Bemoan or Build; a Choice

I’ve noticed there is a natural drive toward negativity in most blogging commentaries. We editors and commenters all seem to drift inexorably toward the anti-agenda of complaint and criticism. Even this blog, this editor. I was smacked upside the head about this in reading a fine testimonial to Kim Henares  by Filomeno S. Sta Ana … Continue reading

The Philippines and ObamaVision

The audience for this piece is not Filipinos in general. It is opinion leaders: senators, journalists, bloggers, people who influence the values and attitudes of the Philippines. The purpose of satire, of sarcasm, of ridicule is to present ideas, to open minds through humor and jibe. It is not to hurt or insult or embarrass. … Continue reading

Angry Maude Reports: Invasion of the Philippines

Extra! Extra! Read all about it! Philippines Invaded! Special Report Filed by Angry Maude The Philippines suffered a stealth invasion overnight. Well, the invasion did not exactly take place overnight, but the Nation awoke and discovered itself invaded. Rather like a woman awaking, rolling over, and finding herself face to face with some naked unwanted … Continue reading

The Letter "L" by Ambrose Bierce

Excerpts from “The Devil’s Dictionary“ By Ambrose Bierce Selections from the Letter “L” LANGUAGE, n.  The music with which we charm the serpents guardinganother’s treasure. LAP, n.  One of the most important organs of the female system–anadmirable provision of nature for the repose of infancy, but chieflyuseful in rural festivities to support plates of cold … Continue reading

Democracy: Grace, Wisdom and Confidence

Two prior blogs on Philippine governance and culture dealt with: (1) subservience as an ethical value in the Philippines which makes speaking out risky, and (2) an apparent lack of patriotic humility among most leaders in the Philippines; this results in the failure of dynastic leaders to respect that opposing views help keep democracy centered. … Continue reading