BREAKING

Friday, February 7, 2025

Philippines in Turmoil: The Dark Truth Behind Political Alliances and the Sara Duterte Impeachment!


Wazzup Pilipinas!?


It's all about alliances aside from our own personal convictions.


Kapag katropa, maluwag at hindi tayo strict sa kanila syempre. Kapag hindi kasundo o kabilang sa ibang grupo, pag-iinitan at mas mahigpit ang patakaran.


Kaya dapat talaga ay pumili ng leader na mas priority ang facts instead of "packs" (friendship, alliances, brotherhood, kabarkada, katropa, etc.) if the nation and our people are already at stake.


Nakafocus kasi ang karamihan sa personality o karakter ng akusado at hindi na nagre research about the more significant details like "receipts" which are documented facts, legal basis, and sworn testimonials of reputable and credible sources.


Everytime I visit Mindanao, the people there are all pro-Duterte even though they admit na talagang siga at pumapatay ang grupo ng mga Duterte. Lahat ng nakausap ko ay pro-Duterte. Mas gusto pa rin daw nila sila Duterte kasi nakakatanggap daw sila ng "ayuda" compared sa ibang mga namuno na kakarampot lang o madalas ay wala silang natatanggap.


Same situation everytime nasa area ako ng Ilocos. Mas prefer nila ang Marcoses.


Mas okay daw sa kanila yung pumapatay at nagnanakaw basta umaabot naman daw ang ayuda sa kanila.


Natural kapag gutom ang Isang tao, mas uunahin niya ang madaliang source ng pagkain sa araw-araw kahit short-term solution lang ito.


Hindi na nila naiintindihan na mahalaga ring may long-term solution kaysa paulit-ulit na ayuda.


Kaya nga naging popular ang sachet dahil nakakabili tayo ng tingi-tingi o konti-konti lang. Without realizing na mas mahal talaga yun if we will compute the cumulative expenses o total na ginastos natin kumpara sa  pagbili ng bulk o maramihan.


In Sara's case, inuuna nila siya dahil she is the bigger prey at mas maraming evidence na supported ng mga other sources and people. When you're hunting, it's only natural that you hunt for the biggest prey with the most vulnerabilities. To follow na lang siguro yung iba. Once na mapabagsak mo kasi yung pinaka biggest prey, everyone else would be easily captured or voluntarily surrender and admit their wrongdoings dahil yung pinakamalaking possible na maging protector nila ay napabagsak mo na.


Unlike Digong na pinapatay daw yung mga malilit na tao na involved daw sa drugs pero hindi naman makasuhan ang mga big-time drug lords, this administration is doing a reverse. 


They attack the root, instead of cutting off the branches.


Fanatics versus Advocates:


Advocates mostly judge based more on the facts that they got from reputable sources and their individual perception. They apply critical thinking not gathered only from hearsays, biased leaders and social media personalities.


While fanatics are anchored more on personal emotions and mob mentality. They take it too personal ignoring the more significant and important details. Madali silang mabudol o mas easily manipulated ng mga influential at affluent personalities na nasa paligid o circle nila dahil nga emosyon ang mas angat o inuuna nila.


Sa politics, lahat ay may ulterior motive, vested interest or agenda, whether hidden, secret or not, our only option is to choose the lesser evil. We can only choose the lesser evil by doing our own research. Compare the qualifications of every candidate and not just their popularity, don't just rely on the endorsements, ads, publicities like mainstream media (tv, radio, newspaper) commercials, social media promotional campaigns, etc... dahil lahat ng yan ay pwedeng magawa kung may budget ang pulitiko. Malaki ang kita ngayon ng mainstream dahil anyone who has the financing or benefactors can easily have their names widely promoted.


The best tip is to never vote for the ones who spend big on advertising, tarpaulins, posters, billboards, flyers, celebrity or influential endorsers, etc.


