The Odyssey!

Lawmakers promote social importance of reading, pose with their favorite books

2011-11-23T23:35:00.001-08:00

As part of government efforts for the National Reading Month, lawmakers today from the House of Representatives, led by Kabataan Party-list Rep. Raymond “Mong” Palatino, urged the public especially the youth to revitalize reading as a social activity due to its importance in nurturing critical thinking, creativity, and even enjoyment.

Through the campaign iRead (Inspiring Reading for Action and Development), lawmakers gathered with their favorite books and promoted the vital role of reading for social development.

“In the age of information technology and mass media, the reading of books and informative materials has unfortunately declined. Especially since the Philippines is a developing country, there is a pressing need to revitalize reading among the people to foment social development and empowerment,” Palatino said.

Palatino said that poor reading and comprehension are contributing factors to the high functional illiteracy in the country, where an estimated 11 million Filipinos are considered to be functionally illiterate or cannot read or write well enough to deal with the everyday requirements for social advancement.

“The high functional illiteracy rate in the country goes to show that majority of Filipinos may be able to read and write, but many are still unable to go beyond this basic level. Reading and comprehension skills have to be honed regularly; otherwise, they get rusty to meet the demands of modern society. Reading regularly will prove useful in sharpening one’s critical cognition,” Palatino said.

Palatino also explained that insufficient government funding for education also contributes to “a regime of ignorance that makes people susceptible to various forms of oppression including poverty”

Palatino said that there is currently a 50.5 million gross shortage in textbooks which requires at least P1.7 billion to be eradicated.

“Lack of budget for education supplies and infrastructures like schools and libraries limits the capacity of Filipinos to hone their reading skills. Any reading campaign, to be worthy of its name, should be also active in pushing for a substantially higher education budget ” Palatino said.

The lawmakers who participated in the iRead campaign also took a photo of themselves with their favorite books which they said will be spread virally on different social networking sites.

Palatino called their photos “a different mug shot”, in clear allusion to the contested leaked mug shots of former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who is facing charges for her alleged involvement in electoral fraud.

For his part, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Jr., in statement expressing support, also invited Filipinos “to return to reading, and more importantly, to share its joys to their children and to an even wider audience.”

Palatino also expressed support for HB no. 3877, filed by Quezon City Rep. Jorge Banal, which declares November 27 as “Araw ng Pagbasa”.

Runes

2011-01-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

The runic alphabet is an old Germanic literary language, which were used in all of Northern Europe. In addition runes has always had a magic, prophetic meaning. Runemasters used them to practice magic on somebody, cure the ill, protect holy rituals and resurrect the dead. Runes also had an important role in making prophecies.

From the very beginning each of the 24 runes in the alphabet had their own name. It is said that runes were also used to interpret omens from the gods, especially Odin. The legends the runemasters told, tied the runes to Odin. He appeared as a Shaman or a wandering wise man (even if he also was a warrior, lawgiver and lover of great capacity). He is described as wearing a cloak and a wide brimmed hat, one-eyed and with a blackthorn-staff. A legend about his life tells he spent 9 days and 9 nights in the tree of the universe, Yggdrasil, until he noticed some runestones on the ground. He reached for them in pain, grabbed them - and was released by the magic of the runes.

One believe that the runemasters made their runes themselves by carving them in a rock, wood or leather. Afterwards they coloured them with magical ingredients, which at times can have contained blood. If they were consulted about a coming event, they spread the runestones on the ground. Only the stones which landed with the runeside up were interpreted.

The original, magical symbolism tied to each rune, is lost. The following interpretations are based on astrology, numerology and I Ching. If it is hard to get hold of runestones, you can make your own from small stones or pieces of wood, which should be about the same size. Many specialists claim that the runes work best when they're made by the person who should use them. But remember: There's nothing magical about the rune-stones, they just connect you to your intuitive process in your "inner self."

Interpretation of the runes

(Old Scandinavian names are used.)

fé - harmony, fertility

Connected with luck and the good things of life, especially with goods and gold - mainly cattle in the beginning. It has strong associations with Taurus in the Zodiac. Promise material goods, but warn against self indulgence and stagnation. Fé encourage creativity, emphasize mutual love and promise completion.

úr - power, energy

Symbolise a wild ox with an enormous energy and power, which must be tamed before its strength can be used positively and constructive. Suggest that the asking person is entering a period characterized by changes, growth and consciousness. Adversity, even tension and stress, can create possibilities. Also a sign of sexual passion.

thurs - strength, good news

A request for an exhaustive evaluation of all situations - temporary neutrality and a pause for thinking, both in everyday life and psychic development. No matter what is achieved, we must be careful for a while. The rune is also called «The Gate»: We must pass through it, but first we should evaluate everything on this side. The gate can open to a confrotation with unknown dangers.

áss - Odin, wisdom

The rune of the written word and communication, connected with Mercury, which according to tradition communicated with divine powers. Also connected with Odin, who had to suffer great pain to become wise. Express wisdom and help from an elderly person. Better communication, possibly of magical or parapsychological nature, maybe with collegues. Be at guard against swindlers. Odin's day, Wednesday, is at the same day as Mercury's in roman languages.

reið - wheel, travels

Long travels, traditionally by horse, especially funny travels. The travel can be spiritual (personal development) or the soul's last travel to Valhalla, home of the gods. Other interpretations: Message(s) sent or received, or scholarship the asking person need to gain.

kaun - creative fire, light

The rune of light and fire gives the asking person the ability to see the current situation in a brighter light. Lay stress on fertility and intensity, in addition to enthusiasm and optimism which clears the path and carry out ambitions. Kaun has the planet Mars' flaming energy and strength. It is the rune-family's torch-carrier, but is also synonymous with passion and sexual lust, which can hinder personal development if they're stopped.

gebo - gifts, generousity

Gifts and the pleasure of giving. Friendship, generousity and simple delights. Even the rune of relationship/couples, and therefore a happy choice in connection with future engagement, marriage or businessprojects. Such relations demand a certain willingness to sacrifice, something that should not be underestimated: egoism can destroy all kinds of mutual experiences. Even a warning against laziness and indecision, but all in all in a positive rune.

wunjo - happiness, joy

A sign of happiness, strength and deliverance. The asking person is maybe frustrated by exaggerated self-criticism, but is encouraged to acknowledge and enjoy a well-earned change to the better. Also an ambiguous strain of sexuality: danger of disappointment even if it is laid stress on pleasure. It can cost to gain experience! Don't overlook the possibility of complications and difficulties.

hagall - trouble, misfortune

Suggest a frustrating and difficult period characterized by unexpected problems, misfortune or illness. Philosophical considerations concerning a problem must not lead to despair, and frustration not to rashness. Great possibility that coming changes will influence the future in long terms. Possibly inconvenience and fight, but extra effort will heighten the esteem.

nauð - need, necessity

Need for patience is important. The asking person must judge his actions before he act, even the underlying motives. He can be his own, worst enemy. Greed or lust can easily be destructive. Emotional, material and spiritual wealth are close, but the angle of incidence must be soft, real soft. If we are dissatisfied with our share in life, possibly with a good reason, it's only ourselves who can do anything about it.

íss - ice, cold

Frustrations andobstacles, and only patience can resist. A connection to the thought of ice and cold between humans, especially in the family. The asking person is maybe in a situation which prevents him from acting, or he may not be aware of what is going on. He should stay calm until the sun breaks through and the thaw comes. It can bring new emotions and perspectives.

jara - year, natural cycle

The cycle of the seasons, especially the harvesting. When this rune is drawn og thrown, it refers to started work and encourage to perseverance and will to fight for success. Shortcuts will be catastrophic. The natural process - sowing, tending, ripening - must go its course. Let the patience rule physical and mental energy.

yr - yew, the journey of the dead

The yew was first of all Odin's tree. He collected the souls of the dead before the journey to the underworld. This rune symbolise therefore death, or changes and breaking with old habits. It doesn't have to be negative, but can signify htat the asking person is approaching his goal in a successful way (depending on the other runes.)

pertho - hearth, mysticism

One of the mysterious runes, which always has been a conflict over. It suggest something mystical, but refer also to home and hearth. A possible gift or heritage should be evaluated. Weight on secrecy, connections with the occult, possibly introduction to psychic activities.

elgr - defence, protection

A very positive rune, which suggest that the asking person is strong and successful, but also experience a periode he should enjoy to the fullest. Possibly new and exciting challenges. It is important to let elgr remind that emotions should be controlled, and that the current strength should be used positively. Be careful if you deal with people who exploit others, and don't put your health at risk.

sol - the sun, good health

Prosperity and luck. The asking person's natural abilities should come out and be used positively, so that they canreach their full potential. Success and creative will. Now and then sol can ask if we don't have too many irons in the fire, and if we shouldn't slow down a bit. Also a warning against wanting to show off or over-dramatize, but encourage positive creativity.

tyr - war, courage

Symbol of courage and devotion. At the same time the sun's mighty, masculine power appear together with passion which bring good fortune. Weight on patience, reminder of that some rules must be followed. Encourage to stand on your own feet and have faith in yourself. Positive actions and perseverance prompt respect.

bjarkan - birth, new beginning

A suggestion to fertility and to restoration/recovery. We must do penance for old sins and get rid of bad habits which are hazardous to health, such as alcohol and smoking. Women who are trying to conceive (the rune of birth) should be encouraged. If some plans promise bad, the whole matter should be reconsidered.

ehwass - horse, changes

The rune of Sleipner, Odin's horse - travel and changes. An asking person involved in a business project should be encouraged, but emotional relationships must be rebuilt or given some vitamins. Weight on spiritual travels. A calming rune which weights prosperity. To get inner peace we should make an extra effort to finish our tasks.

maðr - intelligence, culture

This rune represents the asking person and is strongly influenced by the surrounding runes. It represent the best in us - culture, memory, intelligence and other human traits. Our evaluations should be wide, our lives in balance and our emotions under control. The energy should be preserved and the body respected. Opinions and attitudes must be flexible and positive. «You've made your bed, now lie in it.» Remind the asking person of this in time of need. Everything is up to him!

logr - water, the unconscious

Connected with running water and consequently with emotions and intuition. We should get in touch with our intuition and our emotions, give them free reins (under supervision). Deepseated instincts shouldn't take the power from us. Psychic abilities and hidden creative abilities should be encouraged. Another subject is the change of one's self, with greater happiness as result.

ingwaz - fertility, completion

A fortunate rune which announce completion of a project or an idea, or someone who develop their potential to their fullest. At the same time a feeling of relief, which means an end to worries even if this need doesn't have anything to do with completion. A very important rune, often an omen of a turning point in the life of the asking person.

oðal - familyproperty

Beginning and end. Familytraditions and heritage, often in connection with breaking away from an old influence and maybe old friendship. Such changes have a long-lasting effect and will be important to the concerned. They can become difficult under the influence of oðal, but doesn't lead to false steps. Related to hagall.

dagaz - day, rousing

Dagnaz symbolize culmination and can symbolize spiritual advancement. Possibly a form of transition - at great benefit for the asking person. At it's best this rune establish that the darkness is over: light, results and prosperity are secured. This may seem fatalistic, but dagnaz says that we must seize the opportunity, or else it will pass. Warning against indifference and encourage to a certain portion of meditation.

Odins rune - fate

This rune is completely blank and is said to represent both the end and the beginning, i.e. the transition of death (but not physical death of the asking person or others.) Possibly a symbol of something we don't know, a step into the unknown. Maybe personal development. A new phase in life or the whims of fate will be able to light the situation in the end.

To read the runes

Inverted runes
An inverted rune means that the actual influence is weakened, or that a negative indication is strengthened.

The most useful way to lay the runes, may be the one shown here. The numbers indicates the sequence the runes should be placed.

BURMA: WHERE OLD IS NEW, AGAIN

2011-01-23T17:39:00.000-08:00

Burma’s junta leaders delivered what could probably be the political masterstroke of 2010 in the South-east Asia region: Obscure the continuing military dictatorship in the country by releasing from detention a global democracy icon and conducting nationwide polls.

Despite its new name (Republic of the Union of Burma) and the inauguration of a new republic with its elected parliament deputies, Burma is in reality still the same old Burma where democracy, freedom and human rights are rigidly defined in favour of the interests of the ruling junta.

But the old generals were wise to adorn the rebranded republic with some democratic trappings since they can use the image of a new Burma to convince the international community—especially the business sector—that substantive positive changes are finally taking place in the country.

Through this genius political maneuver, the generals and their favoured cronies could continue hoarding the nation’s wealth and silencing the organized opposition while proclaiming to the whole world that Western-style democracy is beginning to work again in Burma.

What happened in Burma in 2010—or, to be more precise, what appeared to have changed in Burma last year—was a smart repackaging of an old and discredited political order. The ‘old’ was remodeled to become the ‘new old’. Aung San Suu Kyi was released from her house prison so that she could enter a bigger prison. Election results were pre-determined by the same people who stole Burma’s democracy more than 20 years ago. The elected parliament members were high-ranking members of the military.

It was as if Burma’s citizens were forced to choose between two bad options in 2010: Continue to suffer under the military-backed regime or elect the candidates appointed by the junta so that the people of Burma can at least suffer under a government with some semblance of democratic aspirations.

And the junta’s deception succeeded for two reasons: One, Suu Kyi’s decision to boycott the elections fragmented her party, which crippled the chances of the opposition. Second, the political strategy adopted by the junta is a popular tactic in the playbook of political parties and politicians, especially in South-east Asia.

If Western critics were to expose the sham democracy in Burma, the junta leaders could always claim that their brand of democracy is no different from the other democracies in the region. In Burma, there’s no freedom of the press; there’s no genuine opposition party; and there’s no accountability of public officials. But these democratic deficiencies could also apply in some degree or other to Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia. Singapore has, after all, been dominated by a single party in the past 50 years, censorship prevails in Cambodia and political accountability is weak in Malaysia.

In previous years, Burma couldn’t easily brush off accusations that it doesn’t uphold democracy because there was a clear military dictatorship in the country. But today, a military that continues to dominate the government can reason that democratic institutions are actually already in place. Furthermore, the elections that were held were monitored by foreign observers and diplomats. The country’s most famous political prisoner is now free. And even the flag of the republic is new.

So how should the international community deal with Burma? Should it welcome the new republic and christen it as the newest and youngest democracy in the world? Or should it support the pro-democracy movement both inside and outside Burma as it continues to struggle for real reforms?

These questions are not difficult to answer since it’s obvious that nothing fundamental has really changed in Burma other than the fact that the situation there has deteriorated because of the two strong typhoons that hit the country in 2008 and 2010.

But maybe what the consistent critics of Burma should also reflect upon is the valid objection raised by the junta about our eagerness to punish the country for betraying the democratic enterprise while pretending to be blind to the similar crimes of Burma’s neighbours. Maybe it’s time to stop designating the Burmese government as some kind of supreme evil that must be fought so that we can objectively redistribute our rage to other anti-democratic governments in the region.

That said, showing solidarity to battling Burmese citizens should remain an urgent political task for all pro-democracy advocates. And this means, first of all, unmasking the real power behind the newly elected government of the Republic of the Union of Burma.

The Vicious Cycle of Vote-buying and Vote-selling

2009-07-12T17:31:00.000-07:00

In Philippines’ politics, there are no permanent friends or foes - only permanent cost. Yes! Permanent cost: the root cause of corruption and fiefdom’s perpetration.

To run a decent election campaign, be it national or local, one would need an enormous wad of money flowing continuously. Apart from the election machinery, the cogs of which require an ample supply of grease to keep it moving, voters from Class D and E - those unemployed, hangers on, and sycophants – for them, election, is their chance to leech blood from politicians. Millions of them repeatedly troop to politicians and juiced them with such basics as; meals, burial expenses, bridges, artesian wells, basketball court and dole outs, for which politicians can’t say no, lest they can be construed as unsympathetic to people’s needs, and ground to loose their votes. Sorry to say, but politicians during election becomes a witting hostage. But soon after election, it’s payback time, because it’s the people now who will be hostage of the politician’s whims.

Politicians are not stupid, of course. Remuneration for the position they coveted are miniscule. The only way they can recoup their investment is through corruption, by way of their assumed power, privileges, perks, and influence. Discreet or brazen their corruption is, it doesn’t matter: because, for politicians, everyone has a price. And as they accumulate wealth to buy more people out, they build their fiefdom. They will protect this little kingdom with blood, if it needs be. This “vicious cycle” of vote-buying and vote-selling, perpetuates the evil of corruptions, the victim of which is the nation. And it trickles down to its citizens, who bear the brunt. Whose fault is it anyway?

Evolution of mature democracies in the world found a way of reining this “vicious cycle” through electoral reform. Electoral reform might be long time coming to the Philippines as the country needed an upside down overhaul of its culture, but it has to start somewhere, somehow.

Politicians of mature western democracies, in general, don’t spend their own money when running for office. They fund raise for their political expenses from their constituents. If their constituents believe the politician is an asset to the political party which can bring positive changes to their lives, their constituents wouldn’t hesitate to support. Then the political party, to which the politician belongs, provides the machinery. Political Parties, in essence, are strengthened institutions; abide with principles and ideologies on how best they can serve the nation, and the populations’interest and welfare.

Instituting strengthened political parties is a basic necessity for a truly workable democracy. Politicians belonging to a certain party, for example, require that they espoused the principles and ideologies of the party. This in turn is the idea the politicians will sell to electorates during election time. The battle grounds between political parties are methods, systems, and procedures to which voters are given choices which party could give them the best.

Would there be a chance for the Philippines to institute strengthened political parties that discourage the “vicious cycle” of vote-buying and vote-selling? That’s a million dollar question. But not until this question is confronted and dealt with, this "vicious cycle" would continue to roll, and the Philippine politics would remain juvenile.

Number Of Poor Filipinos Likely To Rise By 4 Million In 2009

2009-02-07T18:45:00.000-08:00

Using even the government's unrealistically low poverty line, the number of poor Filipinos will likely increase by 4 million this year from 2006, according to research group IBON Foundation.
This figure is based on a conservative estimate, said IBON research head Sonny Africa, since it merely assumes a continuation of trends in the 2003-2006 period. Gross domestic product (GDP) growth averaged 5.6% in 2004-2006, but the number of poor Filipinos according to the government's official poverty line still increased by 3.8 million to 27.6 million in 2006. GDP growth will likely average even less than 5% in the 2007-2009 period, which means that poverty will possibly increase by at least 4 million poor Filipinos.

Africa added that growth has dropped steeply from 7.2% GDP growth in 2007, to 4.6% in 2008 and will likely be less than 3% this year. The real number of jobless Filipinos increased to 4.1 million in 2008 and will likely rise to some 5 million this year. The number of unemployed and underemployed Filipinos could then rise to at least 11 to 12 million in 2009.

Given the scale of the problem, the government's measures for supposedly dealing with the crisis are sorely lacking, he said. The alleged "pump-priming" 2009 national government budget is actually equivalent to just some 16% of the GDP, and is among the smallest in the last two-and-a-half decades. The size of the budget has been more or less continuously falling from a peak of 24% in 1990. The supposed "alternative livelihood" and "jobs placement" programs seem oblivious to the severity of global and domestic economic problems and the absence of jobs for millions of displaced workers. In any case, they are even very narrowly targeted at just newly-displaced workers and ignore the over 4 million workers who were unemployed even before the recent worsening of the crisis.

There is certainly a need for the government to undertake mitigating measures, said Africa. Because of the huge number of poor Filipinos, the mitigation measures have to reach the greatest number in the quickest manner possible. Among these are restoring real per capita social services spending to at least 1997 levels through an additional P246 billion for social services and removing the value-added tax (VAT) on food and oil products.

Over and above these measures, there needs to be a radical change in economic policies to strengthen the domestic economy and create jobs and livelihoods for millions of Filipinos, said Africa.

On Nograles Cha-Cha Reso: Foreign Land Ownership Has Weak Link To Investment

2009-01-22T21:20:00.000-08:00

While the committee on constitutional amendments prepares to vote on Speaker Prospero Nograles’s Resolution 737, research group IBON Foundation says that changing the charter to allow foreign business to own land does not necessarily increase foreign investment.
The Nograles bill seeks to amend the economic provisions of the Constitution to allow foreign corporations and associations to own land. Charter change proponents argue that allowing foreign business to own land in the Philippines will increase foreign investment flows which will lead to development.

“The experience of our Asian neighbors proves that the relationship between foreign land ownership and overall levels of investment is weak,” said IBON research head Sonny Africa. “This reinforces the suspicion that HR 737 is a ruse to justify charter change for self-serving political ends.”

With the current constitutional restriction on foreign land ownership, the Philippines had foreign direct investment (FDI) inward stock of US$19.0 billion in 2007 which was equivalent to 13.1% of gross domestic product (GDP). It is made to appear that this is a major factor in the country’s underdevelopment.

Yet Vietnam does not allow foreign land ownership but had inward FDI stocks of US$40.2 billion or up to double or triple the value of foreign investment in the Philippines. Indonesia, meanwhile merely gives land cultivation or building rights but had inward FDI stocks of US$59 billion.

Thailand, with its US$85.8 billion in investment, also prohibits foreign ownership of land as a general principle. Foreign companies can own land only upon approval of its Board of Investment, by ministerial permission or by virtue of treaty provisions.

Singapore, with its massive US$249.7 billion in FDI inward stock, is often cited as underscoring the benefits of foreign land ownership. This “ownership” though is more in the form of long-term leaseholds and not freeholds or title-deeds. Malaysia which has US$76.8 billion in investment also allows foreigners to acquire industrial land only on a leasehold basis.

There are many factors affecting FDI such as domestic market size and prospects, production costs and efficiency, infrastructure, economic stability and extent of corruption, said Africa. Foreign land ownership in itself is neither necessary nor sufficient– while raising the danger of land speculation and greater foreign control of the domestic economy.

It must also be accepted that foreign investment does not necessarily lead to development and the government has to create the conditions for the country to benefit, said Africa. More importantly, Cha-cha proposals such as the Nograles bill undermine national interest, surrender the country’s economic sovereignty, and legalize foreign corporate plunder of natural resources.

CONVERSATIONS WITH KAMAEL I

2008-08-11T22:34:00.000-07:00

I'm drunk...
I'm lost...
I want to die...
I love her very much...
Fuck! Why?! Why me?!
Amidst my drunken stupor and seemingly suicidal depression... I saw a figure... A sexy figure of an angel... Angel? But I soon noticed she only have one wing...
"Who the fuck are you?!" "Where am I?!" I noticed that I am sitting in darkness with the being looking at me curiously...
She answered me with a sweet melodious voice... "You are at the void, Mr. Borja... As to who I am, call me Kamael..."
"Void?!" "Kamael?!" "You are nothing but a product of my sick mind! Are you the angel of death?! How beautiful?! I'm dead?! How splendid!"
"I am not an angel of death... There is no need for you to know who I am..." As she comes nearer and nearer. She is beatiful... Magical... Like a cross breed of a fairy and a vampire...
I heard your anguish my dear Mr. Borja... Your anguish is like the symphony of the night... Like the howling of a thousand wolves worshipping the full moon... I think you need someone to talk to... Your depression brought you here at the Void and me...
Shut up will you? You don't know me?! Don't act as if you can help me! YOU DON'T KNOW A SINGLE THING ABOUT ME!
That is where you are wrong my dear... I know a lot abot you... The real you... From the beginning... The you that even you does'nt know... The real you...
Please leave me... I am mourning... I want to be left alone with my depression... Can you drink Matador? Want some? As she sit beside me... I can feel her presence... Her aura something different but calm... There is no malicious intent whatsocer...
Do you want to know who you are? Who you were?
Will you go away and leave me alone if I will let you? She has a sword... Astig!
Ok Mr. Borja... All want is for you to listen... And concentrate on what I am telling you... My confessions might help you survive your present life time...
You have my word for it...

At first you were a part of the earth...
Doesn't all of us? Your joking... I might be drunk but I am not stupid! Shot?!
Listen Mr. Borja... Others started not as earth... Others started as water, fire, air or metal... You on the other hand started as earth...
Can I now continue? With a smirk and a sigh she did continue... That happened 4.6 billion years ago... You are already a part of this planet... Of this reality billions of years ago...
Then after 3.2 billion of years ago you became a diamond... Don't you see Mr. Borja... Even from the start your life was full of struggle and lowliness... After billions of years you as an earth became a diamond... Don't you see it Mr. Borja! If the earth which was you stopped dreaming will it become a diamond... Persistence Mr. Borja! Even from the start you are persistent!
When the single celled animals evolved to different kinds of animals like dinosaurs... You asked the creator if you can be one of them... The Creator obliged and made you a Triceratops 26 million years ago... If you remember when you are yet a young boy you are very fond of the dinosaur Triceratops... A lot of kids want the T-rex but not you! You want the Triceratops! You are defensive in nature like the Tops... And like the Tops you are very dangerous if you run berserk...

CHANGE THE WORLD BY CHANGING ME

2008-05-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

THE SUFI BAYAZID SAYS ABOUT HIMSELF

I WAS A REVOLUTIONARY WHEN I WAS YOUNG
AND ALL MY PRAYERS TO GOD WAS:

“LORD, GIVE ME THE ENERGY
TO CHANGE THE WORLD”

AS I APPROACHED MIDDLE AGE, I REALIZED THAT HALF OF MY LIFE WAS GONE WITHOUT CHANGING A SINGLE SOUL.
I CHANGE MY PRAYER TO:

“LORD, GIVE ME THE GRACE TO CHANGE ALL THOSE WHO COME IN CONTACT WITH ME. JUST MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AND I SHALL BE SATISFIED”.

NOW THAT I AM AN OLD MAN AND MY DAYS ARE NUMBERED, I HAVE BEGUN TO SEE HOW FOOLISH I HAVE BEEN
MY ONE PRAYER NOW IS:
“LORD, GIVE ME THE GRACE TO CHANGE MYSELF”
IF I HAD PRAYED THIS RIGHT FROM THE START, I SHOULD NOT HAVE WASTED MYSELF.

EVERYBODY THINKS OF CHANGING HUMANITY, HARDLY ANYONE THINKS OF CHANGING HIMSELF.

Heartfelt condolences to family, comrades and the Palestinian people on the death of Comrade Dr. George Habash, Al-Hakim

2008-05-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

By LUIS G. JALANDONI
NDFP Chief International Representative
Member, NDFP National Executive Committee

The National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) conveys its heartfelt condolences to the family of Comrade Dr. George Habash, Al-Hakim, to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP) and the Palestinian people on the passing away of the Founder of the PFLP and the Arab Nationalist Movement.

The NDFP joins the Palestinian and Arab peoples in mourning the death of an outstanding leader of their struggle for national and social liberation. His contributions over seven decades of struggle constitute an ineradicable legacy for all those persevering in the liberation struggle.

As stated by his comrades in the PFLP, not only did he demonstrate the highest level of care and dedication to his people, but he also consistently and clearly conveyed and developed a scientific vision and analysis both of the future of the revolution and the dangers and plans against it forged by the enemies of his people.

After the outbreak of the great Intifada in 1987, he called for upholding Palestinian unity as a necessary condition for the continuation of the struggle. He called for the convening of the Palestinian National Congress in 1988. Appalled by the massive uprooting of over 700,000 Palestinians in 1948, Comrade Habash and other Arab patriots founded the Arab Nationalist Movement. He firmly upheld and defended the vital and central right of the Palestinian refugees to return to their beloved homeland. He therefore strongly opposed the Oslo Agreement in 1993 for attacking this right to return.

At the Sixth Convention of the PFLP in 2000, Comrade Habash declared: “We cannot seize the future without having read our history well, not in order to be enslaved by that history, but in order to benefit from it as a necessary precondition for dealing with the future. The present is a qualitative extension of the past, while at the same time it constitutes the material and intellectual foundation for the building of the future.” On that occasion, when he relinquished the leadership of the PFLP, he announced his idea and plan of establishing a center for studies, which he said would be a “dynamic, social, intellectual and dialectic operation.” He added, “Recognizing the reasons for our defeat is a beginning step on the path toward the sphere of success and achievement, leaving behind the realm of failure, and getting closer to victory.” He highlighted the great role of women and youth in the Palestinian revolution.

At the end of his speech, Comrade Habash declared: “My aim in this closing speech has been to say to you – and not only to you, but to all the detainees, or those who experienced detention, to the families of the martyrs, to those who were wounded, to all who sacrificed and gave for the cause – that your sacrifice has not been in vain. The just goals and legitimate rights which they have struggled and given their lives for will be attained, sooner or later... And my aim, again and again, is to emphasize the need for you to persist in your struggle to serve our people, for the good of all Palestinians and Arabs – the good that lies in a just and legitimate cause, as it does in the realization of the good for all those who are oppressed and wronged. You must always be of calm mind, and of contented conscience, with a strong resolve and a steel will, for you have been and still are in the camp of justice and progress, the camp whose just goals will be attained and which will inevitably attain its legitimate rights. For these are the lessons of history and reality, and no right is lost as long as there is someone fighting for it.”

For the Filipino people persevering in their struggle for national and social liberation, the life and dedication of Comrade Habash is also an inspiration and further strengthens the solidarity between the Palestinian people and the Filipino people.

Long live the noble memory and inspiration of the outstanding and exemplary Founder of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine and the Arab Nationalist Movement, Comrade Dr. George Habash, Al-Hakim!

Long live the Palestinian people’s struggle for national and social liberation!

Long live international solidarity for the revolutionary cause of the Palestinian people!

“Operation Peace” sows terror in north Brazil countryside

2008-05-19T17:59:00.000-07:00

The Brazilian state, military and local government have launched massive operations against the peasants in the state of Pará in northern Brazil, resulting in grave violations of human rights.

The military operation called “Operation Peace in the Countryside” was ordered by the governor of Pará state, Ana Julia Carepa, to hunt down peasants who are courageously fighting for their rights to own the land and against the abuses of the landlords. The military used 400 military and olice troops, 40 armored vehicles, four helicopters and one plane. The massive show of force was to intimidate and harass the peasant population to give up their struggle and to force them to give information about the activities and plans of the League of Poor Peasants (LCP) or Liga, a social movement fighting for peasant land rights.

More than 200 peasants were arrested and imprisoned. They were subjected to severe torture such as constant beatings, drowning and suffocation. The victims were also forced to swallow large quantities of fresh pepper with salt and onion which damaged their internal organs. Although a number of peasants were freed last 03 January, many peasants and their leaders are still missing. Their families and comrades have no information of their whereabouts and they continue to look for them.

A peasant leader from Redencao by the name of Rivaldo was killed. He was shot twice in the head. It is reported that the owner of the Forkilha Farm, Jairo Andrade ordered the killing of Rivaldo.

A series of articles were nationally distributed before the attacks, slandering and demonizing peasant activists and leaders and calling for harsh measures against the Liga.

Brazil is afire with the struggle of the peasantry for land rights. Peasants are evicted from their land to give way to big agricultural corporations. The state and local officials are in cahoots with the landlords in enforcing the eviction and criminalization of peasants.

But the peasants, their families and supporters are not intimidated by the military operations launched against them by the state, the landlords and the officials of the local governments. They know that for them to finally own the land that they and their ancestors have tilled for so long, they would have to continue organizing and preparing themselves for bigger struggles ahead.

Uribe government assassinates FARC commander Raúl Reyes

2008-05-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

The Colombian military brutally bombarded an encampment of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia-People’s Army (FARC-EP) inside Ecuador on 1 March. The attack took the lives of the FARC’s number two commander, Raúl Reyes, and 16 other guerrillas.

Noted FARC leader Julián Conrado, member of the insurgent army’s general command, was also killed in the attack. The US Department of State had recently posted a US$2.5 million bounty on Conrado, 53, whose actual name was Guillermo Enrique Torres.

Reyes, 60, was the FARC’s actual ground commander and chief negotiator in the talks with the Andrés Pastrana government between 1998 and 2002. Reyes’ real name was Luis Edgar Devia Silva.

