Category: Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Symposium on the Prevention of Drug Addiction through Responsible Parenthood and Youth Leadership

Speech at Sacred Heart Academy

Mrs. Maxima DR. Castillo, Assistant Principal for Academic Affairs; Ms. Yolanda Villanueva, Assistant Principal for Student Affairs; PSupt. Rodolfo Hernandez, Atty Marian Jo Mercado, students, parents, guests, ladies and gentlemen:

Let me start with a sad quote and two tragic stories of today:

Somebody said not too long ago and I quote: “Sometimes a parent grieves for the loss of a child that is still alive.”  Continue reading “Symposium on the Prevention of Drug Addiction through Responsible Parenthood and Youth Leadership” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Pork Barrel 101

Speech delivered before Philconsa at Manila Golf Club, Makati City

Greetings.

The great Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The world has enough for everyone’s need, but not enough for everyone’s greed.”

The country has enough funds to sustain government operations year after year, but always ends up short and resorts to borrowings. There are two reasons for it – greed and corruption.  Continue reading “Pork Barrel 101” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Speech at the PNP Police Community Relations

Camp Crame, Quezon City

Thank you for having me for the second time this year. As always, I am honored to be given the podium and share my insights with you.

As I entered the gate of this historic and once hallowed ground, I couldn’t help but remember the years I spent working with three young Philippine Constabulary lieutenants who I had very little doubt in my mind even at that time, would someday be part of a rich law enforcement history. Well, they did and still do. 2LT Jesus Verzosa, 2LT Magtanggol Gatdula and of course, 2LT Raul Bacalzo – sila ‘yung kung tawagin namin nung mga panahon na iyun ay mga TIG – tig operate, tig huli ng mga suspek, tig gawa ng mga spot reports, tig-imbestiga, at tig etchetera, etcetera.  Continue reading “Speech at the PNP Police Community Relations” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Truth and Courage

Speech at the Commencement Exercises of the Lyceum of the Philippines University, Philippine International Convention Center, Pasay City

Four decades ago in 1964 I enrolled and studied in the Lyceum of the Philippines. That’s how we called the university at the time. Straight from high school I wanted to become a lawyer so I could apply as an NBI agent because law enforcement has always been my passion.

In 1967 when I was in my third year, a high school friend who was studying then in Mapua Institute of Technology, requested me to accompany him to take the entrance examination in the Philippine Military Academy. He failed and I passed. The rest, as they say, is history.

Were I to present myself, it would be as a country bumpkin born and raised in a little known town in Cavite.  Continue reading “Truth and Courage” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Speech at the Commencement Exercises of Wesleyan University Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija

All of us may have come from different backgrounds, but I believe we were brought together by a dream. The Wesleyan University Philippines came about because of a dream to build people and make a difference.

Having been elevated to autonomous status just a week ago from being the only educational institution in the province of Nueva Ecija that used to enjoy a deregulated status granted by the Commission on Higher Education makes that dream even more meaningful.

I, on the other hand, was brought here because of a much simpler but nevertheless important dream.  Continue reading “Speech at the Commencement Exercises of Wesleyan University Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Our Responsibility, Our Destiny

Speech at the First Graduation Ceremony of the Teodoro M. Luansing College of Rosario, Batangas

Marami pong salamat sa kinakatawan ng Teodoro M. Luansing College of Rosario para sa paanyaya.

Lagi kong tinatanggap ang pagkakataong bumalik sa Batangas dahil buo ang aking paniniwalang iilan na lang ito sa mga lalawigang kilala sa kanyang paninindigan laban sa mga mapagsamantala sa ating karapatang mamuhay na may dignidad at patas na laban.

In my work as a representative of the people, I have gone around our country many times and talked to a great number of people from all walks of life – none of the blessings and privileges that I have enjoyed over the years would have been possible if not for a simple dream.  Continue reading “Our Responsibility, Our Destiny” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Ang Kahulugan ng Patas na Laban Para sa Lahat

Speech at the Commencement Exercises of the University of Manila

Let me begin with a true story.