In the intricate landscape of Philippine politics, alliances often overshadow individual convictions, influencing decisions and shaping the nation's trajectory. This dynamic is evident in the recent impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte, highlighting the profound impact of political affiliations on governance.


The Weight of Alliances in Political Decision-Making


Political alliances can significantly sway the application of laws and policies. Allied groups may receive leniency, while opposition factions face stricter scrutiny. This disparity underscores the importance of selecting leaders who prioritize facts over affiliations, especially when national interests are at stake.


The Impeachment of Vice President Sara Duterte


On February 5, 2025, the Philippine House of Representatives impeached Vice President Sara Duterte on charges including plotting to assassinate President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., large-scale corruption, and failure to denounce China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea. 


 The impeachment, supported by more than 215 legislators, was quickly transmitted to the Senate. 


 Critics argue that the Senate's delay in commencing the trial impedes accountability. Allegations include Duterte's death threat against the president and misuse of intelligence funds. This move highlights the growing political rift in the Philippines, with many viewing the impeachment as politically motivated.


Voter Behavior: Immediate Aid vs. Long-Term Solutions


In regions like Mindanao and Ilocos, many residents express support for local political figures, citing the tangible assistance they receive. This preference for immediate aid often overshadows considerations of long-term solutions. The popularity of "sachet" products exemplifies this mindset, where short-term affordability is favored despite higher cumulative costs.


Advocates vs. Fanatics: The Importance of Critical Thinking


Advocates base their judgments on facts from reputable sources, applying critical thinking. In contrast, fanatics are driven by personal emotions and group mentality, making them susceptible to manipulation by influential figures. This distinction emphasizes the need for voters to research candidates' qualifications rather than relying solely on endorsements or advertisements.


Choosing Leaders: The Lesser Evil Approach


Given that all politicians may have ulterior motives, the strategy is to choose the lesser evil through diligent research. Voters should compare candidates' qualifications, avoid being swayed by extensive advertising campaigns, and be cautious of those who invest heavily in promotions, as substantial funding can easily amplify a politician's presence.


In conclusion, while alliances play a significant role in politics, it's imperative for citizens to prioritize facts and critical analysis when selecting leaders. By doing so, the nation can move towards more equitable and effective governance.

Young Cotabato Vet Who Topped Hungary Masters Course Now Leading Biggest Small Ruminants Breeding Center in the Philippines



Wazzup Pilipinas!?




A new chapter is unfolding in the Philippine agricultural sector, as Dr. Roland Yap Fajardo, a young veterinarian from Antipas, North Cotabato, steps into a groundbreaking role. Recently appointed as the Project Manager of the largest Small Ruminants Genetics Nucleus Farm Project in the country, Dr. Fajardo is set to revolutionize the breeding and genetic enhancement of small ruminants, particularly goats and sheep, in the Philippines.


Dr. Fajardo, who is a 2016 graduate of the University of Southern Mindanao College of Veterinary Medicine, has quickly made a name for himself in the field of animal husbandry. His dedication and hard work led him to achieve remarkable academic success, culminating in his top performance at the University of Debrecen MEK in Hungary, where he pursued his Master of Science in Animal Husbandry Engineering. Not only did he excel in his studies, but he also made history by earning the highest honors in his class, finishing with a perfect 5.0 GWA.


In recognition of his exceptional abilities, Dr. Fajardo was awarded several prestigious accolades, including the Stipendium Hungaricum Excellence Award, the University Honours Talent UD Award, and the Béla Tormay Honours College Award in 2022. His achievements underscore his unwavering commitment to advancing the field of veterinary science and animal husbandry.


Upon completing his studies, Dr. Fajardo made the bold decision to return to the Philippines, leaving behind his position at the Bureau of Animal Industry of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to contribute more directly to the development of the country’s agricultural sector. He took on a professorial role at his alma mater, the University of Southern Mindanao, where he continues to inspire and mentor the next generation of veterinarians.


