I am amused by this pissing contest that is being described in the Inquirer editorial today. It should not be an issue among presidentiables whether who among them is smarter, especially when it comes to the issue of having a presidential debate. I agree with the editorial that the deabate should be a venue for discussion on the platforms for governance of each presidential candidate. GMA doesnt want to participate because FPJ is not participating in it. I really don't understand this kind of behavior that is unbecoming of a stateman (or stateswoman, for that matter). Probably for her, this is just a contest to show who is smarter, and who is better so they can show the public that FPJ is not as smart as she is. Well, this is her strategy, though. I just wonder if the thinking class thinks the same way as her camp does. The thinking class knows better, anyway. So, whether the presidential candidates resort to this pissing contest or not, it is up for them to do so. Let's just wait for the election results in May.
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Tobacco Control
Tobacco use has been one of the major causes of death worldwide, causing more deaths than HIV, tuberculosis, maternal mortality, automobile accidents, homicide and suicide combined. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco accounted for over 3 million annual deaths in 1990, which rose to 4.023 million annual deaths on 1998. Annual deaths brought about by tobacco are expected to rise by 6.4 million by 2020 and to reach 10 million annual deaths by 2030.
This tobacco epidemic is fast becoming an international problem, with the developing countries bearing the impact of the problem in the future. In 2002, about 4 million deaths worldwide are due to tobacco-related diseases, majority of which are taking place in developing countries. By 2030, if present trends continue, the figure will increase to 10 million deaths per year, 70 percent of which will happen in the third world countries.
Being a global industry, the large tobacco companies are largely responsible for this tremendous increase in smoking, most especially among women in developing countries, using their political and financial leverage to influence governments and in promoting their tobacco products. Tobacco companies have been spreading their operations and influence mostly on developing countries as they have been affected by the litigation, and declining smoking rates brought about by strict legislation in wealthier countries. Declining sales in Europe and North America are stepping up their activities in developing countries in search of new markets.
In the future, the developing countries will carry the burden of the disease due to tobacco use if this will remain unchecked. Since a number of aspects of the tobacco problem are particularly beyond borders in nature, this can be dealt with effectively by an international action. Tobacco industry marketing campaigns are executed simultaneously across a number of different countries including the use of satellite television. Smuggling of cigarettes coordinated by the tobacco industry on an international level, involving operations in numerous countries has been well documented. A concerted international effort will have to take place in order to address this global problem.
The World Health Assembly (WHA), which is the government body of the World Health Organization, unanimously backed a resolution at the 56th World Health Assembly calling for the implementation of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). WHO’s 192 member states, including the Philippines, adopted this first public health treaty as the first legal instrument designed to reduce tobacco-related deaths and disease around the world. The treaty, at present, calls for the immediate ratification by member states as well as the acceptance, approval, formal confirmation and accession in various governments that signified their support. The Philippines is among the 100 member states that signed the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). At present, there have been 101 signatories to date, which includes the 100 member states and the European Community, and representing about 4.5 billion people. By signing the treaty, the member states indicate their intention to take steps and ratify it. Ratification is a formal expression by which a country consents to be bound by the WHO FCTC. So far, nine countries have already ratified the FCTC, which includes Fiji, India, Malta, Mongolia, New Zealand, Norway, Palau, Seychelles and Sri Lanka. The Philippines, through the efforts of the DFA and the DOH, are on its way to ratification, pending the concurrence by agencies involved, including the National Economic Development Authority, National Tobacco Administration, and the Department of Trade and Industry.
I wonder what's keeping us from ratifying this treaty. I think it is about time that tobacco use should be reduced or prohibited. At least, government is now making a move to tax tobacco use. So smokers out there, expect rising prices of cigarettes in the next few months.
This tobacco epidemic is fast becoming an international problem, with the developing countries bearing the impact of the problem in the future. In 2002, about 4 million deaths worldwide are due to tobacco-related diseases, majority of which are taking place in developing countries. By 2030, if present trends continue, the figure will increase to 10 million deaths per year, 70 percent of which will happen in the third world countries.
Being a global industry, the large tobacco companies are largely responsible for this tremendous increase in smoking, most especially among women in developing countries, using their political and financial leverage to influence governments and in promoting their tobacco products. Tobacco companies have been spreading their operations and influence mostly on developing countries as they have been affected by the litigation, and declining smoking rates brought about by strict legislation in wealthier countries. Declining sales in Europe and North America are stepping up their activities in developing countries in search of new markets.
In the future, the developing countries will carry the burden of the disease due to tobacco use if this will remain unchecked. Since a number of aspects of the tobacco problem are particularly beyond borders in nature, this can be dealt with effectively by an international action. Tobacco industry marketing campaigns are executed simultaneously across a number of different countries including the use of satellite television. Smuggling of cigarettes coordinated by the tobacco industry on an international level, involving operations in numerous countries has been well documented. A concerted international effort will have to take place in order to address this global problem.
The World Health Assembly (WHA), which is the government body of the World Health Organization, unanimously backed a resolution at the 56th World Health Assembly calling for the implementation of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). WHO’s 192 member states, including the Philippines, adopted this first public health treaty as the first legal instrument designed to reduce tobacco-related deaths and disease around the world. The treaty, at present, calls for the immediate ratification by member states as well as the acceptance, approval, formal confirmation and accession in various governments that signified their support. The Philippines is among the 100 member states that signed the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). At present, there have been 101 signatories to date, which includes the 100 member states and the European Community, and representing about 4.5 billion people. By signing the treaty, the member states indicate their intention to take steps and ratify it. Ratification is a formal expression by which a country consents to be bound by the WHO FCTC. So far, nine countries have already ratified the FCTC, which includes Fiji, India, Malta, Mongolia, New Zealand, Norway, Palau, Seychelles and Sri Lanka. The Philippines, through the efforts of the DFA and the DOH, are on its way to ratification, pending the concurrence by agencies involved, including the National Economic Development Authority, National Tobacco Administration, and the Department of Trade and Industry.
I wonder what's keeping us from ratifying this treaty. I think it is about time that tobacco use should be reduced or prohibited. At least, government is now making a move to tax tobacco use. So smokers out there, expect rising prices of cigarettes in the next few months.
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
Political Tidbits
It has been a while since I have watched the news. The early evening news is different from the late night news in the sense that majority of the news at 6pm is basically centered on crime and politics, while the late night news are more on personalities and politics. Majority of the news that have been reported were bad news, giving the impression that nothing good is going on around us. Since it is election year, we get a glimpse of the colorful events behind the campaign trail, as well as the personal lives of candidates through the news. As I was watching the news last night, I cannot help but think about how crazy this coming elections will be. I am listing a few of my observations and thoughts based on lat night’s news.
The news says that the Commission on Elections is not prepared for the conduct of elections and they are complaining that they lack funds. Hold it right there, those who are thinking that government should provide more funds. Comelec proposed their budget in the first place, so they should have thought of the expenses before hand. Besides, they failed to computerize the elections because of the anomalies in the contract with the private firm they chose to go in partnership with. The management of the Comelec is accountable for all these failures.
Two senatorial candidates filed a case in court for the alleged use of the incumbent of government funds. I think it is about time they filed this. The question now is whether hearing of this case will materialize. It is already a given fact the incumbent has the advantage among other candidates. The incumbent has all the access to the funds, as well as to how the expenditures will be spent. I have been asking my colleagues if there is a document that presents the discretionary funds of the officials. It is not reflected on the budget, actually. So we really don’t know where it is recorded, therefore, you cannot monitor it. Anyway, it may be hasty to make generalizations such as these, but as they say, we were all not born yesterday. We all know better.
One presidentiable’s battle cry is that the country needs a really strong leader to help improve the economy, just like what strong leaders have done in other countries. Yes, some countries did improve their economy, but there is no question that there are high stakes in the issue of human rights. I remember someone saying that you cannot achieve development within sacrificing civil liberties. I guess, this is the thinking that is being followed by some politicians. Anyway, history tells it as it is. Before countries achieved their dream of becoming a strong nation, a lot of civil liberties have been sacrificed. If you don’t want to believe me, consult the history books.
There is this issue about government taking over another utility corporation as part of a “sweetheart’s deal” between the government and the Maynilad water corporation. I really do not understand why the government is always (as in always) bailing out non-performing corporations, and adopting their debts as part of the budget. Any businessman would be really nuts to enter in such a deal, and I don’t understand why we are doing this. Classic example is the former National Power Corporation. With the passage of the bill regulating the power sector and privatizing the corporation, the government bailed out the P10 billion worth of corporation debt. As in! Now, they split the corporation into three subcorporations with the salaries of its employees exempt from the government salary standardization law. The average technical staff’s salary is three times the salary of its counterpart in the government, and all out of the government budget. The top officials should know better, but they have reasons for doing so. I just get the feeling that this takeover of the government of the water corporation will contribute to the budget deficit.