Once upon a time there was a poor couple who had eight children and making both ends meet was a constant struggle.

The father was a jeepney driver. And so the wife had to augment the family income by selling dried goods in their town’s public market. There were many times when the couple had to forego their share of the day’s meals because the brood of eight always came first. Even their schooling came ahead of the couple’s basic needs.  Continue reading “Ang Kahulugan ng Patas na Laban Para sa Lahat” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

The Nature of Service

Speech at the Kabagis Congress

Good evening.

This is the first time that I will be speaking in front of this audience and I thank former councilor and your Secretary-General Abet Quilala for the opportunity.

Kabagis has always been synonymous with service.  Continue reading “The Nature of Service” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Ipaglaban ang Patas na Laban Para sa Lahat

Speech during the induction of officers of the GSIS Retirees’ Association

Atty. Alfredo Pineda, EVP Leonarda Perez, newly inducted officers, members of the Board of Directors, ladies and gentlemen:

No ifs, no buts. We live in a time of increasing insecurity.

The greatest challenge facing us today is how to guarantee a society that is just, fair and treats each other with respect, rich or poor, influential or not.  Continue reading “Ipaglaban ang Patas na Laban Para sa Lahat” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress], Photos

Don’t Compromise on the Future

Speech during the commencement exercises of Masbate Colleges

Were I to present myself, it would be as a country bumpkin born and raised in a little known town in Cavite.

In my work as a representative of the people, I have gone around the countryside many times and talked to a great number of people of different social, political and economic backgrounds – none of the blessings that I and my seven siblings are enjoying now are possible if not for a dream.

Minsan, nangarap ang dalawang magulang na mapag-aral ang kanilang mga anak.  Continue reading “Don’t Compromise on the Future” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress], Photos

Show No Compromise

Speech during the 16th Grand Alumni Homecoming, Isabela National High School Class of 1984

Were I to present myself, it would bas a country bumpkin born and raised in a little known town in Cavite.

I have gone around the country a few times and talked to a great number of people of different social, political and economic backgrounds – none of these are possible if not for a dream.

Minsan, nangarap ang dalawang magulang na mapag-aral ang kanilang walong anak.  Continue reading “Show No Compromise” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Serving Others by Creating Equal Opportunity

Speech during the Phaltra National Conference and Seminar, The Manila Hotel

If I am not mistaken, this is the third time that I am speaking before this audience.

Not only that. I am sure I have met many of you either in Naga City or Cebu Provincial Capitol Building during the public hearings on the Land Valuation Reform Bill, as well as the discussions on the RESA bill, where a group of officers of the Philippine Association of Municipal Assessors, the Philippine Association of Provincial and City Assessors, and the Association of Treasurers and Assessors of Metro Manila visited my office last year.

The combined intrepidity of Ching Agcaoili, Pearl Segovia, Lina Isorena and Nino Alvina among others, not to mention the strong endorsements coming from PHALTRA, ASTRAMM, PAPCA and PAMAS will certainly leave the 14th Congress no choice but to pass these two important bills, hopefully before Congress goes on sine die adjournment on June 6.  Continue reading “Serving Others by Creating Equal Opportunity” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Patas na Laban, Para sa Lahat

Speech during the Convocation in Silliman University, Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental

I wish to thank President Ben Malayang and the rest of the officials of the school administration for making me a part of today’s convocation here in Silliman University.

While advancements have been made in our country’s educational system in the field of modern information technology, with better techniques and better equipment, we cannot close our eyes to the reality that in these benighted parts, time has stood still for more than half of our population. Sadly, even the basic components of public education never reach millions of Filipinos.

Free public education as enshrined in our Constitution and the basic components of its support mechanisms have become a grave concern in this country whose citizens now belong to the world’s poorest. And this is where social responsibility should become part of our mission and our advocacy.  Continue reading “Patas na Laban, Para sa Lahat” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress], Photos

In support of equal opportunities for all

Speech during the Midyear Session of the Philippine Dental Association, Baguio City

It has been a privilege to be working with you for the passage of the Philippine Dental Act. Not only have our interactions been most pleasant; it is always nice to see so many smiling faces with pearly white teeth.

