Brushes with corruption

 

BY CIELITO F. HABITO

SEPTEMBER 2, 2025

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Grief without closure

I’m not ashamed to tell friends about the two times Meralco cut power to our house for lack of cash to pay for it, in the year after I left the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) in 1998, having completed eight years there. Our still young children then were traumatized by the darkness in our home even as the neighbors’ lights were on, and they still remember those incidents to this day. I had to swallow my pride and resort to borrowing money from a friend then to have our power restored.

That year was particularly hard as I left the government with no savings; the P200,000 I had in my bank account when I first joined Neda had been depleted. I had counted on my early retirement pension lump sum to tide us over until I had a regular income again, but a couple of nuisance cases that included my name—filed with (and later thrown out by) the Ombudsman—delayed its release by nearly a year. Knowing my situation then, a relative called me stupid (gago) to my face, chiding me for missing the chance to “make hay” while in the Cabinet. But such never entered my mind. On my very first day in office as Neda secretary on July 1, 1992, a long-lost friend showed up at my office unannounced, bearing a private message about a controversial telecoms project being closely evaluated by Neda at the time. He intimated that if we approve the project, “there’s something good in it for us.” He even had the temerity to ask me to endorse him to head the Philippine National Railways, which was dormant and not even operating then. Feeling insulted, I ushered him out of my office, and never heard from him again (that project failed to pass Neda’s scrutiny, by the way).

My next brush with corruption came when Neda, on instructions of then President Fidel Ramos, sought official endorsement from Congress for the newly crafted Medium Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP) 1993-1998. With my top officials in tow, I met with the rules committee of the House of Representatives, which lined up the agenda for plenary deliberations in the Lower House. It turned out to be a stomach-turning experience for me. As if their endorsement of the carefully crafted national development blueprint was a big personal favor, some lawmakers in the private meeting heavily hinted at a payoff for them to put the MTPDP on the House agenda. But one shed all pretenses and told us, tongue-in-cheek, that “if there’s a check coming, just make it out to my name to make it simple.” What we at Neda did instead was to inform them of pipeline projects lined up for their respective districts (which they could then claim some credit for). In cases where there were none, we helped the lawmakers identify worthy projects for their districts that we could then help include in the Medium-Term Public Investment Program that accompanied the MTPDP. But no payments.

Why are some very smart people so quiet?

Alva Reyna Soria Vital

Investigator and Writer (2008–present)

Why are some very smart people so quiet?

In general the most intelligent people tend to be more introspective. What I remember from these studies is that:

The most intelligent people tend to be less interested in common topics

They tend to enjoy silence and introspection more

By saying things that are not so common for other people, they tend to be isolated, so they soon get used to it and start entertaining themselves with something more interesting than talking to others.

The same study indicated that it is not possible to identify if they are naturally more quiet or introspective or if by presenting different thoughts, opinions and actions, they become the target of jokes, mockery and therefore gradually withdraw.

The study also indicated that it is not 100%, the truth is that I did not learn the percentages that were mentioned, but in general it was above 60% of those who have an IQ above average.

Trial by social media

 

BY ELEANOR PINUGU

SEPTEMBER 1, 2025

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The theft of conscience: Why corruption is more than just stolen money

“Iskolar ng bayan” is a badge of honor usually associated with a graduate from the University of the Philippines. The term signifies not just the intellectual formation that one has received from a premier university, but also the civic responsibility that comes with an education that is funded by taxpayer money.

In the past few days, however, the term has taken on a more cynical meaning. Through Reddit threads, TikTok videos, and Facebook/Instagram posts, ordinary citizens have been calling out the extravagant lifestyles of different government officials and contractors who have been tied to anomalous flood control projects, claiming that their questionable wealth are from sham bids and backdoor deals. This includes the expensive university degrees their children obtained overseas, earning them the ironic label of “scholars ng bayan.”

Not too long ago, these political children were admired (even lauded) for the designer bags, luxury cars, and expensive jewelry they shared on their social media accounts. Many have made a career as influencers, posting from their private jets or their latest trips abroad. Once in a while, they would thank their parents for funding their lavish lifestyles, with one even calling her father her “never-ending ATM.”

Today, many of those accounts have been locked as private and are now hidden from public view. What used to be aspirational content is now considered incriminating, as anonymous users dig through old feeds and resurface photos with a detailed price breakdown of every item they own. One Reddit user even gave step-by-step instructions on how to retrieve deleted or archived posts, while another made a consolidated directory cataloguing all the gathered evidence/screenshots of each family’s “ill-gotten wealth.”

Before last week, many were quick to accept that some Filipino families simply existed at that level of wealth, rarely pausing to ask where the money came from. The harder truth that needs to be acknowledged is how we, as a society, helped normalize and collectively enabled the lifestyles of these political families. Filipinos have long gravitated toward celebrated displays of affluence. As the now-infamous Discaya features illustrate, media humanized these personalities through stories that framed their privilege as aspirational, while giving them a veneer of relatability. Social media followers strengthened their soft power through every like and share. Brands that collaborated with these individuals conferred status and credibility. Perhaps what is so important about this issue is not only the long-overdue scrutiny of these families, but also the uncomfortable recognition of our own complicity.