The encampment was one mile inside Ecuador’s border, just south of the Putumayo River near Santa Rosa. To justify its invasion of that country, Colombia’sright-wing president Álvaro Uribe claims that its military bombarded from within Colombia’s airspace.

But in a contrary statement, Juan Manuel Santos, Colombia’s defense minister, stated that the planes bombed the camp from a position two kilometers – over 1.2 miles – inside Ecuador. He also admitted that Colombian troops entered Ecuador to sequester the bodies of Reyes and Conrado and take them to Colombia to prevent their recovery by the FARC.

Uribe notified Ecuador’s president Rafael Correa only after the attack. Correa has ordered an investigation into the bombardment, and reiterated the call for peace negotiations.

Despite numerous offers by Venezuela’s president Hugo Chávez and other international leaders to help negotiate a peace settlement of the 60-year-old Colombian conflict, the right-wing, pro-US Uribe has responded by calling for the FARC’s extermination.

The assassination of the FARC combatants came only days after the FARC’s second unilateral release of prisoners of war facilitated by Chávez’s government. The four high-profile prisoners immediately joined international calls for a political solution to the conflict, just days before the bombardment.

Uribe has refused any meaningful proposals by the insurgent army to carry out a humanitarian exchange of prisoners held by both sides. In particular, he rejects the call for demilitarizing two territories – Pradera and La Florida – for a period of 45 days, in order to facilitate the exchange of prisoners.

“I publicly challenge President Álvaro Uribe to demonstrate the success of his policy of democratic security and clear the military from the municipalities of Pradera and Florida,” said Luis Eladio Pérez, one of the four former Colombian legislators just released by the FARC. “The solution is political, Mr. President Uribe,” Pérez added.

There is good reason for the FARC’s demilitarization demand: During the previous FARC’s unilateral liberation of

former members of Congress – among them Clara Rojas – the Colombian military bombarded the route of the FARC release, almost killing the hostages as well as FARC soldiers.

It is clear that the US government’s intent is to continue hunting down FARC combatants using Colombia’s military as a proxy. Colombia’s efforts to exterminate the guerrilla army are fully under Washington’s direction, aided by Plan Colombia’s multibillion-dollar counter-insurgency program funded by the United States.

A political solution that might require any compromise on their part is not in the interest of the Colombian and US governments. The assassination of the FARC leaders was unambiguously intended to decisively derail the mediation efforts led by Venezuela once and for all.

In an interview to Kaosenlared.net completed just two days before his death, Commander Reyes said, “In Latin America we see a positive turn towards the revolutionary left with the leadership of governments that are anti-imperialist, progressive, independent, Bolivarian, moving towards socialism, and whose commitment is to fulfill the mandate of the Liberator (Simón Bolivar), that of attaining the greatest happiness for their peoples.

“Colombia will not be the exception. As Bolivarians who are in the midst of conflict with an ultra-right, fascist and paramilitary government, we are proceeding along the same road. Nothing and nobody will impede that.” [Party for Socialism and Liberation, www.pslweb.org] .

US troop “surge” a big failure

2008-05-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

Iraqi resistance inflicts heavy toll on US occupation troops

Latest official US statistics document heavy casualties inflicted by the Iraqi Resistance on US occupation troops. As of 19 February 2008, 3,960 US soldiers have died: 3,225 killed in action and 735 through “non-hostile” fire. Wounded in action totaled 29,133, of which 13,013 did not return to duty within 72 hours.

According to data provided by the Defense Manpower Data Center, Statistical Information Analysis Division, from 19 March 2003 through 2 February 2008, the non-hostile deaths included 139 self-inflicted deaths. The great majority of those who died, 3,070 or 78% of the total were aged 30 years or below.

The number of US soldiers who undergo major amputations, toes and fingers not counted, reached 500 on 12 January 2007. This number comprised only 2.2%of the total wounded at that time, 22,700.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), according to one expert cited in a February 2007 Discovery magazine article, affected over 7,500 soldiers. Mental illness or psychosocial disorder affected about 1/3 of the 103,788 veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars of aggression diagnosed between 30 September 2001 and 30 September 2005. Among the effects of these psychosocial disorders were homelessness and marital problems, including domestic violence. The Pentagon reported in March 2006 that more than 8,000 US soldiers had deserted. The following year it said that the rate of desertions was even increasing.

Troop “surge” a big failure

The yearly statistics prove that the US troop “surge” proclaimed by the Bush administration as a great success is in fact a big failure.

The US Defense Manpower Data Center recorded the total deaths in the year 2006 as 704. After the so-called “surge” with the increase of 30,000 US troops, the deaths increased to 762 for year 2007. The rate of American deaths in Baghdad over the first seven weeks of the “surge” security escalation had nearly doubled from the previous period. According to the Iraq Coalition Casualty Monitor, US troop deaths since the “surge” has been running at 3.14 per day. Moreover, reports indicate that even after the troop surge, more than two-thirds of Baghdad is under the effective control of various groups within the Iraqi resistance. In an attempt to crush the resistance in Baghdad, the US military dropped 40,000 pounds of bombs in the first ten minutes of a January 10 [2008] assault on the town of Arab Jabour on the southern outskirts of Baghdad.

Forty houses and the main road were destroyed and many civilians were killed.

More than a million Iraqis dead, more than 4 million refugees

The main victim of the US-led war of aggression and occupation in Iraq is however the Iraqi people. A survey made in August 2007 estimated over 1.2 million deaths since March 2003. The Opinion Research Business (ORB), a London polling organization, published the results of its survey on September 14, 2007. The ORB reported that “48% died from a gunshot wound, 20% from the impact of a car bomb, 9% from aerial bombardment, 6% as a result of an accident and 6% from another blast/ ordnance.”

Besides the over a million deaths caused by the US-led war of aggression, Iraqis are subjected to torture, rape, and many other human rights violations. 60 to 70% of Iraqi children are reported to be suffering from psychological problems. 68% of Iraqis have no access to safe drinking water. Cholera and other epidemics are taking place, while half of Iraqi doctors have left the country.

According to a press briefing of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on 19 February 2008, there are some 2 million Iraqi refugees outside the country and about 2.4 million internal refugees. 95% of the refugees outside Iraq are in Middle East countries, with about 1.2-1.4 million in Syria and 500-750 thousand in Jordan.

At the end of his mission to Iraq and neighboring countries, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Antonio Guterres, appealed for international help for Iraqi refugees and for Syria and Jordan. Jordan announced it was spending US$1.7 billion yearly to assist the Iraqi refugees in Jordan.

Iraqi resistance grows in strength,condemns US scheme of sectarian civil war While the US says there were only 2000 attacks against US “Coalition” troops in September 2007 compared to 3200 attacks in September 2006, claiming that the “troop surge” was successful, an Iraqi resistance leader declared in an international solidarity conference in March 2007 that the Iraqi resistance was carrying out over 1300 attacks each week.

Abdul Jabbar al-Kubaysi, general secretary of the Iraqi Patriotic Alliance, described how large areas of Iraq and many of the smaller cities and towns are under the control of the Iraqi resistance and in the larger cities, fierce street battles rage daily. The conference held in Chianciano, Italy, also had Ayatollah al Sayyed Ahmed al-Baghdadi, a leader of the resistance among the Shiites, as a speaker by telephone. He condemned the US scheme of fomenting “sectarian civil war” between Sunnis and Shiites and claiming that US occupation is a “peace keeping” mission. He declared: “Confrontational clashes were never known before the occupation. It is a
confrontation planned by external powers to burn Iraq and the whole region.”

He added: “America will never be able to control Iraq because of the strength of the resistance. We will always reject the occupation. No mask could ever cover up its ugly face. The resistance will remove all the masks, and defeat the occupier’s project of civil war in Iraq.” Al-Kubaysi concluded his speech at the international conference: “With the heroic sacrifices of the Iraqi people, the American occupation has been stopped dead in its tracks. The shackles of occupation are crumbling, thanks to the courageous resistance of the Iraqi people.” (See Kosta Harlan, “Voices of the Iraqi Resistance”, Fight Back! Lucha y Resistir!, March 2007, www.fightbacknews.org).

A US armored military vehicle smoulders in the background after an attack by Iraqi resistance forces. file photo.

16 offensives in January and February

2008-04-19T18:31:00.000-07:00

New People’s Army frustrates intensified enemy attacks

Despite the intensification of armed attacks by the security forces of the US-Arroyo regime and their repeated self-serving projections about the impending defeat of the revolutionary forces, reports coming from the battlefront reveal that the New People’s Army and the revolutionary masses continue to hold the initiative in armed tactical offensives with the enemy.

At least 18 elements of the enemy armed forces were killed and scores of others were wounded in about 16 tactical offensives and two tactical counter-offensives conducted in the last two months by various units of the NPA across the country. The Red fighters were able to seize several pistols and high-powered rifles, including an M-60 machine gun, which could be used to further increase the strength of the people’s army.

On 29 December 2007, four soldiers belonging to the 21st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army were killed in an ambush by Red fighters of Danilo Ben Command of the NPA-Cagayan Province, in northern Philippines. The 5th Infantry Division of the PA had been conducting offensive military operations in several towns in the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela since the start of December before they were ambushed by the NPA.

Various units of the Merardo Arce Command of the NPA-Southern Mindanao Region, in southern Philippines, were able to launch victorious tactical offensives during the second half of January 2008 without sustaining any casualty. While the bulk of the enemy’s forces – the 73rd IBPA and PA Scout Rangers – were busy in the western part of the region, the NPA inflicted blows on isolated enemy positions in the eastern side, namely Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental provinces.

In the morning of 30 January, seven soldiers belonging to the 67th IBPA and a member of the Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) were killed while ten other soldiers were wounded in an ambush by the combined forces of Guerrilla Fronts 15 and 25, when the enemy troops were patrolling through the villages of Kinablangan, San Victor and Kampawan, in Baganga town, Davao Oriental. Seized from the enemy were an M-60 machine gun and two M-16 rifles.

In the afternoon of the same day, an intelligence operative of the 1102nd PNP Mobile Group was killed and two CAFGU elements were wounded in the village of Bukal, in Nabunturan, Compostela Valley, when they fought it out with Red fighters of Front 27. Another element of the 1102nd PNP Mobile Group was killed and ten others were wounded, this time in the village of Ngan, in Compostela, when the NPA 5th Pulang Bagani Command ambushed the reinforcing enemy troops.

On 31 January, a soldier was wounded when the NPA launched harassment operations against a detachment of the 733rd Combat Squadron of the Philippine Air Force in Clayo Village, Nasugbu town, Batangas province. Elsewhere in southern Luzon, four soldiers of the 9th IBPA and the 565th Engineering Battalion of the Philippine Army were seriously wounded when their armed convoy was ambushed by the NPA in Buenavista village, Bacon town, in Sorsogon province on 1 February. The following day, an army sergeant was killed when the NPA attacked an AFP detachment in Badian village, Oas town, in Albay province. The Red fighters seized a .45 caliber pistol from the enemy.

Meanwhile, latest reports reveal that the NPA in Samar province, in central Philippines, was able to seize 11 high-powered rifles when they raided the PNP municipal headquarters in Hinabangan town on 23 December. It was earlier reported that the Red fighters seized two HPRs and three pistols from the raid.

US and Philippine military massacre civilians in Maimbung, Sulu

2008-04-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

In the early morning of 4 February, while the villagers were sound asleep, troops of the reactionary Armed Forces of the Philippines launched an armed attack on the fishing village of Ipil in Maimbung town, Sulu, in the southern island of Mindanao. They massacred at least eight civilians, including two children aged 4 and 9, two teenagers aged 15 and 17 and a pregnant woman, and a soldier who was on leave at that time. The military operations also caused the wounding of many other civilians and destruction of property.

The AFP tried to cover up the massacre by saying that it was a legitimate operation and that the victims were members of the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG). The women and children who were killed, they said, died in the crossfire. The surviving victims, their families and local government officials however vehemently belied these claims of the military. They asserted that the victims were ordinary seaweed farmers and fisherfolk, and not members of the Abu Sayyaf Group.

The ASG is a creation of the AFP and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in 1991 to undermine the Moro people’s struggle for self-determination. It has since turned into banditry, kidnapping for ransom and terrorism, but continues to be handled by military officers.

But what is so damning about the Maimbung massacre aside from the killing of civilians is the presence of US military forces in the area. Eyewitness and survivors’ accounts report seeing heavily armed US soldiers in the area while the carnage was going on. There were even reports that what happened in Maimbung was part of the joint military exercise between US and Philippine troops called Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder), a sort of practicum for the Philippine military. This is not farfetched since soldiers that attacked the Ipil village belonged to the Light Reaction Company, a unit composed of soldiers who have undergone specialized training from the US military during the joint military exercises.

The specialized US military training produced brutal results in the fishing village of Ipil: civilians were attacked; the children were shot in the head; victims’eyes were gouged out; and fingers and ears were sliced off.

This was not the first time that the US troops have taken part in AFP military operations in Sulu. In early 2007, US troops were present during an armed encounter between the AFP and the Moro National Liberation Front in Indanan town, Sulu. During that period, US military personnel were supposedly building roads in Indanan while the AFP troops were launching big military operations in the entire province.

The US use the so-called humanitarian missions of building roads, bringing relief goods and medical services to neutralize people’s resistance against its presence and to cover up the real purpose of the joint exercises. According to Command Sgt. Maj. William Eckert of the Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines (JSOTFP) in his article “Defeating the Idea:Unconventional Warfare in the Philippines”: “Working in close violations including extra-judicial killingscoordination with the US Embassy, JSOTF-P uses Special Forces, Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations forces to surveillance and reconnaissance in very focused areas, and based on collection plans, to perform tasks to prepare the environment and obtain critical information requirements. The information is used to
determine the capabilities, intentions and activities of threat groups that exist within the local population and to focus US forces – and the AFP – on providing security to the local populace. It is truly a joint operation, in which Navy SEALs and SOF aviators work with the AFP counterparts to enhance AFP’s capacities.”[Bulatlat.com]

The presence of US military personnel in the Philippines must be seen in the context of the US’ continuing control of the social,economic, cultural and military aspects of Philippine society, and of the Philippines as the second front in the so-called US war on terror. The Philippines is an ideal launching pad for future attacks against enemies of the US especially in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East.

The people condemn the Balikatan exercises, the presence of US troops, andUS military aid as having exacerbated the already tense and dangerous situation in the country, and in Mindanao in particular, and has led to increasing human rights and forced disappearances.

They demand a pull out of all US troops, a stop to the joint military exercises, the conduct deliberate intelligence, scrapping of agreements and treaties between the United States and the Philippines such as the Mutual Defense Treaty, Visiting Forces Agreement and Mutual Logistics Support Agreement.

Tens of thousands demand truth, join calls to oust Arroyo regime

2008-04-16T19:08:00.000-07:00

In a convincing display of “people power” reminiscent of two previous mass uprisings that led to the ouster of two Philippine presidents, tens of thousands of protesters massed up on 29 February in Makati City, the Philippines’ financial district, to send a strong message to the murderous and corrupt Arroyo regime that its days are numbered.

The protest action dubbed as an “interfaith rally for truth”, was held to demand the truth from the latest corruption scandal involving illegitimate president Gloria Arroyo and to ask for her resignation. First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, together with other top government officials, reportedly demanded up to US$130 million in commissions in exchange for granting the National Broadband Network (NBN) project contract to China’s Zhong Xing Telecommunication Equipment Corporation (ZTE). The project was eventually shelved after news broke out about the anomalous deal, but it had not prevented the mounting protests and seething anger of the whole nation.

A cross-section of Philippine society totaling more than 50,000 converged on 29 February to demand the truth and to push for the ouster or resignation of Arroyo. Participants in the rally included workers, peasant groups, youth and students, women, businessmen, middle and upper class housewives, urban poor, church and religious groups, migrants and their relatives, artists and the political opposition including two former Philippine presidents.

Militant groups estimated the number at 75,000, while the political opposition gave an even higher estimate. It was, according to analysts, larger than expected. Youth and students from many colleges and universities composed the main bulk of the protesters.

Speakers at the rally lambasted the Arroyo regime for its corruption, and its other crimes against the people, including the extrajudicial killings and disappearances of opposition activists. And as with the previous displays of “people power”, protesters came out with their creative expressions of fighting slogans and demands. Militant groups carried a large streamer that says “Goodbye Gloria”. A Catholic nun carried a placard that says “What is evil, is evil. Period”. “Gloria, most corrupt president” says another placard, while a dog was seen with a poster on its back that says “Ow-ow-Oust Gloria!”

The resounding demand and call however was: Oust Gloria!

Ever-fearful of the fate suffered by her predecessor who was ousted by “people power”, Gloria Arroyo sought refuge at a military camp in Quezon City.

Even before this mammoth gathering, military and police loyalists of Gloria acted desperately to prevent a groundswell of people massing-up. They fed media with worn-out alleged reports of possible infiltration of the rally by the New People’s Army or by supposed terrorists. They set up blockades and checkpoints around Metro Manila to prevent rallyists from the provinces from joining the Makati protesters. They further prevented media from taking aerial shots from helicopters of the massive protest by declaring the area a “no-fly zone”.

In an official statement, Bayan (New Patriotic Alliance) said that the Makati mobilization sends a very strong message to Malacañang and other institutions of the government that the Filipino people seriously and urgently demand for truth, justice, and meaningful changes in the leadership and system of governance amid the latest political crisis that has been rocking the Arroyo regime.

Professor Jose Ma. Sison, Chief Political Consultant of the National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP), in a statement on 01 March stressed that “the fake president and her retinue of bureaucratic sycophants and military bully boys should be able to read the handwriting on the wall. They have been weighed and grievously found wanting. Their days are numbered. Their doom is in the horizon.”

As Gloria Arroyo presses all her panic buttons, so to speak, the people and the organized forces are bracing for bigger mobilizations and more creative expressions of protest to force the ouster of Gloria Arroyo.

Militant migrant organizations, representing about 10 million overseas Filipinos forced to live and work abroad because of the corruption, brutality, poverty, unemployment and backwardness of Philippine society, have called for the withholding of remittances at least once a month. The remittances of migrant Filipinos help sustain the bankrupt Philippine economy and bureaucracy. Migrant Filipinos send US$30 million in remittances daily.

Meanwhile, protest rallies by Filipino migrants and foreign allies around the world were also held to show solidarity with the calls being made in the Philippines for the ouster of the Arroyo regime. In Australia and Hong Kong, migrant Filipinos and human rights advocates not only called for the ouster of the Arroyo regime but also called for “Zero Remittance Day” on 8 March. They condemned the plundering of their hard-earned money to prop-up Arroyo’s corruption-riddled government.

Rallies were also held in the cities of New York, New Jersey, San Francisco and Los Angeles in the United States, in Toronto and Vancouver in Canada, and in Amsterdam in The Netherlands. They demanded that Arroyo be held accountable for her many crimes against the Filipino people, including massive corruption and grave violations of human rights.

Danielle Galan, president of Anakbayan New York said that “corruption is a disease that robs Filipinos of a promising future. It is the same reason why our parents and fellow Filipino youth left the country to search for better lives abroad. Those who engage in it must answer to the nation’s call for accountability.”

Arroyo regime teeters on the brink of ouster

2008-04-11T00:09:00.000-07:00

The conversation between the taxi driver and his passenger showed how desperate life has become for many Filipinos: The driver made remarks on how life has become so difficult these days. Then he said, “If only someone can assure me that they will take care of my family, I am willing to die just so I can assassinate this no-good president Arroyo.”

A social volcano is indeed waiting to erupt with the pent-up anger of the long suffering Filipino people against a cheating, stealing and lying president.

A new and yet bigger wave of calls for Arroyo’s ouster or resignation has swept the country after revelations from former government official Rodolfo Lozada, Jr. confirmed the direct involvement of Mike Arroyo, the husband of Manila president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, in a multi-million dollar kickback scandal in connection with a proposed National Broadband Project awarded to Chinese company Zhong Xing Telecommunication Equipment Company (ZTE).

Rodolfo Lozada, Jr. has insider knowledge of the highly anomalous deal. Gloria Arroyo’s henchmen in the Philippine National Police, military intelligence community and in her cabinet tried everything to stop Lozada from testifying before Senate committees investigating the scandal. They sent him to Hong Kong. But the guilt-stricken Lozada decided to come back to the Philippines to reveal everything he knew. While disembarking at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, he was abducted by a unit of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) and PNP presumably upon orders of Arroyo’s top cabinet officials. But the incident came to the knowledge of journalists and subsequent outcries from the public forced the abductors to surface Lozada.

Testifying finally before the Philippine Senate, Lozada disclosed in great detail what he knew about the anomalous deal. He revealed how former Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos, acting on instructions from Mike Arroyo, brokered a deal with the Chinese firm ZTE asking for US$130 million dollars in kickback or commission. He recounted that when the anomalous deal was exposed and subsequently shelved, he was sent to Hong Kong to escape being investigated by the Senate which had subpoenaed him to testify. He told about the harrowing ordeal he went through when he was abducted by elements of the PSG and PNP when he disembarked from the plane from Hong Kong thinking that he was going to be killed to prevent him from spilling the beans.

Reflecting the mood of the general populace, the President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, has called on the people to launch “communal action”. A broad spectrum of Philippine society, agitated by Lozada’s testimony, has interpreted the archbishop’s words as a call for the people to mobilize to remove Arroyo from the presidency.

The roots of discontent

Under the Arroyo regime, joblessness has grown to record levels. In 2007, conservative estimates put 4.1 million Filipinos without jobs. Since 2001, when Arroyo assumed the presidency, up to 2006, average family income has dropped by PhP20,400.

There is a great disparity in incomes with the top 20% or 3.5 million families accounting for 52.8% of the total income, while the poorest 80% or 13.9 million families taking the remaining 47.3%. The income of the top 10% is 19 times that of the poorest 10 percent. The Forbes.com estimates the net worth of the country’s 20 richest individuals of US$15.6 billion in 2006 as equivalent to the combined annual income of the poorest 10.4 million families or 52 million Filipinos. Eighty percent of families or 70 million Filipinos struggle to survive on around US$2.50 a day.

This situation has impelled the workers to fight more resolutely for a wage increase which has always been stubbornly opposed by the regime. In 2007, the average wage of workers in the most industrialized area around the capital is not even half of the actual cost of living. Poverty in the countryside is even worse.

The trade deficit in 2006 was $6.817 billion The perennial trade deficit is the result of the basic weakness of the country’s semifeudal economy which does not have an industrial base. Because of this, it imports most of its manufactured goods. Even its so-called manufactured exports are merely low-value added re-exports because as in the electronics sectors the products contain from 90%-95% imported raw materials. These re-exports actually earn very little for the local economy.

A fiscal crisis is threatening to explode on the regime’s face in 2008. The regime has been able to buy time in 2007 only because it had gone on a privatization binge unparalleled in the country’s history. In 2007 alone, PhP90.6 billion in government assets were sold to private capital which was nearly as much as the PhP93.9 billion sold in the previous 15 years spanning three administrations. Without the proceeds from privatization there would have been a PhP78.0 billion deficit.

Seemingly, the only bright spot in this grim economic horizon are the remittances of around eight up to ten million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The US$12.761 billion remittances in 2007 served to offset the US$6.817 billion trade deficit. Ironically, this has redounded to the detriment of the families back home dependent on these remittances. Partly because of the surge in dollar remittances from abroad, the peso has appreciated against the dollar. By the end of 2007, the average family dependent on OFW income lost PhP2,440 a month due to the appreciation of the peso against the dollar.

The OFW phenomenon is one clear indicator of the economy’s backwardness. Eight to ten million Filipinos are abroad because the economy has been failing to provide enough jobs for the people.

Already suffering from economic hardships brought on by the regime, a litany of shady deals and corruption scandals involving the first family has further fueled the anger of the people against the Manila president. Among these were the US$70 million payoff by German firm Fraport AG to the Office of the President for a US$425 million airport terminal expansion project; the Php400 million laundering of ill-gotten wealth from monthly kickbacks from government corporations; the diversion of PhP728 million in fertilizer funds for the campaign kitty of Gloria Arroyo in the 2004 presidential elections; US$50 million in “commissions” for the overpriced North Luzon Railways Project; the 5.1 kilometer Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard whose PhP1.1 billion cost was reportedly overpriced by PhP536 million, and many others.

Massive demonstrations are being planned in the coming days to demand the resignation of Arroyo. Restive anti-Arroyo soldiers and policemen are reportedly watching in the sidelines ready to move at the proper time. (Please see related story on anti-Arroyo demonstrations)

NDFP Chief Political Consultant Jose Maria Sison said that Arroyo is “ripe for ouster”. He explained that “the sheer growth of the legal and peaceful mass actions in the National Capital Region and on a national scale in the coming days, weeks and months can encourage the military and police to withdraw support from the Arroyo ruling clique and can suffice to cause the resignation, impeachment or outright ouster of the illegitimate and morally bankrupt president”.

Sison further said that prospects for the resumption of formal talks in the GRP-NDFP peace negotiations are bright if the broad masses of the Filipino people and the broad united front succeed in ousting Gloria M. Arroyo. He added, “The broad mass movement can succeed to oust Arroyo only with the full active participation of the patriotic and progressive forces. These (forces) would have some significant weight in the new government and would certainly demand the resumption of the aforesaid formal talks in order to address the roots of the civil war through comprehensive agreements on social, economic and political reforms”.

QUEST FOR APRIL 2008!

2008-04-11T00:03:00.000-07:00

My month he he he he he.... This month I will be 30 years old... Whaaaaattttt????!!!! I know, I don't look like one...

According to Rev. Fr. Wongsentian (Taoist Grand Minister),this month there is opportunity at work and business.

SUCCEED!
1. Food Cart Start Up!
2. Pay all your bills!

Good Luck to my new quest! I'm already achieving it now!

AAAATTTTAAAACCCCKKKK!!!!

ASSESSMENT OF THE MARCH QUEST

2008-04-03T19:57:00.000-07:00

The quest:
FOCUS ON RICHES!
BATTLE CRY FOR MARCH!

YOUTH MAGAZINE PRODUCTION AND SUBSCRIPTION OF THE SK

Result: ZZZZEEEERRRROOOO!

I was a bit out of myself this month... Istead of focusing on the riches I focused on somethig else... I was teeming with anger the whole month that I had a highblood attack!

Dark Side was awakened, my brooding, cold, calculating, battousai personality who has blood lust and vegeance personified... I could have killed if he took 100% rein... At least I can still control him...

May God have mercy on my enemies... The sleeping demon has awakened...

QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS QUIZZER

2008-04-03T19:53:00.000-07:00

Another important part of the CFA Exam is the Quantitative Analysis. So get your pencils and calculators and rack that brain of yours!

To get the answer key kindly leave a comment so I can send to you the answer key.

1. The future value of $100 invested at 6% for 4 years is:

A. $126.25
B. $79.00
C. $124.79
D. $116.32

2. The present value of $200 to be received 10 years from today, assuming an opportunity cost of 10%, is:

A. $50.79
C. $518.00
B. $200.43
D. $77.11

3. A $100 savings bond with a maturity of 25 years can be purchased for $29.50. Assuming annual compounding, what is the rate of return on the bond?

A. 5%
B. 6%
C. 7%
D. 8%

4. What is the value in five years of $100 invested today at an interest rate of 8 percent per year compounded quarterly?

A. $144.50
B. $144.00
C. $147.75
D. $148.59

5. Tom is saving $1,000 a quarter for the next 4 years. Assuming an annual interest rate of 12% compounded quarterly, how much money will he have at the end of the fourth year?

A. $3,506
B. $19,117
C. $20,157
D. $16,000

6. Jay is 30 years old and will retire at age 65. Jay is saving $1,000 a year and believes he will have a constant interest rate of 7% compounded annually on his investments. How much will Jay have accumulated by age 65?

A. $138,237
B. $97,537
C. $66,674
D. $144,469

7. Zumwalt Inc.’s class B stock is expected to pay $6 in annual dividends forever. If the required return on an equivalent investment is 12%, then a share of Zumwalt stock today is worth:

A. $25
B. $100
C. $50
D. None of the above

8. David wishes to accumulate $1 million by the end of 20 years by making equal annual end-of-year deposits over the next 20 years. If David can earn 10% on his investments, how much must he deposit at the end of each year?

A. $16,556
B. $62,745
C. $117,453
D. $17,460

9. A firm is evaluating a proposal that has an initial investment of $500,000 and cash flows of $125,000 for 6 years. The firm’s cost of capital is 12%. What is the internal rate of return of this investment?

A. 13%
B. 11%
C. 20%
D. 9%

10. Below are some raw data displayed in increasing order from top to bottom.

63.5
96.9
112.3
134.1
66.4
98.3
116.2
138.5
75.6
100.5
116.9
139.8
77.5
100.7
118.3
140.7
84.4
102.0
122.0
143.0
87.6
105.5
122.2
143.9
In constructing a frequency distribution using five classes of equal range, if the first class is “60 up to 80”, the class frequency of the third class is:

A. 4
B. 5
C. 8
D. 9

11. The annual rate of return for JSI’s common stock has been:

20X0 Return 14%
20X1 Return 19%
20X2 Return -10%
20X3 Return 14%

What is the arithmetic mean of the rate of return for JSI’s common stock over the four years?

A. 8.62%
B. 9.25%
C. 14.25%
D. None of the above

12. A portfolio generated the following returns over the last three years:

Year 1 Return 10
Year 2 Return -2
Year 3 Return 5

What is the geometric average return for the three-year period?

A. 4.3%
B. 4.2%
C. 1.3%
D. 5.6%

13. A portfolio of non-dividend-paying stocks earned a geometric mean return of 5.0 percent between January 1, 19X2, and December 31, 19X8. The arithmetic mean return for the same period was 6.0 percent. If the market value of the portfolio at the beginning of 19X2 was$100,000, the market value of the portfolio at the end of 19X8 was closest to:

A. $135,000
B. $140,710
C. $142,000
D. $150,363

14. Which investment has the least risk relative to its mean return?

A. Standard deviation = $500 expected return = $5,000
B. Standard deviation = $700 expected return = $500
C. Standard deviation = $900 expected return = $800
D. Standard deviation = $400 expected return = $350

15. The skyscrapers in a city have heights of 40, 35, 46, 57, 84, 45, and 50 stories.
The percentage of buildings with heights within 1.5 standard deviations of the
mean will be at least:

A. 51%
B. 95%
C. 56%
D. 66%

16. Medical Equipment Suppliers, Inc., must choose between two asset purchases. The annual rate of return and related probabilities given below summarize the firm’s analysis:

Asset A Rate of Return 10% Probability 30%
Asset A Rate of Return 15% Probability 40%
Asset A Rate of Return 20% Probability 30%

Asset B Rate of Return 5% Probability 40%
Asset B Rate of Return 15% Probability 20%
Asset B Rate of Return 25% Probability 40%

Using the information provided above, compute the coefficient of variation of
Asset A and Asset B.

A. Asset A: .11 Asset B: .23
B. Asset A: .18 Asset B: .21
C. Asset A: .23 Asset B: .35
D. Asset A: .26 Asset B: .60

17. A portfolio has exhibited the following characteristics over a 3-year period:

Year 1 Return 5% Variance 43
Year 2 Return 10%
Year 3 Return -3%

The average return on risk-free bonds over the same period was 3.5%. Calculate the Sharpe Ratio for this portfolio.

A. .120
B. .001
C. .011
D. .076

18. There is a 40% chance of an expansion, a 20% chance of a stagnant economy, and a 40% chance of a recession. Stocks behave under these scenarios as follows:

Economy Expansion, Stock Performance Good, Probability 70%
Economy Expansion, Stock Performance Fair, Probability 30%
Economy Expansion, Stock Performance Poor, Probability 0%

Economy Stagnant, Stock Performance Good, Probability 40%
Economy Stagnant, Stock Performance Fair, Probability 30%
Economy Stagnant, Stock Performance Poor, Probability 30%

Economy Recession, Stock Performance Good, Probability 0%
Economy Recession, Stock Performance Fair, Probability 40%
Economy Recession, Stock Performance Poor, Probability 60%

What is the probability of stagnant economy and fair stock market?