In the same breath, let me add the observation that proper dental care has become a luxury for most Filipinos, particularly the poor. But what of course is even more pathetic is that proper health care has become a luxury as well, inaccessible and unaffordable to most.

Our interaction for the passage of the Philippine Dental Act showed how cooperation between lawmakers and civil society can result in responsible legislation that benefits all.  Continue reading “In support of equal opportunities for all” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Investing in good governance in the interest of equal opportunity for all

Speech during the 8th Annual Convention, Philippine Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, The Manila Hotel

Thank you for inviting me to share my experience in public service, almost two years as chief of our national police and seven as a Philippine legislator.

There have been extraordinary strides in health practices during the last fifty years – vaccines, better equipment, we even have the opportunity to reclaim the fountain of youth.

We, who are present in this pavilion, are living in relatively blessed circumstances for outside this place, real problems beset a great number of Filipinos.  Continue reading “Investing in good governance in the interest of equal opportunity for all” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

In the Service of Equal Opportunities for All

Speech before the Cebu Jaycees, Inc., 61st Chapter Induction and Turnover Ceremonies, Cebu City

Good evening.

There are three big, commonly repeated lies on earth: When a delinquent American tenant tells his landlord the check is in the mail, when a Japanese lover tells his friends he is more romantic than a Frenchman, and when a Filipino politician tells his audience he is about to deliver a short speech.

Permit me to thank the organizers of the JCI Cebu for making my homecoming possible.  Continue reading “In the Service of Equal Opportunities for All” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Serving Others by Creating Equal Opportunity

Speech before the Rotary Club of Manila, Manila Polo Club, Makati City

After I accepted your invitation as your guest speaker today courtesy of Mr. Mon Pedrosa, a hearing on the WB mess was subsequently scheduled on this same day. So I requested Rotarian Mon if I could arrive just a little late, 1 p.m., 1:30 p.m., so I would be able to participate and spend more time asking questions in the WB hearing.

What I got from Mon was a big flat ‘No,’ with the threat that if I arrived late, he would be very embarrassed and be left with no option but to resign from the Rotary. I love Rotary, being a Rotarian myself, and I cannot allow Mon, a good Rotarian, to resign from the Rotary. In fact, I am a proud Rotarian. I used to be a very proud Rotarian until Jocjoc Bolante barged into the scene.

When it came time to choosing a service organization, I quickly identified with the Rotary because of its motto: Service above self.  Continue reading “Serving Others by Creating Equal Opportunity” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Speech at the Naga College Foundation

Some 45 years ago, I was very much like any one of you. Maybe in a far worse situation. For what would you expect from poor parents having eight children, wanting to send each and everyone of them to school and finish college?

But those were good times. Those were times of good governance. Noong araw patas ang laban ng bawa’t mamamayan sa ating bansa. Equal opportunities, rich or poor, provided you have the talent, you have the intelligence, you have the capacity, you have the capability, puwede kang umangat sa iyong kinalalagyan.

Over time, that good governance deteriorated. Even during the time when tri-media was not as efficient as today, people seem to appreciate the transparency in government.  Continue reading “Speech at the Naga College Foundation” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress], Photos

Speech at the 4th Pahinis Festival in Laua-an, Antique

You know, on the way here, I was talking to several people. Nagtanung-tanong din ako about Laua-an, and I came to a conclusion, if only Laua-an is the Republic of the Philippines, siguro masaya ang mga Pilipino.

