Is Gloria Arroyo a good leader?

[troubled]

I was just wondering if Mrs A is worthy of her title, as she never seems tto be in the country.

I have enquired as to what she is doing to help her people have an easier life and catch up with the rest of Asia and have been told casually that she travelles a lot, she enjoys shopping in Singapore's Robinson Road and in New York the best and her favourite restaurants are in New York, Tokyo and Paris.

I have also heard that she enjoys hanging out with Bill Clinton and other has-been celebrities who probably don't know who she is, but instead of pestering famous people, shopping and eating in very expensive restaurants - has this greedy little fat woman done enough for her country to justify such a life of leisure?

I recently split up from my girlfriend after 13 months - we are both good people but together we simply don't work. She's one of the most loyal, decent, albeit conservative young women I have ever had the pleasure to know - unfortunately we are totally incompatible and she is not really qualified to do anything here in Thailand.

I have urged her to complete her studies and get enough 'points' to work abroard and I wish I could help her with this financially but I am struggling myself here in Bangkok.

It will break my heart if she ends up back in Hong Kong saving for college the only way she knows.

I am not surprised that many Pinoys want GA dead, not at all surprised - apparently Aquino was the best they have had, is this true?

[kimmi]

hi troubled,

just wanna know if u know our president personally?

[walesrob]

troubled, maybe if you did the research, you might actually get the truth, rather than the rubbish you've been told. Heres a good starting place:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gloria_Macapagal-Arroyo
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/2614607.stm

Fact is, the Philippines is corrupt from top to bottom, and Gloria can't ever hope to fix that by herself, it requires a greater effort by everyone.

Given the choice, I'd trust Gloria anyday over the muppets Marcos, Ramos or Erap. Remember 2 of those aforementioned Presidents were removed by Peoples Power.

What annoys me is that Arroyo will get all this flak, and calls for her resignation, but no one can find a suitable alternative.

[fred]

Well Troubled ..
Anyone would think you helped finance Trillianes the way you fuss about the President ..
Since this little fat woman came to power like it or not the countries economy has been one of the fastest growing economies in Asia.
It grew again last year incidentally by 6.5%.
The biggest problem this country has to contend with is corruption which exists in every government department and in almost every Mayors office and barangay hall and right throughout Filipino society at every level.
This is a problem that no president has been able to deal with since the Marcos years.
Have you any idea how much debt the Marcos years accumulated?
Go look it up.
(don't ask your ex girl friends mother,waste of time)

When she is abroad she deserves to shop because she brings in business and foreign investment.Do some proper research and you will see what she does as she "shops" ..


Like it or not,In 2005 Forbes selected GMA as the fourth most powerful woman in the world..And you wondered if Clinton had heared of her?:Erm:
Like it or not Troubled..
Gma is here to stay until her term ends in 2010...
What do you think of that Troubled ? Answers on a postage stamp will not suffice.:Cuckoo:

[kimmi]

troubled maybe troubled and putting the blame of him being troubled to others to be troubled..oh wot am i talking here, i hope i am not being troubled after listening to troubled's troubled post in his troubled world..:)

[fred]

Prozac may be ineffective in 25% of total users.

[walesrob]

troubled maybe troubled and putting the blame of him being troubled to others to be troubled..oh wot am i talking here, i hope i am not being troubled after listening to troubled's troubled post in his troubled world..:)

Blimey Kimmi are you ok? :Erm:

[fred]

Blimey Kimmi are you ok? :Erm:

I doubt it Rob.
He`s really done it this time.

[joebloggs]

Blimey Kimmi are you ok? :Erm:

maybe it's the scotish fresh air, or something they put in the water :Cuckoo::BouncyHappy:...

but i saw Arroyo once after a concert, she waved and smilied to me and the misses as her 100 cop motorbike escort went past :xxgrinning--00xx3:

like Rob says who else have they got, my misses doesn't like her thou, but i wouldn't vote for an ex-movie star or drunken gambler. :NoNo:

[andypaul]

Not many world leaders in whatever field are going to go to phill so she has to go to see them.

Im sure there maybe a better leader of phill out there as somewhere is a better primeminster than the one we have.

But GMA seems to be doing a decent job considering.

[troubled]

With all due respect people - I was simply asking a question.

I can't be blamed for believing what I had heard after seeing the state of the country twice and listening to a couple of biased Pinoys which is why I came on her to get the record set straight.

[baboyako]

compared to local and district government she has lower poll ratings so the locals obviously think this all flows from the top down.

[kimmi]

Blimey Kimmi are you ok? :Erm:

oh yes i am ok, just knackered..:Rasp::Rasp::icon_lol:

[kimmi]

maybe it's the scotish fresh air, or something they put in the water :Cuckoo::BouncyHappy:...

i don't think its because of the scotish freash air, but jey Joe any suggestion on something that i can put with the water here??:Rasp::Rasp::icon_lol::Cuckoo:

[joebloggs]

i don't think its because of the scotish freash air, but jey Joe any suggestion on something that i can put with the water here??:Rasp::Rasp::icon_lol::Cuckoo:

well scouser keith puts sheep dip in his water :party-smiley-012::vomit-smiley-011::8_1_215:

i only drink orange or apple juice :cwm24:

how you getting on Kimmi north of the border :D, what do you like about scotland ???

i'm glad to say i've only ever been once :D.. oh i'm joking, not many scousers there, so cann't be too bad :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[troubled]

Doesn't this forum have a chat room?