A. 30%
B. 10%
C. 34%
D. 6%

19. Based on historical data analysis, an equity analyst provides the following probability of future prices for a particular stock:

Probability 0.10, Price $18
Probability 0.10, Price $16
Probability 0.35, Price $15
Probability 0.30, Price $14
Probability 0.15, Price $12

The stock’s expected value is:

A. $14.00
B. $14.50
C. $14.65
D. $15.00

20. An analyst makes the following calculations about the returns for Stock X and Stock Y:

COVxy = 0.0050
ox = 0.20
0y = 0.06

The correlation coefficient between the returns for Stock X and Stock Y is between:

A. 0.00 and 0.25
B. 0.25 and 0.50
C. 0.51 and 0.75
D. 0.76 and 1.00

21. If there are 9 stocks in a portfolio how many ways can the stocks be labeled if 5 are called outperform, 2 perform, and 2 underperform. How many unique ways can 9 stock in a portfolio be labeled if 5 must be called outperform, 2 perform, and 2 underperform?

A. 1,512
B. 756
C. 3,024
D. 1,008

22. Sandi Santa, CFA, a portfolio manager for North Pole Trust, believes that a well-diversified portfolio can be constructed with 30 stocks. How many 30-stock portfolios can be constructed from the S&P 500 index (assuming there are 500 stocks in the index)?

A. 500!/(500-30)!
B. 500!/30!(500-30)!
C. (30)(500)
D. (30!)(500!)

23. Given the following information regarding the possible returns on a capital project, determine the probability that the project will have a return of 5% or greater.

% Return -5, Probability 15%
% Return 0, Probability 20%
% Return 5, Probability 40%
% Return 10, Probability 15%
% Return 15, Probability 10%

A. 90%
B. 65%
C. 40%
D. 20%

24. If the probability of a stock index generating a return greater than 15% in any given year is 6.68%, what is the standard deviation of the returns assuming the mean return is 5%?

A. 6.08
B. 6.66
C. 10.00
D. 44.36

25. Based on a normal distribution with a mean of 500 and standard deviation of 150, what is the z value for an observation at 200?

A. -2.00
B. -1.75
C. 1.75
D. 2.00

A Tribute to Dorothy Parker

2008-04-03T19:46:00.000-07:00

I always loved Dorothy Parker, for those who does not know this heroine of a writter, she is the face behind "Death and Taxes," "Laments for Living," and "After Such Pleasures."

I have collected some qoutations from other writters about her:

"One cubic foot less of space and it would have constituted adultery."

Attributed to Robert Benchley (1889 - 1945)
U.S. humorist, writer, editor, and critic.Describing an office shared with the writer Dorothy Parker.

"She has put into what she has written a voice, a state of mind, an era, a few moments of human experience that nobody else has conveyed."

Attributed to Edmund Wilson (1895 - 1972)
U.S. critic and writer.Referring to Dorothy Parker.

"She is a combination of Little Nell and Lady Macbeth."

Alexander Woollcott (1887 - 1943)
U.S. writer and critic.Referring to Dorothy Parker.
While Rome Burns, "Our Mrs Parker"

Speech for Uncle II

2008-03-27T01:54:00.000-07:00

Another speech for Uncle...

SPEECH FOR PCC MEDALLION/RECOGNITION DAY
APRIL 2, 2008
THEME: EMPOWERING STUDENT AWARDEES MARCHING ONWARDS TO THE PATH OF PRODUCTIVITY

A PLEASANT DAY TO EVERYONE!

Before I proceed, I would like to send my respects to our energetic principal ___________________, to the teaching and non-teaching personnel, the student organization officers and members, our guests and visitors, the beaming parents, the awardees, I salute you!

Recognition day is a day that is filled with mixed emotions, naaalala ko pa noon nung ako rin ay umatend din ng recognition day namin tulad niyo , hindi lang ako ang excited at may halong nerbiyos nung araw na yun, pati mga magulang ko… (A brief story about your experience during college recognition day, when, what school, etc)

Today’s theme is very much appropriate to each student and parents: EMPOWERING STUDENT AWARDEES MARCHING ONWARDS TO THE PATH OF PRODUCTIVITY. Truly, as your theme espouses, empowerment is today’s key word in life in order to succeed and to survive. Sad to say but in reality a lot of college students in our country are not yet that empowered to face life, to face the real world… As student awardees you are the cream of the crop, you must be emboldened and empowered with character mad of steel, with persistence and determination that never stops… In connection with empowering our youth, the Bicol University and other political leaders like Gov. Salceda, Vice Gov. Sael and yours truly are supporting the “Kooperatiba ng Kabataan para sa Kaunlaran,” a youth cooperative based on Bicol University Main Campus, the contact person for Third District is my nephew and once a faculty of these revered institution.

Empowerment is the key to productivity… For no one can be productive when he/she is not empowered! Empowerment starts with the right mind set and a faith anchored in God. Empowerment is standing on your own two feet and being independent… Empowerment is smiling amidst tons of problems… Empowerment is saying impossible is nothing!
Let us celebrate this achievement of yours by first thanking God… Let us not forget that! For the awardees let us celebrate this day by thanking our parents! Look into their eyes and from the bottom of your hearts say thank you and hug them! Let us celebrate this day by thanking our teachers, kahit na yung binabansagan niyong terror, pasalamatan tabi… For our teachers helped mold us into who we are now and to where we will be. Thank your classmates, your schoolmates, your gf/bf, your crushes, your janitor, si tiya sa kantin at mga tindahan sa labas, lahat ng naging parte ng yung college life! Because without them your college years will never be complete! Remember this – having an attitude of gratitude is one of the secrets to success and productivity!

But as awardees it is not only about celebrations, it is also about facing a new challenge! A new future of pursuing opportunities and productivity! We all know that generally, everybody’s dream is to go to work or start a business and be rich. Hope you have already evaluated yourself and assessed your strength, weakness, opportunity and threat. Because in reality, continuing schooling, looking for a job, starting a business is never that easy. Sa mga awardees at sa lahat ng mga students na naririto ngayong araw na ito dapat maging mature na tayo, don’t expect everything from your parents, from the government, today as college students let us help them! Before I forget palkpakan natin ang ating pro – education na Gobernador, Gobernador Joey Salceda sa pagbigay ng scholarship sa atin. Ladies and gentlemen we all know that life is not a bed of roses, but with God and a proper mind set, we will be empowered and productive!
Let me finish my speech with an excerpt from a song:
Walk on… Walk on…
With faith in your heart…
And you’ll never walk alone…
Yes, You’ll never walk alone…
To the parents and student awardees… walk on… have faith in God, in yourself, we might face hardships and difficulties but those obstacles may be looked upon as challenge and inspiration for empowerment… to walk on… to be productive… to succeed…

Thank you very much! Facing you is such a moving experience for me!
Congratulations and Mabalos!
Albay mabuhay!

Speech for Uncle I

2008-03-26T22:23:00.000-07:00

Another speech for my Uncle...

SPEECH FOR SAN PASCUAL, LIBON HIGHSCHOOL
MARCH 28, 2008
THEME: THE FILIPINO GRADUATES: CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS, PURSUING OPPORTUNITIES

A PLEASANT DAY TO EVERYONE!

Before I proceed, I would like to send my respects to our energetic principal ___________________, to the teaching and non-teaching personnel, the PTA officers and members, the barangay council of San Pascual headed by ________________________, our guests and visitors, the beaming parents, the graduates, I salute you!

Graduation day is a day that is filled with mixed emotions, naaalala ko pa noon nung ako rin ay grumadweyt tulad niyo , hindi lang ako ang excited at may halong nerbiyos nung araw na yun, pati mga magulang ko… (A brief story about your experience during your high school graduation, when, what school, etc)

Today’s theme is very much appropriate to each graduate and parents. THE FILIPINO GRADUATES: CELEBRATING ACHIEV EMENTS, PURSUING OPPORTUNITIES. Truly, as your theme espouses, let us celebrate this achievement of yours, you have finished four grueling years of hard work as high school students, baka yung iba higit pa sa four years, pero ang importante nakapagtapos pa rin. Let us celebrate this day by first thanking God… Let us not forget that! For the graduates let us celebrate this day by thanking our parents! Look into their eyes and from the bottom of your hearts say thank you and hug them! Let us celebrate this day by thanking our teachers, kahit na yung binabansagan niyong terror, pasalamatan tabi… For our teachers helped mold us into who we are now and to where we will be. Thank your classmates, your schoolmates, your gf/bf, your crushes, your janitor, si tiya sa kantin at mga tindahan sa labas, lahat ng naging parte ng yung high school life! Because without them your secondary years will never be complete! Remember this – having an attitude of gratitude is one of the secrets to success!

But graduating from high school is not only about celebrations, it is also about facing a new challenge! A new future of pursuing opportunities! We all know that generally, everybody’s dream is to go to college, because that is where much more opportunities abound. Hope you have already taken your entrance exams and applied for a course that is your liking. But in reality others will not make it due to financial constraints. Sa mga graduates ngayong araw na ito dapat maging mature na tayo, don’t expect everything from your parents, from the government, today as graduates let us help them! For those na hindi kaya ng mga parents pag paaralin look for ways na makapag aral tayo. Meron tayong Libon Community College, na malapit lang naman kaya lesser ang operational cost, isa pa ay mayroong scholarship sa LiCom ang ating pro-education na Gobernador – Gobernador Joey Salceda! We can become working students to help our family. Ladies and gentlemen we all know that life is not a bed of roses, but with God and a proper mind set, I do believe everything will be fine!

Let me finish my speech with an excerpt from a song:
Walk on… Walk on…
With faith in your heart…
And you’ll never walk alone…
Yes, You’ll never walk alone…

To the parents and graduating class… walk on… have faith in God, in yourself, we might face hardships and difficulties but those obstacles may be looked upon as challenge and inspiration to walk on… to succeed…

Thank you very much! Facing you is such a moving experience for me!
Again… Congratulations!
Mabalos!
Albay mabuhay!

POST DISASTER REPORT

2008-03-26T02:24:00.000-07:00

WASH Cluster

WATSAN FACILITIES
EVACUATION CENTERS (as of June 28, 2007)

13 (87%) – shelter standards (1 rm:20 persons)
13 (87%) – safe drinking water standards
(1 water point: 200 persons)
6 (40%) – latrine standards (1 toilet:20 persons)
15 (100%) – meets the garbage disposal standards

12 evacuation centers
3 transit sites (Taysan, Anislag & Travesia)

What has been done
Conducted initial rapid health assessment
Erected tent hospital in Lidao City
Established joint PHO-DOH CHD 5 command post
Provision of drugs, medicines, water tanks and tents to hospitals and RHUs
Distribution of cadaver bags and lime to local DCCs
Deployment of medical teams to devastated sites and evacuation centers
Distribution of compact food to service providers and victims
Provincial issuance LGUs re: disposal of dead persons
Coordination with provincial agencies for evacuation center needs
Disease surveillance in the evacuation centers and fast- tracked FHSIS reports
Emergency purchase of drugs, medicines and supplies (P 5.4M)
Daily health bulletins re: WATSAN
Coordination with local health workers (15 mun. and 3 cities)
Regular weekly cluster meetings
Drinking water safety monitoring and sanitation needs in evacuations centers and in the community
Nutrition assessment surveys
Vaccination activities in evacuation centers
Health infrastructure damage assessment
Hospital equipment inventory
Fumigation of evacuation centers
Supervision of latrine construction, hand pump installations and water filtration systems
Health information dissemination
Critical incident stress debriefing
Seminar workshops for health personnel on Sphere standards, health promotion, bio-sand filters
Distribution of health kits, drugs/medicines and supplies
Seminar workshops for health personnel on Sphere standards, health promotion, bio-sand filters
Distribution of health kits, drugs/medicines and supplies
Receipt of donations equipment, drugs/medicineswater tanks, bladders, filtration machines and analysis kitshealth kits, hand pumps, chamber pots
Continued implementation of regular health programs in the evacuation centers
Establishment of databases for health
Rehabilitation plans formulation for: health infrastructures and equipment and health programs : environmental sanitation, CDD, EPI, disease surveillance and nutrition
Request for assistance on information processing soft wares from NGOs

INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE
Donations/Assistance from Foreign Governments, Aid Agencies and INGOs
Canada
OXFAM
Malaysia
USAID
Spain
AusAid
Singapore
Telecoms Sans Frontier
Indonesia
World Vision
Japan
Care Philippines
China
Mercy Malaysia
Sweden
JICA
Republic of Korea
U.S.A
Medicins sans Frontieres

UN-OCHA CERF ( Central Emergency Response Fund) = $2,654,255

Components:
Health
Nutrition & WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene)
Food Aid & Logistics Support
Emergency Shelter
Non-Food Items & Logistics
Emergency Family Care & Support Packages
Emergency Maternal Care
Agriculture

Water & Sanitation
OXFAM GB - latrines, water containers, bath areas and hygiene kits, test kits, water bladders
Spanish Government – water purification machine - Guinobatan
Global Medic / PMSEA / MGB – water purifiers - Daraga, Legazpi
UNICEF – declogging of septic tanks by trucks; water tanks, latrines, hand pumps, school toilets, tents, water containers, water pipes
World Vision – Sto. Domingo, Bacacay– garbage collection
Mercy Malaysia – hygiene kits
Agua Vida – water purifier – Guinobatan
Daughters of Charity – latrines – Daraga
IFRC – water containers, water pump, hygiene kits
UNFPA – hygiene & reproductive kits, health promotion, generators
WHO – medical kits, hygiene kits, health promotion, generators
TzuShi Foundation – water purification machine in Daraga
IFRC/PNRC – household toilet in selected communities
City Government of Manila – water purification machines

Medical Teams – conducted consultations
Mercy Malaysia –Malilipot, Malinao, Legazpi
Mercy Singapore –Malilipot, Legazpi
Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) - Daraga
Veterans’ Memorial Medical Center – Daraga
PAGCOR – Legazpi
Tsu-Zhi Medical – Daraga (with minor surgery)
Australian Aid International – Legazpi, Daraga
Philippine Public Safety College – Legazpi
Handicapped International – Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan
ABS-CBN Foundation – Sto. Domingo
Association of Medical Doctors of Asia (AMDA)
Manila Doctors Hospital Med. Mission Group
Bureau of Fire Protection Medical Team – Sto. Domingo
Daughters of Charity – Daraga
Lions International – Tabaco & Legazpi Cities

Drugs and Medicines
UNICEF
Ministry of Health of Indonesia
Ministry of Health of Malaysia
Medicins sans Frontier
UNESCO - ITT
ABS-CBN Foundation
DZGB/DWGB fm
Daughters of Charity
WHO

Stress Debriefing Services
Scientology – Daraga
World Vision Dev’t Foundation – Daraga, Sto. Domingo
Ateneo de Manila/LaSalle – Daraga, Sto. Domingo
UERMMC – Guinobatan
DSWD – Legazpi City, Daraga, Camalig & Guinobatan
SAC/COPE/Coastal Core/Christian Aid

Rehabilitation of Health Infrastructure
Medicins sans Frontieres
WHO
UNFPA

Logistics
World Food Program (WFP)
International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Others
Operation Compassion (OC)
Albay Disaster Response Network (ADRN)
A Single Drop
AQ Foundation
Bicol Center for Community Development (BCCD)
Peace Corps
U.S. Navy (PELELIU)
U.S. Marine Expeditionary Forces

HEALTH REGULATION

2008-03-26T02:20:00.000-07:00

Regulation Function
The present regulatory structure of the PHO is narrowly focused on sanitary clearances only because the health regulatory function was not devolved and has stayed with the DOH.

Clearances & Certifications
Sanitary and Site Clearances :
1. Drinking Water Site Survey and Clearances – issued before the issuance of the certificate of potability of water which is a requisites to a propose construction or repair/improvement of any water supply systems (Level I, II and III).
2. School Site Sanitary Survey and Clearances – issued before a school, whether private or public school is to be established or constructed.
3. Transport/Vehicle Sanitary Clearance – issued to all vehicle use for the transportation of any food, drinking water, wine and beverages for human consumption.
4. Other Sanitary Survey/Inspection and Clearances – such as sanitary inspection of burial ground/cemetery, sanitary inspection of crematorium, sanitary inspection of funeral establishment/morgue, sanitary survey and clearances of industrial hygiene, markets and abattoirs, public swimming and bathing places, hotels, motels, lodging/boarding houses and the likes, restaurants and other food establishments, clinics, parlors and sauna bath, and other public places.

Certificate of Drinking Water Potability – issued to certify that the water quality of any water supply system has passed the Philippine National Standard for Drinking Water as prescribed under the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines(PD 856).
Environmental Health Impact Certificate – issued to all proposed construction, repair or improvement of any projects, future programs and policies which may have a potential effects on health of the population and the distribution of these effects within the population and to help identify and consider the potential or actual health and equity impacts of a proposal on a given population and environment.

Monitoring
Public Health
ACT for Health = Albay Composite Team
DOH Program Coordinators
PIR = Program Implementation Review (PHO)

Hospitals
Internal Control Unit (PGA)
DOH Standards & Licensing
PhilHealth Accreditation Team

2008-03-26T02:16:00.000-07:00

INTERLOCAL HEALTH ZONE, Albay, 2006

AID FOR HEALTH [Albay Integrated Developers for Health] (First District)
Tiwi
Malinao
Tabaco City
Bacacay
Malilipot
Sto. Domingo
Ziga Mem. Dist. Hosp.

CRADLEMAN Health Zone {Second District)
Camalig
Rapu-Rapu
Daraga
Legazpi City
Manito
Bicol Regional Teaching & Training Hosp.

JOLLIPPOGUI Health Zone (Third District)
Jovellar
Ligao City
Libon
Pioduran
Polangui
Oas
Guinobatan
JB Duran Mem. Dist. Hosp.

Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Committee

Municipalities/Cities with DWQMC:
Legazpi City
Rapu-Rapu
Malinao
Oas
Guinobatan
Camalig
Malilipot
Tiwi
Polangui
Bacacay
Sto. Domingo
Tabaco City
Libon

Municipalities/Cities without DWQMC:
1. Manito
2. Daraga
3. Jovellar
4. Pioduran
5. Ligao City

Diabetes Club, Albay, 2006
Municipalities/Cities with Diabetes Club

Malinao
Guinobatan
Tiwi
Oas
Malilipot
Polangui
Tabaco City
Manito
Sto. Domingo
Libon
Daraga
Bacacay
Camalig
Ligao City
Jovellar
Legazpi City

Municipalities without Diabetes Club
Pioduran
RapuRapu

Sentrong Sigla Facilities, Albay, 2006

With Accreditation
Malinao
Bacacay
Tabaco City
Sto. Domingo
Malilipot
Legazpi City
Daraga
Camalig
Guinobatan
Ligao City
Oas

Without Accreditation
Manito
Jovellar
Pioduran *
Rapu-Rapu
Libon
Polangui
Tiwi *

* on process

TB LINC

2008-03-26T02:10:00.000-07:00

LINKING INITIATIVES and NETWORKING to CONTROL TUBERCULOSIS

TB situation
Global Rank: 9th among 22 high TB burden countries
Regional Rank: 3rd among WPR countries
TB Incidence (new smear +) = 133/100,000
Case detection rate (2005) = 73%
Cure rate (new smear +) = 81%
Success rate (new smear +) = 89%

Challenges
Wide variation in program performance across regions and provinces
Inaccessible DOTS services in some areas
Low level of participation by the private practitioners
Poor health-seeking behavior of communities
Weak local health systems

Background of TB LINC
USAID-funded
Managed by the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) with 5 consortium partners
5 years (2006-2011) $12.5 Million
Primarily, will provide technical assistance (TA)
Will be implemented in 21 provinces / cities

Project Goal
Assist the GOP attain the MDGs (reduce by half the TB prevalence and mortality) by contributing to the achievement of the following targets;
70% case detection rate
85% success rate

Project Objectives
1. Improve the policy, financing and regulatory environment
2. Improve human and systems capacity for quality DOTS implementation
3. Improve utilization of DOTS facilities and services, and influence behaviors/attitudes

Project targets
80% of LGUs increased case notification rate
80% of LGUs with success rate of at least 85%
75% of LGUs purchased Cat. 3 anti-TB drugs
70% of DOTS facilities are PhilHealth-accredited
100 PPMDs established
90% of microscopy centers providing DSSM according to national standards
90% of DOTS facilities are without drug stock-outs
Increased proportion of community adopting appropriate health-seeking behavior

Consortium Partners
CODE NGO
League of Provinces of the Philippines
Philippine Academy of Family Physicians
Philippine College of Occupational Medicine
Philippine Pediatrics Society
Chemonics International (U.S.)

Project Approaches
DOH will be the lead agency
Collaborative and coordinated multi-stakeholder involvement
Complementarity other USAID-funded project
Linkage of national, subnational, and local approaches
Sustainable interventions

Other USAID-funded projects
Health Governance (Health-Gov)
Health Policy and Development Program (HPDP)
Sustainable Health Improvement through Empowerment and Local Dev’t (SHIELD)
A2Z
Health promotion and communication (HPC)**
Private Sector Social Mobilization (PRISM)

Project Components

Component 1
Policy and Finance
Component 2
Systems Strengthening
Component 3
DOTS utilization

PROJECT COMPONENTS
Linking Initiatives and Networking to Control Tuberculosis
Strategic Objective: Desired family health sustainably achieved
ARMM: - Participating units achieving at least 85% treatment success rate for TB
National: - Participating units achieving at least 85% treatment success rate for TB

Component 1:
Policy, Financing and Regulatory
Environment for DOTS Implementation Improved
Subcomponents
1.1: Policy environment improved
1.2: Financing improved
1.3: PPMD DOTS scaled-up and sustained
1.4: Coordination and collaboration strengthened

Component 2:
Systems Capacity for Quality DOTS
Implementation
Improved
Subcomponents
2.1: Human resources and institutional capacity for TB control strengthened
2.2: TB lab network strengthened
2.3: Management and supply of quality anti-TB drugs improved
2.4: Management of MDR-TB improved (PMTM)

Component 3:
Utilization of DOTS Facilities/Services and Behavior and Attitude for TB Control and Treatment
Improved
Subcomponents
3.1: Knowledge and health behaviors improved
3.2: Community involvement in TB detection and treatment improved

Component One – Policy and Finance
1.1 Improved Policy Environment
1.2 Improved and Sustained Financing
1.3 Scaled Up and Sustained PPMDs
1.4 Strengthened Coordination and Collaboration

Goal
Improve national and local policy and financing environment to ensure quality and sustainable DOTS implementation

Key Result areas
National and local policies supportive of DOTS (includes localization of issued-policies like CUP and DOLE guidelines)
Increased financial resources for TB control (include LGU support and PhilHealth)
Financially sustainable public and private DOTS clinics
Stakeholder partnerships for TB control

Component Two – Systems Strengthening
2.1 Strengthened Human Resources and Institutional Capacity for TB Control
2.2 Strengthened TB Laboratory Network
2.3 Continued Supply of Quality Anti-TB Drugs and improved TB drug selection and use
2.4 Improved Management of MDR-TB

Goal
Ensure that health care providers, both public and private, provide quality DOTS

KRAs
All DOTS providers had been trained
200 PPMDs are established
Functional TB laboratory network
TB microscopy laboratories are providing diagnostic services according to standards
DOTS services are accessible in difficult areas
Anti-TB drugs are always available
Contributed to addressing MDR-TB

Component Three – DOTS utilization
3.1 Improved Knowledge and Health Seeking Behavior for TB
3.2 Improved Community Involvement in Improving TB Case Detection and Treatment

Goal
Improve utilization of DOTS facilities and services, and behavior and attitudes to TB control and treatment.

KRAs
Community and households adopting appropriate health-seeking behavior
Increased proportion of TB symptomatics promptly consulting DOTS center
Improved adherence to treatment
Empowered TB clients to do advocacy, communication, and social mobilization (ACSM)
More groups supporting TB control

Some key interventions
Geographic convergence of TB initiatives in supply, demand and policy environment
Strengthening local governance
Networking of DOTS providers
Inter-LGU collaboration to TB control
TB control initiatives in resource-poor areas

Engagement process
Series of CA meetings with DOH, other government agencies, developmental partners,
LGU engagement to be coordinated by HealthGov in non-ARMM areas and by SHIELD in ARMM areas
Orientation of the regional / provincial stakeholders
Coordinated planning with province / LGUs
Regional / provincial investment planning in ARMM
TA to be provided based on local needs

Challenges in ARMM
Making DOTS services available in difficult areas: geographically isolated, conflict-areas
DOTS for mobile TB patients e.g. those traveling to Malaysia or Zamboanga City
Culturally sensitive TB communication materials
LGU support to TB control in non-devolved set-up
PhilHealth accreditation of DOTS facilities in resource poor areas

How to contact TB LINC
Dr. Dolores C. Castillo
Chief of Party
TB LINC
Suite 903, 9F Ma. Natividad Bldg.
470 T.M. Kalaw Avenue corner
Cortada St., Malate, Manila 1000
02-5671434

HealthGov

2008-03-26T02:09:00.000-07:00

Strengthening Local Governance for Health

Cooperating Agencies

RTI International
In partnership with
JHPIEGO
CEDPA
PNGOC

Where we are:
Over 500 LGUs
23 provinces
6 HIV/AIDS high risk zones
Luzon, Visayas and non-ARMM Mindanao

HIV/AIDS zones:
Clark Development Zone (Angeles, San Fernando)
Metro Manila (Pasay City, Quezon City)
Iloilo-Bacolod
Metro Cebu (Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, Cebu City)
Zamboanga City
Davao City-General Santos

Our Goal
Together with DOH-CHD, work with LGUs, NGAs, NGOs/CSOs, help to strengthen LGUs’ commitment to and support for public health services, and capacity to provide, manage, and finance quality health services sustainably by providing assistance in:
Developing LGU capacity for continuous participatory problem solving supported by advocacy (DEMAND)
Developing TAP capacity to provide high quality, customer-oriented TA services needed by LGUs (SUPPLY)

Program Areas
Family planning
Maternal and child health
Vitamin A and Micronutrients Supplementation
Tuberculosis
HIV/AIDS
Emerging Infectious Diseases e.g. Avian influenza, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

What are the Areas for Technical Assistance ?

F1 Reform mechanisms:
Financing (more, better and sustained financing for health)
Regulation (assured quality and affordability of health goods/services)
Service delivery (ensured access and availability of essential basic health packages)
Governance (improved health system performance)

Strengthening key LGU management systems
Improving and expanding LGU financing of key health services
Improving service provider performance
Increasing advocacy on service delivery and financing

Impact/outcomes
Better health outcomes (Improved health sustainably achieved)
Equitable health care financing
More responsive health system (public satisfaction)

Approach
Synergy with FOURmula ONE
Promoting governance for health
Market-driven framework
Strategic use of technical assistance providers (TAPs)
Partnering with DOH, POPCOM, and PhilHealth, NGOs/CSOs

Key Interventions
Strengthen key LGU management systems (IR 1.1)
Improve and expand LGU financing for key health services (IR 1.2)
Improve service provider performance (IR 1.3)
Increase advocacy for service delivery and financing (IR 1.4)
Scoping - consultation meetings
- all regions, provinces
- HIV areas, NGOs/CSOs
Visit to Governors
NGO/CSO Consultation
SDIR / CSR / Financial Mgmt Orientation
Advocacy Activities
Health Planning

USAID TA Teams’ Partnership with DOH, CHDs and LGUs
Facilitate common understanding of health and development, local governance for health, CSR and family health concerns among partners.
Assist LGUs and partners to strengthen local information system for evidence-based participatory decision making.
Assist LGUs and partners adopt HSR consumer/stakeholder participation strategies
Assist in strengthening institutional mechanisms for participatory decision-making.
Assist in developing tools for planning and systems development (local information system; M&E; procurement and logistics; financing and public finance management; quality improvement systems, etc.)
Establish clear policy links between DOH Central Office, CHDs and LGUs.

USAID Technical Assistance Program for Health

2008-03-26T01:59:00.000-07:00

SOAG
USAID’s assistance to the Government of the Philippines is defined by a Strategic Objective Agreement (SOAG) between the two parties through DOH, signed in September 2006
SOAG aims to support the DOH’s national health program, represented by the FOURmula ONE for Health Strategy
USAID program also supports other GRPs agencies’ needs for technical assistance. These agencies include PHIC, NNC, POPCOM; DOF, DILG and DOLE

DOH’s FOURmula ONE (F1):
reform mechanisms and impact/outcomes

F1 Reform mechanisms:
Financing (more, better and sustained financing for health)
Regulation (assured quality and affordability of health goods/services)
Service delivery (ensured access and availability of essential basic health packages)
Governance (improved health system performance)

Impact/ outcomes

Better health outcomes
Equitable health care financing
More responsive health system (public satisfaction)

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE
Improved family health sustainably achieved

INTERMEDIATE RESULT 1
LGU Provision and management of FP/MCH/TB/HIV-AIDS services strengthened

IR 1.1
Key management systems to sustain delivery improved
IR 1.2
LGU financing for key health programs improved
IR 1.3
Performance among service providers improved
IR 1.4
Advocacy for the financing and delivery of health services at the local level increased

INTERMEDIATE RESULT 2
Provision of quality services by private and commercial providers expanded

IR 2.1
Number of TB DOTS and FP service providers in the commercial sector increased
IR 2.2
Quality of commercial sector provision of TB DOTS and FP improved
IR 2.3
Sales of unsubsidized contraceptives increased
IR 2.4
Supply of affordable fortified foods increased

INTERMEDIATE RESULT 3
Greater social acceptance of family planning achieved

IR 3.1
Communications adequately portraying FP as a mainstream health intervention increased
IR 3.2
Key segments of society advocating for the use of FP increased
IR 3.3
Acceptance of FP as a part of routine service package increased

INTERMEDIATE RESULT 4
Policy environment and financing for provision of services improved
IR 4.1
Policies and financing to ensure supply of contraceptive established
IR 4.2
Appropriate legal and regulatory policies to promote provision of services established
IR 4.3
Policies to mobilize financing and resources for key services established

USAID aims to support the Philippines national health strategy, represented by FOURmula ONE

F1 Reform mechanisms:
Financing (more, better and sustained financing for health)
Regulation (assured quality and affordability of health goods/services)
Service delivery (ensured access and availability of essential basic health packages)
Governance (improved health system performance)

USAID’s strategic assistance
IR.1 LGU provision and management of FP/MCH/TB/HIV-AIDS services strengthened
IR.2 Provision of quality services in the commercial sector increased
IR.3 Greater social acceptance of family planning achieved
IR.4 Policy environment and financing for provision of services improved

Impact/outcomes
Better health outcomes (Improved family health sustainably achieved)
Equitable health care financing
More responsive health system (public satisfaction)

USAID Projects

USAID strategic assistance

IR 1. LGU provision and management of FP, MCH, TB, HIV/AIDS services strengthened
IR 2. Provision of quality services in the commercial sector increased
IR 3. Greater social acceptance of family planning achieved
IR 4. Policy environment and financing for provision of services improved

Leads to:
HealthGov, TB LINC, A2Z, ARMM-SHIELD
PRISM, TB LINC, A2Z
Health Communications Project
HPDP

FOURmula 1 FOR HEALTH

2008-03-26T01:51:00.000-07:00

By: MA.GLENDA A. FORTUNO, M.D., MPH
Medical Specialist IV
DOH Representative for Albay

Another topic during the Albay Health Summit...