One reason – I learned na walang utang ang munisipyo pero mayroon pang surplus na P13 million for this year, kaya sinabi ko, kung itong Laua-an ay Republika ng Pilipinas, sana wala tayong binabayaran na trilyon taun-taon sa WB, sa IMF, sa mga creditor banks kung saan-saan, year after year. We’re suffering a budget deficit of at least P200 billion, ang ibig sabihin nito, not only us but our children, our grandchildren will have to pay for the deficit, for the debt that wala naman silang kinalaman, na wala tayong kinalaman, ito’ y hiniram ng ating mga iba’t ibang administrasyon, tayo ngayon ang nagbabayad, tayo ang nagsa-suffer.  Continue reading “Speech at the 4th Pahinis Festival in Laua-an, Antique” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Patas na Laban, Para sa Lahat: Towards a Society of Equal Opportunity

Speech at a symposium organized by the Political Science Society, Far Eastern University, FEU Auditorium, Manila

Let me begin with a true story.

Once upon a time there was a couple from Cavite who had eight children and making both ends meet was a constant struggle. The husband’s ancestors were of the landed gentry in Iloilo and how their side of the family got to Luzon is another long story altogether.

The father was a jeepney driver. And so the wife had to augment the family income by selling dried goods in their town’s public market. There were times when the couple had to forego their share of the day’s meals because the brood of eight always came first.  Continue reading “Patas na Laban, Para sa Lahat: Towards a Society of Equal Opportunity” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

The Cancer of Corruption

Speech before a public forum sponsored by the Concerned Citizens Movement, Manila Polo Club, Makati City

Let me begin with a short story.

A big acacia tree crashed on a segment of the fence surrounding Malacanang palace. Hence, it needed immediate repairs. Wanting to show “hands-on” leadership, the lady tenant came down to oversee the bidding among competing contractors.

Contractor Nr 1 is from Amsterdam – “Madam, I can fix it for P900,000.”  Continue reading “The Cancer of Corruption” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

The Change You Want to See

Speech before the Laguna State Polytechnic University, Siniloan, Laguna

Parents, distinguished guests, the honorees, members of Class of 2008: before anything else, my warmest congratulations.

Pero bago ang lahat palakpakan muna natin ang ating mga magulang. Kung hindi sa kanila hindi mauuuso ang graduation. Palakpakan din natin ang ating mga guro, kung wala sila wala tayong lahat dito ngayon.

You finally made it but before you can continue on your way, you must face one final hurdle – my commencement address.  Continue reading “The Change You Want to See” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

A Challenge to the Graduates

Speech to the Graduating Class of 2008, Iloilo City National High School, Molo, Iloilo City

Good morning.

Lubos gid ang akon kalipay nga maimbitahan liwat diri sa Iloilo, tungod ang mga Lacson halin sa Molo. Una sa tanan, palakpakan natin ang aton mga ginhikanan nga yari dri subong. Without our parents, we will not be where we are now.

I salute all of you for your accomplishments and I congratulate everyone who has supported and made this moment possible for all of you.  Continue reading “A Challenge to the Graduates” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Meeting the Challenge of Political Governance

Speech before the Negros Press Club

The former Japanese ambassador once told me there are three most prominent lies on earth. One, when a delinquent American tenant tells his landlord the check is in the mail. Two, when a Japanese lover tells you he is more romantic than a Frenchman. The biggest lie of them all is when a Filipino politician tells you he is about to deliver a very short speech.

To the newly inducted officers of the Negros Press Club, to the respected members of the Negrense media, ladies and gentlemen, good evening.

I am honored to be here today to talk about meeting the challenge of political governance in the context of today’s political morality. Governance, both political and economic, is a prime theme and rightly so. Without accountability, it is difficult for our country to take off and I am with you in realizing this reality.  Continue reading “Meeting the Challenge of Political Governance” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Legacy of Corruption

Speech before the Rotary Club of Makati, The Peninsula Manila

Only last Friday, I was here in Makati joining tens of thousands of our countrymen who represented tens of millions of other Filipinos who thought enough is enough of corruption and cover-ups yet unprecedented in Philippine history.

The government’s response is, the economy is doing great. That the peso is relatively stronger is a fact. That the economic indicators show good numbers is another fact.

But the numbers are still leaving a lot of us out.  Continue reading “Legacy of Corruption” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress], Photos

Walang Ku-Corrupt!

