ban has been suspended for at least a year. So why not study the matter more rather than try to repress it? After all, technology - in all its forms - is a double edged sword, depending on who uses it and from which point of view you are looking at.
posted by Allan at 7:22 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Friday, December 27, 2002
_____________________________________________
US probe corroborates rape reports in Burma. Now what?
Washington Post reports that a US State Department probe has corroborated reports earlier this year that Myanmar military officials have systematically raped ethnic minority women and girls, according to a declassified copy of the investigation report.
Nothing new. The world knows this already. What we are interested to know is this: now what? With US seem to be fighting 2 wars on the international front (Iraq and the North Korea - only if US can show the same resoluteness in its "war" with Iraq), it is undertable that less attention is being focused on this one. So while the world shakes in anticipation of an impending war with Iraq, and while the a diplomatic solution to the North Korean problem, the atrocities against women in Myanmar continues.
posted by Allan at 1:55 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Tuesday, December 24, 2002
_____________________________________________
Rawhide Kid to come out of the closet
In February next year, Marvel Comics will be breaking barriers of traditional macho comics characters introducing the first homosexual cowboy - Rawhide Kid. Whether the public will pick this up for reading or not is of secondary importance. Integrating an alternative character into the comics industry is, in itself, a major breakthrough.
Stylish outfit, and smart and funny one-liners are what readers will notice from Rawhide kid. Indeed, this is a welcome move. But the more enlightened ones among us should read the material and see to it that Rawhide Kid doesn't become a showcase of stereotyped male homosexual behavior.
posted by Allan at 3:24 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
First and last post on the Jimenez-Perez (non)issue and SOUNDING BOARD's holiday message
This post is about two things. First, I've been trying to restrain myself commenting on the Mark Jimenez-Nani Perez (non)issue. However, in the spirit of what people call Christmas, I think it's a good time to rant on this shit. Secondly, while everybody seems to be high on "being good for goodness' sake", today, a few hours before Christmas eve, I'll say a brief holiday message.
One of the few things I like in a less chaotic government setting (that doesn't include your usual romantic notion of democracy, excuse me) is the easier possibility of a media blockout. And *second* on my list is that stupid Jimenez-Perez issue that newspapers are gloating every single freakin' day. Amidst all the more important issues we face today, it's downright insulting that major newspapers chose to highlight the said issue. I'm just quite relieved that the stupidity of it all may be finally put to rest. Unless, of course, if Philippine media finds another news item to sensationalize. Enough of that.
One thing I wish for this Christmas (to speak in the season's language) is to speed things up a little bit and get this damn holiday season over so I can easily travel, shop and do just about anything with less hassle. My last name isn't Scrooge by the way. Anyway, for all of you who enjoy the holiday rush and find joy amidst all the bullshit the season brings, enjoy the holiday season, or what's left of it.
posted by Allan at 2:52 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, December 21, 2002
_____________________________________________
Lula's balancing act: coalitions and centrist politics
Financial Times reports that the Workers' Party (PT) of Brazil's president-elect Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Friday failed to form a government alliance with the centrist PMDB party. As Lula aims to get a majority in Congress, the world watches this familiar coalition game.
Lula is now engaged in a difficult balancing act. He needs to forge a coalition to maintain majority in Congress. The process of tending toward the center is quite predictable in the field of coalition building and interest group politics. Any majority bloc can be broken up by a counter-offer from the minority, thereby forming a new majority. The majority bloc maintains the coalition through political favors and matching counter-offers, or it ceases to exist. It's the same interest group politics anywhere. What is shaky is the kind of outcome that will turn out. The current centrist governance could not afford to fail as it may invite extremism and plunge Brazil into more serious troubles. That's why US supports Lula and urges US banks to keep credit lines open to Brazil. That's why world is closely watching.
posted by Allan at 12:10 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Anti-US campaign and pro-US governance: a smart atrategy of South Korean President-elect Roh
South Korea's president-elect Roh Moo-hyun campaigned with an anti-US platform and is now starting his pro-US governance.
He has vowed to ease the tension on the Korean peninsula, which is clouded by Pyongyang's nuclear issue. He also said that he would work closely with the US to peacefully resolve the North Korean nuclear issue.
Theory states that in chess and in politics, the center is where the game is at. Elections are generally won by having a centrist platform - one that would appeal to most, if not all, sectors. But this is not a "politics-as-usual" situation for South Korea. Its "Pyongyang crisis" is at its peak, and at the same time, its citizens are vehemently opposing America's proactive stance on Iraq. Mr. Roh knows that he can only win the presidential race via an anti-US platform. But Mr. Roh also knows that, in dealing with Pyongyang, South Korea can't go it alone. A smart political strategy. In the long run, South Koreans will also realize that it is also a strategic move along the lines of of national defense and unification of two Koreas to have US an an ally, i.e., if it wants to diplomatically overthrow the apologetic kidnapper.
posted by Allan at 11:20 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Monday, December 16, 2002
_____________________________________________
North Korea upset over Bond film
North Korea has called on US to stop showing the latest James Bond film "Die Another Day" saying that it is "insulting the Korean Nation" (BBC News 14 December 2002). North Korea cries foul because of the following: (a) the movie features an evil North Korean officer feared to be planning an invasion of South Korea and then Japan; (b) it shows a farmer tilling a field with a cow, which critics say makes the country appear backward; and (c) the film describes North Korea as part of an 'axis of evil'.
As Malacanang gets more and more desperate in rationalizing its actions, we must learn to separate the shit from the bull.
Malacanang further rationalizes its motives behind the "resignation" of Secretary of Socioeconomic Planning and NEDA Director-General Dante B. Canlas, amidst the criticisms that the country's economic performance has nothing to do with it. Through Spokesperson Rigoberto Tiglao, Malacanang even had to resort to saying "....Canlas wanted to go back to the academe because he was bored by his tedious work at the NEDA, which required more of his handwriting than his analytical skills" (INQ7.net 14 December 2002). Critics are not biting. Only Amando Doronila seems to have picked it up.
Romulo Neri, the new NEDA chief, outlines the "necessary" changes: "...refocusing of strategy from external sources of growth to internal sources of growth; shift from demand side stimulus represented by grand infrastructure programs to supply-side productivity and efficiency; and shift from macro-economic reforms to micro-economic reforms (INQ7.net 16 December 2002). Before we all get lost in these big words, maybe we should go back to some basic questions. Do we really have an "economic" problem as Malacanang desperately emphasizes? So why the sudden change and desparate rationalizations? Malacanang knows very well that the government's economic team has been practising a centrist economic management. It is as if Mr. Canlas is an extreme "demand-sider". It is as if Mr. Neri is an extreme "supply-sider". It is as if both are not for freer markets. It is as if we will see major policy shifts. It is as if we are that stupid.
And what about Mr. Neri's Plan 747? The President seems to have been terribly impressed by it despite the fact the the economy is doing fine. Plan "747" stands for a growth rate of seven percent for seven years. This is a recycled platform which nobody picked up when it was launched several years ago. So why the sudden interest from the President? This is the same President who reviewed and approved the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP), which is the country's socioeconomic plan until 2004. This is the same President who heads the NEDA Board, which subjected the MTPDP to a tedious consultation process - within government, across sectors and regions. This is the same President who wants to be with us even after 2004. Unless we do something about it.
Maybe we really need a "new order". Our brand of interest group politics is change resistant. One interest group is neutralized by another. Only coalition-building will get us out of this inertia. But if we can't manage to do that, maybe, just maybe, we need something radical that may pave the way for a real "new order".
posted by Allan at 12:51 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Friday, December 13, 2002
_____________________________________________
Gloria appoints Neri
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo today appointed congressional planning and budget officer Romulo Neri (13 December 2002 INQ7.net) as the new socioeconomic planning secretary and NEDA Director General, replacing Dante B. Canlas, who "resigned" earlier (see previous post).