The Rise of the Small Ruminants Genetics Nucleus Farm Project


Dr. Fajardo's latest endeavor places him at the helm of an ambitious initiative that aims to transform the small ruminant industry in the Philippines. The Small Ruminants Genetics Nucleus Farm Project is set to become the largest of its kind in the country, focusing on the breeding and genetic improvement of 140 Spanish Goats and 3,500 White Dorper Sheep. This facility, which is currently being developed in North Cotabato, will play a pivotal role in advancing the local livestock industry.


One of the most exciting aspects of this project is its focus on digitalization and genetic record-keeping. Under Dr. Fajardo's leadership, the farm will implement a national digitalization program for small ruminants, which will track genetic records and identify superior genetic lines. This initiative, championed by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. in partnership with a local farmers' cooperative, COLIPA, aims to enhance the genetic quality of goats and sheep across the country, ensuring a more sustainable and productive livestock population.


The project not only promises to boost the quality of small ruminants but also offers significant potential for economic growth, particularly for local farmers. By identifying and breeding superior animals, the project will help improve the productivity of small ruminants, which are vital to the livelihoods of many rural communities in the Philippines. Additionally, the breeding facility will serve as a valuable resource for knowledge transfer, enabling local farmers to improve their breeding practices and increase the profitability of their operations.


A Vision for the Future


Dr. Fajardo's leadership marks a new era for the Philippine agricultural sector. His educational background, combined with his hands-on experience in animal husbandry, positions him as an ideal leader for the Small Ruminants Genetics Nucleus Farm Project. The project is poised to play a key role in addressing the challenges faced by the country's livestock industry, particularly in terms of improving genetic diversity, enhancing breeding programs, and ensuring long-term sustainability.


With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and genetic improvement, Dr. Fajardo is leading the charge in building a brighter future for small ruminant farming in the Philippines. As the project continues to develop, it holds the promise of not only improving the genetic quality of goats and sheep but also uplifting the livelihoods of countless Filipino farmers who depend on these animals for their income.


A New Era of Agricultural Excellence


Dr. Fajardo’s journey from a small-town veterinarian to a global scholar and now the head of the Philippines’ largest small ruminants breeding facility is a testament to his unwavering passion and commitment to improving animal husbandry in the country. His work, backed by his education, his drive for excellence, and his vision for the future, is a shining example of how the next generation of Filipino agricultural leaders is reshaping the landscape of Philippine agriculture.


As the project moves forward, Dr. Fajardo’s leadership will be crucial in ensuring that the Philippines not only improves the genetic quality of its small ruminants but also sets a new standard for innovation and digitalization in agriculture. The success of the Small Ruminants Genetics Nucleus Farm Project promises to be a game-changer, one that could have a lasting impact on the Philippine economy and the livelihoods of millions of Filipino farmers.

House Impeachment Vote Against VP Sara Duterte: Who Didn't Sign and Why?


Wazzup Pilipinas!?



In a political move that has sent shockwaves across the country, the House of Representatives has initiated impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte, with 215 out of 318 lawmakers endorsing the complaint. However, what has drawn just as much attention is the 93 representatives who chose not to sign—raising questions about political loyalties, ambitions, and strategies within the lower chamber.


The 93 Lawmakers: Who Are They?

The list of lawmakers who did not sign the impeachment complaint spans multiple regions, including Mindanao, Visayas, Luzon, NCR, and various party lists. Notably, in Davao Region, widely considered the Duterte family's stronghold, only Davao del Sur Representative John Tracy Cagas signed the complaint, while the remaining 10 lawmakers from the area opted out.