I think you need one - no thread seems to last more than a page without getting derailed and turning into clique banter.

[fred]

I think you need one - no thread seems to last more than a page without getting derailed and turning into clique banter.Why..Didn`t we answer your questions?
Ask another if you like.
Perhaps instead of making this thread,you should have added your question to that other derelict thread of yours.


Philippine government should be ashamed (http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php?t=5179) :cwm24:

[kimmi]

well scouser keith puts sheep dip in his water :party-smiley-012::vomit-smiley-011::8_1_215:

i only drink orange or apple juice :cwm24:

how you getting on Kimmi north of the border :D, what do you like about scotland ???

i'm glad to say i've only ever been once :D.. oh i'm joking, not many scousers there, so cann't be too bad :xxgrinning--00xx3:

oh thanks for explaining to me Joe about the scottish water..he he he
what do I like here in scotland??? hmmmmm....first and foremost, my fiance- Clive and second is the sheep..oooppss have I answered u correctly?

are u sure there's no much scouser here?so its a safe place?:ARsurrender::ARsurrender:


Doesn't this forum have a chat room?

I think you need one - no thread seems to last more than a page without getting derailed and turning into clique banter.

have u made ur research already about the flash chat here?:Erm::Erm::cwm3:


Why..Didn`t we answer your questions?
Ask another if you like.
Perhaps instead of making this thread,you should have added your question to that other derelict thread of yours.


Philippine government should be ashamed (http://filipinaroses.com/showthread.php?t=5179) :cwm24:

Very well said, Kuya Fred:omg::xxgrinning--00xx3::xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Manilana]

To Troubled;
It is so sad that your financial problems forced you to be apart.
Imho, its unfair to blame our beloved and honorable President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo if you and your girlfriend are struggling financially. She is doing a great job. Millions of filipinos were born in poverty, probably grew up from a poor or just average income family, but with their own hard-work, persistence,integrity and determination they managed to changed their life from poor to rich. I do believed that " if a man born in poverty it is not his/her fault, but when he grow old and still lives in poverty it is his/ her choice.
Good luck to you Troubled.

[kimmi]

To Troubled;
" if a man born in poverty it is not his/her fault, but when he grow old and still lives in poverty it is his/ her choice.


Very well said Manilana, I very much agree with this..:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[troubled]

Well I've met a few Pinoy's in Bangkok, mostly in the 30 - 50 bracket, and they all despise GA.

If she's that well loved then why do so many want to kill her?

I very much doubt those such as Kimmi will share my views, neither would any other Fillipina that is well off and living a comfortable life in the west.

I don't believe it is personal choice to continue to live in poverty - not that my gf's family do, they just struggle.

If they were lazy or freeloaders then I'm sure they would have encouraged her to ditch me for one of the many young and wealthy suitors she had.

Nothing personal against Kimmi - she wouldn't be the first Asian to have a lucky break, embrace the west and look down upon those of her countrymen/women that have not done the same.

[fred]

she wouldn't be the first Asian to have a lucky break, embrace the west and look down upon those of her countrymen/women that have not done the same.Congratulations..Seems like you managed to adapt very well to the very worst part of Filipino culture during your short visit..
Crab mentality and jealousy.
You really are a nasty piece of work!!
Nothing personal.

[troubled]

^ How do you mean the very worst part of Flippo culture? You mean the lower classes?

Are you stuck up too or just trying to be chivalrous to Kimmi in a vain attempt to outcast the negative guy who only has 38 posts?

For the first time, I showed my gf this forum and the past three comments. She doesn't agree with Kimmi but respects her opinion.

If I am wrong in my assumption that she's a westernised and well educated hi-so Pinoy then my apologies.

I doubt I would recieve such an apology from you for labelling me a 'nasty piece of work' - but then again I am not your senior so why should you show any respect?

If a nasty piece of work is somebody that has sympathy for victims of corruption and who, despite being young and world savvy, chooses a decent (albeit old fashioned and stubborn) woman over a - for example, young attractive Thai girl in the media intustry who has her own Honda Jazz - then maybe I am a nasty piece of work in the eyes of you lot.

[Pepe n Pilar]

hi troubled,

just wanna know if u know our president personally?


Hi Sis Kimmi, i am not well versed about discussion on politics but just want to stress out one thing here. I think we don't have to know the characters being discussed personally because if that is required then there would be no debate allowed in school, in congress etc etc. Everyone can contribute their views based on their observations and on what they have read.

To Manilana, I agree with you that if a man is born in poverty it is not his/her fault, but when he/she grows old and still lives in poverty it is his/her choice is definitely unacceptable because no one chooses to be poor.

[troubled]

Everyone can contribute their views based on their observations and on what they have read.