DZMM 630 on the AM band announced this morning (Friday, approx. 730 hrs GMT+8) that Socioeconomic Planning Secretary and NEDA Director-General Dante B. Canlas has resigned from his post. Mr. Canlas also told the Inquirer last night the President had asked him to resign “because of perceptions of an economic crisis that needed to be dispelled" (13 December 2002, Philippine Daily Inquirer). DZMM reported that Mr. Canlas has gone out of town this morning. The resignation came a week after a major survey indicated that President Arroyo's approval rating had dropped. Unconfirmed reports say that the major reasons for the resignation could also be related to the Phlippine International Air Terminals Company (PIATCO) deal (NAIA Terminal 3). And the possible replacement? Romulo Neri. Whoa. What’s going on here?
A little background on NEDA. The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) is composed of the NEDA Board and the NEDA Secretariat. The powers and functions of the NEDA reside in the NEDA Board, which is the country's premier social and economic development planning and policy coordinating body. The Board is composed of the President as chair, the Secretary of Socio-Economic Planning and NEDA Director-General as vice-chair, and several cabinet members. The NEDA Secretariat provides technical support to the NEDA Board, including the conduct of studies and formulation of policy measures and other recommendations on the various aspects of development planning and policy formulation, and coordination, evaluation and monitoring of plan implementation. The Secretariat is headed by a Director-Ceneral who carries the rank and title of Secretary of Socio-Economic Planning and Development.
"Economic crisis" and falling ratings? At the rate the economy is growing, there is no economic crisis that some sectors believe. There is, however, an "information" crisis. It is a perception problem - getting the messages across that, primarily, there is no economic crisis. But that is not Mr. Canlas' turf. Malacanang has a Philippine Information Agency (PIA) under the Office of the Press Secretary (OPS). Shouldn't OPS-PIA get the blame for that? Our assumption here is that this perception problem is the reason behind this issue. Or is it?
NEDA works on politics-as-usual reforms. Incremental changes, not-so-controversial, and not-so-visible to the masses (as opposed to crisis-ridden reforms mostly by line agencies). Has President Arroyo become so fixated with 2004 that she wants to get more mileage by having more "visible" characters in her cabinet? Just asking. In practice, NEDA works behind the scenes. Mr. Canlas has no political clout whatsoever. He is a technocrat. Although he has done an excellent good job, he is dispensable, *if* we follow this line of thought.
Or is it something related to core NEDA functions? Again, just asking.
As the cabinet revamp continues amidst the President's falling approval rating, crisis-ridden reforms may possibly improve the President's rating. We can only hope that Malacanang's attention be focused on socioeconomic development and not on possible electoral rewards in 2004. Or am I being too naive?
posted by Allan at 10:09 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Thursday, December 12, 2002
_____________________________________________
Michelle Cottle has added another excellent contribution to The New Republic. She discussed how some people tends to "medicalize" the obvious. In this article, she focused on the Hurried Woman Syndrome (HWS). I must say that, with the limited exposure I have with gender issues (I am a work in progress), I agree with Ms. Cottle:
"Must we medicalize everything in order for it to be real? I'll tell you what's wrong with women: We have stupidly agreed to do it all. We bought into that 'you can do anything a man can do' line, without pushing the reciprocal expectation that men will do much of what we were originally doing. This is why many dads still expect a ticker-tape parade when they change a diaper or wash a dish. It's also why, when women come home from ten hours at the office, their brains immediately shift into life maintenance mode, spinning through a mental checklist of thousands of chores yet to be done. It's not that men won't help when asked--repeatedly; it's that most never look around for what needs to be done without being asked--repeatedly" (11 December 2002 The New Republic).
House arrest and falling ratings: Malacanang's win-win strategy?
Amidst President Gloria Arroyo's falling ratings, Housing chief Mike Defensor proposes house arrest for former President Joseph Estrada instead of continuing detention. Whatever comes out of this issue, there is a good chance that Ms. Arroyo's rating will improve.
When Mr. Defensor proposed for former President Joseph Estrada's house arrest, the proposal got different reactions from all sides. Some said yes, for greater unity and in keeping with the Christmas spirit. Some said no, such move is not allowed in Philippine laws. Some said the act of proposing (for house arrest) may be a ground for filing contempt charges, and just leave the courts alone. Then President Arroyo stepped in with a convenient statement saying that "the rule of law, and not a consensus, would prevail vis-à-vis the issue" (INQ7.net 12 December 2002).
Very noble statement from someone who stands to gain from the media hype. When a Housing chief proposes a very controversial "housing" (house arrest) policy, and causes media hype, are we supposed to believe that he did not have previous clearance from the President? Judge for yourself.
posted by Allan at 10:41 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Tuesday, December 10, 2002
_____________________________________________
The special envoy issue and what lies beneath
First Gentleman Mike Arroyo had declined his appointment as "special envoy" to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). Presidential spokesperson Rigoberto Tiglao said that to avoid complications, Mr. Arroyo can be just a personal representative of the President.
This withdrawal came as the proposed appointment met stiff opposition from most sectors who claims that the move is in anticipation of the approval of the absentee voting bill, which will give OFWs the right to vote during elections. In addition, Senator Raul Roco had warned the President about violating the law against nepotism and her own Administrative Order prohibiting public officials from having transactions with her husband and relatives.
This issue is not as simple as it looks. There are 2 basic issues which every critic of the Arroyo government will notice. Firstly, this is the same President who deferred her daughter's foreign service officer's appointment because of one major concern: that it may be seen as nepotism and that a conflict of interest might arise in the future. One could only speculate that because the First Gentleman's post is more "politically-sensitive", the President risked making a controversial appointment. If that's true, we know now that she didn't get away with it. Secondly, on this particular issue, the Arroyo government seems to be trying to hide behind technicalities. The official appointment is secondary and even immaterial compared to the First Gentleman's exposure as "personal represenative" of the President to OFWs. So the issue is not whether he is appointed or not, but his being abroad representing the President (a member of the President's family performing official functions). This is the same line of defense of Malacanang when the Senate questioned the Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA). Malacanang was quick to say that it was an "agreement" not a "treaty" and hence, does not need Senate approval - as if the Philippine Senate is that stupid.
posted by Allan at 3:49 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
BF: Metro Manila needs more than a Hitler for its sidewalk clearing operations
Then Marikina mayor and now Metro Manila Development Authority chief Bayani Fernando (a.k.a. "BF" to his former constituents) stresses that it takes more than a "Hitler" to rid the metro of stubborn sidewalk vendors.
The MMDA chief was reacting to the perennial problem on illegal sidewalk stalls especially during the Christmas season. Mr. Fernando's sidewalk clearing operations have been branded by sidewalk vendors and urban poor groups as "anti-poor" and "Hitler-like" tactics. Mr. Fernando declared a moratorium on sidewalk clearing operations during the Christmas season.
His perception of the problem shows the depth of understanding of sidewalk vending and of informal sector economy in general. His take on this issue: he "...expects sidewalk vendors to keep on returning until they finally get tired and transfer to markets" (9 December 2002 INQ7.net). With this mindset, Metro Manila vendors have sufficient reasons to be worried. They will transfer to markets (from informal to formal sector of the economy) only if market-selling payoffs (cost minus benefits) outweigh the payoffs of sidewalk vending. Terrorizing vendors is not the solution. Engaging them in better income-generating activities (including easing up procedural and financial requirements for market stall-based vending) and community organization are better options.
Mr. Fernando did a commendable job in Marikina. But Metro Manila is a totally different territory. Applying his well-known governance style to the whole Metro Manila may not yield the same positive outcome. He needs to look at sidewalk vending from a different perspective - payoffs to vendors. Maybe Mr. Fernando needs to constantly remind himself that he is no longer in Marikina.
posted by Allan at 12:54 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Thursday, November 21, 2002
_____________________________________________
Lacson declares presidential candidacy with a pro-choice platform
He will certainly not seek Cardinal Sin's blessings.