So much can be inferred from just watching the news.
The news says that the Commission on Elections is not prepared for the conduct of elections and they are complaining that they lack funds. Hold it right there, those who are thinking that government should provide more funds. Comelec proposed their budget in the first place, so they should have thought of the expenses before hand. Besides, they failed to computerize the elections because of the anomalies in the contract with the private firm they chose to go in partnership with. The management of the Comelec is accountable for all these failures.
Two senatorial candidates filed a case in court for the alleged use of the incumbent of government funds. I think it is about time they filed this. The question now is whether hearing of this case will materialize. It is already a given fact the incumbent has the advantage among other candidates. The incumbent has all the access to the funds, as well as to how the expenditures will be spent. I have been asking my colleagues if there is a document that presents the discretionary funds of the officials. It is not reflected on the budget, actually. So we really don’t know where it is recorded, therefore, you cannot monitor it. Anyway, it may be hasty to make generalizations such as these, but as they say, we were all not born yesterday. We all know better.
One presidentiable’s battle cry is that the country needs a really strong leader to help improve the economy, just like what strong leaders have done in other countries. Yes, some countries did improve their economy, but there is no question that there are high stakes in the issue of human rights. I remember someone saying that you cannot achieve development within sacrificing civil liberties. I guess, this is the thinking that is being followed by some politicians. Anyway, history tells it as it is. Before countries achieved their dream of becoming a strong nation, a lot of civil liberties have been sacrificed. If you don’t want to believe me, consult the history books.
There is this issue about government taking over another utility corporation as part of a “sweetheart’s deal” between the government and the Maynilad water corporation. I really do not understand why the government is always (as in always) bailing out non-performing corporations, and adopting their debts as part of the budget. Any businessman would be really nuts to enter in such a deal, and I don’t understand why we are doing this. Classic example is the former National Power Corporation. With the passage of the bill regulating the power sector and privatizing the corporation, the government bailed out the P10 billion worth of corporation debt. As in! Now, they split the corporation into three subcorporations with the salaries of its employees exempt from the government salary standardization law. The average technical staff’s salary is three times the salary of its counterpart in the government, and all out of the government budget. The top officials should know better, but they have reasons for doing so. I just get the feeling that this takeover of the government of the water corporation will contribute to the budget deficit.
So much can be inferred from just watching the news.
Chasing Daylight
"Would you think I was crazy
If I stripped on down to my skin or
Would you think I was free as a bee
C'mon tell me - tell me - tell the truth now
Would you think you could meditate in the middle of the eye of a hurricane
Would you now but somehow we were tethered here together
We can weather out the weather here..."
Wonder where I got these? These are cuts from my latest Sister Hazel album called Chasing Daylight. The first time I heard this band, I immediately fell in love with the lyrics. Such poetry, I think it is definitely a soundtrack describing life.
The Sister Hazel band was named after a missionary nun named Sister Hazel, doing missionary work in Africa. The band must have gotten inspiration from her work, with songs of the band bursting with positivity and emotion. I guess, I am just being sentimental because one of their songs was one of the songs I like. Who wouldn’t fall in love more when a guy sings these lines to you:
"Finally I figured out
But it took a long, long time
But now there’s a turnabout
Maybe ‘cause I’m trying
There’s been times, I’m so confused
All my roads, They lead to you
I just can’t turn and walk away
It’s hard to say what it is I see in you
Wonder if I’ll always be with you
But words can’t say, And I can’t do
Enough to prove,
It’s all for you..."
I know, I fell for these lines too. I’m just reminiscing the old days. I was telling one my friends that I miss falling in love already, so much that I am hoping it comes soon.
Anyway, while there is not much explanation why this album was called Chasing Daylight, I guess, these lines best explains it:
"Sky fell down and pulled us in
Stole away my oxygen
And left me standin' breathless there with you
The ocean wrapped around the sun
The smell of June - the taste of your tongue
Was all I'd ever need
But you - you keep on waiting
For the sun to come around
And you - you keep on waiting
For something better - better off to come around"
There is much truth in these lines that one can already think of. Instead of lurking in the darkness, we try to chase the daylight instead and chase the hopeful sitautions to come around. We are all chasing the sun to shine in our lives and we believe we are all capable to do the things we want to do. For me, even though the sun doesn’t shine all the time, sooner or later it will come out.
If I stripped on down to my skin or
Would you think I was free as a bee
C'mon tell me - tell me - tell the truth now
Would you think you could meditate in the middle of the eye of a hurricane
Would you now but somehow we were tethered here together
We can weather out the weather here..."
Wonder where I got these? These are cuts from my latest Sister Hazel album called Chasing Daylight. The first time I heard this band, I immediately fell in love with the lyrics. Such poetry, I think it is definitely a soundtrack describing life.
The Sister Hazel band was named after a missionary nun named Sister Hazel, doing missionary work in Africa. The band must have gotten inspiration from her work, with songs of the band bursting with positivity and emotion. I guess, I am just being sentimental because one of their songs was one of the songs I like. Who wouldn’t fall in love more when a guy sings these lines to you:
"Finally I figured out
But it took a long, long time
But now there’s a turnabout
Maybe ‘cause I’m trying
There’s been times, I’m so confused
All my roads, They lead to you
I just can’t turn and walk away
It’s hard to say what it is I see in you
Wonder if I’ll always be with you
But words can’t say, And I can’t do
Enough to prove,
It’s all for you..."
I know, I fell for these lines too. I’m just reminiscing the old days. I was telling one my friends that I miss falling in love already, so much that I am hoping it comes soon.
Anyway, while there is not much explanation why this album was called Chasing Daylight, I guess, these lines best explains it:
"Sky fell down and pulled us in
Stole away my oxygen
And left me standin' breathless there with you
The ocean wrapped around the sun
The smell of June - the taste of your tongue
Was all I'd ever need
But you - you keep on waiting
For the sun to come around
And you - you keep on waiting
For something better - better off to come around"
There is much truth in these lines that one can already think of. Instead of lurking in the darkness, we try to chase the daylight instead and chase the hopeful sitautions to come around. We are all chasing the sun to shine in our lives and we believe we are all capable to do the things we want to do. For me, even though the sun doesn’t shine all the time, sooner or later it will come out.
Monday, March 29, 2004
Anthon’s Japanese Doll Collection
I got news that one of my friends from Japan, who patiently searched for Japanese dolls in all flea markets in Tokyo, held an exhibition of all his collections in Jakarta. Anthon, who is also my classmate in APPP, loves going through flea markets every Sunday, initially looking for Japanese “katana” (sword), and other Japanese artifacts. He then probably got fascinated with Japanese dolls when he and his wife Dewi were waiting for the arrival of their daughter Sekar (who in turn was named after a female Indonesian warrior). A year of collecting a number of Japanese dolls, both male and female, from geisha to samurai, and other Japanese characters and figures, he has acquired a number of pieces which are really old and beautiful in their glass casings. Now he is putting it on display for everyone to see in Jakarta, with the primary objective of bringing the cultures of two countries (Japan and Indonesia) together.
Here are a few links about the event from the Kompas Cyber Media, Indo Pos Online, and Jakarta Shimbun. (Sorry, it’s in Bahasa Indonesia and Nihonggo. Even I have to decipher some words to understand it. Anyway, just enjoy the pictures.) Congratulations, Anthon!
Here are a few links about the event from the Kompas Cyber Media, Indo Pos Online, and Jakarta Shimbun. (Sorry, it’s in Bahasa Indonesia and Nihonggo. Even I have to decipher some words to understand it. Anyway, just enjoy the pictures.) Congratulations, Anthon!
Exploring the Roots of Zambales
Probably the most comprehensive account on the history of Zambales is found at the official website of the provincial government of Zambales. It is an interesting historical account of the province from the 16th century up to present. I have been searching for this for the past few weeks when an idea kept playing in my head to do research on the Aetas of Zambales. This idea was triggered when I met one of the Aeta tribe leaders, who happened to know my father back when they were working together during the time of Mt. Pinatubo eruptions. My dad, whom they fondly call as “Tatay Odie”, worked with them when he was still with the provincial government. Being the community affairs officer that time, my dad was hands-on doing collaboration with the Aetas and the residents of various towns. I was in high school and in college during those years, so I was hardly aware of what is going on around me, but anyway, I am not going back to knowing my roots, so I have this crazy idea playing in my head as soon as this Aeta tribal leader paid my dad a visit at home a few weeks back.