Here's the comprehensive list by region:


MINDANAO REPRESENTATIVES:


Corvera, Dale B. (Agusan Del Norte, 2nd District)

Rodriguez, Rufus B. (Cagayan De Oro, 2nd District)

Zubiri, Jose Maria Jr. (Bukidnon, 3rd District)

Sakaluran, Princess Rihan (Sultan Kudarat, 1st District)

Suansing, Horacio Jr. (Sultan Kudarat, 2nd District)

Caoagdan, Rudy S., DPA (Cotabato, 2nd District)

Dimaporo, Mohamad Khalid Q. (Lanao Del Norte, 1st District)

Hataman, Mujiv S. (Basilan, Lone District)

Almario, Cheeno Miguel D. (Davao Oriental, 2nd District)

Gonzaga, Ruwel Peter (Davao De Oro, 2nd District)

Alvarez, Pantaleon D. (Davao Del Norte, 1st District)

Dujali, Alan "Aldu" R. (Davao Del Norte, 2nd District)

Duterte, Paolo Z. (City Of Davao, 1st District)

Garcia, Vincent J. (City Of Davao, 2nd District)

Ungab, Isidro T. (City Of Davao, 3rd District)

Bautista, Claude (Davao Occidental, Lone District)


VISAYAS REPRESENTATIVES:


Benitez, Francisco "Kiko" B. (Negros Occidental, 3rd District)

Yulo, Emilio Bernardino (Negros Occidental, 5th District)

Legarda, Antonio Jr. B. (Antique, Lone District)

Tan, Stephen James T. (Samar 1st District)

Tan, Reynolds Michael T. (Samar, 2nd District)

Gomez, Richard - Leyte (Leyte, 4th District)

Cari, Carl Nicolas C. (Leyte, 5th District)

Del Mar, Rachel Marguerite B. (City Of Cebu, 1st District)

Garcia, Pablo John F. (Cebu, 3rd District)


LUZON REPRESENTATIVES:


Revilla, Ramon Jolo III B. (Cavite, 1st District)

Mercado-Revilla, Lani (Cavite, 2nd District)

Advincula, Adrian Jay C. (Cavite, 3rd District)

Alonte, Marlyn "Len" B. (City Of Biñan, Lone District)

Duavit, Michael John R. (Rizal, 1st District)

Tanjuatco, Emigdio III (Rizal, 2nd District)

Garcia, Jose Arturo Jr. S. (Rizal, 3rd District)

Bolilia, Lianda B. (Batangas, 4th District)

Velasco, Lord Allan Jay (Marinduque, Lone District)

Umali, Alfonso Jr. (Oriental Mindoro, 2nd District)

Alvarez, Jose C. (Palawan, 2nd District)

Cua, Midy N. (Quirino, Lone District)

Kho, Ricardo T. (Masbate, 1st District)

Kho, Olga "Ara" T. (Masbate, 2nd District)

Kho, Wilton "Tonton" T. (Masbate, 3rd District)

Salceda, Joey Sarte (Albay, 2nd District)

Panotes, Rosemarie Conejos (Camarines Norte, 2nd District)

Escudero, Marie Bernadette G. (Sorsogon, 1st District)

Rodriguez, Eulogio R. (Catanduanes, Lone District)

Barba, Angelo Marcos (Ilocos Norte, 2nd District)

Yap, Eric Go (Benguet, Lone District)

Nolasco, Ramon Jr. C. (Cagayan, 1st District)

Albano, Antonio "Tonypet" T. (Isabela, 1st District)

Dy, Ian Paul L. (Isabela, 3rd District)

Celeste, Arthur F. (Pangasinan, 1st District)

Guico, Ramon Jr. N. (Pangasinan, 5th District)

Yap, Christian Tell A. (Tarlac, 2nd District)

Rivera, Noel "Bong" N. (Tarlac, 3rd District)

Macapagal-Arroyo, Gloria (Pampanga, 2nd District)

Vergara, Rosanna "Ria" (Nueva Ecija 3rd District)


NCR (NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION) REPRESENTATIVES:


Campos, Luis Jr. N. (City Of Makati, 2nd District)

Lacson-Noel, Josephine Veronique R. (Malabon, Lone District)

Maceda, Edward Vera Perez (City Of Manila, 4th District)

Martinez, Eric M. (City Of Valenzuela, 2nd District)