Senator Panfilo Lacson on Tuesday became the first politician to declare his candidacy for president in 2004. Expectedly, he accused the incumbent, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, of being obsessed with her own candidacy and thus bringing the country to ruin. Quite unexpectedly, he is also the first major politician to challenge the highly influential Catholic Church when he vowed to promote wider use of contraceptives to address the country's population growth.
Mr. Lacson knew that he may never have the backing of the highly influential Catholic Church. Sensing that, his adopts a strategy to categorically support pro-choice groups on the family planning issue. Unfortunately, because of his role during the corrupt Estrada regime, his alleged participation in the Kuratong Baleleng rubout, his alleged human rights violations during the Marcos dictatorship, and unexplained US bank account, he may have a tough time convincing the pro-choice groups to support him. And even if Mr. Lacson miraculously get the support of pro-choice groups, it is till unwise for any presidential candidate to go against the Church. Almost 85 percent of the population of the Philippines are Catholics. Bishop Teodoro Bacani said that the loyalty of the Catholics is so strong that most of the people follow the Church. If Mr. Lacson does not change his platform, he will never win even if he runs for Vice President.
In chess and in politics, playing the center is always a wise strategy. Learn from the country's recent political history. The ousted president, Mr. Joseph Estrada, did not go against the Catholic Church even he already had the backing of the majority of the low-middle income classes. Mr. Fidel Ramos (Protestant) also sought the support of the Catholic Church. However, Mr. Lacson's problem is more immediate: getting the support of pro-life groups. First, he may not even get it. Second, the minds of the sleeping majority need to be opened up a little bit more. Blind faith in religion still extends to political choices. One word. Gullible. Unless we see progress in this area, a pro-choice platform will never work, ever.
posted by Allan at 12:59 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Tuesday, November 19, 2002
_____________________________________________
North Korea corrects confusing report
In an effort to correct the apprently confusing report that North Korea now "has come to have nuclear and other strong military weapons to deal with increased nuclear threats by the U.S. imperialists", Korean Central Broadcasting Station (KCBS) clarified what the statement really means: that North Korea believed it was 'entitled' to have nuclear arms. The exact revised statement reads: "To safeguard our sovereignty and right to exist we are entitled to have powerful military countermeasures, including nuclear weapons" (Reuters, 18 November 2002).
The only thing that this revision implies is that it is not clear as of the moment if indeed Pyongyang has the weapons. The intention is still there - an intention that presents a danger, especially to the region. Overthrowing Pyongyang diplomatically is still the most viable option in the medium- to long-term. Secretary of State Colin Powell, who is a major force behind the diplomatic strategy in dealing with Iraq, seems to be following this track. He said on Monday that US is still willing to help North Korea if it ends its nuclear weapons and other "destabilizing" programs (Presumably, this statement was made before the clarification of North Korean statement). To leave the apologetic kidnapper with limited choices, other stronger strings may have to be attached to the diplomatic solution to the Pyongyang problem. Otherwise, Pyongyang can be placed next on the list - after Iraq.
posted by Allan at 8:09 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Monday, November 18, 2002
_____________________________________________
UK MPs' emails are reported to be plagued by "unsolicited" porn these days. A filter is now placed on the politicians' internet connection to block the materials from coming through. One MP said that if one email has been "accidentally opened", offensive materials will be displayed on screen.
Very funny. "Accidentally" opened, huh? Unsolicited? Hmmm. Porn sites allow hackers to do some of their activities because those sites never fail to get "accidental" clicks from unsuspecting people. But yes, Mr. MP, I believe you. Those are unsolicited emails.
posted by Allan at 3:14 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
North Korea says it has nukes
Yes, Washington, they have it. Pyongyang seems to be getting desperate for Washington's attention - to bring Washington to the negotiating table. So the apologetic kidnapper thinks he has the upperhand now? Wrong move. The rationale for multilaterally ganging up on Iraq could also be applied to Pyongyang now that it has admitted having nukes. However, there is another way. Washington can get rid of the "Pyongyang problem" diplomatically.
The National Republic Online has come up with an article on how to overthrow Pyongyang peacefully. The four countries - Russia, Japan, China and US - can provide aid to Pyongyang with tight strings aimed at gradually shifting its sovereign prerogatives into South Korean hands e.g., food aid and technical assistance on agriculture could be tied to agricultural-sector reform overseen by an ad hoc four-power technical group, with nongovernmental South Korean participation; energy-sector aid could also be conditioned to require the connection of North and South Korea's electricity grids…etc.). Eventually, the diplomatic solution is a unified Korea. Too ambitious? I don't think so. Read the full article here.
First things first, though. Washington should not let itself be bullied by Pyongyang. Pyongyang should get rid of its nukes. In the meantime, deny it of all aid, except stricly tied ones, as mentioned above. If it still insists, put it next in line after Iraq. After Iraq.
posted by Allan at 2:45 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, November 16, 2002
_____________________________________________
Is religious intolerance here to stay?
They've done it again. Parapundit.com posed an article recently on how Islamic fundamentalists made another Salman Rushdie out of a 32-year-old Dutch political researcher, born in Somalia, named Ayaan Hirsi Ali. She spoke about the treatment of Muslim women by Muslim men in the Netherlands. The the usual intolerant practices followed: she received hate mails, anonymous messages branding her a traitor to Islam and a slut. Others said she deserved to be knifed and shot. Phoned death threats followed. She tried living in hiding. Then she left The Netherlands, her second time to become a refugee. See the original New York Times article (through Google News) here.
I've discussed a related issue on intolerance recently posted on the SOUNDING BOARD'S featured posts. I don't need to belabor this point except to say that this is plain intolerance. Those threatening Ms. Ayaan Hirsi Ali's life would certainly welcome a public apology, like what Rushdie and Falwell did in the past. Ms. Ali is a very determined woman. "Either I stop my work, or I learn to live with the feeling that I'm not safe. I'm not stopping." (NY Times, 9 November 2002). I don't think she will apologize. She shouldn't.
I am not putting all three and the rest who got the receiving end of all those fatwa (well most of us did, from Usama, right?) and death threats, etc for speaking against Islamic fundamentalism. I am also not passing any judgment as to whether or not these persons' views are correct. Those are their views. And I am definitely *not* saying that all Muslims are intolerant. We have to dig the real issue here. Does expressing one's candid views against anything, anything at all, merit death threats and violence? Not in the modern world. We live in the modern world where we practice tolerance and a healthy exchange of views. These should be encouraged. Violent means to curtail freedom of expression should be discouraged. If views are offensive, libelous or falsely accusing another person or group, we have a *more civilized* way of dealing with that. Well, of course, I could only speak for those who are part of the modern world. So is intolerance here to stay? Only if the modern world allows it.
posted by Allan at 11:02 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Friday, November 15, 2002
_____________________________________________
UN: Stop branding rebels as terrorists
Dr. Francis Deng, special representative of UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, has urged the Philippine government to stop branding rebel groups as "terrorists" and instead seek solutions to terrorism in the Philippines. According to Deng, "the best way to fight terrorism is to address the genuine grievances of the people, particularly in the region of Mindanao... They (children) see the military as a source of potential problem. They are not in the best state of health, children are unable to attend school" (Gulf News Online Edition).
Al Neuharth (USA Today) presents Secretary of State Colin Powel's influence on the President. See the transformation as reflected in Bush's own words:
April 4: "I made up my mind that Saddam needs to go."
July 8: "We will use all tools at our disposal" to change Iraq's regime.
Sept. 7: "My administration still supports regime change. There's all kinds of ways to change regimes."
Oct. 21: "If he (Saddam) were to meet all the conditions of the United Nations that in itself would signal the regime has changed."