My sentiments exactly - now how do i give you a green?

[fred]

I asked you to do a little research.
Not looking as if you have done very much does it?

This can only lead me to believe that you have no real interest in the subject line and even less for the "lower class Filipino" that you heroically defend..
I live here and deal with people of all "classes" on a daily basis and have had far more dealings with the poor here than in any other section of society over the years.
I refuse to generalise or patronise ANY of them as you do almost every time you decide to post..




I doubt I would recieve such an apology from you for labelling me a 'nasty piece of work' - but then again I am not your senior so why should you show any respect?Correct.

[fred]

troubled, maybe if you did the research, you might actually get the truth, rather than the rubbish you've been told. Heres a good starting place:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gloria_Macapagal-Arroyo
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asi...ic/2614607.stm (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/2614607.stm)

Fact is, the Philippines is corrupt from top to bottom, and Gloria can't ever hope to fix that by herself, it requires a greater effort by everyone.

Given the choice, I'd trust Gloria anyday over the muppets Marcos, Ramos or Erap. Remember 2 of those aforementioned Presidents were removed by Peoples Power.

What annoys me is that Arroyo will get all this flak, and calls for her resignation, but no one can find a suitable alternative.

Rob had a good go at answering your question..

Why not explain why you do not accept his explanation and perhaps we can go from there.

[KeithD]

Every country in the world is corrupt. I actually prefer the Philippine way as everyone knows about it, and how to get things done. Look at the British way, it is all hidden, secret handshakes, and look at the mess the parties get into because of it.

Their is more corruption in the EU than ever will be in the Philippines, the EU accounts haven't been signed off for years, as £100's of Billions are missing.

Anyone can change the situation they are in if they really want to, however, if everyone done it at the same time, then no one is any better off. That is Capitalism. If you want equal for everyone, then vote for the Communist party :rolleyes:

And no personal attacks on the forum please.

[Mrs.JMajor]

And no personal attacks on the forum please.............

pheww makes me nervous ! lucky boss came in ...and so his words :Erm:

[troubled]

Who did I patronize Fred?

Link/example please.

[baboyako]

well, to be honest, the only reason why we need a government is to look after the poor people.

people who work hard, invest in themselves and their offspring dont need government, state handouts, or free healthcare.

the governments 'job' is to be a robin hood & make the rich work harder, and stop the poor from turning the place into a sh1thole.

Obviously corruption in any country screws up the first part of that equation, since the elite end up doing what the poor people are supposed to do - i.e. eff all. In the philippines there are obviously people who work hard, but there are plently of places where the poor haven't been stopped :cwm3:

[fred]

Who did I patronize Fred?

Link/example please.


I very much doubt those such as Kimmi will share my views, neither would any other Fillipina that is well off and living a comfortable life in the west.




she wouldn't be the first Asian to have a lucky break, embrace the west and look down upon those of her countrymen/women that have not done the same.

Now stop hijacking the thread further and answer the ******* question.
Im sorry that your GF dumped you but stop taking it out on the girls here and be a man.

[troubled]

I can assure you that if she'd dumped me I would have no further reason to post here, let alone defend her family who all work hard but due to a violent and alcoholic father made their life a misery and their education difficult.

I have never, EVER, known a forum or a conversation to simply write off poor people as lazy - which is pretty much what you're doing.

As for my comment to Kimmi - I'm sorry Fred but I was not being patronizing, I was assuming. Now would be a great opportunity to patronize you by defining what it is to assume but I also assume that you are a few years my senior so I won't, because I respect my elders - I'm old fashioned like that, I prefer Pinoys to Thais and I prefer the company of your age group to my own, I also play the accordion. :)

Anyway, she and I have our up's and downs and she's a stubborn, difficult, bad tempered pain in the behind but the reason I stick with her is because she's has good old fashioned morals and is 100% trustworty despite having plenty of attention from wealthier, younger and better looking suitors. We're talking about a girl that rooted for Anthony Hopkins when he shot his unfaithful wife in that movie 'Fracture'.

Best of all though, I don't have to ditch my female friends - here she is below with my best Thai friend and ex flame Noy (far left).

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y288/Bunglemuffin/AAQQ999.jpg

[KeithD]

Assumptions are very dangerous things. If I used it, I'd never make any money, I only use proven facts.

[troubled]

Here's where Gloria is staying now, it's apparently a SEVEN star hotel, I didn't know you could get more than five.

Incedentally, she was not invited there as a guest nor is she paying from it out of her own pocket, the people are paying for it.

http://z.about.com/d/honeymoons/1/0/L/a/02DBurj-Al-Arab.jpg

[Mrs.JMajor]

:Erm:....hmm

[Pepe n Pilar]

My sentiments exactly - now how do i give you a green?


Thanks Troubled:)

[fred]

Thanks for the suggestion Keith as I had no idea I could do this..
Its like deleting a nightmare!! Cheers,
Fred.

[KeithD]

:icon_lol: :xxgrinning--00xx3: :D

[troubled]

No idea what the above two posts are about, or how to green itsme_eye, but I hope I have made my point.

