This is something I never saw coming — Malacanang giving up so soon on the Bangsamoro Juridical Entity MOA on AD — at least unofficially. Reports coming in, however, are indicative that a change of pace and style in the approach on the peace process is imminent. Esperon’s comment about being open to the possibility of re-negotiating the MOA coupled with PGMA’s statement that she wants non-government organizations to spearhead peace negotiations with the MILF are tell-tale signs of a new strategical approach in the works. I expected the Palace to be firmer and more resolved on this BJE MOA as it has been on the issue of EVAT on oil (wherein amidst protests and lower approval ratings, PGMA has been hell-bent on keeping the EVAT as it is). Although Ermita claims that rumors of such “plans” clearly did not come from Malacanang because they are still waiting for the Supreme Court’s final ruling — without which, they cannot move forward and decide what next step to undertake, it seems that this change of plan is not a remote possibility. Maybe the issue has gone way out of their control, thus prompting them to have a sudden change of heart if only to survive the avalanche of criticisms (as if there is not a mountain of criticisms already) brought about by the BJE MOA. Continue Reading

Howdy, everyone! I’m making a quick post about the highly-anticipated  Philippine Blog Awards happening September 21, 2008 at Coral B of One Esplanade (near Mall of Asia). Whoa! That’s the Philippine Martial Law Declaration anniversary too, right? Oh, yeah it is! All the more reason for you not to miss it! :) Blogging, just like any other form of media these days, celebrates freedom — freedom of speech, freedom of expression — this is enough proof of our thriving democracy. So, show the world how free you are! Free to blog and free to party! It’s a Sunday, too. So, you better have a very clever excuse if Continue Reading