My “Bad” Mandarin Tea Garden Experience

Posted by jhurtado

May 29

I love Dimsum! I love Siomai! I love Chicken Feet! Where can you find all these???

MANDARIN TEA GARDEN. Whenever I have the chance to go to Davao, Cebu and Manila, I never failed to eat in any of their branches so when they opened in General Santos City ( Robinson’s), I am probably one of the many happy souls because it is just an hour ride away from my hometown. When Mandarin Tea Garden finally opened in Ace Centrepoint in Koronadal, I couldn’t helped by smile. Its like an answered prayer.

The first time I tried eating in their Koronadal branch, I am a bit disappointed because they served me with a “strong” odored chinese black gulaman and their chicken feet is a bit oily but because the staff are friendly and courteous I still eat with gusto. Well, I am more than willing to forget the “unfortunate experience” because it was well compensated by a good service.

However, last may 21 we went to Robinson’s Gensan to unwind. As expected, I look forward to my moment with Mandarin Tea Garden. We were seated by a staff, set our table, gave the menu and ask for our orders. When I asked a certain food in the menu, I pointed at the picture and inquired where in the list is that food for me to know the name. To my surprised the service crew answered ” naa lang na sya diha Ma’am” ( it’s just there Ma’am). I rephrased my question and said, can you point out the name of this food (in picture)? She again said, ” naa lang na sya diha sa mga pangalan ma’am”( it’s just there in the list Ma’am) while pointing the numbers 1,2,3,4…What????????? I shook my head and just inhaled/exhaled, not wanting to ruin the “mood”. So Instead, I ordered what I am familiar with. There were six of us, while placing our orders, the other table signaled for their “bill”… This service crew, without warning, left us while I was at the middle of ordering. WHAT???????????????????????????????????

I tried to call her attention by waving my hand and she just signaled back by waving her hand as if telling me to wait. At this point, my breathing starts to slow down and getting deeper… This service crew went to the counter and pulled another service crew then pointed to us to get our orders but this other service crew motioned like he was busy or something and didn’t go to our table. I saw him went to the corner and “chitchat” with two more service crew. At this time, I wonder where the manager is… allowing only one incompetent service crew in the area while the others where “talking” as if there are no customers.

After several minutes, another service crew came out and put plates in our table while the first one who is supposedly taking our orders didn’t return. So, I stood up and told the service crew (with the plates) — “we are getting out of this restaurant because you have a very poor service!”

I am writing this not to malign MANDARIN TEA GARDEN. But as a consumer and with the existing technology available, I think it is incumbent upon me to share this experience. It is my right to express my opinion.

I will still patronize MANDARIN TEA GARDEN, but NOT their General Santos Branch, unless they improve.

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Filed under: Food & Services

The Birth of Philippines Outsource Support (Philsupport)

Posted by jhurtado

May 19

As far as I could recall, most Filipinos envisioned that the way to get out of poverty is if you go to school, study hard, graduate from college, get enough experience and work your way up to get a better job. Some made it, some didn’t. Sad to say, greater majority is still in the RAT RACE and most are still trying to figure out what to do. When you look around people talk about how hard life is. How Government failed to alleviate the living condition of its constituents. How difficult it is to earn a living. How enticing it is to leave your family in order to work in another country. Sounds familiar? Point is, before you blame anyone of your living condition ask yourself first have you done enough?

I have been a public servant for the last ten years. I tried my best to extend to my constituents whatever blessings I have. Unfortunately, it was never enough. You are only good up to the last help you extended. Sad but true. After less than a year of being out of politics, I saw the difference in the life I take. I made mistakes, who have not? No one is perfect. I have my ups and downs after all I am only human. It made me re-think my priorities in life and what I really want to become. In less than a year, I have the feeling that the “public servant” in me is very much alive but… the difference is I CAN STILL SERVE THE PUBLIC by not necessarily be “IN THE POSITION” and at my own pace. Thus, it dawned on me that in order to help I have to create an opportunity — a job opportunity, that is.