Most sucessful Pinoy's were born into it, or at the very least were middle class. There's one singer, can't think who it is - not Lea Salonga, anyway she came from nothing and is now a rich superstar and she is one of the few powerful people who have not forgotten the important things in life and she is loved for her sincerity - nobody wants her dead.

Gloria is no better or worse than her predecessors (maybe not that nice Aquino guy) - but I have no gripe against them because they are dead and not in control. Arroyo IS in control and she is apparently touring the world (again) to encourage investors to the PI which should benefit the wealthy and probably a few construction workers if she succeeds and it isn't just an excuse to go hobnobbing again.

I find it sad when Filipinos make comments such as 'Poor people have the choice not to be poor' - especially when it comes from Filipinos saying it because it confirms what somebody once told me about Pinoy's being different to Thai's in that they don't stick together so much and 'forget their own' once they have a ticket to a wealthier life. I do hope it isn't true, and I guess it's the king that glues the Thai's together - just a shame the Fils doesn't have somebody like him.

Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want Arroyo shot. If it was in my power then I would wear one of those big yellow smiley face masks, get a dog - a labrador maybe - then get an IV machine (one of those blood transfusion pumps) and I'd hook Gloria up to it and the other end into to the dog, and then switch their blood - the dogs blood into Gloria and Gloria's blood into the dog. Whilst doing this I would play the Bobby McFerrin version of 'Don't Worry Be Happy'.

[kimmi]

Hi Sis Kimmi, i am not well versed about discussion on politics but just want to stress out one thing here. I think we don't have to know the characters being discussed personally because if that is required then there would be no debate allowed in school, in congress etc etc. Everyone can contribute their views based on their observations and on what they have read.

but for me it is not an excuse for him to blame the President or shall I say other people with everything that happened with him and his EX gf, or even why she needs to go to other country..Granted that we dont have a good president or government but its their life I mean of course they can still make a way to have a better life and not always to depend on to the government or whatever or whoever..


Well I've met a few Pinoy's in Bangkok, mostly in the 30 - 50 bracket, and they all despise GA.

If she's that well loved then why do so many want to kill her?

I very much doubt those such as Kimmi will share my views, neither would any other Fillipina that is well off and living a comfortable life in the west.

I don't believe it is personal choice to continue to live in poverty - not that my gf's family do, they just struggle.

If they were lazy or freeloaders then I'm sure they would have encouraged her to ditch me for one of the many young and wealthy suitors she had.

Nothing personal against Kimmi - she wouldn't be the first Asian to have a lucky break, embrace the west and look down upon those of her countrymen/women that have not done the same.

and for u..I hope u will be a man, and learn to accept that we are the one who's responsible for all our actions..and dont tend to blame other people for all ur TROUBLES...

I havent PERSONALLY replied to u right away coz I havent been online these days and I am surprised with ur post here..anyway, dont worry I hope and pray that God will give u courage and enough strenght to help u face all ur TROUBLES..

Goodluck..and I hope u learn to see the bright side of life so at least TROUBLES in life go away on u..

[walesrob]

Gloria is no better or worse than her predecessors (maybe not that nice Aquino guy) - but I have no gripe against them because they are dead and not in control. Arroyo IS in control and she is apparently touring the world (again) to encourage investors to the PI which should benefit the wealthy and probably a few construction workers if she succeeds and it isn't just an excuse to go hobnobbing again.



:NoNo: Here we go again, Gloria this, Gloria that.

From your ranting and raving about Glo, I bet you actually fancy her really.
:peepwall:

[troubled]

England is also crap - should we blame the people for that or do we have a leader to take the rap?

Anyway, Kimmi, I'm in a good mood today as I have heard the best song to be made in years, I bet you will love it - it's called New Soul and it's by Yael Naim, and if it can make me happy then that has to count for something. :)

[kimmi]

England is also crap - should we blame the people for that or do we have a leader to take the rap?

Anyway, Kimmi, I'm in a good mood today as I have heard the best song to be made in years, I bet you will love it - it's called New Soul and it's by Yael Naim, and if it can make me happy then that has to count for something. :)

u have all the rights to say that -PHILIPPINES or even ENGLAND is a crap, our PRESIDENT or whoever in ur government but I dont think its proper that u will blame them for all the misfortune or troubled that u and ur ex gf is experiencing, if its all full loads of crap then why don't u make a move to change it??or rather start with ur self first...what do u think???:Erm::Erm::doh

and oh btw, I am glad that finally I heard that ur in a good mood today, I thought u already forget how to have one so at least u know now that listening to music can help u a lot so why dont u always listen to ur songs???:rolleyes::xxgrinning--00xx3:

[troubled]

^ It was not a personal attack Kimmi, England and the Phils are not exactly the most desirable places to live, whoever's fault that is.

Sad but true - though Pinoy's are generally friendlier and less spoiled than the English and not quite as obsessed with celebrity lifestyles.

Anyway, I will clarify again that the gf and I are fine - though she won't be arriving here in Bangkok until next week so we'll miss Valentines Day this year.

