Good, better or bust
THE Los Angeles Lakers, Houston Rockets and Philadelphia 76ers were expected to be the most ardent suitors for James LeBron. LeBron just confirmed that he is going the Lakers way. Aside from the 158 million reasons, it looks like that an exodus of good players to the western front. Tectonic plates are now shifting. It’s not St. Andreas’ fault. ***
ABS- CBN Corp. and GMA Network, Inc. both claim to dominate nationwide ratings during the month of June, citing data from two different TV ratings data providers. When it comes to ratings, faith and religion can come into play. Endless debate comes after.
*** Japan’s government has pledged to modestly boost the amount of energy coming from renewable sources to around a quarter in a new plan that also keeps nuclear power central to the country’s energy policy. It is clear that the Land of the Rising Sun is not into denuclearization when it comes to energy.
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An Australian archbishop was sentenced to a year’s detention over a sex abuse cover- up. Is it possible that it can happen here? Ask Archbishop Socrates Villegas and Bishop Pabillo if you want unli-rants to come your way.
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Garin needs to explain “ghost” barangay health centers. She is already facing a corruption complaint for allegedly diverting P10.6 billion in public funds to construct rural health units without prior approval from the PhilHealth board of directors. This woman seems to be attractive to ghosts. I recommend immediate immunization.
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It is quite surprising to note that Court Administrator Midas Marquez is suddenly facing accusations from a hurriedly formed group. I said “quite” to emphasize my being “unsurprised” at this development. He is one of the candidates short- listed to replace retiring
Associate Senior Justice Presbitero Velasco. Armed with more than a decade- old charge of which Marquez was cleared, it is crystal clear what the purpose of this group is. This style is boring, if you ask me.
Citizen Sereno is eyeing a Senate seat and eager to file her candidacy very soon. Expect her to accept the scripted overtures of the Yellow party. I hate to be the one “punched” in a Punch and Judy show.
Going back to Justice Midas, judges and court employees in the country sent letters endorsing his nomination for associate justice of the Supreme Court. They are the Judicial Bar Council, Philippine Judges Association, Philippine Trial Judges League and Metropolitan and City Judges Association of the Philippines.
I have known this man for years and I can’t really find anything wrong with his work ethic and standards. His track record will bare his spotless service and commitment to promote the well- being and welfare of judges. I sincerely hope that this good man gets it.
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Good developments coming from DoJ (Department of Justice):
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said that the DoJ is ready to assist in the investigation into the killing of former Cebu Assistant City Prosecutor Salvador Soliman.
“We at the Department of Justice are saddened by his tragic death and we are ready to assist the police in solving the case,” he said.
He also confirmed that the declaration of members and persons with alleged links to the Communist Party of the Philippines and its armed wing, the New People’s Army, as terrorists is now with the courts. Let the ax fall where it should, Mr. Secretary. Peace should be ambidextrous and not always left- handed. The country is tired of their antics.
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The Department of Labor and Employment has temporarily suspended the issuance of alien employment permits to foreign nationals in Boracay island. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello 3rd issued Labor Advisory No. 11, temporarily prohibiting foreign nationals from engaging in gainful employment in the island of Boracay and those with valid AEP who intend to renew their employment permits.
Some local resort owners are allowing these foreigners (who entered the country as tourists) to stay longer by employing them without the proper permits. Some are using the status of being missionaries but are actually helping rebel groups in the pursuit of their sinister objectives.
*** ConCom (Consultative Committee) approves the draft constitution. The ConCom chairman, retired chief justice Reynato Puno, said the panel would present the draft charter shifting to a federal form of government to President Rodrigo Duterte on July 9 in Malacañang, ahead of the state of the nation address (SONA). It looks like the ConCom is on track more than the Train law.
*** Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak was arrested by anti- corruption investigators last Tuesday, the latest dramatic development in a widening graft probe that has engulfed the ex- leader. It means that the Malaysian treasure chest is ailing after being R( an) Zacked.
*** Government to sell Napocor complex in Quezon City. I hope the property does not end up with the usual “elite” suspects.
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I fully agree with Sen Richard Gordon when he said: “It is a folly for the Philippines to remain weak, dependent and reliant. To continue to undermine our defense capacity is an absolute folly and makes allies and ill- minded countries to look at us with derision. It makes us lose our dignity and self- respect. Let’s be friends with our neighbors, build up our alliances in Asia, but build up a credible defense capability. No other country will help us if they see we are NOT serious about helping ourselves with a reliable defense in air, and naval assets.”
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I won’t take sides in the latest brawl between Gilas and the Australians. Both teams were lacking in proper sports decorum. And the referees allowed tempers to rise. No truth to the rumor that Freddie Roach is eyeing basketball after retiring from the boxing scene.
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Good work, good deeds and good faith to all.