Very timely, I sat with two friends then an idea came to life. It didn’t take any resistance nor uncertainty but the three of us “gelled” together and form PHILIPPINES OUTSOURCE SUPPORT. Luckily, a US based Outsourcing Company eagerly accepted our proposal and became our “partner”.

What is this? Philippines Outsource Support is your cost-effective Virtual Assistant Provider. What is a Virtual Assistant? To borrow wikipedia’s definition,

A virtual assistant (typically abbreviated to VA, also called a virtual office assistant) is an entrepreneur who provides professional administrative, technical, or creative (social) assistance to clients from a home office. Because virtual assistants are independent contractors rather than employees, clients are not responsible for any employee-related taxes, insurance or benefits. Clients also avoid the logistical problem of providing extra office space, equipment or supplies. With a full range of options to choose from, clients can customize their remote receptionist service to meet their exact needs. Calls can be screened, announced and seamlessly connected to clients or their employees anywhere . Common modes of communication and data delivery include the Internet, e-mail and phonecall conferences, online work spaces, and fax machine. Professionals in this business work on a contractual basis and a long-lasting cooperation is standard.

In recent years Virtual Assistants have also worked their way into many mainstream businesses and with the advent of VOIP or other services such as skype it has been possible to have a Virtual Assistant who can answer your phone remotely without the end user’s knowledge. This allows many businesses to add a personal touch in the form of a receptionist without the additional cost of hiring someone.

By establishing this business, we provide an opportunity to everyone, graduate or not, to be able to land a job.

The birth of Philippines Outsource Support or more popularly called Philsupport not only fuels my desire to give opportunity to everyone but it also quenched my thirst for learning new things about life in general.

So, if you think you can be part of our team, add us on facebook. www.facebook.com/philsupport

With these, I thank Engr. Martin Angelo Dideles for sharing this opportunity with me and for patiently guiding me in the technical aspect of this venture, I also thank Ms. Lesley Casado for unquestionable support and hardwork invested. Further, I want to thank three good friends who made me laugh and shares life’s journey, Baya, Malou & Akiss. To Mr. John Calub for re-affirming my belief that everything is actually “good” and for giving us “multi-million mindset”. Above all, to my Savior, Jesus Christ for always being there, no matter what.

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Filed under: online jobs

My 2 days Workshop on Basic Photography…

Posted by jhurtado

Apr 6

For a week, I was anticipating the Workshop on Basic Photogragy by E.D. Altares at Del Rio resort, City of Koronadal… anticipating because it has been my dream to get great photographs. As far as i could remember, I have been enthralled with cameras. Since my childhood years, I am one of those who love taking pictures of myself, my friends, my family and some sceneries. So when I got tagged about this workshop I didn’t hesitate…

Day 1. I arrived at the venue and E. D. Altares is giving his introduction. Not much of a fanfare (which I like)and gave us some background. One thing that hit me is the phrase in the hand out that says ” What makes a good camera is the warm body that’s holding it”… So, I listened intently while checking my “classmates” who are also listening intently. I feel relax with the ambiance. No one in the class pretends to be hotshot-wannabe ( Thank God!) and even E.D. Altares made it a point that Photography requires constant learning. His method of teaching is what you call “simple and understandable”.

The Exposure Triangle. Aperture, ISO, Shutter speed were presented in a NOT-INTIMIDATING manner. We were given examples and tips but just enough for starters. Too much info will actually cause mind to freeze, at least in my case. Trying to understand all these things can be overwhelming especially if you are trying to figure out the technical terms while finding it in your camera. But, on my part I was able to grasp the thought…

Now comes the tricky part. We were tasked to capture still photos. Several objects were placed and its up to us to capture it. Again, I said the tricky part…why??? Well, aside from understanding exposures I have to be creative to pick the shot. When I first look at the objects i didn’t know what to do or how to shoot it that would somehow elicit message or at least an impression that there is indeed a message out of the shot. So I clicked and clicked and clicked. Everytime I view the picture that I took, I started to feel “uneasy” and somehow I feel that none of my shots are worth sharing. At the end of the day we were given assignments to get more still shots at home… so i did… and still I couldn’t find anything I like. My consolation is that E.D. Altares quoted someone that said “your first 10,000 photos are the worst photos”… hmmmn

DAY 2. Photoshoot. Models from General Santos arrived. I just joined my “classmates” and keep on clicking. I noticed that my shots are blurry and snowy… so I asked for assistance. Atty. Nonoy Rojas was quite helpful and the group now has an easy buddy atmosphere. Most of us, laugh at ourselves when we check each others works.