"Regime change" has completely shifted from "change of leadership" to "change of heart" of the leadership. Wow.
posted by Allan at 3:47 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Ooops, she did it again. As early as August, she had been advised not to parade crime suspects in front of the media. Yesterday, she paraded what she claimed to be a top bomber from the Abu Sayyaf Group. Fortunately for Ms. Arroyo, and unfortunately for the suspect, including the ones she presented to media in the past, this "right" is not included in the Republic Act No. 7438, defining certain rights of arrested persons. This is being addressed by House Bill 181. Nevertheless, when Ms. Arroyo said "He's the top bomber, the number one bomber, of the Abu Sayyaf," did she not already pass her judgment on the accussed which the constitution mandates to be treated as innocent unless proven guilty? And when no less than the President does this, does she not unduly influence the judicial process?
I am in full support of Ms. Arroyo's crackdown on the Abu Sayyaf Group. But please, my goodness, respect human rights. Let the courts do their work. If Ms. Arroyo's counter-terrorism efforts vs. the Abu Sayyaf are effective, she doesn't have to do this shit. Yes, it's shit.
posted by Allan at 2:01 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
International conference on sex urges more sex to boost productivity
"Healthy sex lives make happy workers, who will in turn create a more robust economy", according to Emil Ng, sex therapist and founder of the Asian Federation of Sexology. And when the economy is down, he said sexual activity will be lower because of financial problems.
A chicken-and-egg situation. More like a sperm-and-egg to me. Oh they also talked about the P-spot. Nice.
I wonder if this sex variable has been inputed in the cross-country productivity studies, and how strongly correlated it is to productivity measures, and which countries have high correlation coefficients. Ewww. Geek.
posted by Allan at 1:02 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Singapore may lift its ban on chewing gum imports, also featured by greengrl
Singapore's 10-year ban on the import of chewing gum may be scrapped as part of a free trade deal with the United States. It's one of the items on the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with US.
Oh ok, so Singapore government has probably estimated that the benefits of signing this FTA is greater than the savings they would generate from having that ban in place. Gheeez. It's so Singaporean. Maybe one of those "Asian values"... now who did I hear that from?... Oh... oh... it's from the former PM Lee Kwan Yew... I better shut up, right? Yeah right. Asian values my ass.
posted by Allan at 12:26 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Wednesday, November 13, 2002
_____________________________________________
"I want to form a Council of Economic Advisers made up of professional economists who are not in the executive." - Arroyo
So instead of a revamp, Ms. Arroyo told the Malacañang Press Corps that she will form a Council of Economic Advisers. As for the rationale of Council, Ms. Arroyo said, "...you are in the forest... it is very important to look at it from outside the forest".
The Office of the President since the time of Mr. Ramos has always had high-calibre and excellent performing economic advisers, mostly coming from finance, planning and budget departments (you can add Winnie Monsod as NEDA chief during the Aquino presidency, but not her Opus Dei "replacements"). The outside perspectives are always there in the form of the dynamic interaction between government, private sector, academe and civil society. So why do I get the feeling that Ms. Arroyo thinks that to improve the way we look at our economic problems, she needs to bring in these people "from outside the forest"? I think the President is missing the point here. The objective should not be to bring "outside lookers" inside. The issue is not about her present crop of excellent economic advisers becoming too engrossed in their jobs that they may miss the whole picture. The issue is not about bringing non-state actors inside so that they can be more effective in influencing public policies. The general issue is this - the president's economic advisers (past and present) do not decide even on matters within their turf. They only recommend. The decisions still rest on the politicians. Operationally, that implies you do not have to bring in more economic advisers. You have to be able to consider the political factors (including civil society participation) as economic variables, so to speak. The economy is composed of people anyway, with needs and aspirations, not some lifeless variables. The present structure is fine, Ms. Arroyo. There is no need to bring in non-state actors as economic advisers. Non-state actors have been giving their "advice" to the government. Government needs to listen more. The "council of advisers" has been here with us all along, "advising" government from outside. After all, that's what democracy is about - non-state actors influencing public policies from outside government.
posted by Allan at 10:07 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Street children to be hauled to rehab; parents to be charged
Street children, especially those sniffing solvent along Metro Manila’s streets would be hauled to rehabilitation centers. Their parents would be charged with negligence. These comprise government’s intensified campaign dubbed as “Sagip Kalinga” program, which would start on 15 November 2002. Dinky knows what happened before --- after pulling them out from the streets and returning them to their communities and parents these kids are back on the streets after a day or two. Government's solution? To house at least 500 street children in rehab centers and sanction wayward parents.
Hmmm. If I'm missing a point, please tell me. The parents do not have any sustainable employment or livelihood. Do you think sanctions will work? You can have them arrested everyday, and their outlook will not certainly change. Haul the children to rehab, without parental, or community care, they'll be back to the streets. I know Dinky knows these things. These welfare interventions for street children should be approached in a holistic manner. I hope Dinky has some other tricks up on her sleeves. Otherwise, as a stand alone program, this is not gonna work.
posted by Allan at 7:52 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
US Supreme Court to lose virginity by end of the year
Onion reports that the members of the U.S. Supreme Court collectively resolved to lose their virginity by 31 December 2002 in a 8-1 vote. They have finally overcome their nervousness and made a pact to get laid. In the words of Justice David Souter, "Hey, everybody... we're all gonna get laid!" (The Onion 13 November 2002)
So how many judges does it take to screw justice? All nine of them.
SOUNDING BOARD
Tuesday, November 12, 2002
_____________________________________________
New state to emerge from Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, and Sabah?
Based from classified reports, MILF reports that a new state will be created in Mindanao to span Sulu, Tawi-Tawi, Basilan, and Sabah. It says that a third country is behind the move, and will use the 1935 Dansalan Declaration to justify the creation of the new state. it also says the government knows it... it is related to US-led war on "international terrorism"... has something to do also with oil in Sulu and Sabah... and that Malaysia is aware of it and links even the massive repatriation of Filipinos from Sabah this year...
posted by Allan at 3:30 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Sunday, November 10, 2002
_____________________________________________
Crackdown on abusive taxi drivers in Manila
DOTC seems to have a renewed effort against abusive taxi drivers. The Spunky Daisy posted this on 7 November 2002. One moron, errr... taxi driver refused to take her and her sis to Megamall (from Makati). Then she called DOTC hotline 7890 and after taking down all the details, the operator asked her if she would be willing to come for a hearing at Action Center in Ortigas. She said yes (go girl!). DOTC sent her a letter inviting her to a hearing on Nov. 19 at 10 am. She is definitely going. I hope this effort of DOTC will be sustained. Let's get those bastards off the streets.
posted by Allan at 2:38 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, November 09, 2002
_____________________________________________
Vietnamese government jails internet dissident
A Vietnamese dissident has been jailed for four years. For what? For criticizing the Communist government and publishing it on the web. He was sentenced after a 1-day trial. Talk about swift "justice". Human rights. Freedom of expression. I wonder what those phrases mean in Vietnamese language.
posted by Allan at 3:10 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Cabinet shuffle in the Arroyo administration
INQ7.net's sources said that the shuffle may take place at the end of the year. Mr. Montemayor (Department of Agriculture) may be moved to DAR, while Mr. Braganza (Department of Agrarian Reform) may change posts with Mr. Montemayor or be transfered to the Department of Transportation and Communications. I wonder how some people would react this.
posted by Allan at 2:42 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Workers to donate sperm to pay for plant debts
Workers at a Romanian car factory have decided to donate sperm to save the debt-ridden plant. But get this - they'll do it for more than a month. Wait, here's the best part - the fertility clinic pays $50 per visit. Whoa. Per visit. Are they accepting non-Romanians? Well, I figured that one couldn't be altruistic all the time, even if it's for peace.