Happy Valentines to you and your lucky man, and if you are single then go hear that song I told you about. If you don't like it I will eat my hat.

[ervenescence]

Hello there Troubled... Im sure you know that every relationship is like a rollercoaster, theres always ups and downs. And its funny how you took a blame about your broken relationships with your gf to Mrs. Arroyo.

Its not Mrs. President's fault if some of the families in the Philippines are being poor or struggling. Majority of the people in there who always moaned about the gov't are below average.
I wonder why?
Well they are just lazy, all they have to do are making babies.:doh Imagine 6 or more kids in the family? And they have the guts to complained that a sack of rice is not enough to feed to their family..well why don't they work their a$$ off then and do something good to survive. And some of these parents are relying on their kids to work while they just sat at home or you can see them in their neighbours having a beer and minding other people's business.:omg:



Anyway... its good to hear that you are fine with your gf now, so next time you fall out.
Who you gonna blame next?
The first gentleman? LOL

[kimmi]

Very well said ERVE!!:)

I hope the next time HE wont blame me he he he...lol

[troubled]

My rant against GA never had anything to do with the status of my relationship.

The state of the Philippines does not depend on my relationship with my woman.

Anyway, Kimmi - do you not have Limewire on your computer?

[kimmi]

oh dont tell me u gonna rant also with Limewire, huh????

[troubled]

^ Now who's ranting?

It's a simple question Kimmi - perhaps you are afraid you will like the song I recommended which you may see as some kind of defeat if you see me as some kind of enemy.

I'm just spreading the joy, I know Pinoy's are musical and I know this song will be loved... She sounds like a cross between Norah Jones and Amy Grant.

[kimmi]

oh thanks but no thanks..I dont think I will loved that song and yes u are right i am afraid that if I heard that I may be like u always in TROUBLE..:Erm::NoNo:

and btw, I hope this time it works out with u and ur EX..:rolleyes::doh

[andypaul]

Hello there Troubled... Im sure you know that every relationship is like a rollercoaster, theres always ups and downs. And its funny how you took a blame about your broken relationships with your gf to Mrs. Arroyo.

Its not Mrs. President's fault if some of the families in the Philippines are being poor or struggling. Majority of the people in there who always moaned about the gov't are below average.
I wonder why?
Well they are just lazy, all they have to do are making babies.:doh Imagine 6 or more kids in the family? And they have the guts to complained that a sack of rice is not enough to feed to their family..well why don't they work their a$$ off then and do something good to survive. And some of these parents are relying on their kids to work while they just sat at home or you can see them in their neighbours having a beer and minding other people's business.:omg:



Anyway... its good to hear that you are fine with your gf now, so next time you fall out.
Who you gonna blame next?
The first gentleman? LOL

Well put Evre and same can be said in many countries its never black and white. Many complain but not all try and do something about it. But i do have sympathy for a lot of hard working souls in phill and elsewhere who just never get the break they deserve.

[andypaul]

well, to be honest, the only reason why we need a government is to look after the poor people.

people who work hard, invest in themselves and their offspring dont need government, state handouts, or free healthcare.

the governments 'job' is to be a robin hood & make the rich work harder, and stop the poor from turning the place into a sh1thole.

Obviously corruption in any country screws up the first part of that equation, since the elite end up doing what the poor people are supposed to do - i.e. eff all. In the philippines there are obviously people who work hard, but there are plently of places where the poor haven't been stopped :cwm3:


Well goverments run and deal with the infrastructure, the enviroment and national defence for the nations intrests for a starters. I'd rather have that than go back to the days of no central adminstration and all those rich people would have to fear the modern day version of the Vikings:omg:

[troubled]

If you can't beat 'em - join em. :)

[wobblybob]

I want to answer some of the things that have been said on this post, but it's to long and to complicated, so many factors to be taken into consideration that there is no straightforward answer, for me I feel for the ordinary filipino just as I do for anyone who is banging their head against a brick wall trying to improve their life, but I thank god I am not heading up any government as it appears to be a thankless job and in the Phils is not even that well paid when you think of the risk to the presidents life, whether she does a good job or not someone will want her out.

[troubled]

^ Well said - a mature and impartial reply.

[aromulus]

It doesn't matter who is in power. Because power corrupts even the most idealistic of people.

The success of staying in power is based on NOT getting caught in doing something wrong.

Arroyo is no better or worse than any other leader at her job. If she goes globetrotting around the world drumming up business for her country, I don't see anything wrong with that. If she stays at a 7* hotel, I don't care, she has an image to uphold according to her status as president of a sovereign country.
So far, in my opinion, she has been the most effective leader that the Philippines ever had since Lapu-Lapu.
In the few years she has brought stability and recognition within the ASEAN area. And lots of foreign investment.
If you don't believe me, you only need to check and compare between the rate of exchange of today and 4 years ago.. The peso is getting stronger.....

But then again I am dreaming.........