Fourmula One for Health (F1):
DOH Strategic Plan to implement health reforms (2005-2010)
Implementation framework for health sector reforms in the Philippines
Designed to implement critical health interventions as a single package backed by effective management infrastructure and financing arrangements
Engages the entire health sector to get involved in the implementation of health reforms
Invitation to join the collective race against: a. fragmentation of the health system; b. Inequity of health care; c. Impoverishing effects of ill health

General Objective:

To achieve critical reforms with speed, precision and effective coordination directed at improving the quality, efficiency, effectiveness and equity of the Philippine Health system in a manner that is felt and appreciated by Filipinos especially the poor.

Local governance in health (realizations):

There are major health problems. LGU resources are limited. Need for health interventions that are effective, efficient and equitable.
Individual interventions implemented in isolation will not work, it might even do more harm. Need to implement an integrated package of mutually supporting interventions.
Health sector is not just the public health sector but includes the private sector as well. LGU health governance includes involving the private sector.
LGUs should view NGOs/CSOs not as adversaries but as partners in health.
Health sector reform is a complex undertaking; it requires participatory decision-making for it to succeed.

The Micronutrients: Vitamin A, Iron and Zinc

2008-03-26T01:43:00.000-07:00

MICRONUTRIENTS

“Called micronutrients because they are needed only in miniscule amounts; these substances are the “magic wands” that enable the body to produce enzymes, hormones, and other substances essential for proper growth and development. As tiny as the amounts are, however, the consequences of their absence are severe” (WHO 2006)

Vitamin A, iron and zinc are micronutrients

What is Vitamin A?
It is an essential nutrient needed by the body for normal sight, growth, reproduction, cell differentiation and immune competence

What are the Consequences of Vitamin A Deficiency Disorders?
23% higher child mortality
More severe infections
Major cause of preventable childhood blindness
Weaker immunity
Poorer growth

What are the Community Consequences of Vitamin A Deficiency Disorders?
More child deaths
More children in hospitals
Higher health care cost
Life-long burden of caring for the blind
More underweight children

How will you know that your Community has Vitamin A Deficiency Disorders?
High Rates of Child Malnutrition, Persistent Diarrhea, Respiratory Infections, Measles
Low Rates of Breatsfeeding
Low intake of Vitamin A - rich foods
Under Five Mortality Rate - (U5 MR > 50 per 1,000 live birth)

What can the Governor/Mayor and Sanggunian do?
Extend your political leadership to the Garantisadong Pambata (GP) Campaign
Ensure enough supply of Vitamin A Capsules at the health center for children with measles, severe pnuemonia, persistent diarrhea and underweight and post partum women

What is Iron?
Essential trace mineral needed for hemoglobin formation
Stored in the liver, bone marrow and spleen
Better absorbed with Vitamin C

What are the Consequences of Iron Deficiency?
Adults:
Fatigue, low work productivity, apathy

Infants:
Low birth weight, increased illness

Children:
Poor attention span, reduced memory
Lower scores on achievement tests
Poor cognitive development

Mothers
Increased illness and maternal deaths

What can the Governor/ Mayor and Sanggunian Do?
Ensure supply of iron supplements for pregnant women, lactating women, infants and children in the health center
Promote exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months
Promote use of appropriate complementary foods
Ensure supply of deworming drugs in the health center

New Developments
Zinc supplementation decreases the episodes, reduces the duration and severity of diarrhea

Why use Reformulated Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)?
Reformulated or improved ORS - has reduced glucose and salt (NaCl) concentrations

Shortens diarrhea episodes
Reduces the severity of diarrhea
Minimizes fluid and electrolyte losses
Prevents malnutrition
Prevents complications

A2Z

2008-03-26T01:33:00.000-07:00

I am now posting the lectures from the Albay Health Summit where I have attended and Board Member Borja (Uncle Nonon).

A2Z
The Micronutrient Project

Background

1. Vitamin A deficiency and anemia are public health problems.
- the prevalence of VAD and anemia have been increasing in the past decade - the country’s attainment of the MDGs is seriously compromised unless the MN situation is improved

2. Pneumonia, diarrhea and measles are leading causes of child deaths. These childhood illnesses are preventable through MN.

3. The multiple causes of VAD and anemia include inadequate intake of bioavailable vit A and iron, frequent and persistent infections, poor sanitation and hygiene and poor women’s health.

4. Government addresses VAD through vit A supplementation for children 6–59 mo. and high-risk population groups.
- VAS coverage has been declining, while not all LGUs procure VACs for high-risk groups

5. There is no comprehensive National Anemia Reduction Plan, thus no package that addresses the multiple causes of the problem.

6. Deworming which addresses anemia was a component of Garantisadong Pambata in 2006 and 2007 but not in earlier years.

7. While DOH adopted iron supplementation in the control of anemia(DO#181,s2000), provision of iron supplements(along with other health services), is the LGU responsibility.

8. Zinc as an adjunct therapy for diarrhea is not yet in place in the public sector.
- Guidelines for the use of zinc with the low osmolar Oral Rehydration Solution(ORS) have been incorporated in the IMCI algorithm but not all of the health staff has received training/updates

9. While there is a Food Fortification Law (The Philippine Food Fortification Act of 2000 or Republic Act 8976), it has not been fully implemented.
- the quality and coverage of wheat flour and oil fortification are still inadequate
- rice and sugar fortification have been beset with major difficulties
- the Sangkap Pinoy Seal (SPS) Program for processed foods is mainly increasing Vitamin A intake

Overall Approach
Technical Assistance at the National Level

Support policy and program development
Policy review/revision (Micronutrient Supplementation, Food Fortification),
Formulation of National Strategic Plans (Anemia Reduction, Food Fortification) and Policies (use of zinc for diarrhea treatment),
Analysis of national nutrition data for policy
Development, of monitoring and quality control systems for the Food Fortification program)
Strengthening LGU capability to assess, plan, implement and monitor micronutrient programs
Development of management and monitoring tools
Conduct of LGU advocacy fora for support to micronutrient interventions
Communication micro-planning on micronutrient program

A2Z Secondary Objectives
• Increase in VAS coverage among high-risk (severe pneumonia, persistent diarrhea, measles and undernutrition) children
• Increase VAS among post partum women, within one month after delivery
• Increase supplementation coverage for complete iron dosage(1tablet/day for 6 mo or 180 days) among pregnant women
• Increase iron supplementation coverage among children, 6-59 months
• Increase deworming coverage among children, 12-59 months

A2Z Technical Assistance to 29 USG Assisted Areas
Health Gov: 23 Provinces

LUZON
- Albay
- Bulacan
- Cagayan
- Isabela
- Nueva Ecija
- Pangasinan
- Tarlac

VISAYAS
- Aklan
- Bohol
- Capiz
- Negros Occidental
- Oriental Negros

MINDANAO
- Agusan del Norte
- Bukidnon
- Compostela Valley
- Davao del Sur
- Misamis Occidental
- Misamis Oriental
- Sarangani
- South Cotabato
- Zamboanga del Norte
- Zamboanga del Sur
- Zamboanga Sibugay

SHIELD - 6 Provinces

ARMM
- Basilan
- Lanao del Sur
- Maguindanao
- Sharif Kabunsuan
- Sulu
- Tawi-tawi

SENTI SOUND TRIP

2008-03-18T01:21:00.000-07:00

I'ts already 2am, I can't sleep... The voice of Amy of Evanescence is haunting me with her My Immortal... Axl Rose, Slash, Duff and the rest of the Guns and Roses is serenading me with November Rain...

What's wrong with me? Am I insomiac? I have watched all of my Naruto Shipuuden files and yet Mr. Sandman is not yet visiting me...

Now its My Chemical Romance's turn to lullaby me with their song Cancer...

Senti, emo, hopeless romantic, disturbed, etc, etc... Whatever you may call this feelings... It is a proof that you are alive... You have heart and your bleeding inside...

I remembered Gaara when he was still young, he was curious why he is feeling pain when he have no wounds at all...

Pain... A term I love and a term I loathe at the same time...

As I feel the music in my soul... I feel the pain... I feel alive... I am still a friggin human being... Eventhough I always thought I am Lestat! Ha ha ha ha ha me and my fantasies... Boys will boys...

Does this mean I am a masochist? Wow! Greenday with Wake Me Up When September Ends... Well, I relly don't know the categorical answer to my own queries... That's why I write... That's why I am in my journey...

My lips are beginning to feel parched... I need a drink... Ooooppppssss no more alcohol... Alcohol makes me violent lately... As if I am Wolverine or a drunk Rock Lee...

Maybe this is just a part of entering mid life... A midlife crisis I guess...

Know what?! Im such a corny freak... I'm crying at the song of Hugh Grant and Halley Bennett's Way Back into LOve... People may think I am crazy as I beat my hands with rythmn, then type, then cry, then smile... I relly love the song and the fuckin' movie!

Where's Dolores O'riordan nowadays... I miss the Cranberries... Zombie! Zombehe he he he... The voice... The message... A videoke fave of my troops during college days...

AAAAAARRRRGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!! Perfect by Simple Plan my theme song for my Vice Mayor Father! I hate him and I love him at the same time! Fuck! Why can't he accept that I'm not what he is expecting of me? He is passing the burden of his shadow on me! I know I have frustrated him so many fucking times but that is fuckin' life! You live! You Learn! From your own mistakes! From your own Battles! Puta! Nag ibi na naman ako!

Add the song Numb by Linkin Park (another song for my father) and I will go berserk!

I need a song to calm me...The Calling is the answer... Their song Stigmatized... Yes calm me...

For the finale - - Audioslave's Be yourself... pls put me into sleep... I need to be early tomorrow... zzzzz

ETHICS CFA EXAM SAMPLE

2008-03-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

1. Which of the following statements about fundamental responsibilities of members who practice in multiple jurisdictions is TRUE?

A. In cases where federal law differs from CFA Institute®'s Code and Standards, federal law prevails.
B. In the absence of specific applicable laws or other regulatory requirements, the CFA Institute Code and Standards govern the member's conduct.
C. A member who trades securities in a foreign market having no applicable local laws or rules may use material nonpublic information to make investment decisions.
D. A member is required to comply only with applicable local laws, rules, and regulations even though CFA Institute's Code and Standards may impose a higher degree of responsibility.

2. An analyst subject to CFA Institute® Standards of Professional Conduct, to comply with Standard I(A) Fundamental Responsibilities, should do all the following EXCEPT:

A. learn the laws and rules governing his or her conduct.
B. seek the advice of counsel when in doubt concerning the requirements of the law.
C. implementation and/or follow internal compliance procedure designed to prevent legal violations.
D. adopt CFA Institute’s Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS®) for reporting investment results.

3. Tamara Higgins is the Compliance Officer for Hedge Funds Unlimited, a global hedge fund with offices in New York, London and Singapore. The firm has publicly acknowledged in writing that it has adopted the CFA Institute Code and Standards as its policies. Although Higgins is not currently participating in the CFA program, she will begin the program next year. For purposes of compliance, which of the following is least likely a violation of the firm's policies and the CFA Institute Code and Standards?

A. A portfolio manager at the firm accepts an undisclosed trip to Bermuda as a gift for good performance from a client.
B. An analyst at the firm working overseas uses material nonpublic information as allowed by local law to make investment decisions for discretionary client accounts.
C. A junior analyst at the firm uses a subscription to a financial publication and input from friends and colleagues to make investment recommendations for discretionary client accounts.
D. A CFA Level 3 candidate at the firm includes reference to participation in the CFA program and her status as a Level 3 candidate in her biographical background for an upcoming client presentation.

4. Which of the following violates the CFA Institute® Standards of Professional Conduct on the appropriate use of the Chartered Financial Analyst® and CFA® mark?

A. Langley has passed all three levels of the CFA program, has received his charter, and is a charterholder in good standing. He writes on his business card, "Roger Langley, Chartered Financial Analyst."
B. Langley has passed all three levels of the CFA program, has received his charter, and is a charterholder in good standing. His company writes in promotional literature, "Roger Langley is one of two CFAs in the company."
C. Langley has passed Level 2 and is registered to take the Level 3 examination. In his resume he states, "I am a Level 3 candidate in the CFA program."
D. Langley was awarded the CFA designation in 1980 but stopped paying dues in 2000. In his retirement speech in 2001, he stated, "I was awarded the CFA charter in 1980."

5. John Anderson's company is participating in an acquisition. To speed up the process, his manager gave him a report from another company's analyst, also working on the project, and told Anderson to put it on company letterhead and distribute the report by the end of the day. If Anderson, who is an CFA Institute member, complies, which of the following CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct will he have broken?

A. Standard IV(A.2), Research Reports.
B. Standard II(C), Prohibition against Plagiarism.
C. Standard IV(B.6), Prohibition against Misrepresentation.
D. Standard IV(B.2), Portfolio Investment Recommendations and Actions.

6. Ann Smith, CFA, calls Bill Jones, CFA, and tells him that her research shows that Biokem Company is overpriced. After their conversation, Jones arranges a conference call with all the firm’s portfolio managers and announces that his research indicates Biokem is a strong “sell”. According to CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, which of the following statements is most accurate?

A. Jones did not commit plagiarism because Smith’s comments were verbal.
B. Jones has just plagiarized Smith’s research because he did not credit her as the source.
C. Because Smith told Jones, the information is now public; Jones can do whatever he wants with it.
D. Jones did not plagiarize Smith’s work because he did not actually see the research that she produced.

7. Sommerset Brokerage, a retail broker-dealer, employs several CFA charterholders and candidates participating in the CFA program and has publicly acknowledged in writing the adoption of the CFA Institute Code and Standards as the firm's policies. Doug Watson, a CFA Level 2 candidate and registered representative, was recently hired by Sommerset, but failed to notify the firm about his status as a CFA candidate and his outside employment as an instructor for securities licensing examinations. Which of the following best describes Watson's actions under the CFA Institute Code and Standards? Watson has violated:

A. Standard III Relationships and Responsibilities to the Employer, for failing to disclose additional compensation received as an instructor.
B. Standard I Fundamental Responsibilities, by failing to notify his employer within 30 days of hiring of his status as a CFA candidate and that he holds securities licenses.
C. Standard III Relationships and Responsibilities to the Employer, for failing to inform his employer of his obligations under the Code and Standards and to deliver a copy of the Code and Standards.
D. Standard III Relationships and Responsibilities to the Employer, by failing to inform his employer of his obligations under the Code and Standards and for failing to disclose additional compensation received as an instructor.

8. Anna Jacobs, Level 2 CFA candidate, recently left Wellwood Advisers, where she was a portfolio manager, for Lockwood Financial Services. Prior to leaving Wellwood, Jacobs sent a mailing to rejected clients informing them of her move to Lockwood. Jacobs serves as a financial consultant for several local businesses for which she is paid a cash retainer. Upon starting at Lockwood, Jacobs informs her supervisor that she is a CFA candidate and subject to certain rules that the supervisor can learn about from the CFA Institute website. Which of the following regarding Standard III Relationships and Responsibilities to the Employer best describes Jacobs' actions? Jacobs has:

A. violated the Standard by soliciting clients of Wellwood prior to moving to Lockwood.
B. violated the Standard by failing to disclose additional compensation received as a consultant.
C. NOT violated the Standard since she provided proper notification to clients regarding her change from Wellwood to Lockwood.
D. NOT violated the Standard since she informed her new supervisor about her participation in the CFA program and how to find out more information.

9. Which of the following statements about soft dollar standards is FALSE?

A. The investment manager must inform the client that the manager may engage in soft dollar arrangements before doing so.
B. The broker can use brokerage from another client's account to pay for research under the client-directed brokerage arrangement.
C. The investment manager cannot allocate a client's brokerage to a broker based on the amount of referrals the manager receives from the broker.
D. To use client brokerage to buy research, the manager should determine that the research meets the definition of research and that it directly benefits the client.

10. Marianne Riley, CFA, owns an investment research boutique that specializes in mining and exploration stocks. As a local investor, Riley maintains close relationships with local corporate officers, often participating in one-on-one meetings. Riley has a history of prescient investment recommendations and maintains clients throughout Canada, the U.S. and Europe. On a recent conference call with clients and prospects, Riley gives a brief description of a local silver mining company she follows, Silverado, Inc. Riley recommends a "buy" on Silverado, indicating that the stock should advance in the next three to six months based on the fact that she believes consumers are buying more silver products. Which of the following Standards most likely governs Riley's investment recommendation?

A. Standard IV(A.2) Research Reports.
B. Standard II(C) Prohibition Against Plagiarism.
C. Standard IV(B.2) Portfolio Investment Recommendations and Actions.
D. Standard V(A) Prohibition Against Use of Material Nonpublic Information.

11. Ken Toma, a CFA charterholder and leisure services analyst, has just completed an extensive review of the demand for beach vacations in Hawaii and concluded that the demand will far exceed the supply for the foreseeable future. Toma writes a research report stating, "Based on the fact that the demand for Hawaiian beach vacations will exceed the supply of rooms for the foreseeable future, I recommend the purchase of shares of the Hawaiian fund, a diversified portfolio of Hawaiian beachfront resorts." If Toma presents this report to his clients, he will have:

A. violated the CFA Institute standards because he did not distinguish between fact and opinion.
B. complied with the CFA Institute standards by completing a thorough and diligent review of the facts.
C. violated the CFA Institute standards because he made conclusions based only upon his own research.
D. violated the CFA Institute standards because he did not indicate the basic characteristics of the investment.

12. Roger Smith, CFA, has been invited to join a group of analysts in touring the riverboats of River Casino Corp. For the tour, River Casino has arranged chartered flights from casino to casino, since commercial flight schedules are inconvenient and not practical for the group's time schedule. River Casino has also arranged to pay the hotel bill for the three nights of the tour. The trip is purely business. According to CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, Smith should:

A. accept the arrangements as they are.
B. accept the flight, but pay his own hotel bill.
C. offer to pay for his share of the airfare and his own hotel bill.
D. decline to accept the trip because the arrangements are inappropriate.

13. Natalie Oswald, CFA, is the investment manager of a corporate pension plan. Under Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), she owes her fiduciary duty to:

A. the plan sponsor.
B. the firm's shareholders.
C. all of the above equally.
D. the plan participants and beneficiaries.

14. Jaime Young, CFA, has constructed a portfolio for Donna Rhee that generates an income stream suitable to Rhee's needs and risk tolerances. However, Jim Weaver, Young's supervisor, believes some of the individual assets in the portfolio are inconsistent with an individual of Rhee's age. The supervisor believes Young should eliminate the questionable securities even if it requires putting Rhee into some low-yield assets. According to CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, which of the following is the most appropriate response for Young to give Weaver?

A. Go along with Weaver because he is her supervisor.
B. Quit; her supervisor has no adequate basis for his request.
C. Go along with Weaver because the prudent expert rule applies to the individual components in a portfolio.
D. Explain to Weaver that prudence is based on the characteristics of the client's entire portfolio and not on the individual assets in the portfolio.

15. Dawn Shepard, CFA, is a research analyst for a regional brokerage firm. Her research has convinced her to change her recommendation on the common stock of Orlando, Inc. from "buy" to "sell." She faxed this change to all her current customers who had expressed an interest in Orlando, Inc. The next day, one of her occasional customers who had never before expressed an interest in Orlando calls and places a "buy" order for 500 shares of Orlando. According to CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, Shepard, in these circumstances:

A. may accept the order because she has complied with the fair dealing standard.
B. should advise the customer of the change in recommendation before accepting the order.
C. should delay executing the order until five days have elapsed after the communication of the change in recommendation.
D. may accept the order only if the customer acknowledges in writing that she was notified of the change in the recommendation.

16. Matt Jacobs is a portfolio assistant for Cumberland Investments, a registered investment adviser. Jacobs recently completed Level 2 of the CFA examination and is currently registered for Level III. As part of his daily responsibilities in assisting the portfolio manager, Jacobs implements portfolio trades for discretionary client accounts. All of the following comply with the CFA Institute Code and Standards regarding fiduciary duty EXCEPT Jacobs:

A. includes discretionary accounts of friends and family in client allocations of new issues.
B. allocates trades to asset-based fee accounts and performance-based fee accounts on a pro-rata basis.
C. includes the Cumberland Pension Plan accounts in client trade allocations for similar investment mandates.
D. allocates trades to personal trust accounts under his discretion before client accounts, but after Cumberland proprietary accounts.

17. According to CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, a member who receives confidential information through a relationship of trust must maintain the confidentiality of this information if:

A. the information is highly sensitive or illegal.
B. and only if the information is of a material and nonpublic nature.
C. the information may be construed as a conflict of interest to the member's employer.
D. the information results from, and is relevant to, the business covered by the client relationship.

18. An analyst just told an investor, "You should buy Delfonics Inc. This stock is guaranteed to give you a 100 percent risk-free return over the next six months." Which standard did the analyst violate?

A. Standard IV(B.3) Fair Dealing.
B. Standard IV(B.2b) Appropriateness and Suitability.
C. Standard IV(B.6) Prohibition against Misrepresentation.
D. Standard IV(A. 1) Reasonable Basis and Representations.

19. Chris Matlock, a CFA charterholder and an analyst for R&B Securities, is preparing a buy recommendation on King Company. According to CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, which of the following is NOT a conflict of interest that he would normally disclose?

A. R&B is a market maker for King Company stock.
B. Matlock's son works at King Company.
C. Matlock has a consulting contract with King Company.
D. Matlock's wife has a family trust fund that holds a substantial block of King Company stock.

20. Alyssa Wilcox is a registered representative for Comprehensive Brokers and a CFA Level 1 candidate. Wilcox usually makes investment recommendations for clients based on a semi-annual mailing to clients that requests an update on clients' investment objectives, financial situation and investment experience. Wilcox regularly attends new issue roadshows offered by her colleagues in investment banking, who will give her shares of a new issue if the issue is purchased by at least half of her client accounts. Wilcox has personally received shares in half of the company's total new issue underwritings for the year, but will only allocate shares to large client accounts suitable for investing in new issues. Which of the following best describes Wilcox's actions under the CFA Institute Code and Standards? Wilcox has:

A. fulfilled her responsibility under the Fair Dealing standard [Standard IV(B.3)].
B. not fulfilled her responsibility under the Preservation of Confidentiality standard [Standard IV(B.5)].
C. not fulfilled her responsibility under the Disclosure of Conflicts to Clients standard [Standard IV(B.7)].
D. fulfilled her responsibility under the Portfolio Investment Recommendations and Actions standard [Standard IV(B.2)].

21. Jarrett Rogers, CFA, is a registered principal for Macrovest Broker-Dealer. Rogers is the head of the firm's investment program and recommends certain investment advisers in the program to high net worth individuals looking for separately-managed discretionary accounts. Investment advisers in the program pay Macrovest a portion of their investment management fees to participate in the program, some of which is paid to Rogers as compensation for client recommendations. When a client inquires with Rogers about criteria for including managers in the Macrovest program, Rogers indicates that managers are selected based only on historical investment performance versus a universe of comparable peer investment managers. According to the CFA Institute Code and Standards, Rogers' actions are most likely covered by:

A. Standard IV(B.8) Disclosure of Referral Fees.
B. Standard III(C) Disclosure of Conflicts to Employer.
C. Standard IV(B.6) Prohibition Against Misrepresentation.
D. Standard IV(B.2) Portfolio Investment Recommendations and Actions.

22. Anne Franklin, CFA, is an analyst for Medallion Investments covering technology stocks. Franklin frequently meets with company management and makes on-site visits to company facilities. Cynthia Lucas, chief technology officer for Level Tech, tells Franklin during a one-on-one on-site visit that overseas shipments of the company's revolutionary product are going to be delayed indefinitely due to manufacturing defects. Medallion manages discretionary accounts for Lucas and her family and Lucas frequently shares information with Franklin in appreciation for good stock picks. Subsequent to her meeting, Franklin sends a note to Medallion's investment personnel telling them to "sell the stock", as the shipment information is significant and impacts recent earnings guidance in the market. Franklin's use of the information received from Lucas:

A. violates the Code and Standards, as Franklin received information that was misappropriated and should not have been disseminated.
B. violates the Code and Standards, as Franklin received information through a breach of fiduciary duty and should not have been disseminated.
C. does not violate the Code and Standards, as Franklin was using information that was publicly disclosed and can be used to initiate trading recommendations.
D. does not violate the Code and Standards, as Franklin was adhering to her fiduciary duty to Medallion's clients by sharing the information and recommending a "sell."

23. John Farr, CFA, has accumulated several pieces of nonpublic information about Cattle Corp. of Omaha from his contacts with the company. Although none of this information is material by itself, when Farr combines it with his own analysis, it leads him to conclude that Cattle Corp. will have an unexpectedly low earnings report this year. Cattle Corp. has not announced this information and although Farr has contacted the company, they will not confirm his finding. According to CFA Institute Standards of Professional Conduct, Farr:

A. can use the information to make investment recommendations and decisions.
B. cannot legally invest, divest or make recommendations based on this information.
C. should inform the company in writing that he possesses this information, then after a reasonable time period he can trade on this information.
D. may use the information, but only if his company's compliance officer is able to verify with Cattle Corp. that the material he used was indeed nonmaterial.

24. Bill Fox, CFA, has been preparing a research report on New London Wire and Cable, one of his major investment clients. He had completed much of his analysis and had planned on having his report typed and bound today. Unfortunately, his briefcase was stolen while he ate breakfast, and he lost all his notes and working papers. The lost materials included his notes from management interviews, conversations with suppliers and competitors, dates of company visits, and his computer diskette containing much of his quantitative analysis. Fox's client needs this report tomorrow. In a panic Fox called New London's vice president of finance and was faxed a copy of the company's most recent financial projections. Fox remembered that his own analysis showed that management's estimates were too high. He did not remember the exact amount, so he revised New London's figures downward by 10 percent. Fox also incorporated, without acknowledgement, some charts and graphs on New London from a research report he had received llast week from a small regional research firm and used some information from a S&P reference work. With the help of his secretary, a copy machine, and some creative word processing, Fox got the report done in time for the evening overnight delivery pick up. Fox violated all of the following standards in CFA Institute's Standards of Professional Conduct EXCEPT:

A. Standard II(C) Prohibition against Plagiarism.
B. Standard IV(A.1d) Reasonable Basis—maintain appropriate records.
C. Standard IV(A.1a) Reasonable Basis—exercise diligence and thoroughness.
D. Standard IV(B.2) Portfolio Investment Recommendations and Actions: separating fact from opinion.

25. According to CFA Institute Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS), which of the following statements concerning the calculation of composite returns is FALSE?

A. Asset weighting within composites is required using beginning of period weights.
B. Portfolios no longer under management should be included in historical composites.
C. Model results may be presented if they conform to the portfolio's investment strategy and objectives.
D. Each composite must include all portfolios or asset classes representing a similar investment strategy or investment objective.

Please send your answers to RGBorja.LGUPolangui@gmail.com.ph on or before April 10, 2008. Thank You.

Orientation for the Chartered Financial Analyst

2008-03-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

What is the CFA Program?
• A self-study, distance learning-based program
• Accreditation Process
• Requirements for Award of the Charter
– Sequentially pass Level I, II and III exams
– Have 3 years of relevant professional experience
– Provide professional references (Level III)
– Apply for CFA Institute Membership
– Submit professional conduct statement

Member and Candidate Growth

Components of the Program
• Involves practical and relevant education for investment and other finance professionals

Inputs to the Program
• The learning process is tied to current practice trends
• Job analysis every five years, which involves thousands of practitioner surveys, answers the question: “What knowledge and skills are needed”?
• Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK), Curriculum, Learning Outcome Statements (LOS), and exams are all based on this

The Curriculum
? Readings are drawn from various materials
? Each has learning outcome statements (LOS): “The candidate should be able to…”
? Each LOS has one or more command words, which indicate type of learning expected: “discuss, calculate, contrast”
? LOS are NOT a proxy for exam questions, but ARE the best guide for candidate study

Why Take the CFA?
• The Charter is a globally recognized and portable standard of competence and integrity for investment professionals
• Knowledge across core areas of the investment industry
• Respect and credibility in the investment community

More Tangible Charter Benefits
• Greater earning power; in the U.S., the CFA premium is about $40k (+25%)
• Career opportunities in a competitive environment
– Many local charter holders have gone abroad
– Outsourcing; investment-related jobs will eventually find their way to the Philippines
– Hired by brokers, investment/commercial banks, mutual funds, consulting companies, etc.

Examination Features
• Based on assigned readings and LOS
• Average time to answer is limited
– Level I: 1.5 minutes for each of 240 questions
– Levels II and III: Each question is timed
• Exam type:
– Level I is 100% multiple choice
– Level II is 100% item set
– Level III is 50% item set, 50% essay

Examination Features
• Total exam time is six hours for all 3 levels; three hours each for the AM and PM sessions
• Topic weights are shown in the study guide
• Many questions tend to repeat the same concepts or computational procedures from previous exams
• Again, the LOS provide you an important guide as to the types of questions you will encounter

Grading of the Exams
• Guiding philosophy is fairness and consistency
• A detailed and structured process
• Depending on the type, questions are either 1) machine graded or 2) graded by a team of charter holders
• Answers to Essay questions are evaluated for knowledge and content, not style or language

Minimum Passing Score (MPS)
• Set by the CFA Institute Board of Governors
• Various inputs and metrics used
• Passing rate for each level is a residual determined by each level’s MPS
• The MPS is set for the exam as a whole and not for individual topic areas or item sets
• Ethics/FSA are very important sections; may determine if you pass or fail

Individual Preparation
• The best strategy is to be overly prepared
• Make time for your studies
– Bare minimum of 250 hours; better if 300 hours
– Excludes attendance in review course
– 30 weeks x 10 hours per week = 300 hours
• Read ALL materials (twice if possible) and hone skills through practice exams, quizzes
• Read more about the CFA program
• Use the Study Guide (2006) as your map
• Before each of our sessions, you should have:
– Read the assigned readings
– Solve the quizzes, sample exams, problems, etc.
•After each session:
– Solve more practice questions
– See if you are comfortable with the LOS
• After the course, you will have about 5 weeks to go back and review everything

Assorted Tips
• Try studying/buying materials in groups
• Ask for study leave from your boss/firm
– Write a letter to justify this “special” leave
– You’ll never know unless you try
• Use the sample exams to determine your weak areas and then concentrate on them
• Know your calculator (Texas BAII+/HP 12c only)
• Take a break during Christmas/Holy Week

Raul Castro is new president of Cuba

2008-03-16T18:48:00.001-07:00

RAUL Castro was elected Cuban president on February 25 by the National Assembly of Cuba after the ailing Fidel Castro formally resigned as president. Ever since Fidel fell ill in 2005, Raul has taken on the duties of the president of Cuba while concurrently serving as chief of the Armed Forces of Cuba. Raul Castro, who is a younger brother of Fidel, is also a veteran of the Cuban revolution.

Actual US expenses on Iraqi war amount to $3 trillion

2008-03-16T18:47:00.001-07:00

THE costs of the US' war and five-year occupation of Iraq has reached a staggering $3 trillion, or ten times more than what is stated in official reports, according to a study conducted by Joseph Stiglitz, former World Bank chief economist.

Stiglitz said the inflated expenses are due to huge contracts worth $193 million bagged by Halliburton, a close ally of Vice President Dick Cheney; high salaries of contracted private security forces ($400,000/year) compared to the relatively low salaries of soldiers ($40,000/year); and overpriced contracts for items such as painting that could have been awarded to the Iraqis at $5 million but were instead contracted out to an American company at $25 million. A huge part of the expenses also went to hospitalization, caring for the sick and funerals for war casualties that were not reflected in the military budget but were instead posted in other departments like the Department of Health.

The actual amount is even bigger if soaring prices of oil are to be factored in. Five years after the occupation, the US has not benefited from Iraqi oil. The total costs also exclude expenses incurred for attending to internal and external Iraqi refugees, medical treatment of Iraqi casualties and the long-term rehabilitation of both American and Iraqi bombing casualties.

The US has resorted to foreign borrowing to sustain its terrorist war on the Iraqi people. A substantial part of this loan amounting to $1 trillion came from China.

Meanwhile, according to a study by an economist of the UK Defence Department, the UK has already incurred war expenses amounting to 5 billion euro ($7.5 billion) as of 2006. An estimated $1 billion was also spent last year.