The Bali bombers really wanted to target Americans, not Australians, according to this Reuters news article. What they got were Australians. Of course it doesn't matter whether the casualties were Americans or any other group of people. Unfortunately for Australians who were in Bali at that time, these are third rate terrorists. Stupid ones.
posted by Allan at 1:11 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Do you wanna play God?
I played God a few minutes back. Yes I did. I got angry as hell... errrr... wait, I think that didn't fit well. Let me rephrase. I got really sick of those puny humans complaining all the time so I killed them. The cows were too noisy, so I killed them too. I swear (ooops), I had fun striking those idiots with lightning. It would have been more fun to have an option to put some names above their heads and strike on them until hell freezes over... ooops... Wanna play God? Click here, also posted by greengrl.
posted by Allan at 12:26 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Friday, November 08, 2002
_____________________________________________
Man spreading HIV-virus by injecting people: another urban legend?
Some people are so not in-the-loop. This was forwarded to me today, a poorly written version of the HIV urban legend several years back. This version tried so hard to make it appear recent so it quoted a recent movie. Here...
Please check this out and take it as a warning. A friend of mine told me last night that there was a student from ---(the school)--- who recently experienced a very scary incident. Apparently, this girl was watching a movie when she felt something on her arm. A guy beside her injected something on her arm with a small syringe. What scared her was when the guy laughed his heart out, tried to shake her hand, and said "Welcome to the world of AIDS". She shouted and everyone panicked. When the girl reached home, she told her mom. They went to several doctors. It was confirmed, she is now HIV positive. Unfortunately, she was kicked out of ---(the school)--- because of this reason. This incident happened in ---(the mall)---. So please be careful guys. They may be doing this in other malls as well. Avoid watching movies for some time.... (and other similar stories follow).
Spreading stuffs like this only causes panic (among the gullible?). Several HIV tests? Those things don't come cheap. Doubtful. Especially when matched with the school where maybe less than 10 percent of students belong of the upper income bracket. Really doubtful. Besides, this thing should be in the news by now. It's not. This is another urban legend, like some sick person is stealing kidneys; like Procter and Gamble is affiliated with the Church of Satan. The method is very much similar to the so-called "netlores" - like Bill Gates is giving away money; like Mama Mary will grant you a wish if you forward an email to 10 friends; and you'll get strings of bad luck if you don't forward the damn email. Sure. How pathetic.
SOUNDING BOARD
Wednesday, November 06, 2002
_____________________________________________
MILF to help in anti-terror drive vs. JI
MILF to help in anti-terror drive by hunting Jemaah Islamiyah (JI). Good move. There is really no way that MILF can be linked by hawkish elements of the Arroyo government to JI. I guess this will put an end to this wild accusation.
JI wants an Islamic superstate spanning Malaysia, Indonesia and parts of the southern Philippines and northern Australia. Even MILF is helping to step up counter-terrorism efforts vs. JI. Well, who wouldn't? Superstate? Superjoke.
posted by Allan at 4:09 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Smartcard solutions to bridge the digital divide
Sangam Krishi Sangam (SKS), a Grameen Bank replication project in drought-prone Medak district of Andhra Pradesh is pioneering the use of smart card technology to improve the delivery of microfinance.
Swayam Krishi Sangam made a presentation in 2 June 2001 entitled “Achieving Connectivity for the Rural Poor in India Using Smart Card Technology for Poverty Alleviation” . A smart card looks similar to a credit card and it carries the capability to encrypt large amounts of data that can be read and written to a small microchip on the card. The data can be accessed by a card reader into which the card is inserted (like the simputer, see below). The information may include access codes, account number, and electronic cash. He cited the following uses of smart card: (a) record savings and loan transactions; (b) dial a connection on a mobile telephone and be charged on a per-call basis (e.g., Grameen Phone); and (c) give hospitals/doctors/clinics personal data without filling out a form. As an electrical passbook, Smart Cards can: (1) eliminates manual passbooks/collections sheets; (2) reduce the time of meetings by one half; (3) increase—virtually double—staff productivity; (4) reduce operational cost; (4) reduce the risk for error and fraud by creating one point of entry; and offer a more diverse/real-time set of financial products.
For simputer, a smartcard acts as a prime method of enabling the "sharing" of devices. Rural communities could own several devices and hire these out for usage to individuals based on the ownership of a smartcard. Each user's smartcard would contain the minimum "personalization" information required to log into a community server which would maintain personalized data about the user. This model of sharing would bring down the cost of the Simputer to that of owning only a simple smart card, and paying for the usage of a shared Simputer.
SOUNDING BOARD
Sunday, November 03, 2002
_____________________________________________
Only in the Philippines. Two officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways, who were suspended in connection with the multimillion-peso vehicle repair scam, have been allowed to return to work. On one condition: they have been ordered to be in the forefront of the fight against graft. Moral ascendancy, anyone?
posted by Allan at 12:01 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, November 02, 2002
_____________________________________________
New mysteries of the Holy Rosary and old "mysteries" by some priests
In the Apostolic Letter Rosarium Virginis Mariae (Latin for The Rosary of the Virgin Mary), the Pope declared new mysteries of the Holy Rosary: (1) The baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan. (2) His self-manifestation and miracles at the wedding at Cana. (3) His proclamation of the Kingdom of God, with his call to conversion. (4) His transfiguration. And (5) His institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper. Church leaders said last week that Pope John Paul II's move to add new mysteries of the rosary was very timely because "the worldwide gloom cast by the long shadow of terrorist bombings called for an explosion of light". (INQ7.net 2 November 2002). Puhhhleeese. Maybe you mean to distract the gullible majority from the reported sexual abuses of priests? Giving them more mysteries may cloud the sex-related "mysteries" in our midst.
posted by Allan at 11:55 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
On Sison's threat that a fiercer armed revolution would result from his and the NPA's blacklisting, MILF wants Sison to think twice before abandoning the peace process. What a level-headed advice. I like that.
posted by Allan at 11:47 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Multiplayer online role-playing games (RPGs)... featuring EverQuest, the biggest online role-playing adventure game known to mankind. Damn it. I can't wait to go home.
posted by Allan at 11:01 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
NUS undergrad students' new condo-type residence hall. *Very* posh. I bet they don't have a swimming pool there :-P Well, we do... beeeee. However, between the residence halls and my place, for some reasons I'd rather keep to myself, I prefer to stay in the residence hall (I stayed at Eusoff DVA4 for a month before moving to my place).
posted by Allan at 10:02 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Friday, November 01, 2002
_____________________________________________
This German schoolgirl has invented something for me - a bed that has a built in alarm clock that literally *throws* you out of bed. Five minutes after the alarm, an electric motor slowly tilts the bed. You can either get up, or you roll out of it.
posted by Allan at 8:36 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
An episode of HBO's Emmy-winning drama series, "Six feet under" has been banned from being shown in Singapore. The reason? it has strong themes of drug abuse and homosexuality. "Asian values". Sure. Whatever that means.
Philippines may have a seat in the UN Security Council in 2003? Bringing in the staunchiest US ally in the UN security Council. Of course that means one more US supporter added to the Council. Call me naive but I still have high hopes for ASEAN if only some leadership can be shown there. Instead of gloating on this UN Security Council issue, the ASEAN is *the* committee that needs to be strengthened. ASEAN needs to show more of its presence in the global scene. How about showing more action on that front rather than anticipating a seat in the UN Security Council?
posted by Allan at 2:28 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
On EU's terrorist tag at NPA and Malacañang diplomacy
NPA/Sison tagged as terrorists by EU. Mr. Ople went to Europe recently to convince allies to declare CPP/NPA as terrorists. So they did. Apparently, Malacañang's purpose is to give the Sison's group no choice but to go back to the negotiating table. Convincing EU to lable them as terrorists is a strategic move, I would say, in terms of giving Sison and his group a bad name in EU. But is it a *good* move insofar as negotiations with the rebels are concerned? So has Malacañang thrown the diplomatic towel on this issue? Or is coercion still part of Malacañang's diplomatic strategy on CPP/NPA?