[kimmi]

:Erm::Erm::xxgrinning--00xx3::xxgrinning--00xx3::doh:Rasp::icon_lol:

[Mrs.JMajor]

before about a year ago,i like her as i said she is hardworking president i have ever known,she do visit the worse place in manila..i post this comment of mine not to the reason i'm against her,coz you're not here in PI,just wanted to update you guys,but i certainly agree to ervenescence cause i always blame them when i watched on tv complaining about their life silly huh asked how many kids they have 6,7 gosh :doh update for today even the cbcp (catholic bishop ) are having a meeting w/ regards of gloria to resigned from work,yeah youre right aromulos really peso are so strong by now but we cant feel it,not even a single things here are goes in low price,instead go more high price,so whats the use of peso stronger (nothing at all) and besides many overseas workers are affected on it,who are those people in blessed cause of peso getting stronger ?...and the worse thing she don't care (Gloria) even she knows many Filipino doesn't like her at all,she had interviewed yesterday and she said "I'm the president no more no less" (meaning no one can do anything to kick her from her position she will fight for it,lol) and corruption is really doing face to face obviously from witness of speaker de venecia and lozada and many more :NoNo:

lastly,i didn't do this post just because i don't like her....that is not the reason at all..first to update you guys who's not here in PI,second not the right time for her to resigned though ,who will be replace on her position ?Noli de castro :doh

[kimmi]

I may not be physically present in the Philippines right now but I am still updated everyday of the news about the politics and government there..:xxgrinning--00xx3::xxgrinning--00xx3:

Marcos,Aquino,Ramos,Estrada...Arroyo...all of them has their bad and good part when they have served their countrymen in one way or another..:doh:furious3::Brick::Help1::ARsurrender:

Given that we have a bad government or President rather but I dont think it's right that we will blame them for what's happening on us..

Have u tried to ask urself, as a person what u have done to improve ur life??and even for a day stop blaming other people??:Erm::Erm::doh:NoNo::CompBuster::Rasp:

[fred]

If you think its expensive here then you are in for a surprise or two after your plane touches down in the UK!!


:doh update for today even the cbcp (catholic bishop ) are having a meeting w/ regards of gloria to resigned from work,yeah youre right
Remember this.
It is not in the interests of the catholic church for this country or its people to ever prosper..Only a select few.

[walesrob]

who will be replace on her position ?Noli de castro :doh

How about Estada? He's volunteered to be Chief Clown for a short while until a new government is elected. :Cuckoo: (according to GMANews)

And Imelda? Maybe she could be considered for the post :icon_lol:

I heard Tony Blair has a few hours spare....

[Mrs.JMajor]

is that post for me kimmi,,fortunately i'm not blaming president in my life now cause i had comfortable life at the moment ,having a nice business earning good as i said i don't have against president...ok ?

peace:xxgrinning--00xx3:

[Mrs.JMajor]

If you think its expensive here then you are in for a surprise or two after your plane touches down in the UK!!

Remember this.
It is not in the interests of the catholic church for this country or its people to ever prosper..Only a select few.

at least even expensive in uk,the salary are fair enough you see the 350pesos per 8 hours and while the friend of my friend working in tesco just for Saturday and Sundays earning 600 pounds pheewww :Cuckoo:

[Mrs.JMajor]

oh by the way guys,not my way to argue w/ you or not trying to replace troubled as well :Erm: i will stop on that part

[fred]

at least even expensive in uk,the salary are fair enough

Minimum wage 5.35 an hour,1 bed flat in south east from £700,00 a month,council tax £1000++ a year, Petrol 1.00 a litre,road tax £180.00.
£220 to buy a standard return rail ticket from Manchester to London.
£7.00 to watch a movie
20 cigarettes 5.00+
I`ll stop there as I dont want to wind the Brit members up further..

A quick search in Cambridge job center for unskilled staff..

ASSISTANT BAR PERSON
CGI/15939 (http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/Internet/viewVacancy.do?selectedVacancy=3&ref=CGI/15939)
GIRTON CAMBRIDGE CAMBSHIRE
£5.75 PER HOUR
COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL CLEANER
THO/13903 (http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/Internet/viewVacancy.do?selectedVacancy=4&ref=THO/13903)
NATIONWIDE
SALARY TO BE ADVISED
CLEANING OPERATIVE
GOE/12625 (http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/Internet/viewVacancy.do?selectedVacancy=5&ref=GOE/12625)
THROUGHOUT NOTTINGHAM
£6.10 PER HOUR
CLEANER
CGI/15248 (http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/Internet/viewVacancy.do?selectedVacancy=6&ref=CGI/15248)
CAMBOURNE, CAMBS
£7.00 PER HOUR
CLEANER
CGI/15247 (http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/Internet/viewVacancy.do?selectedVacancy=7&ref=CGI/15247)
CAMBOURNE, CAMBS
£7.00 PER HOUR
WAITING STAFF
CGI/15735 (http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/Internet/viewVacancy.do?selectedVacancy=8&ref=CGI/15735)
GREAT CAMBOURNE,CAMBRIDGE,CAMB
£5.52 PER HOUR
CLEANER
CGI/15624 (http://www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk/Internet/viewVacancy.do?selectedVacancy=9&ref=CGI/15624)
CAMBRIDGE, CAMBRIDGESHIRE
£7.50 PER HOUR


Welcome to Britain.