Political theorist Jürgen Habermas defined the public sphere as the realm where private citizens come together to debate matters of public concern. The past week is a good example of how social media platforms have effectively taken on that role. Despite being conducted in informal settings, this “trial by social media” could lead to real consequences for reputations, careers, and even government inquiries. For instance, public pressure has already reached the higher levels of government. President Marcos recently ordered a lifestyle check of government officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways and other agencies. When criticized about his own family’s wealth, the President said that he is more than willing to be subjected to a lifestyle check as well.

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While I am not a big fan of the indiscriminating nature of cancel culture, the past few days have felt like a satisfying form of comeuppance. In an era of selective justice and seeming impunity, these Reddit threads are starting to feel like a legitimate way of pursuing accountability since formal mechanisms don’t always yield results. As one user noted, the hope is that this newfound determination to investigate and call out questionable practices will not be confined to flood-control contracts alone, but will extend to anomalous bids in health, education, and other public services.

Of course, this type of no-holds-barred tribunal is not without risk. While it can pierce impunity, it also blurs the line between accountability and mob justice. Whistle blowing on Reddit, and social media in general, relies heavily on anonymous or pseudonymous accounts. While it offers protection for the whistle blower, it can just as easily serve as a breeding ground for misinformation and harmful conspiracy theories to flourish.

And yet, we cannot dismiss the significant contributions it can make to advance public discourse. If the once seemingly invulnerable scions of political dynasties are now retreating from the spotlight, it means that those in power are feeling the weight of public scrutiny. Whether these viral posts and message threads will lead to an actual investigation and systemic reform, or simply to more careful curation of what these families share publicly, remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: more Filipinos are refusing to stay silent. The ongoing “trial by social media” of these officials’ extravagant lifestyles may be messy, flawed, and less than ideal, but it has definitely made the issue quite impossible to ignore.  

Davao Skylines is feeling nostalgic in Davao City.

 

Davao Skylines is  feeling nostalgic in Davao City.

Good bye uso-uso na ba ni?

Davao City is phasing out traditional jeepneys in favor of a modern bus-based transport system—the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project (DPTMP), also known as the HPBS or Davao Bus Project.

While the full-scale bus system is planned to be partially operational by 2027, the transitional phase caused a vacuum: jeepney franchises have been reduced or not renewed in expectation of the new system.

#davaobus #ModernTransport

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2.7KFloi Cañete, Niña Belarmino and 2.7K others

FASHION PULIS: Expected reality

By Mike Lim

Published Aug 30, 2025 10:39 am

Handsome Groom (HG) had just come from a recently ended relationship, while Lovely Bride (LB) herself was caught off guard by how quickly everything unfolded.

No one enters marriage with the intention of ending it later. When this couple exchanged vows a few years ago, many were surprised. Handsome Groom (HG) had just come from a recently ended relationship, while Lovely Bride (LB) herself was caught off guard by how quickly everything unfolded. The proposal, wedding, and settling into married life all happened in rapid succession, yet seemed to fall into place perfectly.

Early on, skeptics predicted the marriage wouldn’t last. The secrecy surrounding their wedding only fueled speculation. But HG’s desire for privacy prevailed—there were no unwanted incidents, and both the couple and their guests were overjoyed with how the ceremony turned out.

Married life after that was blissful. The couple traveled together, sharing photos and videos that radiated genuine love. As they began stepping back from showbiz commitments, their fans understood that family had become their priority. Still, rumors and intrigues inevitably followed.

Rather than dwell on negativity, HG and LB focused on building their life together. Occasionally, they would clap back at critics, but most of the time they simply ignored the noise. Then, whispers of separation suddenly surfaced. According to rumors, LB had packed her bags and checked into a nearby hotel—perhaps to put some distance between herself and HG.

But instead of giving in to the speculation, LB returned home. Maturity and commitment guided her back, and the couple chose to work things out. Were the early doomsayers right after all? Not this time.

‘A perfect marriage is just two imperfect people who refuse to give up on each other.’ – Unknown

Ruined relationship

These days, money often brings temptations that overshadow true necessities. A false sense of security can arise from believing finances will never run out. But when the truth emerges, trust can crumble and relationships may shatter.

For years, Versatile Actress (VA) built her career from the ground up. Discovered for her undeniable talent, she was nurtured and supported by a management team that recognized her potential. Their investment paid off—VA worked hard, remained cooperative, and trusted their guidance. Her loyalty was rewarded, and soon it became clear to the bosses that she was a gem they would never let slip away.