Peña, Romulo "Kid" Jr. (City Of Makati, 1st District)

Tiangco, Tobias "Toby" (City Of Navotas, Lone District)

Villar, Camille (City Of Las Piñas, Lone District)


PARTY LIST REPRESENTATIVES:


Nograles-Almario, Margarita (PBA)

Padiernos, Jose Gay G. (GP PARTY)

Revilla, Bryan B. (AGIMAT)

Romero, Michael (1-PACMAN)

Salo, Ron P. (KABAYAN)

Singson, Richelle (AKO ILOCANO AKO)

Tamayo, Reynaldo (ANGAT)

Tanchay, Caroline (SAGIP)

Tan-Tambut, Shernee (KUSUG TAUSUG)

Tulfo, Erwin T. (ACT-CIS)

Verzosa, Samuel Jr. (TUTOK TO WIN)

Villanueva, Eduardo (CIBAC)

Yamsuan, Brian Raymund (BICOL SARO)

Yap, Edvic G. (ACT-CIS)

Bautista-Lim, Claudine Diana D. (DUMPER-PTDA)

Bosita, Bonifacio L. (1-RIDER PARTYLIST)

Cardema, Drixie Mae S. (DUTERTE YOUTH)

Co, Elizaldy S. (AKO BICOL)

Delos Santos, Alfred C. (ANG PROBINSYANO)

Enciso, Nicolas VIII C. (BICOL SARO)

Estrella, Robert Raymund M. (ABONO)

Fariñas, Rudys Caesar I G. (PROBINSYANO AKO)

Golez, Anthony Rolando Jr. T. (MALASAKIT@BAYANIHAN)

Gonzalez, Sandro L. (MARINO)

Herrera, Bernadette (BH - Bagong Henerasyon)

Lacson, Virgilio S. (Manila Teachers)

Lee, Wilbert "Manoy" T. (AGRI)

Marcoleta, Rodante D. (SAGIP)


These representatives are from various regions and party-lists across the Philippines who did not sign the impeachment motion against Vice President Sara Duterte. Many of them represent key districts and regions, particularly with strong representation from Mindanao, where the Duterte family has traditionally held significant political influence.


In the Davao Region, considered the stronghold of the Duterte family, only Davao del Sur Representative John Tracy Cagas endorsed the impeachment complaint. The remaining 10 representatives from the region did not sign, highlighting regional loyalty and political alliances.


Reasons Behind the Abstention


The decision not to sign the impeachment complaint stems from various factors:

Political Alliances and Family Ties: Lawmakers with close political or familial connections to the Duterte family may have chosen to abstain to maintain these relationships.

Political Aspirations: Those with ambitions for higher office, such as potential Senate candidates, might have opted to avoid taking a definitive stance that could alienate certain voter bases.


Lack of Information: Reports indicate that some Duterte allies were not informed about the caucus where the impeachment was discussed, potentially leading to their non-participation.


Official Statements and Reactions


President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has distanced himself and the executive branch from the impeachment proceedings, stating that the executive cannot have a role in the impeachment process.


Members of the prosecution panel have denied allegations that financial incentives were offered to lawmakers to endorse the complaint, emphasizing that their decision was based on the merits of the case.

The impeachment proceedings against Vice President Sara Duterte have underscored the complex web of political alliances, familial ties, and individual aspirations within the Philippine House of Representatives. The decision of 93 lawmakers to abstain from signing the complaint reflects the nuanced considerations


Here’s the regional breakdown of the legislators who refrained from endorsing the impeachment complaint:


Mindanao Representatives

The majority of Mindanao lawmakers who abstained are from areas with strong Duterte influence. These include:


Davao City Representatives: Paolo Duterte (1st District), Vincent Garcia (2nd District), and Isidro Ungab (3rd District)

Davao Occidental Representative: Claude Bautista

Davao del Norte Representatives: Pantaleon Alvarez (1st District) and Alan "Aldu" Dujali (2nd District)

These names are particularly significant given their close political ties to the Duterte family.