Now that I found this historical account of the whole province, I was under impression that few people from Zambales could actually articulate this piece of history. I keep asking a lot of questions from my parents, and I only get bits and pieces. My sister told me that Zambales is only classified as a “second class province”, and I do wonder how come it is not even a first class province, when its role in history was important during the pre-Spanish era. This I shall have to explore as soon as possible. Although I do not have a plan to interfere with local governance in the area, I just want to learn more about history that I can tell my children someday.
Now that I found this historical account of the whole province, I was under impression that few people from Zambales could actually articulate this piece of history. I keep asking a lot of questions from my parents, and I only get bits and pieces. My sister told me that Zambales is only classified as a “second class province”, and I do wonder how come it is not even a first class province, when its role in history was important during the pre-Spanish era. This I shall have to explore as soon as possible. Although I do not have a plan to interfere with local governance in the area, I just want to learn more about history that I can tell my children someday.
Friday, March 26, 2004
Dope Wars
The only strategy game I play with these days, is Dope Wars on my palm pilot. Imagine you are a drug dealer, and the loan shark gives you an initial US$2000. Your task is to buy drugs given your money and travel to different cities and sell them, or buy them whichever the price is. For 30 days you have to be able to pay your debt or at least earn cash for your own. Along the way, you find drugs on the subway (other places, too), or encounter policemen chasing you, sellers of guns/coats, etc. It is an interesting game of economics: playing around with the demand and supply of drugs (Acid, PCP, Cociane, Heroin, Ecstacy, Weed, Shrooms, Speed, etc.). At least I get educated with the names of drugs and how much they cost. This is like a game of hide and seek making sure that you dont get caught, and at the same time, it is also a game of strategy, when you have to earn millions, pay your debt, withdraw and deposti money in the bank, and earn interest, again making sure you dont get caught or get killed by policemen.
In reality, it is pretty much the same I guess. If drug dealers earn much money, then their bosses have much more money. Usually, money is spent on drugs based on their need and the cost, so most likely, they usually go to the places where they sell cheaper ones, although I think doesnt necessarily follow for all instances. If the person can afford to buy the drug even at a high price, then he will also buy this. Such a challenge to policemen or law enforcers who "try" to catch them. See how much a computer game can teach you. :-)
In reality, it is pretty much the same I guess. If drug dealers earn much money, then their bosses have much more money. Usually, money is spent on drugs based on their need and the cost, so most likely, they usually go to the places where they sell cheaper ones, although I think doesnt necessarily follow for all instances. If the person can afford to buy the drug even at a high price, then he will also buy this. Such a challenge to policemen or law enforcers who "try" to catch them. See how much a computer game can teach you. :-)
Wednesday, March 24, 2004
Sync or Swim
One of my favorite shows to watch at Discovery Travel and Adventure Channel is “Sync or Swim”. Not only because the host is one of the coolest people I have seen on TV, Jamie Aditya Graham (I think he is Indonesian (?), I am not really sure. Can someone confirm this?), the concept of the show is pretty interesting. It is a dance/music challenge wherein Jaime goes to various traditional places in the world and learn one of their traditional dances/songs for one week, do a performance in front of the local community.
I have seen the episodes when he went to Mongolia, to New Zealand (to do the Haka dance), to Bali (to perform the traditional Bali warrior dance), to Australia (at a place up north called Jumbun for another traditional dance), to the Philippines (to do the La Hota dance – imagine this guy doing folk dancing. Hehe. Anyway, he was able to do it at least in front of Mayor Lito Atienza and other VIPs). It was enjoyable to watch him explore and get to know cultures, as well as struggle through learning the moves, the songs and the traditions of the places where he is doing the challenge. I like the picturesque scenes in Mongolia, New Zealand, and Australia, with of course, Philippine tourist spots. Jamie must be really enjoying this job, traveling, going places, learning about history and trying to culturally blend in, meeting new friends, etc., even for just one week. Wow. It is amazing to watch how a foreigner can blend in and show utmost interest in learning something new.
Anyway, catch him on Discovery Travel and Adventure and enjoy. I definitely would want to try what he’s doing. Now you can say I am now one of his fans.
I have seen the episodes when he went to Mongolia, to New Zealand (to do the Haka dance), to Bali (to perform the traditional Bali warrior dance), to Australia (at a place up north called Jumbun for another traditional dance), to the Philippines (to do the La Hota dance – imagine this guy doing folk dancing. Hehe. Anyway, he was able to do it at least in front of Mayor Lito Atienza and other VIPs). It was enjoyable to watch him explore and get to know cultures, as well as struggle through learning the moves, the songs and the traditions of the places where he is doing the challenge. I like the picturesque scenes in Mongolia, New Zealand, and Australia, with of course, Philippine tourist spots. Jamie must be really enjoying this job, traveling, going places, learning about history and trying to culturally blend in, meeting new friends, etc., even for just one week. Wow. It is amazing to watch how a foreigner can blend in and show utmost interest in learning something new.
Anyway, catch him on Discovery Travel and Adventure and enjoy. I definitely would want to try what he’s doing. Now you can say I am now one of his fans.
Tuesday, March 23, 2004
Tips for Managers
I read an interesting book over the weekend called the “One Minute Manager”. The book tells a story about a young man in search of an effective manager, because he wanted to work for one and he wanted to be one. Who would not want to work for one, and the question will be, is there such a thing?
The book is interesting in a sense that is like a fairy tale, portraying scenes from the workplace, drawing some insights on how to become an effective manager. I will share some of the insights that I have picked up in the book, as follows:
Effective managers manage themselves and the people they work with so that both the organization and the people profit from their presence.
People feel good about themselves produce good results. (Helping people to feel good about themselves is a key to getting a lot of things done. So, managers should find ways on how to make their constituents feel good about themselves. If we think about this in terms of ourselves, we work best whenever we feel good about ourselves, right?)
Help people reach their full potential by catching them doing something right. (Most managers spend most of their time catching people doing something wrong. Rather than putting the accent on the negative, divert the actions towards positive areas. And most of the time, a praising like this makes the person feel good about themselves.)
When a person makes a mistake, let the person know of it, but be sure to refer only to the mistake that has been done, not on his or her worth as a person. (It is only fair, right?)
The best minute I spend is the one I invest in people. (Most companies spend 50% to 70 % of their budget on people’s salaries or maintaining buildings and equipment, but they only spend 1% of the budget to train people. I think it makes sense for managers to invest in training their people and looking out for their welfare, so they feel good about themselves, they gain confidence, and they produce more results.)
Everyone is a potential winner. Some People are disguised as losers, so don’t let their appearances fool you. (Managers can either hire a winner, or someone who has a potential to become a winner, however, most managers don’t want to invest in either of the two, so they usually resort to praying everyday: “I hope this person works out”. Managers should really invest in people.)
Take a minute by looking at your goals, looking at your performance, and seeing if your behavior matches your goals. (People can review their goals frequently and then check their performance against those goals.)
We are not just our Behavior. We are the Person managing our behavior. (When you are managing people, you should remember that behavior and worth are not the same things. What is really worthwhile is the person managing their own behavior. Managers should care about the welfare of the person you are managing.)
Goals begin behaviors. Consequences maintain behaviors. (Goals and consequences affect people’s behaviors.)
Anyway, to summarize what the book says, managers should set goals, praise and reprimand behaviors, encourage people, speak the truth, laugh, work, enjoy and encourage the people you work with to do the same as you do. After reading this book, I feel that it is not really difficult to be an effective manager, but I must admit that it takes at least a bit of an effort on the part of both the manager and the constituent. If both think like this then they will both achieve good results.
You see, there is such a thing as an effective manager. At least, it is possible to be one. So, for friends who are reading this blog, who are also managers, I hope you find this particular blog useful. Actually, if you think about it, we can always apply these insights on our daily lives.
The book is interesting in a sense that is like a fairy tale, portraying scenes from the workplace, drawing some insights on how to become an effective manager. I will share some of the insights that I have picked up in the book, as follows:
Effective managers manage themselves and the people they work with so that both the organization and the people profit from their presence.
People feel good about themselves produce good results. (Helping people to feel good about themselves is a key to getting a lot of things done. So, managers should find ways on how to make their constituents feel good about themselves. If we think about this in terms of ourselves, we work best whenever we feel good about ourselves, right?)