Speech before the “Wala nga bang Ku-Corrupt?” forum, NCPAG Assembly Hall, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City

Masyadong mahaba ang listahan ng corruption I will enumerate. As you see, the title is Walang kukurap. I’ll tell you later why. I would like to thank you for this opportunity to give my two-cents worth on today’s most difficult challenges – that of poverty and the presence of unmitigated corruption.

That the peso is relatively stronger is a fact. That the economic indicators show good numbers is another fact.

But these same numbers are still leaving a lot of us out.  Continue reading “Walang Ku-Corrupt!” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Corrupt-Free 2010

Speech before the Rotary Club of Downtown Manila, Corregidor Function Room, Century Park Hotel, Manila

Good evening.

Once a Japanese ambassador told me there are 3 most common lies on earth. No. 1 lie, is when an American tenant tells his landlord, the check is in the mail. It is not to be believed. No. 2 lie, when a Japanese lover tells you that he is more romantic than a Frenchman, don’t believe him. And the 3rd most common lie is when a politician tells you he’s about to deliver a short speech. Ladies and gentlemen, my fellow Rotarians, don’t worry. This is going to be a short speech.

Let me first thank president Henry for giving me the opportunity to be here and share my views on corruption, poverty and what 2010 should mean for all of us.  Continue reading “Corrupt-Free 2010” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

The Facts, the Truth, and a Story

Speech before the United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines Summit, Siliman University, Dumaguete City

At the end of this summit of young leaders, let us all resolve, you and I, to bring back those days, when life was kinder, when public service meant exactly what it spells, when the basics were available to all. It is a tall order, but never has this country been short in supply of the talent needed to reverse what seem today to be irreversible.

And begin we must by the power of good example, whether we are leaders, or we will be in some not-too-distant future, the beneficiaries of such leadership. And I hope that each of the participants in this United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines summit would Believe, Innovate, Lead, Inspire and Build.

There is an Indian Proverb, which goes like this:  Continue reading “The Facts, the Truth, and a Story” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Where Honor Has Become Alien

Speech before the Rotary Club of Quezon City, Club Filipino, San Juan City

I speak to you tonight in what can best be described as living in the worst of times, which collectively we can make the best of times.

We are incessantly told, through media and public pronouncements, that the economy is on a roll. The proof, we are told, is that the peso is at a seven-year high compared to the weakening American dollar.

The proof, we are told, is that the stock market is booming, where even worthless paper sells for ten times its book value.  Continue reading “Where Honor Has Become Alien” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Against Corruption: A Clean Political Leadership – The Only Way

Speech before the Federation of Accredited Customs Brokers and Forwarders of the Philippines, Traders Hotel, Pasay City

I am very happy to be with you tonight. I have a message to give. But more importantly, I’d listen to yours.

To President Marivic Briones goes my gratitude for her very kind words; and earlier, to her very kind invitation. She is one lady whose word does not fall into a lapse of judgment.

I know where her heart is. It beats everyday for the amendment of Sec. 29 of RA 9280.  Continue reading “Against Corruption: A Clean Political Leadership – The Only Way” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Discipline of the Self

Speech during the 79th Commencement Exercises of Bicol College, Daraga, Albay

This is my first time to address the students, their parents and the faculty of Bicol College. I am very happy and honored to finally make it.

President Marcellana invited me twice before. I could not make it on both occasions. But on the third invitation I promised to be here.

I have kept that promised. I hope President Marcellana will invite me for the fourth time.  Continue reading “Discipline of the Self” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Speech before the General Assembly of the Philippine Printing Technical Foundation Inc.

Manila Peninsula Hotel, Makati City

These are tough times we are living in. Every effort towards progress counts. And we must hurry as competition is kind only to the victor but cruel to the vanquished. Let us not be at the end of the line.