While her career flourished, VA’s personal life revealed a different side. Vulnerable in matters of the heart, she stumbled more than once, but always found the strength to rise again. In time, she realized her love life had to take second place to her family. Everything she worked for, every sleepless night, was for them. VA’s dedication bore fruit—her family enjoyed beautiful homes, thriving businesses, and financial stability. Her dream of securing their future had come true.

Yet, just when everything seemed steady, VA’s world was shaken. She suffered a heartbreak when she and Close Relation (CR) had a falling out. Their bond had appeared unbreakable, which made the split all the more devastating. Rumors spread that CR had betrayed her trust, and whispers of an eight-figure sum gone missing only deepened the wound. Allegedly, VA had also been struggling with betting habits, and the lost money raised troubling questions.

Before matters could spiral further, VA made a painful decision. She severed ties with CR, choosing to protect herself and the family she had worked so hard to provide for.

‘You can't change yesterday, you can't predict tomorrow but you CAN control today.’ — Anonymous

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Please continue to send your comments and juicy stories to fashionpulis2023@gmail.com.

Thank you very much for loving www.fashionpulis.com. Till next Sunday...

Shuvee Etrata is on a roll

 

Jerry Donato - The Philippine Star 

August 29, 2025 | 12:00am

With the way things are going in her career after ‘Pinoy Big Brother,’ young artist Shuvee Etrata has had a glimpse of fame. To her, she knows that it comes with a responsibility and has a lot to learn and experience. The Femme brand endorser will soon appear and act alongside Dingdong Dantes and Max Collins in the action series ‘Master Cutter’ on GMA. She’s also part of the lead cast of the GMA-Mentorque horror film, ‘Huwag Kang Titingin,’ with some of her fellow ‘PBB’ housemates.

Shuvee Etrata has been on a roll after her stint in “Pinoy Big Brother” for its latest “Celebrity Collab Edition,” with the prospects and projects to host and endorse brands.

One could attribute it to her amiable personality and authenticity, or being true to herself.

“I actually just did our storycon (story conference) with ‘Master Cutter,’ starring Dingdong Dantes, Max Collins and yours truly,” answered Shuvee when The STAR inquired about her current and forthcoming projects on TV in a recent press conference that announced her as the brand ambassador of Femme.

“Yun po yung pinaka-abangan ng lahat (it’s something everyone can look forward to). And of course, my daily shows like ‘Unang Hirit’ and ‘It’s Showtime,’” added she.

According to GMA News Online and the Kapuso publicity team, “Master Cutter” is an action series, and Shuvee also has a role in “Encantadia Chronicles: Sang’gre.”

“It’s a dream come true,” said she of being part of the noontime variety show. “‘Showtime’ is really a family. You know, how I feel when I’m there, it’s like I don’t feel different at all. They treat me as their family. It’s just fun to do ‘Showtime’… it’s so fun, it’s very raw, natural and you’re just being yourself.”

Since she’s privy to the “Master Cutter” storyline, Shuvee shared she felt nervous. With that, one may consider that her role is meaty: the character is important and interesting.

These days, she has her hands full, and it’s safe to say that she has had a glimpse of what it’s like being known and popular at this early part of her promising career.

“It’s a big responsibility,” said she about fame. “Actually, kasi sinabi ko na (I’ve mentioned it before) I don’t wanna consider myself as someone who is already there. Ang dami ko pa pong kakainin na bigas (there are many things I have to learn or experience in this industry).”

“I would say I’m still learning. I’m still yearning (or wishing) and still growing. With all the things that have happened in my life right now, I just wanna be a good inspiration to everybody, now that I know that I hold so much responsibility,” continued she, taking it as a challenge to display courage and grace under pressure.

Her family in the entertainment business is growing with the artist’s supporters and brands that believe in her.

“However, I also have to go back to my core. Fame is nothing po if you don’t know yourself. So, with me, I’m just happy that (with) my journey in ‘PBB,’ I was really loved for who I am. So, I really don’t need to put a mask on every single day, and I just need to be me, and that explains (why) I’m happy every single day kasi I don’t need to pretend,” said she. “They love me for who I am. With that, I just need to be an inspiration and a good role model for them, you know, to share (with) them values that I have (and) the advocacy that I have. There’s more to me than just a ‘PBB’ housemate. So, I’m glad I’m just sharing that journey now with them.”

Being confident, practical and wise are traits that Shuvee has, and the young should also emulate.

During the media call, she shared that she has a financial advisor and her goal is to purchase a piece of land, where a house for her family will be built. Shuvee spends money on the essentials and necessities. She is also practical when it comes to her choices.

The local hygiene brand Femme, on the other hand, offers affordable, quality products such as sanitary napkins, cosmetic and cotton buds, cotton rolls and pads, paper towel, pocket hankies, kitchen towel and facial tissue.

Given her experience of having nothing in the past, Shuvee knows how to value hard-earned money, and maybe she believes in the traditional saying, “Money doesn’t grow on trees,” as one may add.