American soldier in Japan rapes Filipina

2008-03-16T18:46:00.002-07:00

A Filipina migrant worker was raped by an American soldier in Okinawa, Japan on February 18. The victim has filed charges against the rapist and is now under the protection of the Okinawa police.

The incident has fueled outrage anew among Filipinos. Successive protests were launched by various women's groups led by Gabriela, at the US embassy to condemn the rape and push for an end to US military presence in the Philippines and other Asian countries. The militant women's group likewise condemned the Arroyo regime's inaction over the issue. If this case is not closely monitored, said Gabriela, the puppet regime will surely cover up the crime just as it did on the rape case of a Filipina in Subic in 2006.

In a related development, 52 women representatives passed a resolution supporting the victim in filing charges against the American soldier. They also called on the Arroyo government to provide legal and financial assistance to the victim throughout the duration of the case and urged the Arroyo government to file a diplomatic protest against the United States.

The Japanese people likewise abhor the US military ases and the huge American military presence in their country. The rape of the Filipina in Okinawa occurred just a few days after an earlier rape of a 14year old Japanese student by another American soldier. Outraged, the local government of Okinawa imposed a curfew and restricted American troop movement in the area. Irate Okinawans also set up a surveillance camera at the gates of the base to monitor the soldiers' movements. They have long been demanding the immediate pullout of all American troops due to repeated cases of human rights violations and the trampling of the Japanese people's sovereignty.

Bayan Muna demands investigation of ODA-funded projects

2008-03-16T18:46:00.001-07:00

Bayan Muna demands investigation of ODA-funded projects

THE Bayan Muna party called for an immediate investigation of government projects funded by foreign loans. Rep. Teddy Casiño urged Congress, through the Congressional Oversight Committee on Foreign-Funded Projects to review projects financed by overseas development assistance (ODA) to uncover anomalies involving them. The call was made after the sudden cancellation by Arroyo of 11 projects belonging to this category.

The projects are the Angat Water Utilization and Aqueduct Improvement Project Phase 2 in Metro Manila worth `5.75 billion; Bataan Manila Pipeline Project, `7.2 billion; LRT line 2 Phase 2 Extension (Santolan to Masinag, Antipolo), `10.33 billion; LRT line 1 North Extension, `5.98 billion; Cyber-Education Project, `26.48 billion; Mainline Southrail Project Phase 1A, `15.30 billion; LRT 1 line 1 South Extension (Pasay to Bacoor, Cavite) `15.3 billion; New Communications, Navigation, Surveillance and Air Traffic Management Systems Development Project in North Luzon, `2.64 billion; Regionalization of Mental Health Services in Luzon Urban Beltway, `1.32 billion; Redevelopment of Tacloban Airport Development Project Phase II, `1.12 billion; and even the construction of classrooms for elementary and high school that totals `45.67M. In total, these projects amount to `104 billion.

Choose to be Rich Program
031108

Liquidate your credit card loans. Take stock of your unsecured credit card debt by filling in the chart below. In the margin reorganize the list in descending order of interest rate. Pay off the card with the highest Annual Percentage Rates (APR) first then proceed doewn the line.

Credit Card - Minimum Monthly Payment - Balance - Interest Rate -

Sad to say (or the reverse) I don't have a credit card...

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
031108

1. I don't have a credit card!
2. I am intelligent and full of tactics!
3. I am a millionaire!
4. I am going to Dubai by July!

Jonas Burgos listed in the AFP Order of Battle

2008-03-16T18:45:00.000-07:00

Jonas Burgos listed in the AFP Order of Battle

EDITHA Burgos, mother of missing activist Jonas Burgos recently said in an interview that a military secret report states that her son was listed in the Order of Battle (OB) of the AFP, which establishes the motive for his abduction by military agents. The OB is a military list of targeted enemies.

According to Mrs. Burgos, a soldier (who requested anonymity) belonging to the 56th IB of the Philippine Army based in Norzagaray, Bulacan disclosed that Jonas was suspected to be the head of the NPA Intelligence Department in the province of Bulacan and hid under the aliases Ka Raymond, Ka Ramon or Ka Simon.

Jonas has reportedly been in the AFP OB since Marso 17, 2007. The document also revealed that the military was behind his abduction in the Ever Gotesco in Quezon City in April. He underwent tactical investigation first before being reported "neutralized", a military term for "killed."

The military has also implicated Jonas' wife Marian, whose cousin has suffered harassment from persons who introduced themselves as members of the Commission on Human Rights who were trying to locate Jonas' wife and child.

Mrs. Burgos disclosed the information in the course of hearings at the Court of Appeals on her family’s petition for a writ of amparo. Mrs. Burgos has also brought the campaign to surface Jonas to the United States.

Choose to be Rich Work Book
031008

The Waste Watcher's Diet

Write down enough belt-tightening measures to yield at least $150 in savings each month (or as much as you can realistically save) then commit to shredding your budgetary flab. Your financial health depends on it.

I agree to cut back on For a monthly savings of

Total = $
Signed:

As of now I can't answer it yet Im still on the record keeping stage on to where my money goes specifically.

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
031008

1. I am disciplined on my money!
2. The food cart is nearly finished!
3. I am awaiting almost P10,000 by the month's end!
4. I will be at Dubai by July!

Moro groups file case on Sulu massacre at UN rights body

2008-03-16T18:39:00.000-07:00

The Suara Bangsamoro and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front will file a case before the United Nations Human Rights Council on the massacre perpetrated by the Special Warfare Group ofPhilippine Navy and Light Reaction Company of the Philippine Army. The massacre, which took place at dawn of February 4 claimed the lives of eight civilians from Ipil, Maimbung, Sulu. The announcement was made after the AFP absolved the soldiers responsible for the massacre.

Suara national chair Amira Lidasan called the results of an AFP probe claiming the slaughter was a legitimate encounter with the Abu Sayyaf "incredible". An investigation had yet to be made but the AFP had been quick to conclude that the victims were either members or coddlers of the Abu Sayyaf. The AFP merely reiterated the same line when it released on February 28 the results of an alleged investigation conducted by the Judge Advocate General's Office of the Western Mindanao Command.

The findings of an investigation by the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) released earlier revealed that no real encounter took place in Maimbung that day and that none of the victims was an Abu Sayyaf member. The report detailed how government troops assaulted the island village of Maimbung and gunned down residents as they pleaded for their lives and shouted that they were civilians.

Two of the raiders were also killed and five others wounded when they mistook each other as enemies and traded shots, according to the CHR.

The one-sided AFP investigation came under severe criticism, prompting Lt. Gen. Nelson Allaga, chief of the Western Mindanao Command, to announce that the results of their probe were just preliminary and that the soldiers involved in the incident were not yet in the clear.

AFP misencounters in Bicol

2008-03-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

SIX AFP soldiers died and two others were wounded in a misencounter between the 8th Scout Ranger Company and 3rd Scout Ranger Battalion in Irosin, Sorsogon on February 25.

To cover up the incident, the AFP issued a false report that a clash between the AFP and NPA had transpired and that two NPA fighters were killed and two M16 armalite rifles were recovered.

According to a report by the Celso Minguez Command of NPA-Sorsogon, a team of NPA snipers was on its way to the ambush site when they heard gunshots. Three government troops were hit in the first volley.

The snipers were quick to avoid being caught in the firefight when the second round of shooting ensued between the two military units. After the clash, the enemy soldiers secretly retrieved their casualties.

Choose to be Rich Work Book
(030808)

Debt Quiz: How Deeply Dug in Are You?

1. Do you pay your bills late? yes 2. Have you hidden a bill from your parents, gf/bf, spouse? yes
3. Have you neglected repairing the car/motor because of insufficient funds? yes
4. Is there family tension because of overspending? yes
5. Have you bought something recently that you didn't need and could'nt afford? no
6. Do you regularly spend more than your paycheck? yes
7. Have you been turned down for credit? no
8. Do you buy lottery tickets in the hopes of etting out from under? no
9. Have you put off saving money for a rainy day? yes
10. Does your total debt (mortgage excluded) exceed your rainy day reserve? yes

Score = 0 yes answer - Good for you! Your in control of your cash flow
1-5 yes range answers - you need to reduce your cost
6-10 yes answers - Watch out! You may be headed to a financial disaster!

My score = 7 yes answers - OUCH!

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
(030808)

1. I will be away from financial disaster!
2. Millions are on it's way!
3. I am disciplined and focused!
4. Success is mine!

Looming food crisis

2008-03-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

HUNGER is set to worsen in the Philippines and other impoverished countries with a severe food crisis expected to hit this year.

According to economists, one of the factors contributing to soaring prices of basic food items is the proliferation of biofuels. The prices of corn, for instance, which is used in the manufacture of ethanol, increased by a staggering 88% in the world market—which has also triggered a domino effect on the prices of pork and chicken. Corn is a main ingredient in animal feeds.

Also affected by skyrocketing world market prices are coconut oil (96%), rice (54%), soybeans (85%) and wheat (148%). Prices of foods that use wheat and cooking oil (such as bread) are likewise projected to increase as a result. The effects of this crisis are expected to be felt in the Philippines by March.

Another factor is the spiralling price of crude oil that has now come to $103 per barrel, the highest recorded in the last 30 years.

Rapidly rising food prices are sure to worsen the already miserable conditions of the impoverished majority in the Philippines. National Statistical Coordination Board figures state that the proportion of poor Filipinos increased from 24.4% in 2003 to 26.9% in 2006. In fact, up to 80% of Filipinos live in abject poverty because of widespread unemployment and wages pegged at extremely low levels.

Choose to be Rich Work Book
(030708)

HOW WEALTHY ARE YOU?
Total Assets (Rich Dad Version) = P4,690.50
Total Expenses = P16,030+
ZERO WEALTH
Your Wealth (Assets/Expenses) = months
Total Passive Income = P
Note: Once your monthly passive income exceeds your monthly expenses, you're infinitely wealthy because your assets are working for you.
GOAL: TO PURCHASE ASSETS THAT GENERATE PASSIVE AND/OR PORTFOLIO INCOME IN EXCESS OF MONTHLY EXPENSES.

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
(030708)

1. For the movie Goal! I AM REACHING NOW MY DREAMS! NOTHING AND NO ONE CAN STOP ME!
2. March is the month where I am focusng on riches!
3. Money is coming to me in huge amounts! THANKS FOR THE MILLIONS!
4. The youth mag will be a big hit!

New witness confirms bribery in ZTE

2008-03-12T18:12:00.000-07:00

The direct involvement of Gloria and Mike Arroyo in the anomalous NBN-ZTE project is further being unravelled as the probe on the graft-ridden contract continues.

On February 26, a new witness named Dante Madriaga, former consultant to ZTE, testified before the Senate that it was the Filipino partners of ZTE led by former COMELEC Chair Benjamin Abalos who received bribes from the Chinese corporation and facilitated kickbacks for the Arroyo couple. One of the Filipino partners, Leo San Miguel, recruited Madriaga for the project.

San Miguel allegedly disclosed to Madriaga that the payoffs to the government officials were released in three tranches. The first, he stated, was $1 million given in August 2006 when negotiations for the contract began. The second tranche was $10 million after NEDA approved the contract in March 2007, half of which went to the Arroyo couple. The third installment was $30 million which was released soon after Gloria Arroyo witnessed the signing of the contract in Boao, China in April 2007. This amount was used to fund the Arroyo coalition's electoral campaign in 2007.

Because of huge kickbacks, the contract ballooned with more than $170 million allotted to bribery.

Madriaga also said that former Malacañang chief of staff Mike Defensor was also involved in the project, and his role was to protect and secure the Arroyo couple's share during the NBN-ZTE transactions.

Still another witness, who according to Sen. Panfilo Lacson has "direct information regarding the flow of money from ZTE", is expected to corroborate Madriaga's testimony.

Meanwhile, the Senate has rejected the Supreme Court's ruling on former NEDA chief Romulo Neri's appearance before the Senate. Neri, who was among the first to blow the whistle regarding the involvement of the president's husband in the anomalous deal invoked "executive privilege" to stop the Senate from forcing him to reveal his discussions with Gloria Arroyo on the now-scuttled ZTE deal. He earlier filed a petition with the Supreme Court seeking to define the parameters of "executive privilege," a provision that bans government officials from from $50 million to a whopping $329 milli on, disclosing conversations with the president.

In a compromise agreement proposed by the Supreme Court on March 4, Neri would be obliged to appear before Senate inquiries but the senators will be probihited from asking the following questions: 1) did the president follow up on the contract; 2) did Arroyo order Neri to proceed with the project even after he had reported about the bribery attempt; and 3) did Arroyo order NEDA to give priority to the ZTE contract.

Both the senators and legal experts said the privilege could not be used to cover up criminal acts, and that it was not proper to limit the scope of questions that the senators may ask witnesses.

Meanwhile, Malacañang recently scrapped Executive Order (EO) 464 as a result of mounting criticisms on the controversial provision. Arroyo was forced to nullify Memorandum Order (MO) 108 as well, which contains illegal provisions the Supreme Court discarded in 2007. Both EO 464 and MC 108 impose restrictions on the attendance of members of the executive branch in congressional and senate investigations. Despite the Palace move, however, the regime continues to evade hearings, prohibit government officials from testifying and weave a web of lies.

Choose to be Rich Work Book
(030608)

WHAT IS YOUR RETURN ON ASSETS?
Total Assets (Rich Dad version) A = P4,690.50
Total Passive and Portfolio Income B = 0 x12 = P0
Cash - On - Asset Return (Annualized Income B/Total Assets A) = 0%
GOAL: INCREASE YOUR CASH-ON-ASSET RETURN

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
030608

1. I am pro people...
2. My aura is good!
3. Everythings gonna be alright!
4. I am healthy and wealthy!

Arroyo's mad scramble to save herself

2008-03-12T18:11:00.000-07:00

Gloria Arroyo is in a mad scramble to extricate herself from the quagmire she now finds herself in. In her desperation, she only succeeds in exposing her lies and underscoring her severe isolation from the people.

Gimmicks galore. Arroyo strains to display her handful of supporters even as the oust Arroyo movement expands. Among this handful are members of her cabinet and governors, congressmen, mayors and military and police officials on her payroll. All of them profit from the regime's multitiered corruption.

Arroyo and her minions have conducted a number of "solidarity walks," with one such "walk" held in Malacañang on February 19. On February 25, the 22nd anniversary of EDSA 1, all available military and police officers, among them AFP chief of staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon and Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Avelino Razon Jr. marched along EDSA from the People Power Monument to Camp Aguinaldo to show their alleged adherence to the chain of command.

To counter anti-Arroyo rallies joined by growing numbers of people, the Arroyo camp paid a number of barangay councils to organize a pro-Arroyo rally. A handful of fake and mercenary Arroyo supporters rallied at the Welcome Rotunda on February 28-29 simultaneous with the huge mass action then being held in Makati.

Fake witness, more lies. Arroyo has concocted various lies and slanders to damage the credibility of Rodolfo Noel "Jun" Lozada Jr. Among her maneuvers was the sudden appearance of Erwin Santos, a former employee of Lozada's at the Philippine Forest Corporation (Philforest). Amid tears, Santos accused Lozada of being responsible for anomalies at Philforest. Many people found Santos' testimony laughable, especially since it was Malacañang that obviously drew up his script. Santos was unable to hoodwink anyone, and was not even invited by the Senate to testify because of his incredible statements.

On February 12, agents of the National Bureau of Investigation raided Lozada's office at Philforest in Taguig City to dig up evidence and come up with a false story line from the seized papers.

Arroyo thought she could "shed light" on the NBN project by granting an interview over dzRH on February 23. But she ended up incriminating herself when she said that she approved the project even if she knew that the contract was "flawed." She allegedly found out about the "flaw" only on the eve of the contract signing and thus found it awkward to cancel the project outright. The next day, the regime realized that Arroyo's admission over the radio was a faux pas and has since been trying hard to deny that she ever made the statement.

Black propaganda. The regime has been spreading black propaganda in an effort to belittle the protests. It has insisted that the protests are confined to Metro Manila when mass actions are in fact widespread and have been attracting growing numbers both in the provinces and overseas.

The regime claims that conflicts are rife within the ouster movement when there is in fact an overriding unity against Arroyo within.

It likewise continues to spread lies about so-called plans by the New People's Army or the Abu Sayyaf bandit group to sow violence during rallies, when it is in fact the presence of battalions of military and police elements that indicates that the regime is ready to create havoc once Arroyo is in danger of losing her post.

Trembling in fear, sowing terror. Arroyo is deathly afraid of every witness against her who comes forward and has thus been mounting a campaign of harassment and repression.

She has ordered a tight watch against her regime's detractors, ordering the installation of a surveillance camera in front of La Salle where Lozada and his family have sought sanctuary. On February 28, Malacañang tried to spread panic among students of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines by phoning in a bomb threat on the day Lozada was scheduled to speak at a forum in the school. It failed to stop the students from massively showing their support for Lozada and manifesting their hatred for the regime.

There has been an overkill of military and police deployments during rallies, especially last February 29. Makati was declared a "no fly zone" that day to prevent the media from capturing in pictures or on video the actual size of the rally. Convoys of rallyists from the province were likewise blocked.

On the day of the huge rally, Arroyo was so terrified that she locked herself inside Camp Crame for three hours and put high-ranking military and police officers and members of her cabinet under strict surveillance. She left Crame only when the rallyists started to go home.

On March 4, she ordered the arrest of nine activists who staged a rally in the middle of one of her sorties in Laguna.

On the night of March 6, police forces violently dispersed more than 1,000 workers from Southern Tagalog who were rallying in front of the DOLE office in Intramuros, Manila. According to initial reports, three rallyists were arrested, 13 wounded and six missing after the bloody dispersal.

Worsening crisis.

Meanwhile, the International Crisis Group (ICG), a Belgium-based organization that analyzes crisis situations worldwide cited the growing presence of military forces in Metro Manila as an indicator of worsening crisis in the Philippines. The regime has justified the militarization of the national capital region by citing alleged assassination plots against Arroyo. The heightened military presence is in fact a reaction to intensifying anti-Arroyo protests in Metro Manila.

Choose to be Rich Work Book
(030508)

HOW MUCH DO YOU SPEND ON DOODADS?
Total Doodad Amount P66,520
Total Assets (Banker Version) P71,210.5
Doodad percentage of total assets (doodad total/total assets) 93.41%
GOAL: KEEP YOUR DOODADS UNDER 33% OF TOTAL ASSETS. THE LOWER THE PERCENTAGE, THE FASTER YOUR ASSETS WILL GROW.

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
(030508)

1. I am on my way to millions!
2. The youth mag is a success!
3. I am calm and cool!
4. I am in total control!

Anti-Arroyo protests gain momentum

2008-03-12T18:10:00.001-07:00

The movement to oust Gloria Arroyo has gained momentum. Successive mass actions and gatherings by various groups and sectors are being launched after a successful rally in Makati on February 15. The anti-Arroyo alliance continues to expand, with its actions and statements becoming more militant.

The youth have a significant participation, especially students from various schools in Metro Manila. According to the latest Pulse Asia survey, three out of four Metro Manila residents believe in Jun Lozada and 76% expressed distrust for Arroyo and her chief minions. Sixty-nine percent (69%) of residents said they approved of protest actions to remove all leading officials involved in the NBN-ZTE anomaly, with one-fourth of them ready to join rallies to oust Arroyo.

Huge Makati demonstration

More than 75,000 people gathered in what was dubbed an inter-faith rally in Makati City on February 29—the biggest number so far since 2005 demanding Gloria Arroyo's resignation or ouster. The rally brought together various religious groups, schools, progressive United Opposition, Jesus is Lord Movement, Makati Business Club and other business groups, Black and White Movement and the Catholic Educators Association of the Philippines, among others.

The rally was marked by te attendance of personalities like former presidents Corazon Aquino and Joseph Estrada, former vice president Teofisto Guingona and a number of senators, former government officials and big businessmen like Manuel Pangilinan of PLDT.

The Communist Party of the Philippines and Comrade Jose Maria Sison, chair of the International League of Peoples' Struggles issued separate statements hailing the successful protest action. Sison said that a new people power uprising may erupt once 100,000-500,000 people gather to oust Arroyo.

Tens of thousands of people succeeded in gathering in Makati despite efforts by the police and military to block protesters. Checkpoints mushroomed along all entry points to Metro Manila to bar rallyists from Southern Tagalog and Central Luzon.

Eleven jeepneyloads of rallyists from Southern Tagalog were stopped in San Cristobal, Calamba and Cabuyao, Laguna, aside from Kilusang Mayo Uno members who were blocked in San Pedro, Laguna. Hundreds of students from Dela Salle University-Dasmariñas were unable to leave Cavite.

In Quezon City, students and teachers from the University of the Philippines-Diliman were barred from marching to Makati.

Two members of the Workers' Assistance Center in Rosario, Cavite were brought to a police station for launching a protest action.

Nationwide protests

Other cities likewise launched successful mass actions. In Dagupan City, Pangasinan, an estimated 5,000 students, church leaders, residents and IBP members attended a mass at the St. John the Evangelist Cathedral and later marched to call for Arroyo's resignation.

In Pampanga, Gov. Ed Panlilio and Bishop Roberto Mallari led a "unity walk for truth" joined by some 500 students. Rallies were also held in Subic, Zambales attended by 1,000 residents and in Baguio City attended by students.

Various protest actions were launched in Bicol. In Naga, more than 2,000 persons linked arms to form a "human chain" around the city and launched a noise barrage. In Sorsogon City, a thousand people joined a rally led by BAYAN and church groups. Mass actions were likewise held in Legazpi City; Daet, Camarines Norte; and Masbate City.

In San Pablo City, Laguna, up to 1,000 people united in a prayer vigil.

In the Visayas, up to 3,000 persons from various sectors attended a rally in Bacolod City. In Iloilo City, an estimated 1,000 people marched in a "Walk for Truth and Justice." They were joined by Archbishop Angel Lagdameo, president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines. On the other hand, 500 students and activists rallied in Cebu City. Students launched a forum at the University of the Philippines-Tacloban City.

In Mindanao, 700 persons attended a rally in Cagayan de Oro City, along with Kamatuoran! (Truth), a broad anti-Arroyo alliance. Eight hundred people gathered in Davao City and 400 in Iligan City. Three hundred students from the Mindanao State University in Gen. Santos walked out of their classrooms to show their disgust for the regime. In Cotabato City, up to 200 persons simultaneously lit candles in protest. For the first time, activists launched a noise barrage in Digos City, Davao del Sur.

Protests abroad

Migrant Filipinos also launched protests in various parts of the globe. Part of the protests was the implementation of No Remittance Day as a way of pressuring the bankrupt Arroyo regime that depends on the billions of dollars sent by migrants.

In Hongkong, UNIFIL-Migrante led a rally on February 29. Filipinos meanwhile picketed Philippine embassies and consulates in San Francisco and Los Angeles, California; Seattle; and New York City.

Migrants in Ottawa, Winnipeg and Vancouver in Canada gathered together in protest. In Europe, a mass action was held in Italy.

In the Middle East, migrants declared February 29 a Day of Action. In Sydney, Australia, migrant Filipinos launched "Babay Gloria" (Bagong Bayani, Ayaw kay Gloria or New Heroes Hate Gloria).

Meantime, 61 former cabinet members from the Aquino, Ramos and Estrada regimes, along with members of the Arroyo cabinet who have resigned, called on cabinet members involved in the anomalies concerning the NBN-ZTE project to step down. They gave the Arroyo regime one week to institute reforms against corruption and will call for her ouster should Arroyo remain obstinate.

Choose to be Rich Work Book
(030408)

HOW MUCH DO YOU SPEND ON HOUSING EACH MONTH?
Mortgage Payment P0
Rent Payment P0
Insurance (home) P0
Real Estate Taxes P0
Utilities P0
Maintenance P0
Total P0
How much do you spend as a percentage of net income? Total/C = %
GOAL: KEEP HOUSING COSTS UNDER 33% OF NET INCOME.

I still live with my parents he he he he he he...

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
(030408)

1. I am abundant!
2. I am wealthy!
3. I am a money magnet!
4. I am acquiring massive wealth!

Spread the fires of people's struggles to oust the Arroyo regime

2008-03-12T17:53:00.000-07:00

The Filipino people have reached the height of their anger and repudiation of the US-Arroyo regime. They are fed up with, and outraged at, the Arroyo regime's many cases of corruption and mendacity and the acute suffering and oppression it has inflicted on them.

The protest movement is gaining breadth and momentum nationwide. Since the launching of one big rally after another in Makati on February 15 and 29, the collective outpouring of the people's anger has broadened in the national capital and various other parts of the country. All this indicates the Filipino people's resounding repudiation of the US-Arroyo ruling clique and their readiness to tread the path of militant action to put an end to the despicable regime.

More cases of the regime's corruption, lying and brutality are coming to the fore as the protest movement rages. Aside from the anomalies related to the NBN-ZTE project, another recent exposé is that of the antinational agreement entered into by the regime with China, allowing the latter to conduct oil exploration in the Spratly Islands in exchange for billions of dollars worth of loans. A myriad other cases of corruption, including the kickbacks received by the Arroyo family from the IMPSA-Caliraya deal and the Diosdado Macapagal Blvd. overpricing scheme had already been earlier bared.

The people could no longer bear their worsening suffering and poverty. It has become apparent to them that their intensifying hardships are a direct consequence of the Arroyo regime's corruption. The increasingly dismal economic conditions of the broad masses of the people could no longer be obscured by the regime's falsified statistics and media hype about economic progress. The people's growing misery and oppression are increasingly being linked to the regime's reeking corruption.

The regime strains to cover up its heinous crimes by distorting laws, weaving lies, suppressing the mass media and perpetrating a host of other maneuvers and fascist measures. In spite of all this, various sectors—the organized masses, the mass media, church people, businessmen, lawyers—are determined to unravel and expose the truth about the regime's anomalies and corruption.

The desperate regime has stepped up its fascist suppression of those who resist it and desire its ouster. Extrajudicial killings, abductions and other acts of violence against activists, critical media persons and other harsh critics of the regime are rampant. Even rallies and other legal and peaceful forms of protest are blocked and violently dispersed.

But the regime's brutality can no longer rein in the people's seething anger and their growing resistance. The protest movement is spreading like a prairie fire across the land. Rallies have become more frequent and are joined by increasingly bigger numbers of people demanding the regime's overthrow.

We must seize the opportunity presented by the burning protests and resistance to the Arroyo regime. We must reach out to all sectors in every area of the country. We must take advantage of every opportunity to step up our efforts to arouse and organize the people. We must demonstrate the inextricable link between the people's grinding poverty and oppression from day to day and the burning issues of the regime's corruption and repressiveness. We must issue urgent calls to intensify various forms of resistance against the regime. Both open resistance to, and armed struggle against, the regime must be simultaneously waged and advanced.

Conditions are ripe for waging a new, broad and militant people power against the Arroyo regime. We must infuse it with renewed vigor from the lessons drawn from past people's uprisings. We must make it even more historic by raising the level of its organized strength especially from the most impoverished and oppressed sectors and blazing up the national and democratic struggles of the people. Let us give our all in advancing all movements towards this end until the fires of people's struggles spread like a conflagration all over the land.

Choose to be Rich Work Book
(030308)
As of now I don't know how much tax is deducted to my payroll every pay day... I will photocopy my payroll...

WHAT IS YOUR INCOME AFTER TAX?
Your total monthly income A = P18,194
Taxes you pay per month B = P??????
Your net income per month C = P??????
What percentage of your gross income is paid in taxes? B/A =???????%
GOAL: DECREASE THE AMOUNT OF TAX YOU PAY. CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR TO SEE IF YOU ARE TAKING FULL ADVANTAGE OF THE TAX DEDUCTIONS ALLOWED TO YOU. IF YOU HAVE STARTED A BUSINESS, MAKE SURE YOU ARE DEDUCTING ALL LEGITIMATE BUSINESS DEDUCTIONS.

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
(030308)

1. I have a job and I have earnings...
2. I am a millionaire!
3. Money is coming to me in millions!
4. I am healthy and fit!

MY LAST JANUARY GOALS

2008-03-12T03:11:00.001-07:00

For the benefit of those asking what were my goals last January I am now posting the quest and it's report for your perusal.

WAY UP
(JAN 2008)
1. Start the Food Cart Business
2. Follow the Gift Giving of Feng Shui to combat evil spells
3. Establish the KKK coop!
4. Finish Choose to be Rich Program
5. 3.6 "I Have It"

WAY UP REPORT
(JAN 2008)

1. The Food Cart construction was only started on the last week of January.

In exhange of the said project is the buy and sell of fishes. Jan 28, 2008:

Costs
P70 per kilo x 25 kilos = P1750
Service = P50
Plastic = P8.50
Ice = P20
Gas = P50
TOTAL= P1878.5

* styo rent P300

Gross Sales = P90 x 25 = P2250 - P1878.5 = P371.5

Sold out 22.5 kilos only
22.5 x P90 = P2025 - P1878.5 = P146.50

The other business that was started was the Sexxxy! Edt still under inventory. Report to follow.

SCORE = 90%

2. Have not followed the 2nd goal.

NO SCORE

3. The KKK coop was established and products were already launched on it's name.

SCORE - 30%

4. Choose to be Rich Program

SCORE - 46%

5. "I HAVE IT"
a. Johnnie Walker Red
b. Head & Shoulders 220ml

SCORE - 55.6%

TOTAL SCORE - 44.3%

Choose to be Rich Work Book
(030208)

DOES YOUR MONEY WORK FOR YOU?
Your total monthly income A = P18,194
Your total earned income B = P18,194
Your total passive and portfolio income C = P00000
What percentage of your income is passive or portfolio that is you money working for you? C/A = 000000%
GOAL: INCREASE YOUR PERCENTAGE OF PASSIVE OR PORTFOLIO INCOME IF YOU HAVE NO PASSIVE OR PORTFOLIO INCOME, START BY BUYING ASSETS THAT GENERATE PASSIVE AND/OR PORTFOLIO INCOME.

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
(030208)

1. I am on my way on owning an asset that will generate passive and portfolio income.
2. Riches and millions are on its way to me!
3. I can buy my must have!
4. I am a successful businessman!

QUEST FOR MARCH 2008

2008-03-12T02:56:00.000-07:00

Another month is here, MArch the third month of the year... Now is the time to look for my new quest and reach it. I simply must reach it... My last month's quest score is a farce so I am gearing up for success this month!

According to Victor L. Dy the author of my feng shui planner - I must avoid entanglements by minding my business and controlling my impulsive reaction. I must also avoid hiking. Rev. Fr. Wongsengtian (Authentic Annual Prediction 2008) the Taoist Grand Minister, I must be particularly careful when signing contract.

There is only one thing that I must do this month to reach my quest. The name of the quest and its odjective is:

FOCUS ON RICHES!
BATTLE CRY FOR MARCH!

YOUTH MAGAZINE PRODUCTION AND SUBSCRIPTION OF THE SK

The said quest will be the focus of the KKK-Youth Cooperative. The assignment is to create a monthly Youth Magazine that will cater to the needs, wants, rights and welfare of the youth. The siad mag must be subscribed by the different SKs of all barangays in Albay.

I will post a seperate blog when I have done the project proposal.

CHOOSE TO BE RICH
030108

How Much Do You Keep?
Your total monthly income A = P18,194
Less your total monthly expenses B = P16,030+
Difference is how much you keep C = P 2,164-
Percentage of your income you're keeping C/A = 12%
GOAL: INCREASE THE PERCENTAGE OF INCOME YOU KEEP. START WITH 1% AND INCREASE IT FROM THESE IF YOU HAVE TO.

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
030108

1. Yes! Another month! Another Quest!
2. I am success personified!
3. I am a money magnet!
4. I am healthy and calm!

ASSESSMENT ANALYSIS OF FEB QUEST!

2008-03-07T21:38:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of February...