All in all it was a very refreshing experience and i’m glad I attended the workshop. At least now I learned about basic photography. With that, I want to be better and will definitely gain more experience. I am still far from my 10,000 shots anyway.
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Filed under: Photography

GUYS’ RULES in answer to GIRLS’ RULES… basahin nyo ;)

Posted by jhurtado

Feb 16

I came across this GUYS’ RULES and find it funny so I thought of sharing it to you…read on and tell me what you think…

“The Guys’ Rules”

At last a guy has taken the time to write this all down
Finally, the guys’ side of the story.

(I must admit, IT MIGHT HAVE A RING OF TRUTH IN IT.)
We always hear
“the rules”

From the female side.

Now here are the rules from the male side.
These are our rules!(from the guy writer)
Please note… these are all numbered “1″
ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

1. Learn to work the toilet seat.
You’re a big girl. If it’s up, put it down.
We need it up, you need it down.
You don’t hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

1. Sunday sports. It’s like the full moon
or the changing of the tides.
Let it be.

1. Shopping is NOT a sport.
And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

1. Crying is blackmail.

1. Ask for what you want.
Let us be clear on this one:
Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work!
Obvious hints do not work!
Just say it!

1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

1. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That’s what we do.
Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a Problem.
See a doctor.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 Days

1. If you won’t dress like the Victoria’s Secret girls, don’t Expect us to act like soap opera guys.

1. If you think you’re fat, you probably are.
Don’t ask us.

1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of them makes you sad or angry, then we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something
Or tell us how you want it done.
Not both.
If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have no idea what mauve is.

1. If it itches, it will be scratched.
We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say “nothing,” We will act like nothing’s wrong.
We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle, besides we know you will bring it up again later.

1. If you ask a question you don’t want an answer to,! Expect an answer you don’t want to hear.

1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine….Really.

1. Don’t ask us what we’re thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation,
or golf.

1. You have enough clothes.

1. You have too many shoes.

1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!

Anong masasabi nating mga girls dito? comment na…

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Filed under: My Notes

My take on Politics and more…

Posted by jhurtado

Feb 10

I am deeply saddened with the demise of Sec. Angelo Reyes. This prompted me to “pour” out my view on the political situation in our country. I am not saying that I have all the solutions nor I am saying that I know better… All I wanted to do is convey my point of view since in my previous blog, I mentioned that I want to contribute in my own little way in the political education of the people—- again, in my small way…

In my two term ( 6 years ) stint as city legislator of the City of Koronadal, I was able to view first hand things & personalities of several people which only an insider can actually see and observe. You might be surprised! But, it is not my nature to step on anyone’s toes just to get what I want, so don’t bother asking me the identities/names of these people for I will never ever squeal.

In the light of the recent events, the death (apparent suicide) of Sec. Angelo Reyes, I have “politics” to blame. Though not entirely but portion of what happened has something to do with politics. The conduct of hearings should be done with impartiality. What is the use of conducting a hearing when some elected officials are already “convinced” of the wrongdoing or lack thereof of an invited person. We should always remember that a resource person should be accorded with utmost respect. We shouldn’t even be using HONORABLE in our designations if we ourselves cannot act honorably during the discussions. I say this because in my experience as a public official in our City, I saw some of my colleagues deliberating & even directly blaming a certain resource person during the discussion. Now, for someone who is just watching maybe you will somehow be impressed with how this or that person “strongly” grilled the resource person. In Tagalog, “hangang hanga tayo sa mga matatapang at walang takot magsalita”. I am not saying this is wrong. As an elected legislative official, you are expected to discuss, deliberate & even speak passionately to something you believe in. But in hearing with resource persons, you are supposed to ask questions, get information and later when the resource person is excused you then deliberate with your colleagues of what had transpired. The irony of it all is that, some elected officials conduct hearings but there is no legislative output. When the very reason for such conduct is in AID OF LEGISLATION. What then is the output?