Help people reach their full potential by catching them doing something right. (Most managers spend most of their time catching people doing something wrong. Rather than putting the accent on the negative, divert the actions towards positive areas. And most of the time, a praising like this makes the person feel good about themselves.)
When a person makes a mistake, let the person know of it, but be sure to refer only to the mistake that has been done, not on his or her worth as a person. (It is only fair, right?)
The best minute I spend is the one I invest in people. (Most companies spend 50% to 70 % of their budget on people’s salaries or maintaining buildings and equipment, but they only spend 1% of the budget to train people. I think it makes sense for managers to invest in training their people and looking out for their welfare, so they feel good about themselves, they gain confidence, and they produce more results.)
Everyone is a potential winner. Some People are disguised as losers, so don’t let their appearances fool you. (Managers can either hire a winner, or someone who has a potential to become a winner, however, most managers don’t want to invest in either of the two, so they usually resort to praying everyday: “I hope this person works out”. Managers should really invest in people.)
Take a minute by looking at your goals, looking at your performance, and seeing if your behavior matches your goals. (People can review their goals frequently and then check their performance against those goals.)
We are not just our Behavior. We are the Person managing our behavior. (When you are managing people, you should remember that behavior and worth are not the same things. What is really worthwhile is the person managing their own behavior. Managers should care about the welfare of the person you are managing.)
Goals begin behaviors. Consequences maintain behaviors. (Goals and consequences affect people’s behaviors.)
Anyway, to summarize what the book says, managers should set goals, praise and reprimand behaviors, encourage people, speak the truth, laugh, work, enjoy and encourage the people you work with to do the same as you do. After reading this book, I feel that it is not really difficult to be an effective manager, but I must admit that it takes at least a bit of an effort on the part of both the manager and the constituent. If both think like this then they will both achieve good results.
You see, there is such a thing as an effective manager. At least, it is possible to be one. So, for friends who are reading this blog, who are also managers, I hope you find this particular blog useful. Actually, if you think about it, we can always apply these insights on our daily lives.
People Who Come and Go in our Lives
I read a message on my mailbox today about letting go of people or events that may have finished their parts in the story of our lives. It struck me for a while realizing that I must have forgotten the fact that people and events than may linger in our lives have still yet to finish their part of the story. I forgot that people we meet at some point in the crossroads of life have a purpose or a role to play, and when they are done, the hand of fate just moves them on to the next journey. I just look back at the times when I want these people to stay in my life and they can’t, and they won’t, which broke my heart to let them go. I did not understand this before. I never realized before that their mission/purpose in my life has been done, and thus they should move on and touch another person’s life next. Now, I know better.
I am philosophical today, I know, and I fully understand, too, that people who come in and out of our lives may chose to stay or not. Now, I realized those who chose to stay and build relationships with us are the ones that we should always treasure.
I am philosophical today, I know, and I fully understand, too, that people who come in and out of our lives may chose to stay or not. Now, I realized those who chose to stay and build relationships with us are the ones that we should always treasure.
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Being a Coca-Cola Addict
First and foremost, I am not a Coca Cola addict. I prefer Sprite, if I ever had another choice of carbonated water (soda) drink. If you are addicted to Coca Cola, well, here is what I found out: you are not the only one in the globe who is a Coca Cola consumer.
Browsing through one of my favorie websites, I came upon this study about Coca Cola consumption. While Economist.com's Big Mac index has been cited as one of the indicators for purchasing power parity across countries (do you ever wonder how much a Big Mac costs in Tokyo compared to the Big Mac price in Jakarta?), this study about the world's most popular soda tells us the following: a) the richer the country, the more Coca Cola consumption; b) healthier countries drink Coca Cola more; c) countries that have less political freedom don't drink too much Coca Cola; and d) the heavy drinkers are in Netherlands, US Virgin Islands and Iceland (Based on 1996 data, anyway). I find the results interesting, anyway. (I have suspicion that in mainland US, they drink more Pepsi than Coca Cola. I just don't know.) The study even provides a Coca Cola map, charts and econometric analysis of the soda in reference to the UN human development index, to a country's GDP, and to a country's political freedom.
This is a useful piece of information, isn't it?
Browsing through one of my favorie websites, I came upon this study about Coca Cola consumption. While Economist.com's Big Mac index has been cited as one of the indicators for purchasing power parity across countries (do you ever wonder how much a Big Mac costs in Tokyo compared to the Big Mac price in Jakarta?), this study about the world's most popular soda tells us the following: a) the richer the country, the more Coca Cola consumption; b) healthier countries drink Coca Cola more; c) countries that have less political freedom don't drink too much Coca Cola; and d) the heavy drinkers are in Netherlands, US Virgin Islands and Iceland (Based on 1996 data, anyway). I find the results interesting, anyway. (I have suspicion that in mainland US, they drink more Pepsi than Coca Cola. I just don't know.) The study even provides a Coca Cola map, charts and econometric analysis of the soda in reference to the UN human development index, to a country's GDP, and to a country's political freedom.
This is a useful piece of information, isn't it?
The World's Best Place to Live
Do you know where is the world's best place to live? According to the quality of life article at The Economist's print edition, the city with the best quality of life is in Zurich followed by Geneva, both in Switzerland. Baghdad is ranked as the city with the worst quality of life, brought about perhaps by safety concerns after last years bombings and terrorism. I am not sure how Manila ranks in the survey, but I will let you know as soon as I find out. To read more, here is Mercer HR Consulting's press release.
I wonder I will get to be able to live in Zurich or in Geneva. I have lived in Tokyo, and I can say that it is one of the safest places so far. I can walk alone at midnight on the streets there, at least I was lucky enough to live in a nice area. I am just speaking based on my experience though.
I wonder I will get to be able to live in Zurich or in Geneva. I have lived in Tokyo, and I can say that it is one of the safest places so far. I can walk alone at midnight on the streets there, at least I was lucky enough to live in a nice area. I am just speaking based on my experience though.
Wednesday, March 17, 2004
Political Will in Policymaking
At meeting with some high government officials this afternoon discussing possible revenue measures for the government this quarter, I have come to realize that they, too, not only me is a bit disappointed by how the government is being run by the executive. I was not surprised at all when one of them said that she definitely havent decided who to vote for in the elections. You see, the process of policymaking in government is a very, very tedious process. We at the oversight level have already done all that it takes to push for reforms, find revenue measures, streamline the bureacracy, monitor public spending, assess the performance of agencies, but all these will not be really pushed through without the political will of the executive. Now that elections are coming, we are all in for a tough ride.
I was reading another article about President Ramon Magsaysay, the man of the masses. I wasnt born yet when he was President, but I know that he was born at my hometown, in Iba, Zambales. They say that his type of governance should be the benchmark for real public service. I can only hope for such, but I believe that in a few generations time, it will happen. Noting that, my children and their children will benefit from it, at least now, I am helping lay down the groundwork at this time.
I was reading another article about President Ramon Magsaysay, the man of the masses. I wasnt born yet when he was President, but I know that he was born at my hometown, in Iba, Zambales. They say that his type of governance should be the benchmark for real public service. I can only hope for such, but I believe that in a few generations time, it will happen. Noting that, my children and their children will benefit from it, at least now, I am helping lay down the groundwork at this time.
Tuesday, March 16, 2004
Patronage Politics
I read a good article about patronage as the root why Philippines is in such a mess for the past few years. I read through Dennis Arroyo's article about the Philippines' political economy, and I found it informative, as well as insightful, based on a bottom-up approach in explaining the roots of political behavior here in the country. While we are all thinking about who to vote for in the next elections, this is recommended reading before making a decision.
:-)
:-)
The Purpose of Blogging
Someone asked me, “why do you put your thoughts, feelings and stuff about you for posting over the internet for all the people of the world to see?” Aren’t I scared that by putting too much information about me, I am inviting people to get into my world, people who are total strangers and who may have mischievous things to do with the information that I put up in the Internet? Of course, I have thought of it. I have a few reasons why I blog, and why I put information/details about me and my life.
I blog because I have decided to make this as a hobby. At least, I want to practice my writing, because I will never know when I will be called for to make a book, so this is a good preparation for it. Why do I write about myself and everything that happens to me? Well, I write about me because that is the only thing that I am really a master of. I am not good at inventing stories yet, but I am getting around to it. At least, I have my blogs to record interesting events of my life, sort of like my diary. Who knows, maybe I will be famous someday. People might want to read about my life and would want to know what is the dish in my life while I am on my late 20s.
