The week that was . . .

Poster by Ryan Ray Merencillo

Nov 23 2011 marked the 2^nd Anniversary of the Maguindanao Massacre. 

     2 years ago, the entire world was in shock of what will soon be the most heinous and inhuman massacre of journalists: The slaughter of the Mangudadatu election envoy by the rival Ampatuan clan. Ending at a gruesome body count of 58 innocent civilians (34 were journalists), this will forever go down in history as the single deadliest event for journalists*.  2 years hence, still no justice. None from the accused Ampatuans are convicted and sentenced regardless if all witnesses point to them and all evidences lead to them. Sadly, knowing the kind of rotten judiciary system the country has, I am afraid that this case might possibly be forgotten and be forever swept under the rug. Still, let us not be hopeless.

Then and Now

 The circus that is the Philippine Politics

     The case of former president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (in an unhealthy and sickly state) being barred from departure as publicized in every corner of the country is media frenzy at its best and worst. I thought that she does not deserve our sympathy after her crimes of graft and corruption but after much pondering, I realized that no, she may not deserve our sympathy but as humans and as educated people, she at least deserves compassion. I do not want her to leave but let’s let her recuperate and be healthy enough to face the accusations hurled against her. I applaud Leila de Lima (Commission on Human Rights Chair) but I fear that the present administration is alarmingly being vindictive and vengeful. Its obligation is towards the betterment of its country and its people. Thus, is in no position to be so, neither should we, the public be.

In Time – The latest movie I have seen.

     The idea is beautifully conceived and almost all elements are coherent to the futuristic theme except the landscape. BUT it adds another plus to the uniqueness of the concept. I love how the treatment of a futuristic world is not like any cliché sci-fi wherein the world is perceived to be full of flying cars, robots and laser lights. Instead, the movie portrays a classic, almost vintage setting. However, I personally think that all the beauty of the concept got lost in the chase. The denouement could have been more gripping or at least, it could have had a better ending. I give it 3 stars out of 5.

Happy Lemon – Newfound indulgence!

     Relatively young in the Philippine market but already giving the usual coffee beverages brands a head-on competition is the new franchise aptly named Happy Lemon. A break from caffeine-based frappes from Starbucks, Coffee-Bean etc, non-coffee drinkers will absolutely love their smorgasbord of choices!  I tried their cocoa with rock salt and cheese variant and it was yummy and palatable! Now, who ever thought you couldn’t drink cheese? 

Footnote: * - as how Wikipedia puts it