Let us now assess our Feb Quest entitled "LOVE, PEACE AND SUCCESS!"

LOVE, PEACE AND SUCCESS! REPORT

1. Must Have = 0
2. CFA Review and The Ancient Scrolls = 18%
Haven't followed the schedule strictly… The Ancient Scrolls, got drunk and haven't chanted it one night…
3. S.I.T. = 0
I have raised the amount but have used it too… It must not be moved for at least three months…
4. Stabilize the Business Empire = 25%
a. Fish Selling - Stopped
b. Food Cart - Not yet finished
c. Sexxxy!- not yet sold out, inventory still ongoing…
d. Others - the processed meat venture earned more than P1,500 net! 100% SUCCESS!
5. Travel for intellectual and social pursuit = 0

Additional Quest:
a. The Secret Book - Haven't finished = 22%
b. Deposit savings of 20% at Bank = 0

SCORE 0 + 18% + 0 + 25% + 0 + 22% + 0 = 0.65/ 7 = 0.0929 X 100 = 9.29
TOTAL SCORE = 9.29%

The result is quite disheartening... Let us analyse the situation using SWOT (Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis...

1. Strength - The processed meat venture is a hit... Focus on it and smoothen out the rough edges like record keeping and distributorship process...
2. Weaknesse - Time and money budget management... Poor record keeping...
3. Opportunity - The processed meat business...
4. Threats - Environment, drinking buddies...

Choose to be Rich Workbook
022908

Below is the form relaed to the recor keeping of expenses... I will fill it up for the month of March...

Personal Expenses
Name: Date:

Auto and truck
Loan Payments
Auto Lease
Auto Insurance
Gasoline/oil/tires
Repairs
Security Systems
Registration
Others
Total:

Charities
Church
Other
Total

Children
Clothing
Childcare
Education, Tuition and supplies
Wedding
Private School
Sports
Child Support
Toys
Religious Training
Other
Total:

Clothing
Purchases
Cleaning
Alterations/Repairs
Other
Total:

Education
Tuition
School Loans
Dues/Subscription
Books/Tapes
Seminars
Travel for Seminars
Other
Total:

Entertainment and Furnishings
Computer
Software
Home Office
Furniture
Art/sculpture
Home entertainment center
Other
Total:

Food
Purchased Food
Meals out
Other
Total:

Gifts
Weddings/Anniversaries
Birthdays
Holidays
Other
Total:

Others
Boat
Vacation Home
Pets/Food/Vet bills
Hobby Supplies/classes
Collectibles
Other
Total:

Housing
Rent
Mortgage
Property Tax
Insurance
Mortgage Insurance
Assessments
Home Security
Home Owner's Dues
Janitorial Supplies
Repairs/Improvements
Snow Removal
Pool Services
Lawn Service
Garden Tools
Other
Total

Legal and Accounting
Accounting/Bookkeeping
Tax Planning
Documents Preparation
Wills and Trusts
Other
Total

Miscellaneous
Interest
Alimony
Bank Fees
Other
Total

Personal Care
Hair/nail Care
Personal Items
Other
Total

Health Supplements
Vitamins
Exercise Equipment
Health Club Membership
Massage
Therapy
Medical Insurance
Dental Work
Eyeglasses/Vision exams
Medical co-payments
Hearing Aids
Prescriptions
Other
Total

Supplies
Home Supplies
Linen
Cleaning
Laundry
Lawn & Garden
Postage
Office Supplies
Other
Total

Taxes
Federal
State
Payroll
Other
Total

Utilities
Electric/Gas/Sewer/Water/Garbage
Cable TV
Basic Telephone
Pager
Cellphone
Lone Distance
Internet
Other
Total

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022908

1. The meat processing business exceeded the target!
2. The Feb Quest is alreay finished!
3. A new successful quest awaits!
4. I am a millionaire!

CFA Candidate Self - Assessment Test

2008-02-29T19:40:00.000-08:00

CFA Candidate Self-Assessment Test

A reader of our's have emailed me to post the CFA Exam that I took last February 23. I have already posted the answers and principles of the wrong answers I had. Now I am posting the whole exam. I encourage everyone to try and answer the said self-assessment test. Have fun...

You can send your answers at the comments section of the blog... Good Luck!

The CFA Program is postgraduate. The readings assigned in the study program and the questions on
the CFA examinations are geared for individuals who are prepared to deal with “masters”-level
coursework. Although many candidates enter the program with a business school education, others
may have a liberal arts background. No prerequisite courses of study are specified for entering the
CFA Program, but candidates should be aware that the assigned readings in many topic areas are
beyond a basic, introductory level.

The Level I Financial Statement Analysis material is directed at an intermediate/advanced level of
understanding. Before entering the CFA Program, candidates should be familiar with financial
accounting methods and financial statements. Candidates without a strong accounting background
or who need to refresh their accounting knowledge should review an intermediate financial
accounting textbook or enroll in a local university financial accounting course.

The Level I Economic Analysis material is also directed at an intermediate level of understanding.
Before entering the program, candidates already should be familiar with the principles of
macroeconomics, microeconomics, and the monetary system. If candidates do not have this
educational background or they wish to refresh their understanding of this material, a review of an
introductory level textbook or enrollment in a local university economics survey course is
appropriate.

The Level I curriculum in general assumes a basic understanding of financial markets and
instruments. Before entering the program, candidates should be familiar with the basic
characteristics of equity and fixed income markets and securities. Candidates without that
familiarity should review an introductory level textbook that addresses financial markets and
instruments.

The self-assessment test is designed to help candidates determine their need to review pre-CFA
materials. An answer key is provided at the end of the test. Candidates scoring less than 70 percent
correct in any one topic area should commit to additional study time preparing for that area prior to
or in conjunction with the CFA study program.

CFA Candidate Self-Assessment Test
Questions

FINANCIAL STATEMENT ANALYSIS: 30 Questions

Note to candidates: Questions 1 through 30 are based on U.S. generally accepted accounting
principles (GAAP) unless otherwise noted.

1. Accrual accounting techniques are used to:
A. assign revenues and expenses to the appropriate accounting period.
B. record the anticipated effects of actions that may occur at a future date.
C. report the results of actions whose monetary effects are difficult to estimate.
D. allocate nonoperating revenues and expenses to the appropriate business unit.

2. Which of the following is NOT considered an asset?
A. Inventory
B. Trademarks
C. Retained earnings
D. Accounts receivable

Use the information in the following table to answer Questions 3 and 4.

Black Company
Balance Sheet
December 31, 200X

Assets
Cash $100,000
Short-term investments 50,000
Accounts and notes receivable 130,000
Inventory 140,000
Land 170,000
Building $200,000
less accumulated depreciation (40,000) 160,000
Trademarks 110,000
Total Assets $860,000

Liabilities
Notes payable (due in 3 months) $80,000
Accounts payable 40,000
Accrued salaries payable 10,000
Mortgage payable (due in 8 years) 180,000
Total Liabilities $310,000

Stockholders’ Equity
Common stock $500,000
Retained earnings 50,000
Total Stockholder's Equity $550,000

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $860,000

3. The total amount of Black Company’s assets to be classified as current assets is:
A. $150,000.
B. $280,000.
C. $420,000.
D. $590,000.

4. The net amount of Black Company’s earnings that has been reinvested in the company since the company’s inception is closest to:
A. $50,000.
B. $100,000.
C. $500,000.
D. $550,000.

5. When accounting for merchandising businesses, gross margin equals the difference between:
A. net sales and cost of goods sold.
B. net sales and operating expenses.
C. gross sales and the sum of returns and allowances.
D. net sales and the sum of cost of goods sold and operating expenses.

6. Which of the following would NOT contribute to the difference between gross sales and net sales?
A. Cash refunds for returned products.
B. Discounts from listed prices for delayed shipping.
C. Allowances off selling prices for defective products.
D. Sales made on credit rather than for immediate payment.

7. Classifying an investment as short-term or long-term depends primarily on:
A. the dollar amount of the investment.
B. the length of time the investor has held the investment.
C. whether a liquid market exists for selling the investment.
D. the length of time the investor expects to hold the investment.

8. Under the allowance method for accounting for uncollectible accounts:
A. losses from bad debts are recognized when defaults occur.
B. estimated losses from potentially uncollectible debt are amortized over the life of the obligation.
C. loans to high-risk borrowers are recorded at a discount relative to their stated principal amounts.
D. losses from bad debts are estimated for the same period in which the corresponding credit sales occur.

9. A company’s cost of inventory purchases was $250,000 during the year, its ending inventory was $80,000, and its beginning inventory was $100,000. The company’s cost of goods sold was closest to:
A. $170,000.
B. $270,000.
C. $330,000.
D. $370,000.

10. Inventory valuation methods rely primarily on assumptions about the flow of:
A. costs.
B. values.
C. money.
D. resale prices.

11. For a company with new fixed assets, which of the following combinations of accounting practices will most likely lead to the highest reported earnings in an inflationary environment?

Depreciation Method Inventory Method
A. Straight-line First in, first out (FIFO)
D. Straight-line Last in, first out (LIFO)
B. Double-declining-balance First in, first out (FIFO)
C. Double-declining-balance Last in, first out (LIFO)

12. In a period of rising prices, which of the following inventory methods generally results in the lowest reported net income?
A. FIFO method.
B. LIFO method.
C. Average-cost method.
D. Specific-identification method.

13. In a period of rising prices and stable inventory quantities, compared to a company that uses the FIFO inventory valuation method, a company using LIFO is likely to have higher:
A. inventory.
B. income taxes.
C. current assets.
D. cost of goods sold.

14. If a company’s ending inventory is understated by $3,000 and beginning inventory is overstated by $5,000, the company’s operating income will most likely be:
A. overstated by $2,000.
B. overstated by $8,000.
C. understated by $2,000.
D. understated by $8,000.

15. When applying the lower-of-cost-or-market rule to inventory, market generally refers to:
A. resale value.
B. original cost.
C. current replacement cost.
D. original cost less physical deterioration.

16. A company bought a truck on January 1 for $30,000. The truck has a five-year estimated useful life and a $5,000 residual value. Under the straight-line depreciation method, the asset’s carrying value for financial reporting purposes after two years is closest to:
A. $16,000.
B. $18,000.
C. $20,000.
D. $21,000.

17. For purposes of determining the amount of a capital expenditure, the acquisition cost of equipment would NOT include:
A. transportation cost.
B. insurance cost during transit.
C. cost of testing equipment during installation.
D. repair cost of damage incurred during installation.

18. Depreciation differs from other types of expenses in that depreciation:
A. can be measured more precisely.
B. does not require an immediate cash outlay.
C. is not deductible if it would result in a net loss.
D. can be avoided if the company acquires used assets.

19. If a company issued bonds at a discount, the discount is amortized over the life of the bonds and:
A. decreases the periodic interest payment below the interest expense charged.
B. increases the periodic interest expense charged above the interest payment made.
C. increases the periodic interest payment made above the interest expense charged.
D. decreases the periodic interest expense charged below the interest payment made.

20. On a company’s balance sheet, which of the following would NOT be listed as contributed capital?
A. Common stock
B. Preferred stock
C. Retained earnings
D. Paid-in-capital in excess of par value

21. Which of the following accurately describes the effects of a purchase of treasury stock on a company’s assets and stockholders’ equity?

Assets Stockholders’ Equity
A. Decreased Decreased
B. Decreased Unchanged
C. Unchanged Decreased
D. Unchanged Unchanged

22. If a corporation declares and pays a dividend, this transaction will:
A. increase liabilities.
B. decrease net income.
C. not affect total assets.
D. reduce stockholders’ equity.

23. A company’s assets and stockholders’ equity are most likely to be reduced by:
A. stock splits.
B. cash dividends.
C. stock dividends.
D. reverse stock splits.

24. The financial results from a discontinued operation should be reflected on a company’s financial statements by:
A. discussing the effects in a footnote.
B. adjusting the company’s reported costs.
C. adjusting the company’s reported net revenue.
D. reporting the effects separately on the income statement.

Questions 25 through 27 should be answered in the context of a statement of cash flows and using the following data for a company:

Cash payments for interest $ 12
Retirement of common stock 32
Cash payments to merchandise suppliers 85
Purchase of land 8
Sale of equipment 30
Payment of dividends 37
Cash payment for salaries 35
Cash collection from customers 260
Purchase of equipment 40

25. The company’s cash flows from operating activities are closest to:
A. $91.
B. $128.
C. $140.
D. $175.

26. The company’s cash flows from investing activities are closest to:
A. –$67.
B. –$48.
C. –$18.
D. –$10.

27. The company’s cash flows from financing activities are closest to:
A. –$81.
B. –$69.
C. –$49.
D. –$37.

28. Which of the following is NOT an accurate statement of the balance sheet equation?
A. Assets – Liabilities = Owners’ Equity.
B. Assets – Owners’ Equity = Liabilities.
C. Assets = Liabilities + Owners’ Equity.
D. Assets = Liabilities – Owners’ Equity.

29. Which of the following financial statements presents information about a business at a point in time?
A. Balance sheet
B. Income statement
C. Statement of cash flows
D. Statement of retained earnings

30. The responsibilities of the auditor of a company’s financial statements do NOT include a requirement to:
A. confirm assets and liabilities.
B. examine the company’s internal control systems.
C. verify that the financial statements are free from any any error.
D. agree that management’s choice of accounting principles is appropriate.

ECONOMICS: 30 Questions

31. When comparing gross national product (GNP) and gross domestic product (GDP), GDP is most likely to exclude:
A. net exports.
B. foreign security transactions.
C. income earned by citizens abroad.
D. payments for national income taxes.

32. Using the expenditure approach, gross domestic product includes gross:
A. income taxes paid.
B. salaries and wages paid.
C. imports from foreigners.
D. private domestic investment.

33. An analyst, calculating the gross domestic product for an economy, is most likely to include:
A. sales of services.
B. financial transactions.
C. sales of intermediate goods.
D. government transfer payments.

34. The presence of a surplus of a good in a market is most likely to result in a(n):
A. decrease in supply.
B. decrease in demand.
C. increase in supply elasticity.
D. increase in quantity demanded.

35. An analyst interested in understanding movements in the general level of prices throughout the economy is most likely to use the:
A. consumer price index (CPI).
B. gross domestic product (GDP) deflator.
C. weighted average of the CPI and the GDP deflator.
D. correlation coefficient between the CPI and the GDP deflator.

36. Which of the following is a limitation of GDP as a measure of aggregate economic activity? GDP excludes:
A. imports to foreigners.
B. production of household services.
C. governmental consumption of goods.
D. private investment in depreciable assets.

37. Which of the following statements about phases of the business cycle is most accurate?
A. During an expansion, real output grows and unemployment increases.
B. During contraction, real output declines and unemployment decreases.
C. The business peak is the highest output (measured in GDP) of an expansion.
D. The recessionary trough measures deviations of real GDP from the trend line.

38. An analyst calculating the unemployed rate is most likely to classify as unemployed persons who are:
A. retired.
B. not looking for work.
C. temporarily laid off from a job.
D. working in their own households.

39. Frictional unemployment results from:
A. inflexible wages in the marketplace.
B. recessionary business conditions and inadequate aggregate demand for labor.
C. structural characteristics of the economy that create difficulties for job seekers in finding employment and for employers in hiring workers.
D. constant changes in the economy that prevent qualified unemployed workers from being immediately matched up with existing job openings.

40. To be useful, a measure of inflation for an economy would most likely reflect information about the change in prices of:
A. goods only.
B. goods and services only.
C. goods, services, and financial assets only.
D. goods, services, financial assets, and real assets.

41. If the consumer price index is 252 this year compared with 240 last year, the rate of inflation for the year is closest to:
A. 4.76%.
B. 4.88%.
C. 5.00%.
D. 12.00%.

42. A period when an economy is experiencing substantial inflation and either a declining or slow rate of growth in output is called:
A. deflation.
B. stagflation.
C. depression.
D. contraction.

43. Which of the following is NOT a source of adverse effects of inflation on an economy? Inflation:
A. distorts the information delivered by prices.
B. affects product prices without changing underlying resource prices, such as wages, in the long run.
C. increases the uncertainty accompanying investment and other activities involving future payments.
D. causes wasted resources as individuals attempt to prevent the erosion of their income and wealth as a result of the inflation.

44. Aggregate demand is least likely to increase as a result of a(n):
A. increase in real wealth.
B. decrease in the real rate of interest.
C. increase in the expected rate of inflation.
D. increase in the exchange rate value of the nation’s currency.

45. Which of the following factors will decrease long-run aggregate supply?
A. Supply shocks.
B. A reduction in the supply of resources.
C. An improvement in technology and productivity.
D. Intensified competition in markets for goods and services.

46. Which of the following factors is least likely to play a role in the self-correcting mechanisms that help stabilize the economy? The pattern of:
A. price adjustments in resource markets.
B. changes in employment levels in labor markets.
C. interest rate adjustments in loanable funds markets.
D. changes in consumption in response to fluctuations in income.

47. The views of the classical economists and the Keynesian model differ with respect to the:
A. amount of flexibility in wages and prices.
B. level of the natural rate of unemployment.
C. appropriate definition of the money supply.
D. determinants of the long-run aggregate supply curve.

48. Which of the following conditions is present when macroeconomic equilibrium is achieved in the Keynesian model?
A. Autonomous expenditures are zero.
B. Planned imports and planned exports are equal.
C. Government spending levels and taxes are equal.
D. Planned expenditures and current output are equal.

49. An analyst has gathered the following consumption information:

Income Current Consumption
$20,000 $19,000
24,000 22,000

The marginal propensity to consume (MPC) is closest to:
A. 0.50.
B. 0.75.
C. 0.86.
D. 1.33.

50. According to the Keynesian model, if the marginal propensity to consume is 0.8, an independent increase in investment expenditures of $10 billion is most likely to lead to an increase in the equilibrium level of aggregate income of:
A. $8 billion.
B. $12.5 billion.
C. $50 billion.
D. $80 billion.

51. The law of demand states that an:
A. increase in price can be expected as consumers demand more units of a product.
B. inverse relationship exists between the price and the amount of a good purchased.
C. increase in price will result from an increase in demand for a good in scarce supply.
D. increase in the quantity of a good available will occur when the price of the good increases.

52. The law of supply states that:
A. a direct relationship exists between the price of a good and the amount supplied.
B. suppliers provide more of a good as the price of the resources needed to produce the good rises.
C. an inverse relationship exists between the price of a good and the amount purchased by suppliers.
D. an inverse relationship exists between the price of a good and the amount that buyers choose to purchase.

53. The price elasticity of demand for a commodity is determined primarily by the:
A. incomes of consumers.
B. size of the consumer surplus.
C. availability of complementary goods.
D. availability of substitutes for the goods.

54. In comparing the short-run and long-run responses of purchases to an unexpected increase in price, responses are typically:
A. larger in the short run than in the long run.
B. smaller in the short run than in the long run.
C. approximately the same in the short run as in the long run.
D. dependent, with respect to magnitude, on the level of competition in the market.

55. The demand for a good is least likely to decrease as the result of a:
A. fall in consumer income.
B. rise in the expected future price of the good.
C. fall in the number of consumers in the market.
D. rise in the price of a complementary good often used with the original good.

56. The supply of a good is least likely to increase as the result of:
A. favorable weather.
B. fall in the price of a resource used in producing the good.
C. an increase in the taxes imposed on the producers of the good.
D. a technological change allowing cheaper production of the good.

57. A shift in the demand curve for a good is least likely to result from:
A.increased price for the good.
B. increased incomes of buyers.
C.increased price of a substitute good.
D. decreased price of a complementary good.

58. Which of the following conditions is required for equilibrium in a market?
A. Producer surplus is minimized.
B. No restrictions exist on the movement of a good.
C. The quantity demanded must equal the quantity supplied.
D. The producer’s opportunity cost must equal the market price.

59. Which of the following conditions must be met to achieve economic efficiency?
A. All activities that produce more benefits than costs for the individuals within an economy are undertaken.
B. A large number of sellers exist that supply differentiated products to a market with low barriers to entry.
C. A small number of sellers exist that supply products at prices that reflect savings from economies of scale.
D. A large number of small companies exist producing an identical product in an industry that has complete freedom of entry and exit.

60. Which of the following factors is least likely to provide a valid basis for government action to improve the performance of markets?
A. Externalities
B. Public goods
C. Excessive competition among sellers
D. Incomplete information for market participants

MARKETS AND INSTRUMENTS: 5 Questions

61. The call feature associated with a corporate bond determines the:
A. date on which bondholders can request that their funds be repaid.
B. terms under which the borrowing company can redeem the bond prior to maturity.
C. conditions under which bondholders can request that the company add to its financial reserves.
D. requirements for the borrowing company to notify bondholders about material changes in its financial condition.

62. The seniority of a bond refers to the:
A. time remaining until the bond matures.
B. average age of the assets securing the bond.
C. time that has passed since the bond was issued.
D. priority of the bond’s claim on the company’s assets.

63. Yankee bonds are fixed-income securities that are issued:
A. in the US by non-US borrowers, paying interest in US dollars.
B. in the US by non-US borrowers, paying interest in a non-dollar currency.
C. outside the US by US borrowers, paying interest in US dollars.
D. outside the US by US borrowers, paying interest in a non-dollar currency.

64. Futures contracts provide for the:
A. optional delivery of an asset at a specified future date for a specified payment.
B. mandatory delivery of an asset at a specified future date for a specified payment.
C. optional delivery of an asset at a specified future date for a payment to be determined at the future date.
D. mandatory delivery of an asset at a specified future date for a payment to be determined at the future date.

65. A real estate investment trust provides a means for investing in:
A. a portfolio of real estate assets.
B. the non-US real estate assets of US companies.
C. the cash flows generated by rental payments on commercial property.
D. a portfolio of shares in companies that develop or own real estate assets.

Choose to be Rich Workbook
022808

Kiyosaki espouses that we must have a clear monthly record of all our financial concerns and whereabouts. The data I have presented here are rough drafts... Next month it will be more specific since I will start my record keeping...

Record Keeping
Personal Info

Name: RONALDO GUERRERO BORJA Date: February 28, 2008

Name: RONALDO GUERRERO BORJA
Address: Centro, POlangui, Albay
Date, Place of Birth: April 16, 1978; Sampaloc,Manila
Social Security Number: Lost

Debts (Auto, Education, Personal, Credit Card, Mortgage, other)

Other loan insitution: RUSI
Address: Diversion Road, Polangui, Albay
Phone Number: 09275359634
Account Number:
Interest Rate:
Monthly Payment: P1,530 if on/before the due date; P1,730 after the due date
Total Balance Due: P41,520 (based on the after the due date figure)
(with date prepared)

Bank Accounts (Checking, Savings, CDs, Credit Union, Other)

Bank Name: G7 Bank
Type of Account: Savings
Account Number: 17898-12
Address: Ubaliw, Polangui, Albay
Phone Number:
Contact: Jonie Tinoco
Interest Rate:
Average Monthly Income:
Total Balance P503.05
(with date prepared)

Bank Name: Legazpi Savings Bank Bank
Type of Account: Savings
Account Number: 004-01-6601
Address: Basud, Polangui, Albay
Phone Number:
Contact:
Interest Rate: Effective Rate of interest of 2% per annum
Average Monthly Income:
Total Balance P4,003.07
(with date prepared)

Bank Name: Camalig Bank
Type of Account: Savings
Account Number: 18928
Address: Camalig, Albay
Phone Number:
Contact:
Interest Rate:
Average Monthly Income:
Total Balance P184.50
(with date prepared)

Brokerage Accounts (Stocks, Bonds, Mutual Funds) = 0
Investments held directly by you = 0
Real Estate Investments = 0
Retirement Plans = 0
Insurance Plans = 0

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022908

1. I am successful!
2. I am a money magnet!
3. I have lots of friends!
4. I have lots of support!

SK MODULE III

2008-02-29T19:39:00.000-08:00

SK MODULE III

As SK (youth leaders) it is very much important that they know the structure and dynamism of our government. This module discusses the said topic.

PHILIPPINE GOVERNMENT

1. 3 BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT
A. Executive
B. Legislative
C. Judiciary

INDEPENDENT COMMISSIONS
A. CSC
B. COA
C. COMELEC

2. LOCAL GOVERNMENT

HEIRARCHY/POLITICAL SUBDIVISION
A. Provincial Government
B. City/Municipal Government
C. Barangay Government

Categories of City

1. Highly Urbanized City
- totally independent of the supervision of the province
2. Independent Component City
- territorially a part of the province, but voters do not vote for the Provincial Officials
3. Component City
- territorially within a province, voters vote for provincial officials

Special Feature of Local Government Structure

1. Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM)
2. National Capital Region (NCR)

* These are considered regional government

GENERAL SUPERVISION BASED ON HIERARCHY

- Generally, the President exercises direct supervision over local Government Units (Province, City, and Municipality and over barangays through the city/municipality)
- Province exercises supervision over the city/municipality
- City/Municipality exercises direct supervision over barangays
- Barangay exercises general supervision over SK
(Sec. 389. b, 11, LGC of 1991)

Local Goverment Code (LGC) OF 1991

- LGC was passed because of decentralization efforts
- Decentralization means sharing of power and authority between central or national governments and local governments

Forms of decentralization

Deconcentration – the transfer of power, authority and responsibility to lower levels within the central government itself.
Devolution – the transfer of power and authority from the central government to the LGUs
Debureaucratization or privatization – sharing of public functions and responsibilities w/ private entities/NGOs

Relationship of National Government and LGUs

- Before, National Government exercised major political powers and even greater responsibilities in the delivery of basic services
- At present, the LGUs are given autonomy, has political and proprietory functions including corporate functions
- Central government transfer delivery of basic services to the LGUs
- Less intervention from the national government (except in exceptional cases)

Devolved Basic Services to LGUs
- Health Services
- Agriculture
- Social Services and Welfare
- Public Works
- Environmental and Natural Concerns

On Constitutional and LGC off 1991 Mandate
- Sec. 13 Art. II “the State recognizes the vital role of the youth to nation building and shall promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social being”
- RA 7160 (LGC of 1991) “Every Barangay shall have a Katipunan ng Kabataan the primary objective is to enhance the social, political economic, cultural, intellectual, moral, spiritual and physical development of members”. The Katipunan ng Kabataan shall be the asembly of youth in the barangay.

Choose to be Rich Workbook
022708

This is the format of calculating the net business income... Next time I will fill it up with the KKK (Youth) Coop accounts...
Business
Income
Sales
Other
Total Income A
Expenses
Cost of goods sold
Admin Cost
Taxes
Other
Total Expenses B

Total Income A - Total Expenses B = Net Business Income

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022708

1. The KKK is having birth pains but it is on its way to ts goal!
2. Health and wealth is mine!
3. Opportunities are presenting themselves!
4. I will earn my first million this year!

SK LETRA MODULE II

2008-02-29T19:37:00.001-08:00

The topic today is more about the purpose, responsibilities and privileges of the Sangguniang Kabataan and Katipunan ng Kabataan.

Katipunan ng Kabataan

Organization and Purpose:

“Every barangay shall have a Katipunan ng Kabataan, the primary objective of which is to enhance the the social, political economic, cultural, intellectual, moral, spiritual and physical development of the youth of the country”

Membership:

- The Katipunan ng mga Kabataan shall be composed of all the Filipino Citizens at least 15 but not more than twenty years of age
- Actual residents in the barangay for at least six months
- Registered in the SK, or in official list in the custody of the barangay secretary

Rights and Duties:

- Eligible to vote in the SK Elections
- Eligible to be elected in the SK Elections
- Participate in all activities as maybe adopted by them, promulgated by the SK or as my be provided by law
(provided such participation shall be subject to the provisions of the code, existing rules and laws.

Rights and Duties:

- Eligible to vote in the SK Elections
- Eligible to be elected in the SK Elections
- Participate in all activities as maybe adopted by them, promulgated by the SK or as my be provided by law
(provided such participation shall be subject to the provisions of the code, existing rules and laws.

Creation and Composition:

There shall be in every barangay a Sangguniang Kabataan to be composed of
* Chairman - elected
* Seven Members - elected
* Secretary – appointed w/ concurrence
* Treasurer – appointed w/ concurrence

Power and Functions of the SK:

- Promulgate resolutions necessary to carry out objectives of the youth
- Initiate programs of designed to enhance the social, political, economic, culture, intellectual, moral, spiritual and physical development of the members
- Hold fund-raising activities
- Create bodies or committees as necessary
- Submit annual and end-term reports to the Sangguniang Barangay
- Consult and coordinate with all youth organizations in the barangay for policy formulation and program implementation
- Coordinate with the NYC and other development projects and programs at the national level
- Exercise other powers and duties as SB may determine or delegate or as may be prescribed by law or ordinance

Qualifications of elective members of SK:

- A citizen of the Philippines
- A qualified voter of KK
- A Resident in the barangay at least one year immediately prior to election
- At least 15 but not more than 21 years od age on the day of his election
- Able to read and write Filipino, local dialect or English
- Not have been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude

SK Chairman

- Serve as an ex-officio member of the SB (exercise same powers, discharge same duties and enjoy same privileges)
- Serve ass the chairman of the committee on youth and sport development of SB
- Serve as the member of barangay development council

Power and duties of the SK Chairman:

- Call and preside over all meetings of the Katipunan ng Kabataan and the SK
- Implement policies, programs and projects within his jurisdiction in coordination with the SB
- Exercise general supervision over the affairs and activities of the SK and the official conduct of its members, and other officers
- With concurrence of the SK, appoint from among the members the secretary and treasurer, and other officers as necessary
- Exercise other powers, duties, functions as prescribed by law or ordinance

Sangguniang Kabataan Secretary

Duties & Functions of the SK Secretary:

- Keep all records of the KK and SK
- Prepare and keep the minutes of all meetings of the KK and SK
- Prepare all forms necessary for the conduct of registrations, elections, initiatives, referenda, or plebiscites (in coordination with BS and COMELEC)
- Perform such other duties and discharge functions as the chairman of SK may prescribe or direct

Sangguniang Kabataan Treasurer

Duties & Functions of the SK Treasurer:

- Take custody of all SK property and funds not otherwise deposited with city or municipal treasurer
- Collect and receive contributions, monies, materials and other resources intended for the SK and KK
- Disburse SK Funds in accordance with approved budget
- Certify to the availability of funds whenever necessary
- Submit to the SK and to the SB certified and detailed statements of actual income and expenditures at the end of every month
- Perform such other duties and discharge other functions as the chairman of the SK may direct

Meeting of the SK

* The SK shall meet regularly every once a month on the day, time and place to be fixed by the said sanggunian
* Special meetings may be called by the chairman or any 3 of its members by giving notice to all members of the date, time, place, and agenda of the meeting at least 1 day in advance
* Notices of meetings shall be furnished to PB and SB
* Majority of the members shall constitute a quorum

Election and Term of Office

* Election shall be held on the last Monday of October and every three years thereafter
* SK members elected shall serve for three years or until such time as their successors shall have been elected or sooner removed for cause or had become incapacitated
* An SK Official who passed the age of 21 years shall be allowed to serve for the remaining portion of the term for which he was elected

Succession and Filling of Vacancies

* If the SK chairman is refused, incapacitated, removed for cause or dies, the SK member who obtained the highest number of vote shall assume office of the chairman for the unexpired portion of the term
* If the member refused to assume or fails to qualify or have been incapacitated or removed for cause, the SK member obtaining the next highest number of votes shall assume the position
* If two or more members obtained the same next higher number of votes, the SK members shall conduct an election
* After the vacancy have been filled, the SK chairman shall call for a special election to complete the membership of said sanggunian.
* In case of suspension of the SK Chairman, the successor as previously discussed shall assume the position

Privileges and Benefits

- SK Chairman shall enjoy the same privileges enjoyed by SB members
- SK Officials shall be exempt from payment of tuition fees and matriculation fees while enrolled in tertiary public schools (Provided they enroll in the state college or university within or nearest their area of jurisdiction)

Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan

Organization:

Pambayang Pederasyon ng SK (Municipalities)
Panlungsod na Pederasyon ng SK (Cities)
Panlalawigangg Pederasyon ng SK (Province)
Pangmetropolitang Pederasyon ng SK (special metropolitan political subdivisions)
Pambansang Pederasyon ng SK (National)

Choose to be Rich Workbook
022608

One of the tough assignment of the book by Kiyosaki is preparing your financial statement mnthly... I have prepared a rough estimation of my financial statement for February... Now i am reading where am I financially...
Next month it will be more specified since I will start my record keeping...

