Bayani-free Philippines

The current status quo of Philippine Politics is the perfect antithesis of my dream Utopia-like government: no corrupt officials, effective and efficient services for the people, healthy manipulation of taxes and most importantly, a TraPo-free government. But these things are too good to be true especially in the light of Bayani Fernando's early, odd and controversial 2010 campaign.

And Makoy's Memoirs of a Certified Blogger makes an excellent reality inducer- something that would expose the real image of our rotting political system.

His easy-to-navigate blog (not to mention his other literary blog) exhibits a synchrony of fearless views, straightforward commentaries, stinging criticisms and a twist of satirical remarks against the flaws of Metro Manila Development Authority and its officials.

One can not help but to notice the tarpaulins of MMDA Metro Gwapo scattered along roads and highways in Manila, Parañaque, Makati and others, not only because of its girly-pink background and its screaming words, but the image that dominates almost 3/4 of the tarpaulin showing a dramatic pose of their very own chairman. Some, including 26-year-old Mark Ferdinand Tayag have said it only 'uglifies' the place. This, I believe, is true.

This Ortigas-based pinoy blogger's political view has somewhat dived in deeper and does not dwell on the shallow surface of the issues. One would think that the billboards were funny and were brutally photoshopped, but to Makoy whose weapons are critical thinking and deep analysis, it is a strong sign of an early campaign for 2010, meaning Bayani will be running for public office- targeting the presidential seat.

Given that Fernando's tarps are solely for MMDA purposes, and not for his obvious early political preparations, is there really a need to use his own photo (with face like a tiger and arms crossed)? Worse, where did MMDA get the money to fund this (de) beautification project? Only by answering these questions will erase people's doubt.

This is not a praise release of some sort. Truly, Makoy has stood as a political watchdog of the people in times when we are too tired to care. And I am overwhelmed that he is with me for a Bayani-free Philippines. How about you? Are you in?