The print industry is a vital segment of the social structure and it can play an even greater role in the advancement of the nation. In the last 3 or 4 decades the Philippine print industry has turned into a shadow of its former glory. This may have been brought about by various extraneous factors but it also includes an amount of the complacency that gripped our nation after being one of the most advanced nations in the aftermath of the Great War.

We allowed other nations such as Hong Kong, Korea, Singapore, Taiwan and now Malaysia to overtake us in virtually all spheres of life. Vietnam is steadily catching up with us and may overtake us sooner than we think. The only way for us to go now is forward and up.  Continue reading “Speech before the General Assembly of the Philippine Printing Technical Foundation Inc.” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

PIGS We are Not

Message to The Young Men of De Molay

This is the Year of the Pig. Fortune tellers start telling who is in and who is out, who will get killed and who will survive, who will get rich and who will get poor. And my first message is: You and I are not pigs. We were in created in the image of God. In short, hindi tayo baboy.

And that reminds me of a story.

Once upon a recent time, God sent a saint to earth. His mission was simple: persuade everyone to change his evil ways. The saint came to earth, went to Congress, visited the offices of the BIR and the Bureau of Customs, Malacañang and the LTO, but quite expectedly failed to persuade anyone. Discouraged, he went back to heaven and reported his failure.  Continue reading “PIGS We are Not” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Political Will in Public Service: The Moral Equivalent of War

Speech during the City Youth Convention of Student Leaders, Holy Name University, Tagbilaran, Bohol

First I want to congratulate you for a very successful convention. I am told this is a pioneering work. And you did it. Ako ay taospusong nagpapasalamat sa inyong pag-aanyaya. Lalong lalo na kay Project Chairperson David Maulas, CSO President Eduardo Padua, at Adviser Joan Llanos.

There is nothing more inspiring than to speak before the future leaders of our country. Kaya ako po uli ay nagpapasalamat.

I graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1971, long before you were conceived. As a young cadet in the Philippine Military Academy, the first lesson I learned was this: Principle first before anything else. It is principle that can make you into a positive activist and a constructive militant. But before I proceed further, let me tell you how I got to study in the Academy in Baguio City.  Continue reading “Political Will in Public Service: The Moral Equivalent of War” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

We Have But ONE COUNTRY

Speech before the Rotary Club of Manila East

There are three things we Rotarians must not believe. One, when your delinquent tenant tells you that the check is in the mail. Second, when your fellow Rotarian tells you that he’s going home straight from a Rotary meeting. And three, when a politician guest speaker promises to deliver a short speech. My fellow Rotarians, don’t worry. My speech tonight won’t be very long.

I do not recall any previous invitation by the Rotary Club of Manila East and San Miguel. I will not ask why. But I will tell you why I am here tonight.

My main message is one and simple. Call it immutable and it is. We have but one country. All we need are very good leaders to inspire us.  Continue reading “We Have But ONE COUNTRY” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Where We Are

Speech before the Rotary Club of Manila

I feel honored today. It is good to be with you again. After all, it is not every week that one is given the chance to speak before the oldest of the country’s Rotary Clubs – certainly not the kind that Spokesman Toting Bunye has insulted.  I mean that to be the truth – not the truth that Malacanan Palace speaks and expresses each time we, Filipinos seek an explanation on Garcillano, on impeachment, on Venable and what have you.I feel honored today. It is good to be with you again. After all, it is not every week that one is given the chance to speak before the oldest of the country’s Rotary Clubs – certainly not the kind that Spokesman Toting Bunye has insulted.  I mean that to be the truth – not the truth that Malacanan Palace speaks and expresses each time we, Filipinos seek an explanation on Garcillano, on impeachment, on Venable and what have you.

The invitation of President Cesar made through fellow Rtn. Art to be your guest speaker today brings back good memories. This is the group to whom I delivered my first major address when I became Chief of the Philippine National Police in November 1999. I remember that was upon the invitation of a good friend and mentor and now a Senator and a distinguished colleague, the Hon. Alfredo S. Lim.