Visayas Representatives

Some notable lawmakers from the Visayas who didn’t sign include:


Cebu Representatives: Pablo John Garcia (3rd District) and Rachel Marguerite Del Mar (1st District of Cebu City)

Leyte Representative: Richard Gomez (4th District)

Luzon Representatives

In Luzon, key political figures who abstained include:


Cavite Representatives: Ramon "Jolo" Revilla III (1st District), Lani Mercado-Revilla (2nd District), and Adrian Jay Advincula (3rd District)

Batangas Representative: Lianda Bolilia (4th District)

Marinduque Representative: Lord Allan Jay Velasco

Palawan Representative: Jose Alvarez (2nd District)

Nueva Ecija Representative: Rosanna "Ria" Vergara (3rd District)

Pampanga Representative: Former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2nd District)

Arroyo’s decision to abstain is particularly noteworthy, considering her longstanding influence in Philippine politics.


NCR Representatives

A few key names from Metro Manila who didn’t sign include:


Luis Campos Jr. (Makati, 2nd District)

Camille Villar (Las Piñas, Lone District)

Edward Maceda (Manila, 4th District)

Their abstention signals a divide even within urban political circles.


Party List Representatives

Several influential party-list representatives also opted not to sign, including:


Rodante Marcoleta (SAGIP)

Erwin Tulfo (ACT-CIS)

Bryan Revilla (AGIMAT)

Bonifacio Bosita (1-RIDER)


Why Did These Lawmakers Abstain?

Several factors likely influenced the decision of these lawmakers to stay on the sidelines rather than take a clear stance:


1. Political Alliances and Family Ties

Many lawmakers who did not sign have long-standing political relationships with the Duterte family. Some have benefited from alliances with the Duterte camp and may have abstained to avoid political fallout in their constituencies.


2. Personal Political Ambitions

Some lawmakers are rumored to be considering higher office in 2025 or 2028, including possible Senate bids. Supporting or opposing the impeachment of VP Duterte could impact their future voter base and influence in national politics.


3. Loyalty to the Marcos-Duterte Political Alliance

While the Marcos and Duterte factions have had tensions, many lawmakers from both camps prefer not to take sides publicly to keep the alliance intact—or at least avoid outright hostilities.


4. Lack of Information or Internal House Dynamics

Reports suggest that some Duterte allies were not informed about the impeachment caucus or were excluded from the process, potentially leading to their non-participation.


What’s Next? The Road Ahead for the Impeachment Case

Marcos Administration's Stand

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has distanced himself from the proceedings, stating that the executive branch has no role in impeachment matters. This strategic neutrality could help preserve his administration's alliances with both his own allies and those of VP Duterte.


Allegations of Political Deals

Some opposition voices have suggested that lawmakers were offered incentives to support the impeachment, but members of the prosecution panel vehemently deny such claims, insisting that their decision is based solely on the merits of the case.


Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Philippine Politics

The impeachment complaint against VP Sara Duterte has exposed deep fault lines within Philippine politics, highlighting:


✅ The enduring influence of the Duterte family, especially in Mindanao

✅ The growing factionalism in the House of Representatives

✅ The shifting political landscape ahead of the 2025 midterm elections


With 93 lawmakers choosing to abstain, the battle lines are far from clear. Their reasons for not signing range from loyalty, strategy, and self-preservation, making this impeachment process one of the most politically charged in recent history.


As the hearings progress, Wazzup Pilipinas will continue to monitor and analyze how this unprecedented move reshapes the future of Philippine politics.


The numbers are in—who stood where? Stay tuned for more updates at WazzupPilipinas.com

Ang Pambansang Blog ng Pilipinas Wazzup Pilipinas and the Umalohokans. Ang Pambansang Blog ng Pilipinas celebrating 10th year of online presence
 
Copyright © 2013 Wazzup Pilipinas News and Events
Design by FBTemplates | BTT