Presidential spokesperson Tiglao hinted that Malacañang's will have to evaluate if the negotiations with the rebels can still lead anywhere "given this new factor that the EU and the US have declared them as terrorist organizations" (INQ7.net, 1 November 2002). So what if NPA is on their lists? Aside from coercing Sison and his group to the negotiating table (if that move will not generate more antagonism), EU and US lists should have nothing to do with Malacañang's *internal* problem on NPA. Mr. Tiglao seems to believe that since Manila has a policy of not negotiating with terrorists, NPA's inclusion in terrorist watchlists raises a complication. Of course, on paper, EU and US lists only apply to their strategies as the listed organizations enter their respective territories. However, EU and US *may* put diplomatic pressure on Malacañang to pass an anti-terrorism law, for example, that can categorize NPA further as terrorists. If that materializes, Malacañang couldn't negotiate a peace deal with NPA. And the Malacañang hawks will be very happy.
SOUNDING BOARD
Thursday, October 31, 2002
_____________________________________________
This 33 year old man says not getting laid has made him feel like 19 again. He refers to his past eight months "the longest dry spell since just after high school" and "a real blast from the past". To his emotional state, this is what he has to say: "In order to have sex, you have to be confident in your sexuality, or at least appear confident. But in order to be confident, you have to have sex" (The Onion 30 October 2002). With that reasoning and self-esteem, he's *never* gonna get laid.
Taiwanese girls sit in glass booths, scantily-clad waiting for customers... No, this is not sex trade, it's betelnut trade. These "betelnut beauties" sell these mildly narcotic seed from the fruit of the betel pepper which truck drivers and laborers use to help them stay awake. Oh yes, that will *definitely* keep you awake.
posted by Allan at 2:21 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
A more daring Christina Aguilera on the cover of her new album "Stripped". Well, the girl has better singing talent than...err... what's her name? Her contemporary with the nicest ass in the planet? Oh yeah, Britney. There's a Sony store somewhere near my place where TV sets always play one of Britney's concert where she did that seductive shower number. Enough. Back to Christina. Well, the Washington Post writer of the linked article has this to say about Christina: "To out-naked Ms. A at this point, it's going to take dental floss" (Washington Post 30 October 2002). That's a challenge Ms. Britney. Next album?
SOUNDING BOARD
Wednesday, October 30, 2002
_____________________________________________
The New Republic has come up with a recent article on how Saddam manipulates the media. Briefly, here are some points. 1) Broadcasts are done six floors below the monitoring section of the Iraqi Ministry of Information; 2) Ministry of Information controls foreign journalists through the visas (journalists must renew their visas every 2 weeks); and 3) if you're lucky enough to be granted a visa, you will be given a "minder" - an English-speaking government shadow that costs US$100 per day (wow!). They have no option but to report the opinion of the government of Iraq, that is, if you still want to do coverage in the next 2 weeks. Remember those things next time you hear someone broadcasting from Bangdad.
posted by Allan at 3:23 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Chinese couple fined for sharing a hotel room
Ok brace yourselves. In China, a student and his girlfriend have been fined for sharing a hotel room. They were charged with "illegal cohabitation" because they could not produce a marriage certificate. OMG. So the Chinese government's neighborhood security officials' terms of reference include raiding hotel rooms and checking if the couples have marriage license? The Chinese government never ceases to amaze me. Ok ok... let me write something on a piece of paper... here. Let's read it, repeat after me --- prrrrrivate sssspace. Again, again... louder --- prrrrrrivate ssssspace. See, that one was easy. Now have someone translate it Chinese and stick it on your forehead.
posted by Allan at 2:33 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
A movie on Rwandan genocide being shown in Ugandan capital, Kampala. I hope it gets screening worldwide. Unlike Schindler's List, the movie does not have any western heroic character. To quote the producers, "To have done so would have been totally dishonest because there were no western heroes, and in fact the west betrayed the people of Rwanda". Very well said. Remember? US that time reported that "acts of genocide may have been committed". It did not want to say explicitly that "genocide is being committed" because using the term "genocide" would have put so much responsibility on US and UN to respond to the situation immediately. Now, we all know what really happened.
posted by Allan at 1:23 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Tuesday, October 29, 2002
_____________________________________________
I never thought this could be possible. Virtual hands attached to your PC that could make you feel something miles away. "You can not only feel the resulting force, but you can also get a sense of the quality of the object you're feeling, whether it's soft or hard, wood-like or fleshy," said Professor Slater from University College London and head of one of the research teams (BBC 29 October 2002). Hmmm... this will take cybersex to a new dimension. Ooops.
posted by Allan at 10:35 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
State Peace and Development Council, the ruling military junta in Burma, has been using rape as a tactic in its anti-insurgency campaign against rebels in the Shan state, according to this article. Here's the May 2002 main publication on this issue entitled "Licensed to Rape". What the hell is this? I thought the ruling military is already having talks with Suu Kyi?
posted by Allan at 1:56 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Monday, October 28, 2002
_____________________________________________
Emails to Saddam... very interesting. This is my favorite of all cited emails:
"Please allow the weapons inspectors into your country so that the illegitimate leader of my country, the U.S.A., who perpetrated a coup and stole the election, will not have an excuse to attack your country. If you would do that it would take away his power and weaken him and make you look like the bigger man."
The details:::::>> DOD Network Information Center (NIPR-DOM), 7990 Science Applications Court, Vienna, VA 22183-7000
Domain Name: NIPR.MIL (Naval Intelligence Publication Register?). Date: 25 October 2002.
posted by Allan at 3:52 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
US offers Ms. Arroyo spy satellites, but it is not sure yet whether she will get (from US) her requested second-hand C-130 cargo aircraft and protective vests for troopers to reduce casualties while conducting their anti-terror war. Why is US pushing for these spy satellites instead of giving Ms. Arroyo her requested second-hand planes and vests? Beats me. This may further complicate the situation in Mindanao.
Popularity of SMS (text messages) in India is causing tension in relationships. Some analysts say SMS has empowered women more than men, giving them a non-traditional tool to approach potential partners. They say women are learning to jumpstart relationships through the use of SMS which breaks old taboos. So what? Maybe you should get rid of those taboos in the first place. Much ado over texting. Get a life.
posted by Allan at 2:56 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Malaysian government stops funding for privately-run Islamic schools because they have been teaching hatred to government leaders, particularly Dr. Mahathir himself. he cited a child who asked her father to remove Dr. Mahathir's picture. Dr. Mahathir also said that there was already a syllabus for religious courses but the school did not use it. Uh-uh. Not in Mahathir's backyard.