There are still many people who is not privy to the actual functions of an elected official. A Mayor is the chief executive of the city/town. A Councilor is a member of the legislative department. A Vice Mayor is the head of the legislative department but cannot vote in any measures passed unless to break a tie. In Philippine setting, some mayors are not even implementing the approved ordinance, some vice mayors are suppressing the right of the councilors and some councilors are acting as if they are implementors of their locality. This is happening entire Philippines. To give you an example: The Mayor refused to put a budget on statutory obligations. The Vice Mayor refused to sign documents of the councilors and the councilors promised to constituents have this and that road cemented if given a chance to be elected/re-elected. It is not the function of the legislative official to put roads, buildings, paint the walls & even provide water system in the barangays. However, if that official wants to do it, he/she can — at his/her own expense. The only set back here is that, with the very meager salary of an elected official where will they get all these? Again, there is a need for the public to be also aware of the limitations one elected official can do. Otherwise, it is also the public that teaches them to do what is NOT legal.

One irony that I also witnessed is that some constituents get mad if a certain elected official cannot lend their assigned transportation. Some even threatens that there will be another election, if their request are not granted. But when an elected official uses the government issued vehicle to a mall or some restaurants, then this creates a big stir — a big issue.

In the case of the late Sec. Angelo Reyes, I would have actually wanted it decided through legal path. Let the court decide on the guilt or lack thereof. The Senate’s function is to extract information — in aid of legislation. It should NOT condemn nor crucify anyone. I certainly hope that the Senate will continue to be impartial. I really hope all this investigation procedure will really have unbiased outcome and is NOT for the purpose of getting media mileage alone.

There is politics everywhere… in the house, in the streets, even among siblings, at work, in school and there certainly is politics in the Senate, the House of Representative & in local government. With politics everywhere, it is our obligation to ourselves to contribute in our own simple ways to have a better understanding of what’s going on around us.

My deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of the late Sec. Angelo Reyes. I wish his death will also serve as a wake up call on how elected officials conduct hearings. I also wish that those who have stolen money from us — the taxpayers — will rot in jail. This is not only limited to “alleged” AFP funds but goes a long way such as uncemented roads , infrastructures, under quality books, low salaries of government workers, teachers, policemen, overpriced vehicles and a whole lot more.

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Filed under: philippines, politics

10 Things that I have been contemplating on doing in the next 5 years

Posted by jhurtado

Feb 4

A lot of us might have experienced being in a crossroad at some point in our lives. In my honest opinion, I think one can say that a person has been in many crossroads from High School to College then to “working years”…or maybe even among friends, family or even to oneself. CROSSROADS for me is a feeling of standing in a middle of street with different directions and somehow choosing a single direction is painstakingly difficult. Thus, I decided to blog 10 things I have been contemplating on doing… Here it goes:

10 THINGS…

1. Travel. I always believe that we only live once in this world and depriving yourself of seeing other countries & experience other culture is somehow a great loss. So, I want to go to Canada, Germany, Brazil, Paris… soon…somehow!

2. Focus on business & private life. I think I owe it to myself to finally focus in business & private life. I have always been under the scrutiny of public. From High School to College I was a student leader, held position as student government official. After College, I became a consultant for youth affairs of a then Senator ( Philippines ) .When I came back in my hometown, I got elected as Brgy. Official then had a two term stint as City Official. All those years as elected public official my life has been under public eye. Maybe its now time for myself and my closest family.