Am I not scared that strangers may use the information they get from this blog against me? Well, I don’t think about it that way, honestly, because I see the goodness in the people who want to get to know me, and those who would want to be my friend. Besides, there is nothing here that they can use that I may be embarrassed with, except perhaps only the fact that I am not yet (take note, I said “not yet”) happy with my career. Anyway, I am aware that a lot of people may read my blogs, I will be glad to hear from them and tell me what they think about my writing.
Lastly, it is a good avenue to unwind and share information with other people who also have the same interests as I have. Also, I have already made a few friends out of this blogging business. I just hope this blogging thing that I am hooked right now should bring me good luck and good fortune someday.
I blog because I have decided to make this as a hobby. At least, I want to practice my writing, because I will never know when I will be called for to make a book, so this is a good preparation for it. Why do I write about myself and everything that happens to me? Well, I write about me because that is the only thing that I am really a master of. I am not good at inventing stories yet, but I am getting around to it. At least, I have my blogs to record interesting events of my life, sort of like my diary. Who knows, maybe I will be famous someday. People might want to read about my life and would want to know what is the dish in my life while I am on my late 20s.
Am I not scared that strangers may use the information they get from this blog against me? Well, I don’t think about it that way, honestly, because I see the goodness in the people who want to get to know me, and those who would want to be my friend. Besides, there is nothing here that they can use that I may be embarrassed with, except perhaps only the fact that I am not yet (take note, I said “not yet”) happy with my career. Anyway, I am aware that a lot of people may read my blogs, I will be glad to hear from them and tell me what they think about my writing.
Lastly, it is a good avenue to unwind and share information with other people who also have the same interests as I have. Also, I have already made a few friends out of this blogging business. I just hope this blogging thing that I am hooked right now should bring me good luck and good fortune someday.
STACJ Friends
It was great seeing my STACJ friends over dinner and get to reminisce old times in Tokyo. Some of them were here for vacation, and some of them are already back here teaching at UP. STACJ is an organization based in Japan composed of Filipino students and professionals in Tokyo advocating for the improvement of the state of science and technology in the Philippines. I joined this organization because of that mission, and my first masters being Technology Management in UP, I guess, you can say that advocacy in this field has a soft spot in me. I was number 2 in the comprehensive examinations in 2001, so I guess, the lessons must have really taken root on me.
Anyway, at some point the discussions came to the point of being able to come back here in the Philippines to do one’s share to help improve Philippine society. I am one of those who are very open about coming home and doing my share, rather than keep talking and criticizing, pouring out negative observations via email and spreading the word about how the country is like compared to Japan or to the other countries. This was really a fruitful discussion for me, because not only did I find out that I am not the only one who feels and think that way, but also because these people still see some hope with the Philippines. I would not really find it acceptable for some Filipinos to think and say that the country is in a hopeless case. I really don’t want it to think that way because I feel bad thinking that my future children have nothing better to have. These STACJ friends of mine at least strengthen my resolve to help and do my share to improve Filipino society in our own respective fields.
I always get carried away on topics like this. At times, I often wonder if I am making sense. And as always, deep in my heart, I know that I am.
Anyway, at some point the discussions came to the point of being able to come back here in the Philippines to do one’s share to help improve Philippine society. I am one of those who are very open about coming home and doing my share, rather than keep talking and criticizing, pouring out negative observations via email and spreading the word about how the country is like compared to Japan or to the other countries. This was really a fruitful discussion for me, because not only did I find out that I am not the only one who feels and think that way, but also because these people still see some hope with the Philippines. I would not really find it acceptable for some Filipinos to think and say that the country is in a hopeless case. I really don’t want it to think that way because I feel bad thinking that my future children have nothing better to have. These STACJ friends of mine at least strengthen my resolve to help and do my share to improve Filipino society in our own respective fields.
I always get carried away on topics like this. At times, I often wonder if I am making sense. And as always, deep in my heart, I know that I am.
Monday, March 15, 2004
Love that Shakes you to the Core
Yes, love that shakes you to the core. Now, where did I read or hear that phrase? I was watching DVDs (and in between, the television, and reading) over the weekend, and I must have heard this phrase in the fifth season of Sex and the City, and then manifested into some of the movies I watched (Down With Love, Something’s Gotta Give, etc.) I kept wondering if I had experienced this kind of thing, thinking while eating slices and slices of buko pie and coffee jelly, and I am pretty sure I haven’t really experienced anything like it, at least the stronger kind that changes your life. How does one get it?
I know it is Sunday and it’s midnight. I thought I’d write some words before I go to sleep.
I know it is Sunday and it’s midnight. I thought I’d write some words before I go to sleep.
Sunday, March 14, 2004
Sunday Lunch and Nation-building
I remember when I was still in Tokyo, every Sunday, after the 12 noon mass, at the St. Ignatius Chapel in Yotsuya, Filipino friends in Tokyo gather together for lunch to talk about everything under the sun, including life in Japan and life back home in the Philippines. Each meeting concludes with the topic of nation-building, where we discuss about the state of the Philippines, its economy, its political situation, its role in Asia, its image and its future in the globalized world. In the form of casual intellectual discussions spiced up with humor about recent events in the Philippines, including latest happenings in Philippine showbiz, we exchange ideas, and share what we think with others, discovering various insights on the realities of Philippine life. What started as a casual lunch after mass among a small group of friends became a simple tradition among us who happen to be working and pursuing graduate degrees there.
Come to think of it, I have never looked at the Philippines before the same way when I was still back here. I have not perceived what it was like to be outside the system, away from all the brouhaha here back then before I cam to Tokyo. I realized that it is really very interesting to have this kind of understanding, to look at a situation in a particular way, in the most objective way, and to think of ways how one can contribute to improve society.
We have all been insightful regarding this, having that level of maturity along with others who are also thinking that way. Most of us who had been working for the government prior to taking a short study leave to pursue graduate studies have never been so exposed to the images that the country projects upon the non-Filipino world. We do realize that while we were inside this world, we fail to think about the bigger picture, and to acknowledge the intricate details that define our national identity. While most of the greatest teachings in the world were discovered and realized during exile, we would like to think that coming out of this Filipino world to explore the outside world made us open our eyes more, not only with the usual problems of society, but also with the deeper sense of having to search for a national identity that has not been evident as manifested with the events and happenings in Philippine society.
News travel fast and technology brings us closer to home. While most of us discuss about the effects of the decisions made by leaders of the country, we do discuss how we can build a nation that keeps on getting pushed backward as fellow countries in Asia continue to move forward. Having this kind of thinking would be really useful for us, especially when it is already our turn to lead the nation into the direction by which we are destined to be.
Come to think of it, I have never looked at the Philippines before the same way when I was still back here. I have not perceived what it was like to be outside the system, away from all the brouhaha here back then before I cam to Tokyo. I realized that it is really very interesting to have this kind of understanding, to look at a situation in a particular way, in the most objective way, and to think of ways how one can contribute to improve society.
We have all been insightful regarding this, having that level of maturity along with others who are also thinking that way. Most of us who had been working for the government prior to taking a short study leave to pursue graduate studies have never been so exposed to the images that the country projects upon the non-Filipino world. We do realize that while we were inside this world, we fail to think about the bigger picture, and to acknowledge the intricate details that define our national identity. While most of the greatest teachings in the world were discovered and realized during exile, we would like to think that coming out of this Filipino world to explore the outside world made us open our eyes more, not only with the usual problems of society, but also with the deeper sense of having to search for a national identity that has not been evident as manifested with the events and happenings in Philippine society.
News travel fast and technology brings us closer to home. While most of us discuss about the effects of the decisions made by leaders of the country, we do discuss how we can build a nation that keeps on getting pushed backward as fellow countries in Asia continue to move forward. Having this kind of thinking would be really useful for us, especially when it is already our turn to lead the nation into the direction by which we are destined to be.
Friday, March 12, 2004
A Lion’s Den or a Snake Pit?
Which is better, to be in a lion’s den or to be in a snake pit? Personally, I do not want to be in either of those places. But I guess, lion’s den is better than a snake pit. A lion can be tamed, but snakes are really dangerous, you’ll never know when it will attack kill you. This question was posed by one of my friends during one of those casual discussions. Well, this is just a thought.
If you are working for the government, where would you rather be, in a "lion's den" or in a "snake pit"?
If you are working for the government, where would you rather be, in a "lion's den" or in a "snake pit"?