[Mrs.JMajor]

well everybody always moan as no contented on their life,if you think you have the reason go for it....

[fred]

the friend of my friend working in tesco just for Saturday and Sundays earning 600 pounds pheewww :Cuckoo:

I have a friend of a friend of a friend that told me that story once.
600.00 Pound a month is pretty good for Tesco`s,especially when they only have to work weekends!

[tomm]

Minimum wage 5.35 an hour,1 bed flat in south east from £700,00 a month,council tax £1000++ a year, Petrol 1.00 a litre,road tax £180.00.
£220 to buy a standard return rail ticket from Manchester to London.
£7.00 to watch a movie
20 cigarettes 5.00+
I`ll stop there as I dont want to wind the Brit members up further..

Welcome to Britain.

You're right. The UK is an expensive place to live and tough for someone on the minimum wage, however, the entry requirements for many simple jobs in PI are ridiculous and the salary often little more than the transportation costs to work.

[wobblybob]

Uk: min wage £5.52 unskilled
£9.00 min semi skilled/nurse
£14.00 skilled carpenter/bricklayer/engineer
£ 30 per hour self employed plumber
cigarrettes £5.52 benson or Marlboro
petrol £1.06 litre
diesel £1.11 litre
house £220.00 standard 3 bed in west sussex
council tax £1200 per year
water rates £ 400 p.a ave
electric £800 p.a ave
gas £1000 p.a ave
6 eggs 80p
where can I stop ,yes Uk is expensive but compared to filipno wages we are way better off, much better standard of living but at a price, stress. I am moving to Phils because I have one of those £200,000+ houses but here I have no life, no time for enjoyment with the demands of meeting the bills, in Phils I can do as I please there I will be wealthy. Brits have evolved over many years in a consumer society and do not know how to survive within our means unlike the filipino, but Phils is quickly becoming a consumer society as well as all the other bad traits of British and American life, weight problems for one another is credit cards.The filippine economy is improving but it is increasing inflation and making things more expensive OFW will reduce the amount of money they send home for family due to the devaluing exchange rate, expats on a tight fixed budget may leave if the exchange rate worsens,I have no probs with Glo but a coo would increase the exchange rate and make me a bit better off when I am there.

[wobblybob]

Many knock it, many abuse it, but when you are really ill it is there, Troubled where will you be recieving your medical care say if you got cancer, Thailand, no, Phils, no, Uk most likely, you will be on a plane straight back here, admit it there really is no other country as good as the UK and I have been to many. Just recently a filipino friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, she is so grateful for the NHS and all her treatment it costs her no extra than what we pay tax and N.I for.
My fiance in Phils came from a wealthy family when she was younger, but due to illness in the family it wiped out all their wealth, father eventually died 2 years ago and mother has Parkinson disease and the meds are expensive, the family cannot afford them, and neither can I, so Troubled is UK that bad really, what if you become more troubled, do they have access to free psychiatrist to sort out your troubles, sorry mate no pun intended just trying to get a point across. just enjoy your life, try and look over the poverty and be grateful for your life, that is how I see most filipino's cope with their situation

[Mrs.JMajor]

nice ! that is how i can see the reasoning of matured people :xxgrinning--00xx3:

[fred]

I am moving to Phils because I have one of those £200,000+ houses but here I have no life, no time for enjoyment with the demands of meeting the billsExactly my sentiments a couple of years ago.
It can be a very frustrating way to live. I much prefer my life now as I have so much more control over my own finances. The problem in the UK is that the government decide what is good for us and make the relevant deductions. One thing I notice here is the fact I have no direct debits going out for anything.
If I want a water supply,I dig a well and buy a pump..Hey presto!! We have water.
In the UK,if I want water at a discount I need to sign the direct debit form and pay through the nose.
When we left we cancelled our direct debits..It was like a huge weight that I had been carrying for so long suddenly removed...Instant relief!


where will you be recieving your medical care say if you got cancer, Thailand, no, Phils, no, Uk most likely, you will be on a plane straight back herePossibly the UK if I cant avoid it. Why not? I have been paying into the NHS my whole working life.
Mind you..So did my father but he had a stroke in an NHS waiting room after waiting 2 hours to be seen by a doctor. He died 2 weeks later aged 55.
I never really complained out loud about modern life in the UK whilst I lived there..
But that was then!!
Looking on the bright side though, it may have improved since I left..
I hear you can earn 600.00 notes for a weekend working in Tesco`s for instance!!