It was easy then to deliver my speech. There was a strong clamor for reforms in our country’s police force. In that address before you, I defined my response and vision. I remember talking about the ICU’s among the police – the inept, corrupt and undisciplined. At that time, I was already thinking of my antidote against the ICU’s. It was AID – aptitude, integrity, discipline.  Continue reading “Where We Are” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Past, Imperfect/Future, Tense: The Road Ahead For The Philippines

Speech before Filipino-Indian Chamber of Commerce

I am very honored tonight to address your chamber. But the real honor belongs to the new leaders of the chamber. Tonight is their night. Tonight begins the first night of the rest of their lives. To them I convey my best wishes!

The invitation of President Ram Sitaldas was very forthright. In fact, he asked me to cover the subject he bluntly described as Past Imperfect, Future Tense. He made no reference to the present. Thus, I assume that the present is both imperfect and tense…

President Sitaldas is right. The imperfect past is a reality made permanent by history. Our most reasonable response can only be this: there is no saint without a past. Time to leave our past to God’s mercy.  Continue reading “Past, Imperfect/Future, Tense: The Road Ahead For The Philippines” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress], Photos

The True State of the Nation

At the National Congress of the BE NOT AFRAID Movement, The Manila Hotel

Prophetic words from GMA. Dec. 30, 2002. She knew it then. She knows it today.

(Audio) GMA: “My political efforts can only be result in never-ending divisiveness.”

GMA knows she brings disorder. GMA knows she brings despair. GMA knows she brings divisiveness. Yet, despite that knowledge, she continues to heap upon us the curse of her unwanted, unacceptable and unearned governance.

Continue reading “The True State of the Nation” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Be Not Afraid!

Speech delivered at The Manila Hotel

“It is enough that the people know there was an election. The people who cast the votes decide nothing. The people who count the votes decide everything.” She has learned her lesson well. She has mastered the art and science of assuming the presidency without winning the elections. She does her role model proud. I hope she does not forget that her role model ended up being hanged by those he oppressed.

Fascists believe that through the use of state terror, propaganda and the intimidation of political rivals, you can disassemble the existing democratic government system.

We have seen Mrs. Arroyo toy around with this belief since her voice on a taped phone conversation became the country’s outrage, and her nightmare.  Continue reading “Be Not Afraid!” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Speech at Colegio de Dagupan

Nine days ago, a great world leader died, His Holiness Pope John Paul II. His last word in his deathbed was only one and only one: Amen. It was not goodbye, it was not farewell. It was pure and simple Amen.

Among men and women of wisdom then and now, the word Amen means, “It is done.” In Latin, factum est or consumatum est. We heard those two words only during the Holy Week in the reenactment of the Cross.

In charismatic circles, the word Amen is household. We wish for something and we say amen. We pray over somebody and we say amen. It is a word of faith that something has been done or being done or will be done.  Continue reading “Speech at Colegio de Dagupan” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Isipin ang Kinabukasan

Speech before the Graduating Students of Occidental Mindoro National College (Mamburao Campus), Mamburao, Occidental Mindoro

I want to thank President Sofronio Sanqui for creating this very inspiring opportunity. I am very inspired to see you all today – the parents, the teachers, and the graduating students.

When parents combine with teachers, our children see things happen. When teachers, parents, and students combine, our children can make things happen. Not only for the teachers and the schools, not only for the parents their families, but also – and more importantly for the children themselves and their future.

What lies behind – during those four years of college studies – is very important. There is something more important, though. And that is what lies ahead.  Continue reading “Isipin ang Kinabukasan” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Enough!

Speech before the Fraternity/Sorority Grand Night Epsilon Sigma Lambda Phi, Rembrant Hotel

First of all, I would like to thank you for inviting me to this gathering. Just a bit of a warning, though.

Yesterday, I was in Lucena City to address the two thousand graduates of Quezon National High School. I was told I almost did not make it to be their commencement speaker. A week before yesterday, a representative of Mrs. Gloria-Macapagal Arroyo threw her weight around and harassed the school officials to change their speaker.