"Working" President, Part 2
This is still in reference to my earlier blog about our “working” president. I was watching the late night news as usual, and there is a clip and analysis about the incumbent having the greatest privilege among all candidates during the campaign period. As what is also observed by one political analyst, based on her actions and the manner in which she is campaigning, one cannot distinguish anymore what the incumbent’s role is: being the “president of the country” or as the “candidate for the coming elections” in May, or being a “manager of the country” and a “politician”. You cannot really differentiate the two from her anymore. People say that she is both, and that is not a good sign. Obviously there is a conflict of interest here and it may be obvious that she is taking advantage of such the situation she is in to further benefit from the perks of being the president of the country. I still think that in the event that the current president is running for reelection, he or she should resign from the post, so he or she can concentrate on campaigning for the elections, and pass over the reigns of managing the country to the vice president. In this way, he or she will not be accused of using government funds and resources for campaign purposes. These days, it is very hard to really distinguish between the two, and to be dubbed as the “working president” because the incumbent is working hard and campaigning hard at the same time is really bullshit. Are you kidding me? People are not born yesterday, you know.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
My Afternoon Discovery
After going through all files, books. newsletters, and budget documents in our library and getting my hands dirty with dust, I found what I was looking for: a study on one particular revenue measure which the government is now considering to adopt depending on the result of my paper. I discovered that in the 1990s, during the later part of the Aquino government, technocrats were all looking for ways to increase tax collections to sustain the deficit. Those where really trying times, which I never realized because I was still in high school that time. Now, I have this sneeky feeling that history will be repeating itself again that is why my bosses want to look in to what happened in the past, and see if they can use these policy meaures at this time.
Anyway, I have made a few discoveries:
* During the time of Marcos, there are a number of budget-related research that were published by the Budget Commission and the Ministry of Budget under the supervision of Jaime Laya. Compared to the present, we have not published that many substantial research, other than the Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing, which is also a budget document that we submit to Congress every year.
* Marcos wrote a book called "The Democratic Revolution" in 1985. I will tell you what's inside after I have read it.
* The PIDS is not the only institution doing research that time. NTRC does a lot of economic studies related to tax, and publishes them for the general public, including a Short Guide to Philippine Taxes.
* The BSP (formerly Central Bank) publishes the CB Review (or the BSP Review) newsletter with a column called "Economics in Simple English".
* There is a compendium of social statistics book that is published. Now, we have the general Philippines Statistics Yearbook.
* I found out that doing research is somehow fun, especially if you have found exactly what you were looking for.
There is a huge mine of information out there, especially now that we have the Internet, and a very useful search engine that gives you the link to the things that you are looking for. It would have been different if Internet was available before, but of course, if it was, then we would still have the information overload at present.
Just a backgrounder, and also a poscript, too. The revenue measure of imposing levy on imported goods had adverse impacts. Prices went high that time, inflation was high, foreign exchange rate was high, so the Aquino government had to lift it as soon as possible, even though it increased our revenues that time. I doubt if I would recommend this to be done during these times. It is very risky, not to mention the fact that the burden will be placed on us (the consumers), which is not really a good sign for the economy.
What do you think?
Anyway, I have made a few discoveries:
* During the time of Marcos, there are a number of budget-related research that were published by the Budget Commission and the Ministry of Budget under the supervision of Jaime Laya. Compared to the present, we have not published that many substantial research, other than the Budget of Expenditures and Sources of Financing, which is also a budget document that we submit to Congress every year.
* Marcos wrote a book called "The Democratic Revolution" in 1985. I will tell you what's inside after I have read it.
* The PIDS is not the only institution doing research that time. NTRC does a lot of economic studies related to tax, and publishes them for the general public, including a Short Guide to Philippine Taxes.
* The BSP (formerly Central Bank) publishes the CB Review (or the BSP Review) newsletter with a column called "Economics in Simple English".
* There is a compendium of social statistics book that is published. Now, we have the general Philippines Statistics Yearbook.
* I found out that doing research is somehow fun, especially if you have found exactly what you were looking for.
There is a huge mine of information out there, especially now that we have the Internet, and a very useful search engine that gives you the link to the things that you are looking for. It would have been different if Internet was available before, but of course, if it was, then we would still have the information overload at present.
Just a backgrounder, and also a poscript, too. The revenue measure of imposing levy on imported goods had adverse impacts. Prices went high that time, inflation was high, foreign exchange rate was high, so the Aquino government had to lift it as soon as possible, even though it increased our revenues that time. I doubt if I would recommend this to be done during these times. It is very risky, not to mention the fact that the burden will be placed on us (the consumers), which is not really a good sign for the economy.
What do you think?
How well do you know me?
I am currently doing my research about the imposition of an import levy in the 1990s. I think our government is exploring ways on how to beef up revenues. Something must be going wrong in our economy, that is why, they are exploring ways to generate more revenues (now, this is my observation only - don't quote me). While I am taking a break, I took the liberty to create a quiz about me and I hope you'll find time to answer this. Think of it as a survey among my friends whom I have known for some time now. Click here. Hope you enjoy!
Coming soon: 50 Facts about Hazel. To contribute, please email me.
Coming soon: 50 Facts about Hazel. To contribute, please email me.
Tuesday, March 09, 2004
The Wisdom of a Jigsaw Puzzle
I got hooked on solving jigsaw puzzles just a month ago. Going through my junk from Tokyo, I saw one of those jigsaw puzzles which I bought at 100 yen shop with a picture of a nice, serene beach, with white sand and palm trees. I was just challenged if I can finish it in a few hours, and true enough I was able to finish an A4 size puzzle in just about two hours. I had fun doing it, more because of having to go through the whole pieces, finding the edges at the start and fitting each piece in its proper place. One can not fully appreciate the whole picture without going over the bits and pieces that make it one picture. And there I was, finishing my first jigsaw puzzle in years.
A special friend of mine once told me that people are like pieces of a puzzle. Life itself is a puzzle, and each one is connected and weaved through one big picture, a wonderful story, that is crafted by the hand of God, of fate, or however one calls it. He once told me that I was a piece in his puzzle that time, and I never realized the meaning of this as much until I think about it now. Well, such is life, and I also learned that I may be the wrong piece and that I do not interlock with the other pieces in his picture as well.
So, after the beach puzzle, I got an Eiffel Tower puzzle. I completed about 80 percent of it in one evening. If I didn’t have work the next day, I would have stayed up and finished it. The second time around, even with the help of my sister, we couldn’t finish it, and the pieces are in the wrong places, since the portion left was an image of the sky in twilight. I forced each piece and it didn’t work out. It was just until tonight, after dinner with my sister and waiting for the late night news, when I finally solved it. After three attempts, I solved my second puzzle, which actually glows in the dark. At least now, I can have it framed to remind me that until I fully understand and experience the bits and pieces of my life and its interlocking relationships, I cannot fully appreciate the whole picture.
I am on to my next one, hopefully, a Mt. Fuji picture that I saw on a hobby shop. Care to join me?
A special friend of mine once told me that people are like pieces of a puzzle. Life itself is a puzzle, and each one is connected and weaved through one big picture, a wonderful story, that is crafted by the hand of God, of fate, or however one calls it. He once told me that I was a piece in his puzzle that time, and I never realized the meaning of this as much until I think about it now. Well, such is life, and I also learned that I may be the wrong piece and that I do not interlock with the other pieces in his picture as well.
So, after the beach puzzle, I got an Eiffel Tower puzzle. I completed about 80 percent of it in one evening. If I didn’t have work the next day, I would have stayed up and finished it. The second time around, even with the help of my sister, we couldn’t finish it, and the pieces are in the wrong places, since the portion left was an image of the sky in twilight. I forced each piece and it didn’t work out. It was just until tonight, after dinner with my sister and waiting for the late night news, when I finally solved it. After three attempts, I solved my second puzzle, which actually glows in the dark. At least now, I can have it framed to remind me that until I fully understand and experience the bits and pieces of my life and its interlocking relationships, I cannot fully appreciate the whole picture.
I am on to my next one, hopefully, a Mt. Fuji picture that I saw on a hobby shop. Care to join me?
Understanding my Critics
I have always expressed how I feel about things, something that my friends and some people around me do not fully understand. It is an inherent part of my personality, shaped by more than 20 years of experience in life. I am young, idealistic, but grounded. I think before I speak, and when I say things, my opinions on various issues, or even in response to other people’s sharing of ideas, I always stand by what I said. In cases when I am wrong, I stand corrected. In cases when I do not respond or counter an argument, I simply respect what the other people had said, not necessarily agree with what is said. That is the time when I keep my thoughts to myself.