Another case of maid-cruelty-leading-to-death in Singapore. No, her name is not Flor. This time the wife (Tan) is being accused for, what else, maid abuse - for witholding information that her husband had assaulted their Indonesian maid, and for grabbing and pinching the breasts of their maid. (Her husband is now serving sentence for manslaughter - yes, the maid died - and four charges of maid abuse. Last year, the husband had whipped the maid with a cane, splashed her with hot water, jabbed her with the handle of a hammer, and burnt her lips and palms with a cigarette.) Damn. No comment. %$#@&*#@
posted by Allan at 2:25 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
The ultra-sexy mini-skirt is making a comeback. At the recent spring-summer 2003 shows in Europe, crotch-skimming mini-skirts emerged. Singapore, being such a *cool* place, welcomes the return of the "mini". It's good to be in Singapore.
posted by Allan at 2:19 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Vice President Hamzah of Indonesia's statement on Indonesia and terrorism: "We have to take an offensive approach to prevent our country from being labelled as a terrorist nest. If that happens, then our problems would be complete. We would be a terrorist, corrupt and pirate country." I hope this will be operationalized soon. A really daunting task. Translation: Don't tell us, show us.
posted by Allan at 2:11 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
A 20-year old guy is jailed for sending pictures of him and his former girlfriend (also 20 years old) having sex --- to her lecturers, friends and relatives. Talk about revenge. I'm sure, the pics are all over the place.
posted by Allan at 2:00 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
A pathetic news - Abdul Basit Usman, main suspect in the bomb blast that killed 15 people and wounded 60 others in General Santos City last April 21 - escaped from jail. He was reported missing from his detention cell since Wednesday but the escape was not announced until Saturday. What the hell is going on here?
posted by Allan at 1:39 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, October 26, 2002
_____________________________________________
Wired's article on patent process madness. There's a got to be an alternative to this madness. The broader issue of access to new technology as a way of leapfrogging by developing countries also needs to be considered.
posted by Allan at 4:35 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
MILF denies coddling Yunos. Director General Hermogenes Ebdane Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police, said it was too early to link anyone, including Yunos, to the Balintawak explosion recently. There you go. A related article was posted yesterday, plus some questions. MILF has condemned religious intolerance and Islamic terrorism. Will it jeopardize the peace process by doing that?
The Roman Catholic Church in Chile has issued an apology to the victims of child sexual abuse by priests. By priests. By priests. Yes, by priests. Damn.
posted by Allan at 1:56 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
The apologetic kidnapper appearing tough. North Korea setting the terms for US talks. It is willing to make a deal with US on its nuclear weapons program if US will agree to a non-aggression treaty. There you go. I can't believe Pyongyang is setting the terms on this one.
posted by Allan at 1:55 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Kenyan elections to be held in December. President Moi favors Uhuru Kenyatta, a 41-year-old businessman and the son of Kenya's first president, to replace him. What about the corruption charges during Moi's presidency? Uhuru wants to forgive and forget, if elected. Hmmm... I've seen this strategy before. Ah. I remember. Politics of patronage. Trademark of politics in the Philippines.
posted by Allan at 1:55 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Erection in public --- illegal!
In Locust Township, Pennsylvania, it has just been forbidden to have an erection in public. A what? Ok, so tell me, will police officers have to capture it on cams as evidences? What an exciting job. Or, they can come in twos always, so that the other will testify that indeed, the accused had an erection at the time he was spotted. Anyone care to do a policy analysis on this one?
posted by Allan at 1:53 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Some useful UK inventions: computer, the pill, photocopier, aspirin, television, mobile phone, jet engine and flushing toilet. Great, huh? Now here are the weird ones: spectacles for chicken to prevent its eyes from being pecked by another chicken (excuse me?!), two-handed glove for couples who wish to maintain palm-to-palm contact even in chilly weather (how romantic, and so... geeky?), and ladder for spiders to climb out of the bath (oh yeah this one is useful - for spiders). Duh.
posted by Allan at 1:49 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Centropico: tips for google-searching students
Here's a post for students searching for "Centropico" through google. I realized there are quite a number searching for it. I would, of course, prefer you guys doing your own analysis without *first* looking into analysis posted on the web. This is my favorite case of all the Harvard Kennedy School of Government cases. Some faculty members really have knack for these things... very insightful though. Anyway, here's a tip:
Centropico is a country somewhere in Southeast Asia (nope, not Latin America). The setting was ripe for a crisis-ridden reform (as opposed to a politics-as-usual one) immediately after a bloodless revolution. This difference is critical as you will have to crack your head on how to approach the challenging issues. Given that the situation demands *not* a politics-as-usual reform, be careful not to recommend incremental measures. You don't have timing flexibility. This is one situation wherein the political environment heavily influences the setting. Be bold and at the same time, bear in mind that in dealing with Centropico's problems, timing is everything. Maximize support and minimize resistance. How? Know your potential allies. The opposition wields tremendous influence in high-level political decision making. Is there room for coalition-building to neutralize this tremendous influence?
You gotta have an idea as to what can Donna's Lawrence's client do NOW, immediately. But!... these are only relevant insofar as you can pass the first phase. Be pragmatic. Donna's crucial handle in the situation is *only* one person - and you know very well who that is. Take it from there. Good luck.
posted by Allan at 1:45 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Thursday, October 24, 2002
_____________________________________________
Yunos, the bomb and explosives expert believed to be the leader of terrorist group behind the bombings in Zamboanga and Metro Manila, is in the hands of MILF, according to an intelligence officer. Why? Well, apparently, Yunos is a living evidence of the MILF's link with Jemaah Islamiyah, still according to the PNP intelligence officer. Aha. Errr... ok explain this to me.... if MILF is *really* worried that its link with JI will be exposed by Yunos, Yunos should have been dead by now (given that Yunos is reported to be in the hands of MILF). OK let me explore another angle.
What could have been the motive of the intelligence officer in getting that information out (that MILF is keeping Yunos)? I doubt if the intelligence officer is acting on his or her own on this. But anyway, this has an implication on the peace process. Of course INQ7's source knows that. Could it be that this "hawkish" move of getting this information out is a part of the overall strategy to destabilize the peace process from within? Could it also be that this is a move to put a "terrorist" color to the MILF?
SOUNDING BOARD
Monday, October 14, 2002
_____________________________________________
Testimony of Bruce Hoffman (RAND Washington's Director) to the US JOint September 11, 2001 Inquiry Staff of the House and Senate Select Committees on Intelligence (8 October 2002). He cited this as one of the lessons US can learn from other countries' fight against terrorism: focus efforts at mid-level leaders in terrorist groups. "Policies aimed at removing these mid-level leaders more effectively disrupt control, communications, and operations up and down the chain of command. In addition, such policies also inhibit a group's long term growth by eliminating the development of future leaders."
posted by Allan at 9:02 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Saturday, October 12, 2002
_____________________________________________
RAND would not be making its recommendation (posted below) if China will stop threatening Taiwan, e.g., pointing several missiles to Taiwan. I remember the Chinese government recommended a "political solution" on Iraq. These are just big words. So why don't you apply your political solution to Taiwan? China's diplomatic circus, and more.
posted by Allan at 11:54 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
"In the longer term, the USAF should strive to develop a more robust posture to support Taiwan should the necessity arise. One step could be to expand cooperation with the Philippines. Whereas Manila is approximately 650 nm from the centerline of the Taiwan Strait, a base in northern Luzon would be about 450 nm away (i.e., a little closer to the Taiwan Strait than is Kadena). Even more proximate is Batan Island, which is on the order of 300 nm from the likely area of operations. Although it is unlikely that the United States desires or could obtain permanent basing in the Philippines, recent improvements in relations between Washington and Manila could lead to increased access. The USAF’s goal might be to develop, in the mid to long term, arrangements with the Philippines not dissimilar to those enjoyed with Singapore today. Such a relationship would not involve permanent American presence but would permit frequent rotational deployments that would allow for infrastructure improvements and keep facilities “warm” to enable the rapid start of operations in a crisis."
Isn't it strange that this resembles the arrangement for the "advisory role" of US troops supposedly for Malacañang's efforts to annihilate Abu Sayyaf? The study came out in May 2001. US troops came around October 2001. And the situation with bandits (Abu Sayyaf) and insurgents (MILF, MNLF and CPP/NPA) became more complicated and difficult. Filipinos are being taken for a ride. As usual.
posted by Allan at 11:16 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Michele L. Malvesti has done a fairly good job in assessing the effectiveness of air strikes as a counterterrorism strategy. Nice work. To complete it, it would be great if the paper covered some "softer" approaches to counterterrorism, such as effectiveness of economic reconstruction, aid, targeted advocacy, etc. But on the whole, the paper puts forward a good, succint analysis.
posted by Allan at 9:30 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Let's see what happens to this "final negotiations to end the endless negotiations" between government and the NDF. This is a good move. An interagency committee is preparing an "integrated, comprehensive, multi-disciplinary and multi-dimensional" (wow, big words) solution to the problem. At least they recognize that the military solution alone is not going to solve the problem. But CPP/NDF/NPA should be reminded that, if a negotiated settlement materializes, their members, particularly of the NPA, will still be liable for the atrocities they have committed. Deal with that in the courts.