My Financial Statement

Income
Earned Income
Job and self employment P14,794 + P3,400 = P18,194

Passive Income
Real Estate (Net) 0
Business (Net) 0
Passive Income Total 0

Portfolio Income
Interest 0
Dividends 0
Royalties 0
Portfolio Income Total 0

Total Income (Earned + Passive + Portfolio) P18,194

Expenses
Taxes ????
Credit Card Payments 0
Home Mortagage (Rent)
Car Payments (Motorcycle) P1,730
Food and Clothing 4,300
Other Payments 10,000

Total Expenses P16,030+

NET MONTHLY CASH FLOW P 2,164-
(Total Income less Total Expenses)

Assets
Bank Accounts P4,690.50
Stocks 0
Bonds 0
Receivables 0
Real Estate (Fair Market Value less Mortgage) 0
Business Value (Net) 0

Assets Subtotal P4,690.50

Doodads
Home 0
Car (Motorcycle) P41,520 (present value)
Other (Laptop) P25,000

Doodads Total P66,520

Total Assets per Banker (Assets Subtotal + Doodads) = P71,210.5
Total Assets per Rich Dad (Assets Subtotal only, do not add doodads) =
P4,690.50

Liabilities
Credit Cards
Car Loans (Motorcycle) P41,520
School and Personal LOans 0
Home Mortgage Loan 0
Other Debt (Bank LOans) 31,025 + 80,073 = P111,098

Total Liabilities P152,618

Net Worth per banker (Total Assets per banker less total liabilities) =
-P81,407.5
Net Worth per Rich Dad (Total Assets per Rich dad less total liabilities) =
-P147,927.50

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022608

1. Now that I know where I am financially... That I can change my situation and become financially free
2. I will have my first million this year!
3. My family members and my loved ones are all wealthy and happy!
4. I am amidst abundance and prosperity!

SK LETRA MODULE

2008-02-29T19:32:00.000-08:00

February 25...

"The youth is the hope of the motherland..."
- Jose Rizal

The author have been assigned by the Provincial Government to create a module for the upcoming SK (Sangguniang Kabataan/Youth Leaders) Summer Camp - Leadership Training (LETRA)

Here I have posted one of the topics that I have already finished. The topic of SK Plans and Budget. If you have additions and corrections kindly leave a comment so we can incorporate it. Thanks!

LECTURE ON SK PLANS & BUDGET

Course Outline
I. Legal Basis
II. What is a Budget?
III. Composition
IV. Budget Process
V. Annual and Supplemental Budget
VI. Realignment

LEGAL BASIS

Sec. 329, Art. 2 of RA 7160 provides that ten percent (10%) of the General Fund of the barangay shall be set aside for the Sangguniang Kabataan.

WHAT IS A BUDGET?

- A management tool
- A process of allocating limited resources for funding necessary lawful expenditures

WHAT COMPRISES A BUDGET?

Part I – sources or revenue to be collected
Part II – proposed expenditures/appropriations

UNDER SOURCES:

a) Beginning balance
1. Surplus
2. Continuing appropriations
b) 10% share from barangay funds
c) Donations

UNDER APPROPRIATIONS:

Allocations of SK funds

Section 1 - 40%

Green Brigade 10%
Livelihood 10%
Capability building 10%
Anti-Drug Abuse campaigns 10%

Section 2 - 58% other programs

2.1 Education services & moral recovery program
2.2 Health services & adolescent reproduction health program
2.3 Disaster combination & calamity management
2.4 Sports development activities
2.5 Community immersion
2.6 Infra projects
2.7 Legislative work and involvement
2.8 Other development program vitalfor the youth

Section 3 - 2% annual dues

40% goes to Pambayang Pederasyon
20% goes to Panlalawigang Pederasyon
20% goes to Regional Council
20% goes to Pambansang Pederasyon

5. Annual and Supplemental Budgets Differences

Annual
1. Prepared every October of every year
2. Effective January of each year
Ever prepared after October of a year

Supplemental
1. Prepared once additional income is Realized
2. Effective upon its passage

Similarities
1. Approval by SK municipal LEC
2. Majority votes required
3. Presented for deliberation in a regular session

6. Realignments – same process with annual / supplemental budgets to be approved by SK Municipal LEC

PLAN – BUDGET LINK MODEL
1. Determine issues current / for development
2. Arrive to VISION / GOAL
3. Strategies

1.Activities
1. Projects
2. Programs
3. Resources requirements

1. Prioritization of activities
2. Allocation of resources
3. Targets
4. Performance output

Policy decisions : determine the goal
: provision of basic services
: if the funds doesn’t warrant resort to investment
- thru – subsidy
- savings via cost reduction scheme

The Format for a budget is

Republic of the Philippines
Province of Albay
Municipality of _______________
Barangay ___________________

SK ANNUAL BUDGET
CY 2008

1. SOURCES

Balance end of the year (- Partial) __________________
10% SK Share (2007) __________________
Others __________________

====================

2. EXPENDITURES/ APPROPRIATION

A. Green Brigade (10%) __________________
B. Livelihood (10%) __________________
C. Capability Building (10%) __________________
D. Anti-Drug Abuse Campaign (10%) __________________
E. SK Annual Dues (2%) __________________
F. Other Concerns (58%) __________________

TOTAL EXPENDITURES:

====================

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
022508

QUESTIONS:
Are you set up to retire early or are you living like a financial yo-yo?
Will you retire at age 45 or remain self-employed until 80?
Live in a mansion at the coast or in a small condo in the city?
Spend your twilight years in a long term care facility or tended by a private nurse?
Do you want to have too little money or too much money?

ANSWERS:
As of now I am in the middle of seting up to retire early and being a financial yo-yo... This is my take off stage, it might be difficult but I will take off and retire early.
Based on my computation I will retire by age 48...
Of course live in a mansion at the coast...
To tended by a private, sexy nurse he he he he he he he...
TOO MUCH MONEY!!!!

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022508

1. I will retire early!
2. By age 48 my passive income falls at $1M or more per year! YES!
3. I will live in a mansion by the coast, tended by a sexy nurse... grrrr... he he he he he
4. I am now on my way to financial freedom!

Bringing the Government Closer to the People...

2008-02-27T19:03:00.001-08:00

Another part of my job is to make project proposals, speak in behalf, etc. etc to our Hon. Vice Governor Brando Mella Sael

For this year his focus is bringing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Povincial Board) to the people of Albay so hat they can answer, enact and legislate laws that is in consonance to the need and call of the Albayanos.

Below is a copy of the proposal I have made for the Consultative Assembly to be done for the Fsher Folks of Albay West Coast.

CONSULTATIVE ASSEMBLY 2008
SERIES I

Rationale
The Albay West Coast is one of the most abandoned areas of our province. Their economic and environmental status area needs attention of the Provincial Government. This area comprises of three towns, a city and a total of 21 barangays.
A lot of issues abound the said area, among them are the prevalence of illegal fishing from “ulbot gabot” to the dreaded “pangulong “. Their economic condition is no laughing matter, even the joke about “fish and order” no longer holds true in reality since the catch ratio of fishes per fishermen is very scarce.
This people need the reassurance that the Provincial Government, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is with them in their journey.

Participants: ALBAY WEST COAST FISHER FOLKS
Average of 40-50 persons attended per barangay. A total of 994 fisher folks attended; three speakers; staff and drivers of the speakers, six persons; PRLI staff 18 facilitators. The assemblies were clustered per town/city with the following dates: Libon: Jan. 5, 2008, Oas: Jan. 12, 2008, Ligao City: Jan 19, 2008, Pioduran: Jan. 26, 2008.

A. Libon Number of Pax Date
1. Barangay Apud 50 Mar. 5, 2008
2. Barangay Rawis 49 Mar. 5, 2008
3. Barangay Talin-Talin 44 Mar. 5, 2008
4. Pantao 49 Mar. 5, 2008
TOTAL 192

B. Oas
5. Maramba 40 Mar. 12, 2008
6. Nagas 47 Mar. 12, 2008
7. Tapel 50 Mar. 12, 2008
8. Cagmanaba 49 Mar. 12, 2008
9. Badian 49 Mar. 12, 2008
TOTAL 235

C. Ligao City
10. Catburawan 49 Mar. 19, 2008
11. Cabarian 47 Mar. 19, 2008
12. Maonon 49 Mar. 19, 2008
TOTAL 145
D. Pioduran
13. Basicao 50 Mar. 26, 2008
14. Marigondon 44 Mar. 26, 2008
15. Zone 1 40 Mar. 26, 2008
16. Zone 2 50 Mar. 26, 2008
17. Zone 3 49 Mar. 26, 2008
18. Zone 4 50 Mar. 26, 2008
19. Zone 5 47 Mar. 26, 2008
20. Zone 6 43 Mar. 26, 2008
21. Zone 7 49 Mar. 26, 2008
TOTAL 422

Objectives
The main objective of this series of consultative assemblies is to bring the government closer to the people, Putting into action the much used by word participatory leadership.
Other specific targets are as follows:
1. To arouse the sentiments of our fisher folks to work with the Provincial Government, specially in curbing illegal fishing and other illegal activities
2. To organize our fisher folks to into environment protection units, in lined with our Governor’s project of A2C2.
3. To mobilize our fisher folks into much more productive economic individuals.

Program
Three speakers were invited to talk regarding the different issues of our fisher folks. The said speakers were from BFAR (to talk about illegal fishing and its effects), PAMALAKYA (to talk about the democratic rights and welfare or fisher folks) and from TLRC (to talk about economic/livelihood ventures that can be done by our fisher folks).
The said assembly is a whole day activity. The morning session will start by 8am focusing on the speakers, after lunch is the open forum and consultation with the people that can help in the legislative process of the Sanggunian.

Budget
Mar. 5, 2008 LIBON
Meals P120/head 219 (192 pax, 3 speakers, 6 speakers’ staff & 18 PRLI) P26,280
Speaker’s Honorarium P1,500/head 3 speakers 4,500
TOTAL P30,780

Mar. 12, 2008 OAS
Meals P120/head 262 (235 pax, 3 speakers, 6 speakers’ staff & 18 PRLI) P31,440
Speaker’s Honorarium P1,500/head 3 speakers 4,500
TOTAL P35,940

Mar. 19, 2008 LIGAO CITY
Meals P120/head 172 (145 pax, 3 speakers, 6 speakers’ staff & 18 PRLI) P20,640
Speaker’s Honorarium P1,500/head 3 speakers 4,500
TOTAL P25,140

Mar. 26, 2008 PIODURAN
Meals P120/head 262 (422 pax, 3 speakers, 6 speakers’ staff & 18 PRLI) P53,880
Speaker’s Honorarium P1,500/head 3 speakers 4,500
TOTAL P58,380

GRAND TOTAL P150,240

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
022408

Personal Heroes Lessons Learned
1. Robert Kiyosaki The real concept of being financially free and how to get there...
2. Henry Sy The value of perseverance and business common sense...
3. Kenshin Himura The courage to face your worst enemy - yourself...
4. Rock Lee The importance of hard work and pushing yourself to the limit to reach your goals...

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022408

1. I am on my way for financial freedom...
2. The rain have finally stopped...
3. I have no money... The next turn of the wheel is to have plenty of it...
4. Thanks for the MILLIONS!

CFA DIAGNOSTIC EXAM SAMPLER!

2008-02-27T19:01:00.000-08:00

9th day of the odyssey...

For this day I am giving you a sampler of what a CFA Diagnostic exam looks like... I invite you to send your answers via comments, the one with the highest score will receive a special price from the author, (for readers residing on Philippines only)... The deadline is on March 5, 2008... I will also post the answers on the said date... Good Luck!

CFA REVIEW COURSE
Level I Diagnostic Exam
40 Questions, 60 Minutes

QUESTIONS 1 THROUGH 5 RELATE TO ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS

1. Each of the following would constitute plagiarism except:
A. Quoting sources from a “leading analyst” without any specific reference given.
B. Using a statistic from a well-known statistical reporting company without acknowledgement.
C. Verbal comment made by an analyst in a presentation which was not an original idea
D. Selected portions of another brokerage firm’s report, without attribution.

2. Mr. Richard Rikin successfully completed the Level 1 Examinations and Mr. Dennis Reinoso successfully completed the Level 3 Examinations of the CFA Program. Mr. Rikin registered for the Level 2 Examinations. Mr. Reinoso still needs to complete the work requirement for the charter. The correct way to present their involvement in the program is

For Mr. Richard Rikin For Mr. Dennis Reinoso
A. Mr. Richard Rikin, CFA Level 1 Mr. Dennis Reinoso, CFA Level 3
B. Mr. Richard Rikin, CFA Level 1 Mr. Dennis Reinoso, will be eligible for the charter upon completion of required work experience
C. Mr. Richard Rikin is a Level 2 Candidate in the CFA Program Mr. Dennis Reinoso, CFA Level 3
D. Mr. Richard Rikin is a Level 2 Candidate in the CFA Program Mr. Dennis Reinoso, will be eligible for the charter upon completion of required work experience

3.Which of the following statements is true?

I. Insider information is that which is both non-public and material.
II. An investor can make a trade based on a set of non-public and non-material information.
III. A Chartered Financial Analyst, working in the U.S., can use insider information to buy a foreign stock because there is no law prohibiting such transaction in the country where such stock is listed.

A. I only
B. I and II only
C. II and III only
D. All are true

4. Anna Nichols is a research analyst preparing a report on Enterprise Company. In order to ensure accuracy in her report, she sends the report to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Enterprise to allow him to point out some factual errors. The CFO makes some corrections, which Nichols checks and agrees with. The CFO also sends Nichols several pages of market analyses that appear favorable for Enterprise. Nichols checks the analyses for accuracy and includes a summary of them in her report, pointing out that the data came from Enterprise. Nichols has:

A. violated the Standards by sending the report to the CFO before sending it to her clients.
B. violated the Standards by not including all of the data the CFO provided to her.
C. violated the Standards by including the data from the CFO in the report.
D. not violated any Standard.

5. While on a business trip, John Hayes, CFA, found a notebook that had apparently been left in the waiting area of an airport. Hayes opened the notebook and read the title: Confidential: 2001 Level II CFA Examination. Before returning the notebook to AIMR, he made a copy and gave it to Linda Sacket, one of his firm's analysts, who was a candidate for Level II of the CFA examination. Hayes reasoned that AIMR would not use these questions and that Sacket would benefit from reviewing these questions. Sacket read the questions and guideline answers before taking the Level II examination. According to the AIMR Standards of Professional Conduct involving professional misconduct:

A. Hayes violated the Standards, but Sacket did not.
B. Sacket violated the Standards, but Hayes did not.
C. both Hayes and Sacket violated the Standards.
D. neither Hayes nor Sacket violated the Standards.

QUESTIONS 6 THROUGH 13 RELATE TO ECONOMICS

6. If the reserve requirement is 20%, a new deposit of $1,000 will increase the money supply by:
A. potentially as much as $5,000.
B. at least $1,000.
C. potentially as much as $4,000.
D. potentially as much as $1,000.

7. In a perfectly competitive market,
I. each competitor faces perfectly elastic demand for its product.
II. a competitor can gain market share by differentiating it product.
III. in the long run all firms will earn zero economic profit.
IV. in the long run all firms will earn accounting profit.

A. I only.
B. I and III.
C. I, II and III.
D. I, II and IV.

8. Once a firm reaches a point of diminishing marginal returns:
A. marginal costs will decrease, causing average total costs to decrease.
B. marginal costs will increase, causing average total costs to increase.
C. marginal costs will increase, having no effect on average total costs.
D. marginal costs will increase, but the effect on average total cost will depend on the change in average fixed cost.

9. A firm in a competitive price-searcher market
A. faces an inelastic demand curve.
B. must be concerned not only with existing competitors but new potential entrants as well.
C. is somewhat protected from competition by high barriers to entry.
D. is unlikely to derive any benefit from advertising.

10. According to the Crowding-Out Model,
A. rising tax rates will reduce demand as more money is taken away from the private sector.
B. increased government spending will have no effect on aggregate demand.
C. expansionary fiscal policy puts the government in competition with the private sector for a limited supply of loanable funds.
D. the best strategy to stimulate demand during a recession is restrictive fiscal policy.

11. M1 includes all of the following except:
A. demand deposits.
B. traveler's checks.
C. passbook savings accounts
D. currency in circulation.

12. If the Japanese Yen depreciates against the U.S. Dollar:
A. It takes less Yen to buy products priced in Dollars.
B. It takes more Dollars to buy products priced in Yen.
C. It takes more Yen to buy products in any currency.
D. It takes more Yen to buy products priced in Dollars.

13. As long as the _____ production costs of goods and services differ between nations, the nations will be able to benefit from trade.
A. absolute
B. total
C. relative
D. unit

QUESTIONS 14 THROUGH 22 RELATE TO QUANTITATIVE METHODS

14. Two alternative investments, both costing PhP1,000,000 are being offered. Investment A will pay a lump sum of PhP2,000,000 after 5 years while Investment B will pay PhP300,000 per year for five years beginning one year from now. Assuming an interest rate of 10%, which of the following statements are true?

I. Investment A has a higher NPV.
II. Investment B has a higher IRR.

A. Only statement I is True.
B. Only statement II is True.
C. Statements I and II are true.
D. Statements I and II are false.

15. In a normal probability distribution:
A. The expected value is equal to both the mode and the median.
B. Large deviations from the mean are less likely than small deviations.
C. The distribution can be identified completely by the expected and the standard deviation.
D. All of the above.

16. Multiple regression analysis refers to:
A. Analyzing the effect of several dependent variables on one independent variable.
B. Analyzing the effect of several independent variables on one dependent variable.
C. Performing several iterations of a linear regression to determine the regression line with the best fit to the data.
D. Performing several iterations of a linear regression to determine the regression line with the highest R2

17. Javyee Eizaguru bought a new car, Ford, on terms. He paid $500 down, signed a note at 12% requiring $150 monthly payment for 2 years. How much did he pay for the car?
A. $3,187
B. $3,687
C. $1,253
D. $4,100

18. You have been offered perpetuity of $1,000 annually in exchange for $50,000. What interest rate is implicit in this transaction?
A. 1.0%
B. 2.0%
C. 2.5%
D. 20.0%

19. Which of the following options is the most desirable for a borrower taking out a loan?
A. Pay 8% compounded daily.
B. Pay 8.2% compounded monthly
C. Pay 8.3% compounded quarterly.
D. Pay 8.5% compounded annually.

20. Which of the measures assume that all proceeds are reinvested?
A. Time-weighted rate of return
B. IRR
C. Dollar-weighted rate of return
D. Arithmetic rate of return

21. Investing for more holding periods:
A. Will reduce overall risk
B. Will neither increase or decrease overall risk
C. Increases the amount at risk
D. Increases risk only if the holding period returns are not independent

22. Jenny Clevera would like to send her daughter Sheryl to Jasmine College in ten years. She has estimated that the cost of college by then will be $30,000 per year. Assuming she can earn 8% on her investments, how much must she set aside to meet the expected college bills?
A. $99,363
B. $62,776
C. $55,583
D. $46,025

QUESTIONS 23 THROUGH 36 RELATE TO FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING AND STATEMENT ANALYSIS

23. Among the following, the most important tool for investors is the:
A. Balance sheet
B. Income statement
C. Statement of cash flows
D. Statement of changes in stockholders’ equity

24. The cash flow from operations can:
A. Be manipulated
B. Usually predict bankruptcy
C. Be affected by issuing stock
D. Be affected by capital expenditure

25. Many companies prefer to have operating leases rather than capital leases because:

A. In the later years of the lease, operating income will be higher.
B. In the early years of the lease, rent expense is usually less than the sum of depreciation and interest expense.
C. Operating leases are not reported in the annual report
D. Over the life of the lease, income will be greater using an operating lease.

26. The most conservative way to compute interest coverage if a company has capitalized interest is to:
A. Compute the ratio using interest actually paid.
B. Add the capitalized interest back to net income and compute the ratio.
C. Deduct capitalized interest from interest expense and compute the ratio.
D. Add capitalized interest to interest actually paid and compute the ratio.

27. Which of the following is a benefit of FIFO?
A. Higher taxes
B. Less inflation effect on COGS
C. Higher ROE
D. Higher liquidity ratios

28. An unexpected increase in inventory might be a sign of:
A. Higher future demand
B. Unexpected decline in sales
C. a & b.
D. Higher current ratio

29. The area of accounting that gives management the greatest discretion to determine timing of income is
A. Inventory accounting.
B. Accounting for marketable securities.
C. Accounting for impaired assets.
D. Convertible debt accounting.

30. A firm that tends to capitalize certain costs rather than expense them will:
A. eventually have problems with the SEC.
B. have higher net income over the long-term.
C. have higher cash flow over the near-term.
D. have smoother net income.

31. Which of the following cannot be capitalized?
A. Trademarks.
B. Software development.
C. Research and development.
D. Franchises.

32. One method of increasing net income without having a separate line item on the balance sheet is to:
A. change depreciation methods.
B. change asset lives.
C. change interest rate assumptions.
D. none of the above.

33. For bonds issued at premium, interest expense:
A. goes down over time.
B. goes up over time.
C. stays the same.
D. will depend on the effective interest rate.

34. When computing a valuation ratio, the correct method of valuing debt is:
A. face value.
B. par value.
C. market value.
D. conversion value.

35. Selling accounts receivable artificially improve the:
A. Current ratio
B. Debt/equity ratio
C. Tax rate
D. Return on equity

36. What should an analyst use to estimate real economic depreciation of a fixed asset?
A. Tax depreciation.
B. GAAP depreciation.
C. Units of production method.
D. Must be evaluated on a case by case basis.

QUESTIONS 37 THROUGH 40 RELATE TO ASSET VALUATION AND PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT

37. In analyzing different industries, those with high P/E ratios will typically have:
A. low payout ratios
B. high payout ratios
C.low growth rates
D. too much leverage

38. Beta can be viewed as:
A. a measure of growth
B. a measure of systematic risk
C. a measure of correlation
D. a measure of total risk

39. Each of the following is a disadvantage to investing in real estate except:
A. illiquidity
B. cyclicality of the market
C. high correlation of real estate returns with common stock returns
D. high management costs

40. Company A has a substantially higher dividend pay out ratio compared to Company B. Everything else about the two companies is identical. After several years, which of the following statements about Company A and Company would most likely be TRUE?
I. Company A would have a higher stock price.
II. Company B would have a lower debt/equity ratio.

A. Only statement I is most likely True.
B. Only statement II is most likely True.
C. Statements I and II are both most likely true.
D. Neither statement I nor II are likely to be true.

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
022308

Wants
1. To become a CFA...
2. To become finacially free/ultra rich...
3. To own a medieval castle at Scotland...
4. To be a best selling inspirational author and lecturer...
5. To organize and build an International NGO focusing on the rights and welfare of street children and youth...
6. To own a massive library...
7. To have a massive collection of Naruto, Samurai X, X-men, Beatles, etc...
8. To own a vintage race car with historical sentiment...
9. To build my own university focusing on financial intelligence, emotional quotient and personality development...

Don't Wants
1. To die a vagabond...
2. To work all of my life...
3. To be a part of the rat race...
4. To be a slave of money...
5. To be sickly...
6. To become a loser...
7. To become a shadow of my father and predecessors...
8. To become undisciplined and disrganized...
9. To be a traditional politician...

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022308

1. An oppurtinity to go out of the country was presented...
2. My anti virus was updated and got the Worm/Agent A...
3. For being a CFA...
4. For the Millions!

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES!

2008-02-25T17:43:00.000-08:00

The Kooperatiba ng Kabataan para sa Kaunlaran (KKK) Albay – Youth Cooperative for Development Albay is looking for a few good men and women! We are looking for a Part Time Operations Manager for the Sexxxy! Perfume, Sexxxy! Glutha soap, Load station, etc.; and distributors for the processed meat like longganisa, baloney, skinless longganisa, tocino, boneless bangus, etc.

For the Part Time Operations Manager, below is the employment contract for your perusal and review.

EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT

I, ________________________________________________________ (name), ________ (age), of _____________________________________________ (address), is willing and able to enter into contract with Kooperatiba ng Kabataan para sa Kaunlaran –Albay (KKK Albay) and be it’s Operations Manager (Part Time) at the area designated to me.

I am honest, hard working and trustworthy especially when it comes to financial matters. My duties and responsibilities will be as follows and I will follow it to heart:

1. Record all sales transactions and report it to my business partner weekly.
2. Manage the selling of 200 pcs (minimum) of KKK produced items (ex. SEXXXY! Eu de Toilette) and sell all kinds of cellphone, internet and gaming loads worth P2,000 (minimum), this month.
3. Manage the selling of at least 50 items per week with payment to be remitted after two weeks for the first 50 items and weekly remittances afterwards.
4. Sell the SEXXXY! edt product for P75, wherein P10 goes to the seller, the P65 will be remitted to the cooperative (other products and their respective prices will follow soon).
5. To receive my honorarium of P100/day (excluding Saturdays and Sundays) less P10 for savings, P10 for investments, P10 for charity every 15th and last day of the month. Meaning I will receive by March 15, P700 cash, P100 savings, P100 investments, P100 charity; by March 31, P770 cash, P110 savings, P110 investments and P110 charity and so on and so forth.
6. A surprise incentive awaits me if I surpass the quota of the month.
7. If I meet this month’s quota, I will proceed to the next month with a higher honorarium bracket of P130 per day (excluding Saturday and Sundays) less P10 for savings, P10 for investments, and P10 for charity.
8. My savings account will be given to me (lump sum) in case of extermination or resignation, same thing with my investments and charity account wherein I will choose a recipient.
9. If I meet and passed the three month probationary period, I will be employed full time with salary and benefits befitted to me.

This contract serves me and the KKK-Albay and will be in full affectivity when duly signed by both parties involved.

______________________________ ______________________________
Printed Name and Signature Printed Name and Signature
Employee Employer - KKK Albay

For the Distributorship of the processed meat products, we are looking for dealers whom the coop can supply with 20 kilos (10 kilos twice a week) of assorted products. The main product line is the smoked longganisa and baloney/foot long, the distributor’s price is P160 that can be sold at P180 per kilo. For the boneless bangus, the distributor’s price is P125 that can be sold at P140 per kilo. We assure the taste and quality of the products. The payment scheme is 50% down payment and the remaining 50% will be paid in part or full. If your distributorship is getting bigger, bigger discounts will be given.

For those interested you can kindly send your e-mail at samurai_x92003@yahoo.com so we can get in touch and talk things over. Being one with us will not only help you earn extra income but you will be of great help to our out-of-school youth of Albay who produces the said products.

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
022208
1. Write up a plan for lifetime financial security. What does security mean to you personally? The absence of sleepless nights? Being in a better mood more of the time? And what do you need to do to achieve your vision of security? If you’ve decided your first priority is to be rich, this step might seem mechanical or boring. When you plan for security, you’re planning for a world of not enough. One of the points of this step is to motivate you to reach beyond a goal that will only curb your potential.
2. Next, write up a plan for lifetime of comfort. What does comfort mean to you? A big house and two cars? A house, a vacation cottage, and three cars? How can you go about achieving your level of comfort? Obviously, this plan will be a little more aggressive than the first one. And it will be less boring because when you plan for a world of enough, there are more choices open to you. Your challenge will be to choose.
3. Finally, write up a financial plan for becoming rich. This will be your most aggressive plan and your most exciting, for now you’re anticipating a world of more than enough. You’ll be faced with a myriad of choices, for although you may not be aware of it yet, opportunities to make money are all around you. As with the previous plan, your challenge will be coping with the abundance of possibilities. You don’t want to wander through life like a child in a candy store, so distracted by choice that you never make one. Think this plan through carefully and thoroughly.

ANSWERS:
1. Security for me means that I don't hae to worry about where to get the resources for food, shelter, clothing and other basic necessities. Having cleared all my debts and acquiring no more retail debt or bad debts... Well it will result in a sleepful night and less worries that may cause better mood more of the time. I define myself secured when I reach a passive income of $25,000 - $100,000 per year. As per my exit plan I will reach it by 2017, I call this as my take off stage, the stage of sink or swim... The process is to focus on building a business and investing on real estate. It might take hard work, lack of job security and following a rigid schedule.
2. Comfort means being secured plus having "necessary doodads"... A big house and two cars is quite a part of being in the comfort stage. Having a vacation cottage is also one of them, but having three cars might be an overkill already. Using the extra resources from the secured level it is time to invest it in more aggressive businesses and real estate. I will reach this stage by year 2021 with $100,000 - $1M passive income per year.
3. Level of the rich... To be achieved by year 2025... Having a passive income of $1M or more per year... The time to prepare for the ultra rich stage! GO! GO! GO! GO!

I AM SO HAPPY AND GRATEFUL NOW THAT…
My daily thank you log, as I have learned from “The Secret.”
022208

1. Thank you for letting me get to the ultra rich stage!
2. For the time that I have to achieve my goals!
3. For the inspiration for me to achieve my goals no matter what!
4. For the hardship that I am having now!

CFA REVIEW...