I visit forums over the internet, and respond whenever it is necessary to do so: to educate, to learn from others, to present the other side of the story, to make the other understand the basis for such comments, suggestions or criticism. At most times, people respond to me adversely, getting out of context, and away from the issue, just picking out heated arguments from me. All these years, I have come to realize that negative vibes should not have a place in my life, that people who fail to respect me as a person definitely should at least respect the way I feel about things. As I have previously mentioned, I stand by what I say, and when I am wrong, I will always stand corrected. I am young and I consider this experience as part of growing up, being mature and being able to understand why things happen for a reason. There are still a lot more things to learn.
I visit forums over the internet, and respond whenever it is necessary to do so: to educate, to learn from others, to present the other side of the story, to make the other understand the basis for such comments, suggestions or criticism. At most times, people respond to me adversely, getting out of context, and away from the issue, just picking out heated arguments from me. All these years, I have come to realize that negative vibes should not have a place in my life, that people who fail to respect me as a person definitely should at least respect the way I feel about things. As I have previously mentioned, I stand by what I say, and when I am wrong, I will always stand corrected. I am young and I consider this experience as part of growing up, being mature and being able to understand why things happen for a reason. There are still a lot more things to learn.
Saturday, March 06, 2004
Being “Lost in Translation”
I enjoyed watching “Lost in Translation” last night, even though it was dragging at the end part. The other people who were watching the last full show at Powerplant probably didn’t like it as much as I did, because I heard them say comments that it wasn’t what they expected. At the height of Sofia Coppola’s winning the Oscar for the screenplay of the movie, people had expected it to be outstanding, with the usual elements of a movie that could either make you cry, laugh, be amazed with the special effects and leave the movie with a nice feeling of a happy ending. This was not the case when you watch this movie. I think it is more of a peek into the reality of being lost in an unfamiliar place, not only literally, but also being outside the usual comfort zones in our lives.
I think I enjoyed this movie because I can relate to the characters in the story, primarily because I also experienced it, and lived with it. I had been to Tokyo and the first time there is more of a shock and excitement combined at the very instant that my plane landed at Narita airport. At some point in my life in Japan I have experienced every scene in the movie, seen every place and have met almost the same types of people. So, you can probably say that the movie is sort of a depiction of that particular point in time where I am trying to find myself and ask questions, only to find the answers in such an interesting place. I laughed at the scenes, felt that pang of loneliness that hits you when you are helpless in an environment that does care much about what you do or say, have that excitement and awe in experiencing something new, having a wonderful time, meeting interesting people and having that opportunity pass you by. I think one can only understand and appreciate the movie more when you have experienced being in Japan for the first time, without knowing any word in the language, without knowing any people there or any place there and even if you do, you still feel alone.
Don’t get me wrong. Not that I did not enjoy my stay there, as a matter of fact I did. I have lived there for about two years, and I could say that my time there was one of the happiest years of my life (although I am not really sure yet if I have come full circle with who I am so far in that place). I may be exaggerating, but, yes, I did experience being alone, being broken hearted, being lonely, being unhappy there, but generally, it was an enjoyable experience being there with my friends (especially my classmates) who are with you, and who are experiencing the exact same things that you I have gone through.
Seeing the familiar places of Shibuya, Shinjuku, Rainbow Bridge/Odaiba, Ginza Line subway, Tokyo Tower, Pachinko slot machines, karaoke, Heian Shrine in Kyoto, the temples, the hotel, the street signs, Shinkansen, and a more other places (plus the food!) thrilled me a lot and made me miss Japan and its culture more. The movie captured bits and pieces of the Japanese culture. However, be that as it may, while I enjoyed my stay there, I still prefer it here. Even if I come back there in Japan, the Japan/Tokyo that I knew will not be the same as my Tokyo back when I was there. My friends are not there anymore, and everything will be a different experience again.
I asked some of my friends here who also lived in Japan to go and watch the movie. One of them sent me an SMS in the middle of the night telling me that it was a dragging movie, and I have a feeling he didn’t enjoy it, because each SMS has exclamation point at the end. He will probably wring my neck for recommending it when he sees me. He said, what he missed about Tokyo is just the stipend/subsistence allowance. Nothing more. I laughed and I would definitely agree with him on that note.
(For those who want to explore Tokyo, visit Tokyo Convention and Visitor's Bureau.)
I think I enjoyed this movie because I can relate to the characters in the story, primarily because I also experienced it, and lived with it. I had been to Tokyo and the first time there is more of a shock and excitement combined at the very instant that my plane landed at Narita airport. At some point in my life in Japan I have experienced every scene in the movie, seen every place and have met almost the same types of people. So, you can probably say that the movie is sort of a depiction of that particular point in time where I am trying to find myself and ask questions, only to find the answers in such an interesting place. I laughed at the scenes, felt that pang of loneliness that hits you when you are helpless in an environment that does care much about what you do or say, have that excitement and awe in experiencing something new, having a wonderful time, meeting interesting people and having that opportunity pass you by. I think one can only understand and appreciate the movie more when you have experienced being in Japan for the first time, without knowing any word in the language, without knowing any people there or any place there and even if you do, you still feel alone.
Don’t get me wrong. Not that I did not enjoy my stay there, as a matter of fact I did. I have lived there for about two years, and I could say that my time there was one of the happiest years of my life (although I am not really sure yet if I have come full circle with who I am so far in that place). I may be exaggerating, but, yes, I did experience being alone, being broken hearted, being lonely, being unhappy there, but generally, it was an enjoyable experience being there with my friends (especially my classmates) who are with you, and who are experiencing the exact same things that you I have gone through.
Seeing the familiar places of Shibuya, Shinjuku, Rainbow Bridge/Odaiba, Ginza Line subway, Tokyo Tower, Pachinko slot machines, karaoke, Heian Shrine in Kyoto, the temples, the hotel, the street signs, Shinkansen, and a more other places (plus the food!) thrilled me a lot and made me miss Japan and its culture more. The movie captured bits and pieces of the Japanese culture. However, be that as it may, while I enjoyed my stay there, I still prefer it here. Even if I come back there in Japan, the Japan/Tokyo that I knew will not be the same as my Tokyo back when I was there. My friends are not there anymore, and everything will be a different experience again.
I asked some of my friends here who also lived in Japan to go and watch the movie. One of them sent me an SMS in the middle of the night telling me that it was a dragging movie, and I have a feeling he didn’t enjoy it, because each SMS has exclamation point at the end. He will probably wring my neck for recommending it when he sees me. He said, what he missed about Tokyo is just the stipend/subsistence allowance. Nothing more. I laughed and I would definitely agree with him on that note.
(For those who want to explore Tokyo, visit Tokyo Convention and Visitor's Bureau.)
Friday, March 05, 2004
A Filipino Family on the Web
One of my first influences to use the internet as a publishing tool was my professor at e-commerce at the UP Technology Management Center. "Manuel", as he asked the class to call him, not only embodies the internet fanatic but also the wonderful family man. We do not know much about him personally, except only through his website, "A Filipino Family on the Web", which as most of us would find out is a rich resource of links, and answers to questions about Filipino culture, parenting, current events and interesting stuff in the internet. It is entertaining to browse through the whole site, because he brings us all to the wonderful world of parenting, and also gives us the window to the Filipino everyday life. The features include blogs by Mommy (Angelhouser) and Daddy (Secondthoughts) Viloria, a family photo album, episode summaries of your favorite telenovelas, Philippine literature, "How-to" articles, an opportunity to learn money online and more interesting sections. Check it out and learn!
(Congratulations, Sir Manuel! I hope some really big internet company will buy out your site as a resource for Filipino culture online! Best regards.)
(Congratulations, Sir Manuel! I hope some really big internet company will buy out your site as a resource for Filipino culture online! Best regards.)
Profile of Presidentiables
I am uploading here a matrix of the profile of presidentiables, being routed here at my office. After going through the whole matrix, I think I am now 80 percent sure of who I am going to vote this May. However, I am still not sure. So please feel free to browse through the whole thing and hope this also helps you all to decide.
I read the news today, nothing really interesting so far.
I read the news today, nothing really interesting so far.
Thursday, March 04, 2004
A Human Capital Issue
A Japanese professor, who came to our office to do research about fiscal statistics, asked me what I think is the comparative advantage of the Philippines with other countries in the region. Without thinking much, I immediately answered, “human capital”. I told him the fact that we are highly literate, skilled and can be easily trained makes us one huge source of human capital in Asia, and I proceeded to quote statistics to him, and other instances where the Filipino excels. He seems to agree with me because of the fact that we can communicate in English very well. Our exports are basically human capital, too, since more and more people continue to find jobs abroad and earn money for remittance, which in turn helps boost the economy. If you look at it that way, it is such a positive thing. However, another side one should look on regarding this is the “brain-drain” issue, which has already been a long-time issue (I remember having this discussion in college.) The reason why I wanted to write about this is because of the alarming article and editorial I read in the papers about a doctor-topnotcher who plans to leave the country for a job in NY, not as a doctor, but as a nurse (because that is the most in demand profession there). One cannot really blame him for doing so, because there are no such opportunities here in the country, and our unemployment rate is alarmingly set at around 12 percent. (Hello presidentiables, are you reading this?) I thought we were promised a million jobs during the change of administration in 2001?