3. Enroll in culinary Arts or any new interest. I like to eat. Everytime I travel its the cuisine & even the hawkers food that I find truly interesting. So, I’m thinking maybe I should enroll in culinary arts just for the heck of it

4. Own 1 condo unit. Although I never perceived myself to live in an urban city, owning one condo unit is something I want. Maybe use it for vacation purposes or have it rented out. If I want this, then I better start saving… lol!

5. New ride. Still thinking whether SUV or Pick up but I want to have a new one in the next 5 years.

6. Reduce 10 kilos in 5 years…. lol! 5 years???? Well, I know there will be more who can reduce this in a year but I’d like to be near reality. I know myself & my limits… so 5 years it is

If I can reduce more then I’ll be happier!

7. Open a TESDA Accredited School. I have started all necessary papers works already but there are some other necessities to be prepared… but I will surely work on this.

8. Rolex. I am not a watch person. The reason why I want to have a Rolex is more of a sentimental one. When my mom was still alive, we were talking of getting one for each other. She is scheduled to visit me in Cebu City and finally buy. However, she passed away 2 weeks before her scheduled visit.

9. Contribute in Political Education. Sad to say, our society is still in its infant’s stage when it comes to political education. Most people look at elected officials differently from what their TRUE FUNCTIONS. There are still people who cast their vote according to perception. I am not saying this as limited to my hometown. I am talking in general. Try to see how many people who gets into office and actually did their job. Look at the national headlines. Why would people spend hundreds of thousands & even milllions to get in the position with only meager salary. How can they recoup their expenses? Legislative officials are supposed to make/revise/create laws & ordinances & executive officials are supposed to enforce/implement laws… but somehow, people judge their elected officials according to “perception” such as the smile, the wave, the firm handshake, the visibility, the easy access & the controversy. Filipinos love soap opera, the telenovela…and somehow politics is perceived as a prime time show.

I know one person cannot change the system. One person cannot re-educate the minds of the people…but one person can at least try… and that one person can also be you.

10. A baby girl. On the lighter side, maybe my Justin is old enough to understand & welcome a little baby sister… So a baby girl for me in the next 5 years is another blessing.

Note: Again, all written here are the things that I am CONTEMPLATING… any of this may change… HAPPY READING.

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Filed under: My Notes

My Father, myself

Posted by jhurtado

Nov 22

My father, a retired judge, is a formidable character. He can be lovable to some, yet annoying to a certain group. To me, my father is a man with different sides. Let me take you for a trip a several years back…. ( down the memory lane ). I grew up in a house where my father’s word is THE LAW. Just once sharp look from him makes me and my brother literally froze. One minute is a shouting and fussing over something, the next minute he is whistling. My father, a complex one.
My father has been a great influence in my life. Just like in playing lawn tennis, I came to like the game not because I wanted to but it is his sports and I was exposed to it at a very young age. Meaning, I have no choice but to like it. Getting involved in another sports is out of the question because I have the feeling it won’t prosper without his support… Oh and you might be asking where my mom all the while. She is the best thing that ever happened to my Dad, according to my opinion. My mom is the moderator, the fiscalizer, the heart & soul.
While I was growing up, I felt like I can never be enough for my Dad. When I showed him grades like 90, he would then say “why only 90 & not higher???” So next time around I showed him an average of 92 and he would then say — “why only 92 & not 95???” I never measure up. I won awards and recognitions in high school but I still feel it was not enough. To some, maybe they would rebel, do drugs or walk out. I deal differently. I continued to develop myself & tried to excell.
In college, I couldn’t wait to be away from home. I took up Pre-law course ( AB- Political Science ). I ended up in a university almost 45 minutes away by plane. Yeah, that far. At last I thought I am free from my father’s influence but just the same the course that I took are basically the preparation for almost the same job description he had. Everytime I sent my parents some letters, I would look forward to my mom’s reply because I feel so loved by her & I dread the thought of my father’s answer because they are nothing but corrections of my grammar.
When I was reviewing for the BAR EXAMS ( to become a full pledged lawyer ), my mom passed away. I have no choice but to stop the review for I was ( and still am ) devastated. I decided to come home. I was having mixed emotions — my grief & my fear to face my father without my mom. I came home to see him almost wrecked. My dad ( the strongman ) was slumped in the chair, couldn’t control his tears, couldn’t manage to run the wake. I thought I needed to be consoled and to be comforted… but I felt, my father needs me more.
I managed to put everything under control during the wake, the arrival of our relatives coming from different places including Australia. My dad just floated. After the burial, he asked me to stay in our hometown for good ( something I’ve been dreading to hear ) but I heard myself saying yes. I had to quit my job and start a life back home on an instant.
Years later, My father bravely recovered from head surgery. He still plays tennis actively at the age of 77. He had an accident on the court and had a blood clot on his head which was removed . I have never seen my Dad as a weak person but there he was struggling to stand, struggling to walk. But just after a month he now stands and attempting to drive ( I told you — he is stubborn ).
Looking back at everything, I believe I am tougher than my father. I think he just have a hard time expressing his love to me. Oh, by the way I forgot to mentioned he remarried after 3 years that my mom died — and he asked my permission to do so. I get along with my stepmother. I found out that he has nothing but praises for me yet when I am around he just doesn’t know how to say it. I think my father is using “loud voice” and strict approach to cover up just how much he cares.
Yeah, we still clash…we argue, we give “killer” looks when we disagree… yet when he needs to get things done, he asked me to troubleshoot it for him. Oftentimes, we – as kids – always get furious by our parents “insensitive” attitudes… let’s face it — THEY DO GET INTO OUR NERVES more than anyone does. Haha!