2008-02-25T17:32:00.000-08:00

CFA REVIEW

I have answered the CFA Candidate Self – Assessment Test, the result is so inspiring he he he he he…

Financial Statement Analysis (FSA) – 47%
Economics (Econ) – 50%
Markets and Instruments (MI) – 20%

Below I have listed the principles and answers from my wrong answers…

FSA

• Under accrual accounting, credit sales as well as cash sales are recognized in net revenue when earned (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.242)

• Inventory costing methods rely primarily on assumptions about the flow of cost. The cost flow assumed may or may not be the same as the physical flow of goods. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.379)

• With new fixed assets, straight – line depreciation results in lower depreciation than the double – declining balance method. Lower depreciation leads to higher reported earnings. Given the inflationary economy, using FIFO (First In First Out) leads to the inclusion of less expensive inventory items in cost of goods sold, which also leads to higher reported earnings. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., pp. 385-387, 470-472)

• The inventory valuation method that results in the lowest net income is the one that results in the highest of cost of goods sold. In a period of rising prices, LIFO (Last In First Out) results in the highest value of cost of goods sold. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., pp.385-387)

• With LIFO, cost of goods sold will be higher and inventories lower. Therefore, the company will have:
o Higher cost of goods sold
o Lower net income
o Lower income taxes
o Lower current assets
(Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., pp.385-387)

• If cost of goods sold is overstated, operating income will be understated.
Cost of goods sold = Cost of goods available for sale – ending inventory
Cost of goods sold = Beginning inventory + Inventory purchases – Ending inventory
If ending inventory is understated by $3,000, COGS (Cost of Goods Sold) will be overstated by $3,000 and operating income will be understated by $3,000. If beginning inventory is overstated by $5,000, COGS will be overstated by $5,000 and operating income will be understated by $5,000. The effect of both is to overstate COGS by $8,000 and understate operating income by $8,000. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., pp.388-389)

• The term “market” refers to the current replacement cost of inventory, which is the amount that would be paid at present for the same goods. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.390)

• Annual Depreciation = (Cost – Residual Value)/Estimated Useful Life
= ($30,000 - $5,000)/5
= $5,000
Carrying value after 2 years = $30,000 – (2 x $5,000)
= $20,000
(Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.470)

• For the annual interest expense to reflect the effective interest rate, the interest expense each year must include a portion of the discount. This amortization of the discount is the difference between the actual interest payment and the (higher) interest expense for each period. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.517)

• The purchase of treasury stock reduces both the assets (cash) and the stockholders’ equity of a company. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.569)

• According to generally accepted accounting principles, gains and losses from discontinued operations should be reported separately on in the income statement. (Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., pp.596,601)

• Cash collections from customers $260
Salaries Paid - 35
Cash Payments to suppliers - 85
Cash Payments for interest - 12
Cash flows from operating activities $128
(Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.658-661)

• Sale of equipment $30
Purchase of land -8
Purchase of equipment -40
Cash flows from Investing -$18
(Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., pp.638, 648-651)

• Payments to retire stock -$32
Payment of dividends -37
Cash flows from financing -$69
(Ref: Needles and Powers, Financial Accounting, 7th ed., p.639, 651-65)

• The basic balance sheet equation is Assets = Liabilities + Owner’s Equity
(Ref: White, Sondhi, Fried, Analysis and Use of Financial Statements, 2nd ed., p.16)

• Auditors are only required to verify there are no material errors.
(Ref: White, Sondhi, Fried, Analysis and Use of Financial Statements, 2nd ed., pp.24-25)

ECON

• Surplus of a good will create a downward pressure on the price, which will in turn induce buyers to purchase more, moving along the demand curve (a change in demand). (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.73-74)

• Gross private domestic investment is the only factor that reflects expenditures. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.172-174)

• The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) deflator would be appropriate because it reflects movements in the prices of goods and services purchased businesses and governments as well as by consumers. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.177-179)

• GDP includes all except household production. The omission of household production leads to the understatement of total output. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.172-174, 180)

• Frictional unemployment counts only the number of qualified and employable workers who are in transition between jobs. This unemployment stems from the constant changes in the demand and supply of specific employers and employees, and the time required for job seekers to conduct job searches.
(Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., p.199)

• Inflation refers to the movement in the general level of prices of goods and services in an economy. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., p.205)

• Inflation rate = (this year’s Consumer Price index (CPI) – Last year’s CPI)/Last year’s CPI x 100
= (252 – 240)/240 x 100
= 5.0%
(Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.205-206)

• Substantial inflation is normally associated with the economic condition identified as stagflation.
(Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., p.209)

• Inflation affects both product prices and resource prices. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., p.209)

• Changes in employment levels tend to reinforce, rather then dampen cyclical changes in economic activity. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.261-262)

• Marginal Propensity to Consume (MPC) = Additional consumption/Additional income
= $3,000/$4,000
=0.75
(Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.284-285)

• M = 1/ (1-MPC)
= 1/ (1-.80)
= 1/ (0.20)
= 5
Where M is the expenditure multiplier and MPC is the Marginal Propensity to Consume. An independent increase in investment expenditures of $10B would cause the equilibrium level of aggregate income to rise by 5 x $10B = $50B. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.283-285)

• With more time to adjust to a price change caused by a shift in supply, buyers will identify more ways to respond to the unfavorable price movement. As a result, the change in quantity demanded will be smaller in the short run. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.79-81)

• A change in the price of a good causes a movement along the demand curve, not a shift in the whole curve. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.61-65)

• The absence of competition among sellers, resulting from monopoly power, would provide a basis for government action. (Ref: Gwartney Stroup, and Sobel, Economics: Private and Public Choice, 9th ed., pp.125-134)

MI

• The call features describes the terms under which the borrower can redeem bonds prior to the contracted maturity. (Ref: Reilly and Brown, Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management; 6th ed., p.81)

• Seniority describes the relative standing of the claims of different categories of bonds against he assets of a borrower in the event of default or bankruptcy. (Ref: Reilly and Brown, Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management; 6th ed., p.81)

• In a futures contract, all of the terms, including the delivery date and payment amount, are determined at the time the contract is bought or sold. (Ref: Reilly and Brown, Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management; 6th ed., p.86)

• A real estate investment trust fund is a vehicle for investing in real estate assets, either equity positions or mortgages. (Ref: Reilly and Brown, Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management; 6th ed., p.88)

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
022208

Financial Goal

Secure

Pros
1. No more sleepless nights
2. A better mood
3. No more running around in circles looking for resources to survive for the day
4. The extra resources that you make can be used for achieving the level of comfort.

Cons
1. Not yet comfortable
2. Just surviving
3. Creates the feeling of that’s enough…
4. No budget for luxurious doodads

Comfort

Pros
1. Living in a big comfy house with 2 cars maybe…
2. Got extra time to do what you really want to do in life…
3. Can provide ample resources to advocacies that you believe in…
4. Extra resources to use to reach the next level of being rich…

Cons
1. Might get too much comfortable that you tend to stagnate…
2. Might possess too much credit due to the middle class mentality of purchasing doodads…
3. Might forget your advocacies and become greedy…
4. Prone to gambling, drinking, bad vices due to the extra resources available…

Rich

Pros
1. You can reach all of your goals in life…
2. Help the community without inhibitions…
3. Provide for your family generations and generations after…
4. Become a legend and leave a legacy…

Cons
1. Might get greedy and become an oligarch…
2. Life security…

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022208

1. I am a millionaire!
2. I am a Certified Financial Analyst!
3. Everything’s gonna be alright!
4. Abundance, prosperity and health is mine!

A PICTURE BLOG OF THE TREE PLANTING OF THE ALBAY JUNIOR EAGLES CLUB!

2008-02-22T20:00:00.000-08:00

The Albay Junior Eagles Club is a very active youth organization that sponsors different activities. Today’s blog is a picture blog of the tree planting of the AJEC… A tree planting with a twist he he he he he…

I encourage everyone to put captions on the different pics… The wackiest caption on English will win a P100 load (for Philippine readers only)… The deadline of the wackiest and wittiest caption is on February 29, 2008

Thanks to Ate Risa and Ate Jane for the photos!

BE AFRAID… BE VERY AFRAID… BWAHAHAHAHAHA!
Who turned off the lights?!
Have Mercy!

Albay Junior Eagles Club on their traditional eating pose! Yummy!

Am I kissable or what?!
Food Trip Galore!
Yum! Yum! Yum! Yum!

Where’s the treasure?!
Help! Help! My Back Aches!

I think that I shall never see
A poem lovely as a tree.

Joyce Kilmer (1886 - 1918)
U.S. poet.
Trees and Other Poems, "Trees"

As when, upon a trancèd summer-night,
Those green-rob'd senators of mighty woods,
Tall oaks, branch-charmèd by the earnest stars,
Dream, and so dream all night without a stir.

John Keats (1795 - 1821)
English poet.
Hyperion: A Fragment

The poplars are fell'd, farewell to the shade,
And the whispering sound of the cool colonnade.

William Cowper (1731 - 1800)
British poet.
"The Poplar Field"

Haven’t you got the treasure yet?
Where’s Tarzan?
Is this a PE class? He he he he he he

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
022108

Check any assets you own:
1. Businesses that don't require your presence (you own them, but they are managed or run by other people; if you are self-employed and have to work, your work isn't a business, it's a job.
2. Stocks
3. Bonds
4. Mutual Funds
5. Income Generating Real Estates
6. Notes (IOU)
7. Intellectual Property, such as copyright on books, music and scripts and patents on inventions that may generate royalty income, just to name a few.
8. Anything else that produces income or appreciates in value and can readily be sold.

ANSWERS:
I have no assets except the “stocks” I own at with the Youth Coop for Development.

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022108

1. I am rich! A millionaire! (affirm your dreams to attain them quickly)
2. I am having my “Must Haves”
3. I am positive! I am inspired! I am enthusiastic!
4. I am in full control of myself!

UNCLE CESAR BORJA

2008-02-22T19:46:00.000-08:00

Today’s Blog is a copy of the mass distribution paper that was distributed by the Borja clan during the First year death anniversary of Uncle Cesar of New York…

A Tribute for CESAR BORJA
First Year Death Anniversary of the
Albayano/Polangueno - “9-11” Hero

January, 23, 2008, Wednesday, is the commemoration of the first year death anniversary of CESAR BORJA, 52, a police officer residing at Bayside, Queens a native of Ponso, Polangui, Albay.

He worked as a cop for 20 years without a single record of being absent on duty. Although a non-smoker he died last year of lung disease (pulmonary fibrosis) after being a WTC volunteer after the 2001 terror attacks.

The said disease is brought upon by the dust from the collapsing World Trade Center which is full of pulverized glass, dangerous fumes and toxic chemicals.

Ceasar Borja, 21, the oldest son who is studying at Hunter College and working at Starbucks at the same time, leads the crusade for the sick WTC workers.

Ceasar whose name is spelled differently from his dad have already talked with Pres. Bush regarding the issue and said that the President cares.

A year have already passed from the said incident of loss but the scar of having a father, a relative leave you behind at the prime of his life is still traumatic.

Let us pray for the soul of CESAR BORJA and strength for the family he left behind…

EVERYONE IS INVITED TO THE MASS BEING OFFERED BY THE BORJA CLAN AT PONSO, POLANGUI, ALBAY, 6AM, JANUARY 23, 2008.

“9/11 IS NOT YET OVER. IT DIDN’T END IN 2001. MY FATHER IS AN EXTREME EXAMPLE OF WHAT CAN HAPPEN AND WHAT MAY AND WILL HAPPEN IN THE FUTURE”
-CEASAR BORJA

Passing of the Torch!
The Story of Local BORJA Heroes!

At the local front, the Borja clan is proud to honor among its members its local heroes and leaders at the different field of expertise.

DR. GLENN BORJA GREGORIO
- One of the National Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) awarded by the Malacanang Palace for Plant Genetics.

DR. ARNEL BORJA
- Polangui’s RHU Physician known for his humorous and mass based approach that brings wellness not only in physical but emotional health of his patients.

RONALDO GUERRERO BORJA
- An advocate of youth’s rights and welfare, a legendary Bicol University youth activist during college and a known national debater. He is also an active member of the Albay Junior Eagles Club.

HON. ATOM BORJA
- The ever capable and ever active Vice Mayor of Polangui, whose intellectual prowess and legislative skills is well known. He remains undefeated for two terms already and won avalanche votes against his opponents.

HON. HERBERT SERRANO BORJA
- Also known as the WORKING BOARD MEMBER of the Provincial Capitol. As the Chairman of Committee on Health and Sanitation he led different medical missions, donated vaccines, wheelchairs, medicines, etc. He also sponsored resolutions not only on health issues but for the development of Albay as a whole.

He is also considered as BU’s hero during the BU Coaster incident that killed one of its drivers during a field trip from Baguio. He responded without inhibition and tended on the injured students.

A very active member Rotary Club of Metro Legazpi, in charge of its Youth Service.

The clan would like to invite everyone who wants to join us in honoring the first year death anniversary of Cesar Borja, to be held at Ponso, Polangui, Albay, 6am, on January 23, 2008.

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
022008

SKILL
Leadership
LEVEL OF COMPETENCE
1.8
IS YOUR CURRENT JOB TEACHING YOU THIS SKILL?
A bit

SKILL
Management of cash flow of business systems
LEVEL OF COMPETENCE
4
IS YOUR CURRENT JOB TEACHING YOU THIS SKILL?
Nope

SKILL
Sales and Marketing
LEVEL OF COMPETENCE
2.7
IS YOUR CURRENT JOB TEACHING YOU THIS SKILL?
Nope

Legend: 1 – Highest; 5 – Lowest

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
022008
1. Even amidst poverty there are still opportunities on becoming rich
2. The Filipino people is slowly waking up on the anomalies of the government
3. We are still surviving
4. THE MILLIONS ARE ON IT’S WAY!

GHOST WRITTER II

2008-02-22T19:19:00.000-08:00

As my uncle’s ghost writer I also write proposals, speeches and even solicitation letters. Hon. Herebrt Borja is the committee head of Health and Sanitation at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay. Below are rough drafts of the solicitation letters that I have prepared for him… I will be waiting for your comments… Thanks!

I. Letter for Senator Pia Cayetano

GREETINGS OF LOVE AND PEACE!

The issue of Malnutrition is one of the most prevalent issues of the Province of Albay. Below is the data from the Provincial Health Office (PHO) regarding the Below the Normal Nutrition Rate as of 2006:

Below Normal Nutrition,
0-59 months, Albay, 2006

First District

Tiwi 12%

Malinao 13%

Tabaco City 15%

Malilipot 24%

Bacacay 22%

Sto. Domingo 17%

Second District

Rapu-Rapu 17%

Manito 24%

Daraga 23%

Camalig 18%

Third District

Guinobatan 16%

Jovellar 14%

Ligao 20%

Oas 19%

Polangui 26%

Pioduran 26%

In connection with the said problem of our province, as the Committee Chairperson on Health of our Senate, may we ask for your support in giving the province 250 units of handy weighing scale for infants and 250 units handy weighing for adults. The said weighing scales will be given to all the Barangay Health Stations of the Province.

May we also ask your good office to kindly put your name on the said units so that all the Albayanos will know that the good Senator Pia Cayetano is one with Albay’s call to eliminate malnutrition (A project of Sen. Pia Cayetano, thru the efforts of Board Member Herbert Borja).

In case you need to contact us, we can be reached at 052 432-2005 or my cell phone number at 0918251051.

Thank you very much for your help and concern to our province.

God Bless and Mabuhay po kayo!

For the Health of the People,

HERBERT SERRANO BORJA
Board Member
Chairman Committee on Health and Sanitation
Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay

II. Letter for Senator Manny Villar

GREETINGS OF LOVE AND PEACE!

The issue of health and well being of Albayanos is one of the battle cry of the Provincial Government of Albay. Being victimized by numerous super typhoons for the past few years, the resources of the Provincial Government is quite scarce and needs help.

In connection thereof, may we ask your good office to kindly supply us with medicines and any form of medical support. We are planning to have different medical missions on different indigent barangays of our Province this coming March 2008.

May we also ask your good office to kindly put your name on the said materials so that all the Albayanos will know that the good Senator Manny Villar is one with Albay’s call for a healthy Province (A project of Sen. Manny Villar, thru the efforts of Board Member Herbert Borja).

In case you need to contact us, we can be reached at 052 432-2005 or my cell phone number at 0918251051.

Thank you very much for your help and concern to our province.

God Bless and Mabuhay po kayo!

For the Health of the People,

HERBERT SERRANO BORJA
Board Member
Chairman Committee on Health and Sanitation
Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay

III. Letter for Tan Yan Kee Foundation Inc. but addressed to Atty. Carol Sabio

GREETINGS OF LOVE AND PEACE!

I have talked recently to our Governor – Hon. Joey Sarte Salceda regarding the prevalence of asthma cases in the Province and the lack of nebulizers at majority of Barangay Health Stations. As per his advice, I write a letter to your good office and ask the Tan Yan Kee Foundation Inc. of Lucio Tan, 250 units of potable modern nebulizers. The said nebulizers will be distributed to all the Barangay Health Stations of our Province.

The issue of health and well being of Albayanos is one of the battle cry of the Provincial Government of Albay. Being victimized by numerous super typhoons for the past few years, the resources of the Provincial Government is quite scarce and needs help. That is why we are looking for sponsors that can be partners in promoting our health agenda.

The Tan Yan Kee Foundation Inc can put their name on the said units so that all the Albayanos will know that the good Lucio Tan and his foundation is one with Albay’s call for a healthy Province (A project of Tan Yan Kee Foundation Inc. of Lucio Tan thru the efforts of Governor Joey Sarte Salceda and Board Member Herbert Borja).

In case you need to contact us, we can be reached at 052 432-2005 or my cell phone number at 0918251051.

Thank you very much for your help and concern to our province.

God Bless and Mabuhay po kayo!

For the Health of the People,

HERBERT SERRANO BORJA
Board Member
Chairman Committee on Health and Sanitation
Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
021908

STARTING UP QUESTIONS:
1. Are there any activities or thoughts that absorb you so thoroughly you lose track of time?
2. What subjects do you find most exciting to talk about?
3. Who are your heroes? What is it about them that you admire and want to emulate?
4. Do you have any skills or talents that inspire self-confidence and pride?
5. When you have a free afternoon how do you choose to spend it?
6. If you had all the money you needed to pursue a hobby or a special project, what would it be?
7. Do you subscribe to magazines or read books? What sort of reading materials excites you?
8. If you could develop a "dream" business for yourself what would it be?

ANSWERS:

1. Talking, reading and watching Naruto, Samurai X, anime as a whole, Beatles and Marvel Characters specially the X-men. Playing computer games…
2. Anime especially Naruto and Samurai X, Marvel Characters specially X-men, Beatles and music, politics, Kiyosaki, The Secret, money making…
3. Too many… The top four are as follows:
• Rock Lee of Naruto – a genius of hard work! He also does not believe in quitting or defeat.
• Kenshin Himura of Samurai X - his specialized skill (on swordsmanship, the hiten mitsurugi style), standing up on what he believes in.
• Robert Kiyosaki of Rich Dad– His financial concepts, his rags to riches story, his financial intelligence.
• The Taipan, Henry Sy – His vision, his lifestyle, his perseverance and rags to riches story.
4. Public Speaking, Extemporaneous Speaking and Debate
5. Read, write and think… most of the times, think with a bit of daydreaming…
6. I will put up an International Foundation/NGO focusing on the rights and welfare of underprivileged children and youth – this is my lifetime dream, my legacy…
7. I collect Maxim Philippines… (Grrrr!) and Entrepreneur Magazine; I also subscribe to different e-newsletters like the CFA Institute monthly e-newsletter.
8. The RGBorja Group of Companies, a publicly listed conglomerate focusing on the following:
a. Food Industry
b. Health and Wellness
c. Events organizing and publishing house
d. Banking and Finance
e. Consultancy

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
021908
According to the book “The Secret” we must have the attitude of gratitude that’s why I am thankful for:

1. Robert Kiyosaki and his lessons!
2. The Naruto and Samurai X anime!
3. The RGBorja Group of Companies!
4. The International Foundation/NGO focusing on the rights and welfare of our underprivileged children and youth!

GHOST WRITTER!

2008-02-22T19:05:00.000-08:00

Other than being the Executive Assistant II of LGU Polangui, I also serve as a staff of Board Member Herbert Borja (my uncle) I serve as his ghost writer. Below is the speech I made for him to be delivered at Itaran High School Junior and Senior Prom. Kindly comment on it, thanks!

A PLEASANT EVENING LADIES AND GENTLEMEN OF THE ACADEME!

To ____________________________, the school’s principal, ___________________________, the PTA president, ______________________________, (other guests), the parents, the junior and senior class of Itaran High School… My salutations again and thank you for inviting me in this wonderful event of yours…

The theme of your JS Prom is such a timely one, we are now amidst political and economic turmoil, and the said turmoil is caused about by improper development of personality. The quest for personality development is such an elusive quest! A seemingly impossible dream! But with the help and cooperation of the academe, the community and the government the quest for quality personality development will be achieved.

This event – JS Prom brings back memories from my high school years – (a romantic or funny story regarding your experience during your high school years).

Before we go further allow me to quote Encarta on its description about personality development – “The study of personality development explores how the distinctive qualities of people develop over life: their characteristic social and emotional dispositions, self-concept, views of the world, and ways of acting and thinking. Personality development is closely related to social and emotional development, but it is also much broader. It encompasses the emergence of a distinctive temperament early in life, growth in self-understanding and identity, formation of personal goals and values, and the influence of one’s adult roles—such as marital partner, parent, and worker.”
“One of the scientific challenges of studying personality development is determining the extent to which personality is based on family upbringing or on genetically inherited dispositions. Certainly, parents influence their children’s personalities in many important ways: in the examples they provide, in their warmth and style of discipline, and in the security or insecurity they inspire. But parents and their biological children are also genetically related, and studies of identical twins raised by different families have concluded that much of the resemblance between parents’ and children’s personalities is based on hereditary similarity. Even so, many characteristics in children are not easily explained by heredity, which makes continued study of the interaction of genes and family influence—nature and nurture—important to developmental science.”

The age bracket of our junior and senior class is the youthful age, the age of the young and the restless. If we don’t develop the personality of our youth, a nation in crisis will be the result. This nurturing of personality is the responsibility of our parents, our teachers and ourselves! As it is written in the Holy Scriptures – Ephesians Chapter 6, verses 1-4: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath; but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.”

Bringing God as the center of our home, the center of our school, the center of ourselves will serve as a beacon light that will lead us to proper and quality personality development.

Allow me to end my talk by challenging our juniors and seniors – LET US PROVE TO EVERYONE THAT WE ARE INDEED THE HOPE OF OUR MOTHER LAND!

The night is young, the music is inviting, thank you very much again for listening and inviting me…

ALBAY MABUHAY! MAY BUHAY! MAY HANAPBUHAY!

DIOS MABALOS!

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK
021808

Things that I want this year 2008:
1. Earn my first million (gross)
2. Be a Level I CFA
3. Complete the “Must Haves”
4. Business Empire
a. Franchised Business
b. Real Estate
c. Paper Assets

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
021808

According to the book “The Secret” we must have the attitude of gratitude that’s why I am thankful for:
1. My first million!
2. Being a Level I CFA!
3. Completing all my” must haves”
4. A successful business empire (Franchised business, real estate and paper assets)!

QUESTS FOR FEBRUARY 2008!

2008-02-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

021708
Day 2 of the Journey…

I’m the type of guy who loves to write his goals in life. I normally do annual goals, monthly and weekly goals…

This month my quest is entitled “LOVE, PEACE AND SUCCESS!

LOVE, PEACE AND SUCCESS!
FEB 08

I. Must Have
A. Johnnie Walker (Black)
B. Mangarina
C. Hugo Fragrance by Hugo Boss
D. Dep M Groom Gel
E. Puma Apparel

II. Readings
A. Start Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Review
B. Recitation of the The Ancient Scrolls (from the book “The Greatest Salesman in the World)
C. Continue reading and listening to “Choose to be Rich” book and audio cd supplement by Robert Kiyosaki

III. Savings – P145; Investments – P145; Tithes - P145 each

IV. Stabilize the Kooperatiba ng Kabataan para sa Kaunlaran Albay (Youth Cooperative for Development-Albay):
A. Fish Selling - Minimum net P1, 500
B. Food Cart - Minimum net P1,500
C. Sexxxy! Perfumes - Sell All!!!!
D. Others - Minimum net P1,500

V. Travel for intellectual and social pursuit

Additional Quests:

A. Finish “The Secret” Book
B. Deposit the correct 20% savings at Bank

The quest is entitled as such since its February, the month of love. Even though sometimes I find it corny but I still believe in the dictum of the bohemian revolutionaries – Truth, Beauty, Justice and Love.

Allow me to explain in detail each goal. The Must Have section pertains to my wants… my caprices, the doodads that I want to have. Actually I have more than 70 items in the Must Have list, but my target is to reach at least 44 of them this year. Below is my dream board consisting of the said items.

Regarding my readings, I have already started last year my self – review for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) course (I will fully discuss what is a CFA on a separate blog). I have already made my new schedule for my self – review which entails 1.5 hours everyday:

February 11-17 Orientation and Diagnostics
February 18-24 Ethics and Professional Standards (1-4)
February 25- March 2 Quantitative Analysis (5-8)
March 3 - 9 Quantitative Analysis (9-12)
March 10 - 16 Economics (13-17)
March 18 - 23 Economics (18-23)
March 24 - 30 Economics (24-28)
March 31 – April 6 Financial Statement Analysis (29-31)
April 7 -13 Financial Statement Analysis (32-34)
April 14 - 20 Financial Statement Analysis (35-40)
April 21 -27 Financial Statement Analysis (41-43)
April 28 – May 4 Midterm
May 5 – 11 Corporate Finance (44-48)
May 12 – 18 Portfolio Management (49-51)
May 19 – 25 Equity (52-55)
May 26 – June 1 Equity (56-61)
June 2 – 8 Fixed Income (62-66)
June 9 – 15 Fixed Income (67-6)
June 16 – 22 Derivatives (70-75)
June 23 - 29 Alternative Investments
June 30 – July 6 Finals

The challenging part of doing a self – review is the sources of review materials. Enrolling in a review class is quite expensive, the review class at Asian Institute of Management costs P40,000+ (if my memory proves me right). Other than that, is the problem of my location (residing at Albay Province) only AIM has a review program for the said course. If ever I will enroll, I need to go to Manila every week to attend the once a week class, (whew! Additional costs). Then the exam fee for CFA Level I which is worth more or less $1,078! Whaaaaat?! Those are the challenges a CFA wannabe must face, we are only talking about the first level and there are three levels of CFA exam all in all. Still, it is my 2008 goal to take and pass the exam this December.
The recitation of the 10 Ancient Scrolls has been unsuccessful! Last February ? (I forgot the date) I was so drunk that I haven’t recited the “before you sleep” scroll! Too much alcohol is really a bummer! Fifty Percent of the “Choose to be Rich” of Robert Kiyosaki is already read and listened to.

The Third Quest which is an application of what I have learned from Kiyosaki. According to him, we must develop a mindset of savings, investments and tithes. You must have three piggy banks where you can put a certain amount every time you wake up. I have settled with P5 a day each piggy bank and it must never be moved until 90 days or three months. The money value might be small but the mind set that it will teach you will be a stepping stone to reach your financial goals in life.

The Fourth Quest is about the Youth Coop. A separate blog about it will be done in the future. As of now the coop have entered into MOA with the youth fisher folks of Albay West Coast regarding the distribution and marketing of the fishes the coop must earn a net of P1,500 minimum. It also partnered with a BUPC (Bicol University Polangui Campus) Professor regarding the production of Food Carts. As of now the food cart is not yet finished, the coop must earn a net of P1,500 minimum. The sales of the Sexxxy! Edt/perfume is the top priority of the coop for this month, the said perfume were processed by chosen Out of School Youth who attended workshops on perfume making at Manila and being marketed by college students. The others section is the processing and distribution processed meat like longganisa, baloney, skinless longganisa, tocino and embutido, they also process and market boneless bangus, relyenong bangus and lumpiang bangus, the loading station of the coop is a part of it also, again the coop must earn a net of P1,500 minimum.

Traveling for intellectual and socialization pursuit is the fifth quest. Actually I’m still in the dark regarding it. Where should I go? The budgetary requirements? Etc. Etc. I got this quest from my feng shui planner 2008.

Regarding the additional quests – I am still reading “The Secret” book by Rhonda Byrne; I need to deposit P3,453.4 (as of today) on my savings account, as of now I haven’t deposited even a single centavo yet.

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK

Financial Mistake

Trusting a friend (his name is Rhex Recomendable) with P50,000 that we have borrowed from my Grandmother. We are supposed to invest the said money in an MLM company. He invested it by himself. My team (Kuya Da, Kuya Ed, and Ate Zy) haven’t earned a dime and my grandma was fuming mad at me.

Lessons Learned

When it comes to money we must be cautious on entrusting it to someone. If ever you need to entrust it to someone have a black and white paper, document it.

Financial Mistake

Pawning one of your prized possession for an investment deal. I have pawned my original LG DVD Home Theater System for only P2,500 so the amount can be used for a concert at our town. Sad to say I haven’t got it back. I already gave my friend (Dandell – the one ho loaned it to his uncle) P2,500.

Lessons Learned

Every deal must be put into paper.

Financial Mistake

Having no savings. At this age of mine I have no savings! When something bad happens (I hope not) I will still look for resources… Ouch!

Lessons Learned

Save as early as you can. Save at least 20% of your earnings.

Financial Mistake

Spending money as if there is no tomorrow… One day millionaire! This was one of my habits… Whenever I have a big amount of money I tend to treat my troops, have party, drink all you can, etc etc…

Lessons Learned

Money is a living thing! It must be respected, it must be used wisely, it must be nurtured.
021708

I AM SO HAPPY AND GREATFUL NOW THAT…
021708
1. I am alive and kicking!
2. Surviving another week…
3. The coop have already sold approximately P1,000 load
4. MILLIONS ARE COMING!

WHO AM I?!

2008-02-18T00:18:00.000-08:00

Ooooppppssss! Don’t think that I’m writing a philosophical type of blog. I can not think of a more appropriate title for my first post. The said question of “Who I am?” is a question that has been plaguing human kind since time immemorial, this question has been bothering me also for the past few days. As you grow old (I’m reaching 30 this April), you think and ponder a little (maybe)… Before we write a philosophical treatise allow me to introduce myself…

I am RONALDO GUERRERO BORJA as what it is written in my birth certificate above. Born, April 16, 1978 at Infant Jesus Hospital, my father is Renato Borja (the current vice mayor of our town – Polangui, Albay) and my mother is Florenda Guerrero Borja (deceased – I MISS HER SO MUCH!)

As according to my feng shui planner 2008 this day is fortunate for me… That’s why started blogging today he he he he he… I am thinking of a big reason why should I blog and why should you read about it. Well if you put that question in an Oxford Oregon Type of debate you should answer the necessity, beneficiality and practicability of writing your own blog and letting others read it.

Necessity – Well, writing my own blog fulfills a need in me. Before I leave my twenty something years, I need to know where am I? What have I been doing? WHO AM I? Putting it into paper (even an electronic one) will serve as an epitome of my soul searching. As for the readers, reading my blog might fill a need to learn and to be a spectator of someone else’s life, that’s why reality shows are such a hit like the Big Brother editions.

Beneficiality – Having a blog is beneficial since you can record your thoughts, your point of views and anything you want to put. It might serve as my own shrink, since consulting a shrink here in our country is already synonymous to being a loony. Reading someone else’s blog is also beneficial since you can pick up lessons and have more friends. They said globalization is only about economics, ever since we entered the information age, even data, information and friendships are to be considered global.

Practicable – Witting a blog is practicable, since it can be done, it can also be read. Since I’m using my cp as a modem for my notebook, it is much easier to blog. But writing is not just about typing your keyboard, there must be emotions involved, a bit of wit and intellect plus a lot of guts he he he he!

As the title of my blog is “THE ODYSSEY” expect me to write my journey, my quests to reach my goals in life, I look upon it as a computer game, as an anime series (like Naruto and Samurai X), as an adventure like what Odysseus had after the Trojan War.

Join me everyday as we trek the mountains of uncertainty and despair, the oceans of temptation and fear, the monsters known as poverty, greed and insecurity. Join me as we battle them and prove our worth that we are winners!

LET US TAKE THIS JOURNEY CALLED LIFE – TOGETHER!

BORJ
Xcess – kindly leave your comments and if you have questions feel free to throw them…
021608

CHOOSE TO BE RICH WORK BOOK

This part of my blog is the answers from the “Choose to be Rich” book of Robert Kiyosaki, one of my mentors.

NEGATIVE THOUGHT (that keeps popping on my head every time I’m in poverty mood) F#$K! What more bad things will happen?! What a bad luck! (Anger)
PERSONAL TRUTH(the real reason behind the flared up emotion)
Fear… I am afraid of failing… I’m sick and tired of being a loser…

NEGATIVE THOUGHT (that keeps popping on my head every time I’m in poverty mood)
Where will I get the funding?! Where are the resources?! (Panic)

PERSONAL TRUTH(the real reason behind the flared up emotion)
This is the result of non-preparation… Cramming due to happy go lucky, laid back attitude…

NEGATIVE THOUGHT (that keeps popping on my head every time I’m in poverty mood)
I can’t make it! Look at my situation in life! (self-pity)

PERSONAL TRUTH(the real reason behind the flared up emotion)
Afraid of trying and losing. Whatever your situation is, that must serve as a challenge…

NEGATIVE THOUGHT (that keeps popping on my head every time I’m in poverty mood)
AAAAArrrrgggghhh! *&^%$#$%@^&*() (chaotic thinking and desperation)

PERSONAL TRUTH(the real reason behind the flared up emotion)
Being unorganized, having no focus and discipline…
021608

I AM SO HAPPY AND GRATEFUL NOW THAT…
My daily thank you log, as I have learned from “The Secret.”
021608
1.I have at long last started my blog!
2.The processed meat products (longganisa, baloney, tocino, embutido, skinless longganisa, etc) of the coop are getting positive responses.
3.The coop have already sold worth of P800 (approximately) load.
4.MILLIONS ARE ALREADY ON THEIR WAY!