This has become an ugly pattern. In many places where I was invited, either the President herself or her known representatives intimidated or showed disgust over my presence.  Continue reading “Enough!” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Nation Building Through Quality Basic Education

Commencement Exercise, Quezon National High School

First of all, please allow me to thank you all for inviting me to the 93rd Commencement Exercises of the Quezon National High School.  Continue reading “Nation Building Through Quality Basic Education” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Be The Best

Speech Before the Graduating Students of Palawan State University, Puerto Princesa, Palawan

Dr. Teresita Salva, President, Palawan State University – our beloved Alma Mater, Dr. Erlinda Ganapin, VP for Academic Affairs and Registrar, Professor Noli Corpuz, Secretary of the University and the Board of Regents, other Administration officials, the Deans, members of the faculty, the graduating members of Class 2003, parents, relatives and friends of the graduates, guests, ladies and gentlemen…

Before anything else, I wish to thank you for conferring on me the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws. I will treasure this honor for the rest of my life, reminding me always that protection of the university’s proud and time-honored tradition of excellence is now both my responsibility and obligation.

Again, my sincere thanks and gratitude.  Continue reading “Be The Best” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Dreams and the Right Direction

Speech Before the 39th Collegiate Commencement Exercises
Masbate Colleges

First of all, please allow me to thank you all for inviting me to the 39th Collegiate Commencement Exercises of the Masbate Colleges.  Continue reading “Dreams and the Right Direction” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Challenges to Leadership

Speech Before the Junior Chamber of San Juan, Inc.
San Juan Pinaglabanan Jaycees

Last Saturday, I was with the Greater Davao Jaycees for their induction, and today with you for your own induction, too. When it comes to the Jaycees, Davao is never too far for me to go, and San Juan is never too familiar to be taken for granted. It is always an uplifting experience to see the vigor and enthusiasm of Jaycees. Thank you for making me a part of Jaycee life.  Continue reading “Challenges to Leadership” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Leadership Excellence and Dedicated Service

Speech Before Davao Jaycees, Davao City

I cannot but begin to say how grateful I am for your very kind invitation. Any invitation from the Jaycees is one I long for. I feel honored and inspired. After the Philippine Jaycees recognized me with a “Ten Outstanding Policemen of the Philippines” award in 1998, I have always felt like a Jaycee myself. Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.  Continue reading “Leadership Excellence and Dedicated Service” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Terrorism: A World Plague

Speech Delivered Before Student Forum, San Sebastian College

First, allow me to thank you for the invitation. I always find pleasure talking to students. It gives me opportunity to learn and refresh my own idealism. The youth is always a source of optimism and hope especially at this time when hope is just about what is left in our country. It is optimism that we badly need in this time of threat to peace and stability.

I cannot help but feel nostalgic about my own time as a young student.

Looking back, I do not remember having seriously entertained wearing the military or police uniform. When I was your age, I wanted to be a lawyer and had looked forward to become an NBI agent.  Continue reading “Terrorism: A World Plague” →

Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

A Fact, A Truth and A Story

Speech Before the Cavite Association of Southern California, Marriott Hotel, Torrance, California, USA

I am here in Southern California for two reasons – One, to be with my province mates and kababayans from the proud and historic province of Cavite on the occasion of their induction officers and fellowship, and two, to confront the case filed by a Philippine National Police Handcuff Supplier against me with the Superior Court of Alameda County in San Francisco. I came here to prove that due process of law and justice are two of the most important foundations in a civilized and democratic society like the United States of America, as they are in the Philippines. I vow to prove that I did the right thing in protecting the interest of the Filipino Taxpayers by not honoring a contract grossly disadvantageous to the government of the Republic of the Philippines.  Continue reading “A Fact, A Truth and A Story” →

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Past Speeches [before the 17th Congress]

Speech Before the Freemasons of Davao

This is my second time to speak before Freemasons. In November last year, I had the distinct honor of addressing another group of honorable and principled brotherhood in Manila.  Continue reading “Speech Before the Freemasons of Davao” →