Annihilation of Abu Sayyaf and alleged corruption in the military
I wonder when can Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's government finish off Abu Sayyaf. Well, the country's medium term plan targets exactly that - annihilate Abu Sayyaf by 2003. However, some sectors are pointing to corruption in the military. This article (quoting former Senator Jovito Salonga) says exactly that. If this is the case, then maybe instead of gloating about the White House-Malacañang link, Ms. Arroyo could get to the bottom of this alleged corruption, and yes, finish off these bandits.
posted by Allan at 2:16 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Thursday, October 10, 2002
_____________________________________________
Germans now have novels and poems printed in their.... errr... toilet papers?! OMG, this piece of shit... I mean this article says that Germans who like to read in toilets need not carry their stuffs with them. They can instead read the toilet paper! Cool, as long as you don't read shit, literally.
posted by Allan at 9:25 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Ok, again... after the bra-type suction device news, I have to say that some news are really better than others. Australian reproductive physiologist Roger Short (nice name) said that lemons can be used as a female contraceptive and can also protect women from AIDS. He said that lemon juice kills sperm and the AIDS virus itself. And his advice on how to use it ---"The juice should be squeezed onto a piece of sponge or cotton wool and placed into the vagina before sex", he said. What?! Well, I guess I'm not gonna be looking at lemons the same way again. I've always like the scent and taste, errr, of lemon, of course.
posted by Allan at 9:16 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
This paper says that the military is behind the abduction of a TV reporter and cameraman in Sulu recently. They were supposed to cover the military offensive against the Abu Sayyaf. Communistvoice.org (what a name) reprinted, in its 29 June 2002 issue, one of the four articles from the 29 April leaflet of the Seattle Anti-Imperialist Alliance that implies that "the main thing preventing Abu sayyaf from being wiped out completely was the fact that local police and military colluded in their kidnapping and terrorist activities". BBC has also published a similar story sourcing from the Basilan Muslim community. "They [community] point out several ocasions on which the military appears to have colluded with, rather than fought, Abu Sayyaf - notably in June 2001 in the town of Lamitan". Judge for yourself.
posted by Allan at 12:21 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Wednesday, October 09, 2002
_____________________________________________
Nobel Prize for Economics this year: alternative to utility maximization assumptions
The Nobel Prize for Economics this year was given to Daniel Kahneman (Princeton) and Vernon Smith (George Mason) – both for psychological and experimental economics. Kahnehan won for his work on decision-making under uncertainty. His findings point to a situation wherein individuals are much more sensitive to the way an outcome deviates from a status quo than to the absolute outcome. Under conditions of risk, individuals therefore appear to base each decision on its gains and losses individually rather than on the consequences of a decision for their wealth in general. He also stated that most individuals seem to be more averse to losses, relative to the status quo, than biased to gains of the same size. These results contradict predictions from the traditional theory of expected-utility maximization. And given these criticisms, Kahneman and Tversky (Amos Tversky, pshychologist from Stanford, died in 1996) developed an alternative theory, - prospect theory, which embodies human behavior uncaptured by utility maximization.
As discussed also in my 29 September 2002 entry, Jennifer Naimolski (University of Michigan) did an analysis using prospect theory on the behavior of Saddam during the late 90s when Saddam prevented the weapons' inspectors from carrying out their job. She points to prospect theory as a more proper explanation of Saddam's bahavior then than rational choice theory. According to Naimolski's application of rational choice theory, if Saddam was acting on the basis of rationality, he would have let the inspectors come in (due to the overwhelming strength of US vs Iraq). Saddam didn't, and she explained that it was because Saddam was acting on the domain of loss - prospect theory says people are more risk averse to losses, and hence will do anything to prevent it.
posted by Allan at 11:39 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Some news are better than others. A bra-type suction device (what?!) has been launched in the UK. It is is designed to increase breast size by using vacuum pressure (yes, and not surprisingly, a male plastic and reconstructive surgeon is behind this one). The theory that backs this claim is that "subjecting the breast to sustained tension stimulates the cells to multiply, and to grow new breast tissues" (BBC News, "DIY alternative to breast implants", 8 October 2002). A generally accepted theory, I might say. The suction is controlled by a microcontroller which is fitted to a sports bra. For the device to be *effective*, it has to be worn at least 10 hours straight a day. Talk about "sustained tension" to stimulate tissues. And guess what, the makers claim that you can go up to 1 cup size, at least. Isn't it great?
posted by Allan at 3:59 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Ok, this chicken war is in no way related to game theory. Jollibee and McDonald's are getting in the competition heat again for their new stuffs. Chicken, what else. I will surely try these when I go back next month. Well, Jollibee seems to have improved. You don't see blood oozing out of your chicken anymore. Of course this comment is based on a first-hand experience from a chicken-joy addict. McDo is quite dry for me. However, it has been almost 2 years since I tried Chicken joy or McDo chicken. Damn, this chicken talk is surely making me hungry.
posted by Allan at 12:12 AM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Tuesday, October 08, 2002
_____________________________________________
Religious repression in Asia
Featuring!!! Burma, Vietnam, North Korea and Laos - Asia's valedictorians for religious repression.
"Totalitarian and authoritarian regimes are defined by the high degree to which they seek to control thought and expression, especially dissent. Such regimes tend to regard some or all religious groups as enemies of the state because of the religion's content, the fact that the very practice of religion threatens the dominant ideology (often by diverting the loyalties of adherents toward an authority beyond the state), the ethnic character of the religious group or groups, or a mixture of all three. When one or more of these elements is present, the result often is the suppression of religion by the regime." (International Religious Freedom Report for 2002)
Wow. Asian countries dominate the first category. How come I'm not surprised? Wait, I missed one country. Oh yeah, How could I ever miss this one. Last but not the least --- China. Oh no, don't blame me. It's on the report, read it.
posted by Allan at 11:50 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
SOUNDING BOARD
Monday, October 07, 2002
_____________________________________________
Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's blunder - transferring the police from national to local. Maybe Mrs. Arroyo should be reminded of the rationale for the creation of the Philippine "National" Police (PNP) - it's basically to shield the PNP from being "captured" by local politicians. In effect, you prevent them from functioning as private armies of the Mayor. Or maybe she needs a refresher on Political Science 101. A Presidential memorandum do not have the power to revise a law passed by Congress. You need another law to amend the Philippine National Police Law. I thought that was so simple. How could she have missed that? Ah, sometimes looking ahead (to 2004 perhaps?) can blind one's present view of things.
posted by Allan at 7:25 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
Here's a recent feature on gameen phone. Not only does the technology brings income to Bangladesh women (target of microcredit schemes due to women's high repayment rates), it also gives them respect and independence. This was also in my 30 September 2002 post where I talked about some of my lingering questions about the robustness of the grameen phone technology.
Digital maps are being used also by Bangladesh to improve development planning and reduce corruption. And this one is truly amazing - famers use mobile phones to find the best prices for their produce, reducing dependence on agents (ok it's "middlemen", just trying to be politically correct). Technology is also paving the way for telemedicine and even internet-based medical education.
Indeed, if poor nations are to catch up - bridging the gap between poor and rich nations - they will have to leapfrog through the proper use of new technologies. Bridging the digital divde within nations is the first step to bring about this leapfrogging process. There is no other way.
posted by Allan at 6:09 PM (GMT+8)
permalink (URL of this post) ::
(0) comments
::
main page
