“I am in a state of confusion this morning; I don’t know what is happening to me. Too much, too harsh. I think there’s only one victim in this case – me.” That was Congressman Romeo Jalosjos, handcuffed, head slightly bowed, soulful eyes seeking human contact, emitting great soundbites for the early evening news. Is … Read more
The theme of Ligaya ang itawag mo sa akin, Carlos Siguion-Reyna’s controversial film, is an old familiar one – society’s refusal to support the marginalized person’s attempt at self-renewal. Rosanna Roces, the equally controversial bold star of many trashy films, plays the role of Ligaya, a prostitute who seeks passage to the ordinary life of … Read more
What makes a person think he or she should be president of the Philippines? This question fascinates me because the way it is answered tells a lot about that person’s political values, or ideas of what is acceptable in politics. Three probable candidates cite the surveys. They say they will run because “the people” want … Read more
One of the books I got over the holidays, which I have opened ahead of all the others, is Karen McCosker and Nicholas Albery’s “A Poem a Day”. As promised, there is an entry for every day of the year. The selections have a randomness that I appreciate; there is no attempt to match the … Read more