To be honest, I wouldn’t be where I am now if I didn’t try to be “excellent” in my father’s eyes. I tried so hard. I simply want to hear & feel coming from him that no matter what happens I am his daughter. That exact words didn’t come out of his mouth — maybe not ever. But you see, I got more than that — my father needs me. Even his wife cannot force him to go see a doctor, it takes my call to send him fast to the hospital. My father is a strongman… you know why??? He must be — for he molded a fine & compassionate daughter —- ME.

(Author’s note: 1st published sometime 2006 in my other blogsite )

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Filed under: family, My Notes

Quality Time…

Posted by jhurtado

Jan 1

About a week before December 31, I was contemplating on going to Davao City right after New Year. I felt that I really need a break. Every since I declared that I will be running for Vice Governor last November, I have been “bombarded” with invitations. Just imagine I had to wake up between 5:00 to 5:30am because somebody is expecting my presence in a “coffee meeting”. That simply mean that I have to be there between 5:45-6:30am. From there, another invitation awaits me that I find myself stealing nap from one destination to another. Well, my only consolation is that I really enjoy what I am doing… but just like any other human being, I get tired and im craving for a break.

Last December 30, I decided to wait for new year in Davao City. My nephews were a bit wary because fireworks are banned in Davao. They love fireworks. New Year without it is like not celebrating at all. But, I prevailed. Along with my Dad, Sarah & the rest of the Hurtado Family we left Koronadal around 3pm but I still have one invitation to attend to so I decided to pass by Polomolok, went to see the women’s group who were waiting for me then at around 6:00pm we left for Davao.

The lack of firework display last New Year’s eve was compensated by our instant plan to go to BLUEJAZ beach resort. As I am writing this blog, my nephews are lost in their own activities which include slides, swimming, games & parlor games. What makes it more enjoyable is that my Dad who is 77 years old is witnessing all these family time and he is so happy that I catch him teary-eyed once in awhile. My stepmom, Sarah, is fun to be with because she & I shared same interest — shopping & eating.

About 15 of us are spending January 1, 2010 here in the beach with nothing to think about but just to unwind. Let problems, worries, & other concerns be dealt with once we go back home. For now, this is the kind of break I have been wanting to have.

This is all the more special because Justin Antonie, my little angel, is with me. He is such a joy. I am so amazed how he managed to have 10-15 steps and he is not even 1 yr old. He loves to eat. He would even take a shot at raw-green tomato. Although I think he is still adjusting because he kept on crying at night. He loves the water too. He would try to splash & swim and he is so funny. He smiles over little things. He will turn 1 year old this January 11. I still have to finish the 6 months requirements before I can process the adoption paper. He is my boy, period!