Shaking our Heads in Disgust
On the way home last night, I rode a jeepney at Quiapo going to Espana Boulevard. As the jeepney passed by the Quaipo Church, the driver hit the brakes because a policeman stopped us, and asked for his license. The driver gave his license wondering what his violation was. The policeman just walked away with the license and then a man came up to ask for money in exchange for the license. My goodness! I was really shocked at this, so are the other passengers of the jeepney. The driver gave him 50 pesos in exchange for the license, and then waited for his license to be returned. The policeman on the other hand went to the other side of the road, away from the jeepney and then the man gave back the license. The driver was actually pissed, but he just put a smile on his face, shaking his head in disgust.
I remember the man and he has been there for years, doing the same job, extorting money from jeepneey drivers and FX taxis that pass by that same spot just across the Quaipo church. I’ve been out of the country and back and he is still there, not to mention still under the protection of the policemen in the area. The driver doesn’t really have a choice but give in to their demands rather than go through the hassle of claiming his driver’s license at MMDA. Most of us inside the jeepney just shook our heads in disgust.
Well, actually he has a choice. Better yet, why don’t we report this to the officials? But who among the officials? DILG, the City Mayor, the Chief of Police, the President! What are they doing? I thought the media has picked up these kinds of anomalies by the policemen and the men who extort money from other people. And they still come back. Useless leaders still abound the society. Let’s just shake our heads in disgust.
I remember the man and he has been there for years, doing the same job, extorting money from jeepneey drivers and FX taxis that pass by that same spot just across the Quaipo church. I’ve been out of the country and back and he is still there, not to mention still under the protection of the policemen in the area. The driver doesn’t really have a choice but give in to their demands rather than go through the hassle of claiming his driver’s license at MMDA. Most of us inside the jeepney just shook our heads in disgust.
Well, actually he has a choice. Better yet, why don’t we report this to the officials? But who among the officials? DILG, the City Mayor, the Chief of Police, the President! What are they doing? I thought the media has picked up these kinds of anomalies by the policemen and the men who extort money from other people. And they still come back. Useless leaders still abound the society. Let’s just shake our heads in disgust.
Scary Future Outlook
At the staff meeting this morning, our director just mentioned on the side that big manufacturing companies are moving out of the country, all because of the uncertainty being brought about by the upcoming elections. I can feel the heat, really, because I am having uncertainty problems also at work. Although my heart seems to be directed towards building a career there, my head tells me to consider leaving because I am being pushed out, just like those big manufacturing companies and investors that continue to move out of the country.
Last week, the undersecretary called me and asked me if I wanted to be transferred to her office, since she needs help for all the technical work that is assigned to her. She was the one who hired me when I was a fresh grad. Now, she has risen from the ranks, and is one of the top officials of the department. I understand her need, being a workaholic, she is engaged in a lot of reform projects. I would have said yes right away, except for the fact that there are arrangements in my transfer are not favorable for me. I realized that I get no incentive for this transfer, not even a promotion and that I felt that it is a manipulated move to get me out of FPB because probably, there are some people who are insecure with the fact that I have two master’s degrees and I’m just a mere technical staff. I don’t understand, they simply don’t care for their staff. My officemates have told me cases that happened before, so I should be on the look out. Anyway, when I saw her on the corridor, I told her that I have decided not to agree to be transferred to her office. I don’t really know how she reacted to that, because she is on a rush.
I haven’t really thought of a game plan yet. I am still confused about the strategies that I want to use. Just like perhaps when making projections for the economic targets in the next few months, it is not really an easy task. This is really stressing me out.
Last week, the undersecretary called me and asked me if I wanted to be transferred to her office, since she needs help for all the technical work that is assigned to her. She was the one who hired me when I was a fresh grad. Now, she has risen from the ranks, and is one of the top officials of the department. I understand her need, being a workaholic, she is engaged in a lot of reform projects. I would have said yes right away, except for the fact that there are arrangements in my transfer are not favorable for me. I realized that I get no incentive for this transfer, not even a promotion and that I felt that it is a manipulated move to get me out of FPB because probably, there are some people who are insecure with the fact that I have two master’s degrees and I’m just a mere technical staff. I don’t understand, they simply don’t care for their staff. My officemates have told me cases that happened before, so I should be on the look out. Anyway, when I saw her on the corridor, I told her that I have decided not to agree to be transferred to her office. I don’t really know how she reacted to that, because she is on a rush.
I haven’t really thought of a game plan yet. I am still confused about the strategies that I want to use. Just like perhaps when making projections for the economic targets in the next few months, it is not really an easy task. This is really stressing me out.
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
Investor Relations
For those who are interested in what is happening to the Philippine economy, the Investor Relations Office website is a very useful resource of information containing the press releases about economic operations of some key agencies of the national government. I am browsing through it right now, and looking at the past press releases about the government's fiscal performance, since I am not really sure about the expenditure policies that were implemented last year since I am enjoying myself in Tokyo during that period. If you really want to comment on the economic performance of the Philippines, one has to know the numbers. How can you make a good economic policy if you don't even know the economy in numbers?
It is quite interesting that the press releases were on a positive note, hence, investors will find this useful enough to think about investing here in the Philippines. However, it will be another case if we ask the common "tao" about the state of Philippine economy.
It is quite interesting that the press releases were on a positive note, hence, investors will find this useful enough to think about investing here in the Philippines. However, it will be another case if we ask the common "tao" about the state of Philippine economy.
Tuesday, March 02, 2004
Updated Profile
I have updated my profile on my website. Feel free to browse and comment. Coming soon: 50 Facts About Hazel. To contribute, please email me. Thanks.
Presidentiable Chat
My officemates had another one of those chats about our future president. People are telling each other why they vote for this person, and that person, for many reasons, and basically depends on how one views each of them.
On a televised interview with FPJ, they said that the reporters have only been successful at finding out what he doesnt know, and what he knows. While GMA's video on TV boasts about her being smart, and thus she is qualified for the top post, which I really think is not the only basis for managing 80 million people. Lacson, on the other hand, compares himself to the strong men of Asia, where they succeeded in bringing economic development in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. I must admit that this is a tempting offer to accept and vote for him, but still, there are many gray areas as to how this will be materialized, and which he refused to elaborate during his interviewed. This needs to be understood. In the case of GMA, I still think that she should have resigned before campaigning and stop telling everybody that she is a "working president". Moreover, Roco's "arrogance" (a trait that my friends say he continues to show), as observed by the people who watch him on TV, is a major setback for his getting the votes of the majority. Bro. Eddie's comparative advantage may be his charisma, but there are still a lot of gray areas on how he will operationalize his programs.
Well, everybody says that they have no other choice, either to go for the lesser evil or to leave the ballot box blank. I observed that these presidentiables are products of the Filipino society. They are who were are in a sense. Now, it depends on us who we want to prevail. As for me, I will continue to listen to everybody talk about the presidentiables and then decide who I will vote in the coming elections.
On a televised interview with FPJ, they said that the reporters have only been successful at finding out what he doesnt know, and what he knows. While GMA's video on TV boasts about her being smart, and thus she is qualified for the top post, which I really think is not the only basis for managing 80 million people. Lacson, on the other hand, compares himself to the strong men of Asia, where they succeeded in bringing economic development in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. I must admit that this is a tempting offer to accept and vote for him, but still, there are many gray areas as to how this will be materialized, and which he refused to elaborate during his interviewed. This needs to be understood. In the case of GMA, I still think that she should have resigned before campaigning and stop telling everybody that she is a "working president". Moreover, Roco's "arrogance" (a trait that my friends say he continues to show), as observed by the people who watch him on TV, is a major setback for his getting the votes of the majority. Bro. Eddie's comparative advantage may be his charisma, but there are still a lot of gray areas on how he will operationalize his programs.
Well, everybody says that they have no other choice, either to go for the lesser evil or to leave the ballot box blank. I observed that these presidentiables are products of the Filipino society. They are who were are in a sense. Now, it depends on us who we want to prevail. As for me, I will continue to listen to everybody talk about the presidentiables and then decide who I will vote in the coming elections.
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