Last Saturday marked the voter registration deadline for the upcoming barangay elections, currently scheduled for October. Local Commission on Elections (Comelec) officials already announced no deadlines would be given, which, personally, makes no difference. As discussed in previous columns, upon moving to the Philippines, after voting absentee in the 2010 presidential election, visited the local …
OPINION
‘Operation Tokhang,’ a different version
By Reuben P. Navarro Tokhang. The word has come to evoke fear among many today; for some, it could mean imprisonment for many years – for others, death. Why? What does “tokhang” mean? It’s become a favorite word among the media?, yet, why do many cringe in fear from there mere mention of the word? …
The demand for higher sugar prices will only diminish the industry
With a rally planned this coming Labor Day, Monday, May 1, the General Alliance of Workers Association (GAWA), through Secretary-General Wennie Sancho, announced their demonstration would also include the current issue surrounding the importation of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) by companies like Coca-Cola, which they, along with people like Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, …
The poor showing in the Palarong Pambansa is alarming
“Sports do not build character. They reveal it.” –Heywood Broun There seems to be no real challenges or rivalries among young athletes in the Philippines today. As of this writing, the lead held in the medal count by the National Capital Region (NCR) appears they are poised to wrap up this year’s Palarong Pambansa, taking …
‘Devil’s vehicles’
“We are in a world that is quite extremist and extremism makes more noise. Normality does not sell.” –Vicente del Bosque We congratulate the Iloilo City Council for putting an end to abusive motor vehicle owners who modify their mufflers in order to cause terrible noise, inconveniences, and irritation. Pedestrians and observers have referred to …
ANZAC Day and remembering heroes
“Those who served bequeathed to us a great legacy, may we, and future generations, prove worthy of their sacrifice.” –Australian War Memorial chairman Kerry Stokes Yesterday, Australia celebrated ANZAC Day, the annual observance where Australians remember those who fought and died in service to the country, along with recognizing those currently in the service. The …
Falling in love… with hockey
Surprisingly, I am finding myself falling in love with hockey. The sport is as important to Canadians as basketball is to Filipinos. Although not much of a sport fan, hockey introduced me to a new world of excitement and fun. Despite being relatively new to the game, I’ve been able to learn the rules quickly …
Coffee or Coca-Cola?
Yesterday, a doctor, sugar planter, chef, and golfer gathered at a famous restaurant to chat. The doctor ordered a coffee, the sugar planter ordered a tea by C2, the chef ordered a lemonade, and the golfer ordered a Coca-Cola. The server informed the golfer, “Sorry, sir, we do not serve Coke, the owner is boycotting.” …
Antique embraces spirit of Olympism
“Just play. Have fun. Enjoy the game.” –Michael Jordan Hosting the 2017 Palarong Pambansa has catapulted Antique into the ranks of Philippines province that have embraced the spirit of the Olympics. Among the participating youngsters, representing 18 regions nationwide, some will rise to become the country’s next aspirants for an Olympic gold medal. For the …
Explaining entitled attitudes of city jeepney and tricycle drivers
It happens all too often. Driving down any road in Bacolod City, behind a slow-moving jeepney, the driver is seemingly unaware there is anybody else on the road because his primary focus is looking for passengers. He operates at a snail’s pace to ensure he doesn’t miss an opportunity; weaves back and forth between lanes …