Ok then… Have to get another iced tea… until next time.

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Filed under: beach, family, vacation

The City of Koronadal Condemns the Gruesome Massacre that Happened in Maguindanao

Posted by jhurtado

Nov 25

A Resolution Strongly Condemning the Gruesome Massacre That Happened in the Province of Maguindanao Which Claimed the Lives of Innocent and Unarmed People, Wherein A Good Number of Which are Women and Media Practitioners

Authors: Hon. Marie Antonina Ines Hurtado
Hon. Khristine Michelle S. Aguilar
Co-authors: All Members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod

WHEREAS, on Monday morning, the 23rd of November 2009, a massive killing occured in Sitio Masalay, Brgy. Salman, Municipality of Ampatuan, Province of Maguindanao, victimizing unarmed civilians;

WHEREAS, majority of those killed were a part of the group who were about to file the candidacy of the Vice Mayor Ismael Mangudadatu of the Municipality of Buluan who nis aspiring to run for the gubernatorial post this coming 2010 elections. Included in the group was the vice mayor’s wife, his two sisters, a few other relatives, his supporters, and a number of media practitioners.

WHEREAS, in the said travesty some women were allegedly raped, some were beheaded, others were mutilated before killed and dumped in a mass grave;

WHEREAS, this kind of inhuman & barbaric actions have brought about utter sadness, fear and alarm to its neighboring areas, especially to the City of Koronadal, wherein a number of its constituents specially some media men were unfortunately included in the said massacre;

WHEREAS, the international press has dubbed this tragedy as the worst violence against media men in recent history and this shall once again leave an indelible stain in the image of the Philippines and the island group of Mindanao of which this City belongs

WHEREAS, it is prayed that justice soon be served and all the perpetrators of this gruesome incident be accordingly penalized under the rule of law in the name of the innocent victims whose lives were cut short by senseless act of terrorism.

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Filed under: government, koronadal

Is the RISK worth taking?

Posted by jhurtado

Nov 14

It cannot be denied that “political fever” is up on the air for over six months. With all those paid TV ads and other forms of exposures made by aspirants you can definitely say that the “game is on”.

I am a second termer councilor of the city of Koronadal. I started my political career as PUROK PRESIDENT, became #1 Barangay Kagawad & eventually won as City Councilor. I am now faced with a huge decision that may alter my political career. A decision that will involve LIFE CHANGING DESTINY.

I am offered to run as VICE GOVERNOR of our province. Initial reaction of my constituents is not to pursue it because I still have 1 term. Others are saying also that now is the right time because the the incumbent Vice Governor is now running for other position. And if I will not grab it now, it will be much difficult to get the same chance once a new Vice Governor has been elected.

I am now confronted with a reality that I have to face sooner that I expected. To accept the offer thereby entering a much difficult political arena but which I can also give a good fight? Or settle to run as city councilor and count my blessings anyway I have bigger chance of winning. If we look at it that way, then it is best to go with the “easy” way… that is to run for city council. However, if we look deeper the vice Governor position will also catapult me into a new sphere. A sphere wherein I have positioned myself that I can be a PROVINCIAL CONTENDER. Anyway, if I finish my term as Councilor there is no way but to seek higher position. The problem is, by that time new politician is already seating in the position. If they are hard to beat when they are not yet seated how much more if they are already in place. That’s the so-called equity of the incumbent.

In my honest opinion, I will simply pray and seek guidance. For all its worth, no one succeeds if we keep on playing safe all the time. I just hope my constituents will support me in whatever decisions I will finally make.

Wikepedia: Politics is a process by which groups of people make decisions. The term is generally applied to behavior within civil governments, but politics has been observed in all human group interactions, including corporate, academic and religious institutions. It consists of “social relations involving authority or power”^[1] and refers to the regulation of a political unit, and to the methods and tactics used to formulate and apply policy

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