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!”

Her Greatest Enemy: Herself

Speech before the Philippine Councilors League (Region 2)
Cauayan City, Isabela

First of all, let me take this opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Differences notwithstanding, we all will celebrate a Merry Christmas the way we used to. Doubts notwithstanding, we all will welcome the New Year of 2003 into our hearts and dreams.  Continue reading “Her Greatest Enemy: Herself”

Current Challenges

Speech before the Philippine Councilors League (Bohol Chapter)
Bohol Tropics Resort Hotel, Tagbilaran City

First of all, I would like to thank all of you for your very kind invitation. This is my first time to address your Chapter. I understand you represent all of Bohol’s 47 towns and Tagbilaran City. I am profoundly grateful. Indeed, I really am.  Continue reading “Current Challenges”

Peace and Order: The Key to Sustainable Foreign Investments in the Philippines

Speech Before the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Valle Verde Country Club, Pasig City

First of all, I would like to thank all of you – most specially Chair ROSALINDA D. EVANGELISTA – for your very kind invitation. Likewise, let me take this opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New year. Come hell or high water, we all will celebrate a merry Christmas. We all will welcome with hope the New Year of 2003.  Continue reading “Peace and Order: The Key to Sustainable Foreign Investments in the Philippines”

The Lions in Service

Speech Before the Manila Regency Lions Club

Every anniversary is always an occasion for jubilation. When that anniversary means 30 years of service and commitment – such as your anniversary today – then the world must pause and take notice. Let me, then pause and greet the Manila Regency Lions Club a Very Happy 30th Anniversary!  Continue reading “The Lions in Service”