[Mrs.JMajor]

well since i haven't experience all those and i just base my reply to what i read like Filipino's like to marry a Brit (or other race) just because most of them are wanting a good fortune,aside from the main reason i hope that they love each other.. when tomm visit PI he saw some old men laying on the street very dirty and i also let him experience ride on the jeep and he saw men came into jeep and rub the shoes of the passengers and beg for penny's,he said in Uk old people never experience laying on the street,begging for penny's cause government give them shelter,food in short budget for their expenses to live
as always Filipino keep saying "i'm proud to be Filipino"...yes i am very much proud of....but just for some reason's..

ohh lastly hes sick by now because of the so much pollution he smell when hes here (hehehe hes not used to that pollution, like us here),he saw the smoke coming out from the jeeps,sorry hubby its just that i'm staying on the center of manila(Makati/Sta.Ana)

[fred]

he said in Uk old people never experience laying on the street,begging for penny's cause government give them shelter,food in short budget for their expenses to livePerhaps he has never visited London or Milton Keynes..
Damned beggars everywhere.
We Brits often used to say there was no excuse for it here but I think things may have changed since then.
These days with certain undesirables from eastern Europe that beg with menace outside shopping centers and ATM`s , doesn`t seem like much we can do about it.
Welcome to Britain.
Sorry I seem a bit pessimistic about the UK at times..
Its because I am.

[Mrs.JMajor]

its ok,you're fine Fred..we all have the right to say whats our feelings and opinion though :)

[wobblybob]

There is good n bad points for every contry just as there is in people, I feel the Phils suits my personality, I find stressed out people get me down, negativity which there is plenty of in Uk makes me depressed, as my younger brother said years ago when I asked him when he was going to stop going of abroad and be more responsible he said " I love going to other countries because I don't understand their politics, don't understand their language, don't read their papers, don't watch their t.v, I just chill without all the worries and am oblivious to what is happening in the world and enjoy my time"

[wobblybob]

how could you drag him around manila, I must admit I had a week there my last visit, within 2 days I started questioning whether I wanted to live in Phils, I felt stressed, the minute I got off the plane in Cebu I new I wanted to spend my time living somewhere in the visayas, Manila is fine if you have business there or if you have to work there, otherwise it is horrible, I put it at the top of one of the worst places I ever visited

[Mrs.JMajor]

yes,sad cause i was living here in manila and i had my business here as well,and you are right its nice to live somewhere like province w/c less pollution,but i grown up in manila and i had no province at all my parents origin here (i agree to you this is the worst place in PI but cant help it cause my business is here though i'm living comfortable just because of my business

[tomm]

how could you drag him around manila, I must admit I had a week there my last visit, within 2 days I started questioning whether I wanted to live in Phils, I felt stressed, the minute I got off the plane in Cebu I new I wanted to spend my time living somewhere in the visayas, Manila is fine if you have business there or if you have to work there, otherwise it is horrible, I put it at the top of one of the worst places I ever visited

Sure it might not suit everybody but Manila was fun and it was me that wanted to see it. I'm not talking about Green Belt and places like that.... I mean the real Manila. I've been to places far worse. I wouldn't want to live there though... the pollution sucks :NoNo:

[tomm]

Perhaps he has never visited London or Milton Keynes..
Damned beggars everywhere.
We Brits often used to say there was no excuse for it here but I think things may have changed since then.
These days with certain undesirables from eastern Europe that beg with menace outside shopping centers and ATM`s , doesn`t seem like much we can do about it.
Welcome to Britain.
Sorry I seem a bit pessimistic about the UK at times..
Its because I am.


I visit London quite frequently, so I'm well aware of the beggars there. Twice in Manila I encountered the shoe cleaning beggars whilst riding a jeepney, on one occasion it was a child of about 6 years. Can you imagine that happening in the UK? :NoNo:

Fred, you're obviously happy in PI so you have made the right move. For me personally, I enjoy a good standard of living in the UK... so I'm happy here. It's all down to personal choice and circumstances.

If you think the UK is expensive, spend some time in Norway :rolleyes:

[fred]

Tomm..

Thats just Manila!!
It is what it is..The place is just another overcrowded city (Asian style) and not my cup of tea.
Although I dont live there any more,I can get there in 30 mins depending on traffic..We are moving out to the visayas once we have set up our business here correctly ..Perhaps this year.
Having said that there are many foreigners that would not live anywhere else in the R.P..
I have neighbours from the U.S,Belgium,Norway and Denmark that love this area and would find it inconvenient living anywhere without places like the mall of asia or Makro and Embassy buildings near by.
Others choose places like Ortigas,Quezon city Alabang or Makati where they live in houses that you could only dream about anywhere in the UK with maids cooks and live in drivers.If you get a chance take a drive down to Manila Polo club in Makati and you will see what I mean..
Anyway..Horses for courses.
Which brings me to the standard of living comment.. I can honestly say that our living standards here far exceeds what we were accustomed to in the UK. I cannot think of one thing that we need that cannot be obtained if we so wish without the constant feeling of being ripped off at every turn.(as in UK). For us,Its a stress free lifestyle no doubt about it.

However..The Philippines is not for everyone and that's a fact..

[bornatbirth]

are u drunk again fred?

[bornatbirth]

theres alot of crap in this thread!

the first time i went to manila to meet my gf,i got to the airport and needed the toilet so after getting my bags i went to the airport toilet lol (which reminded me of the toilets in any park in england but this is in the national airport oh its a 3rd world country).
the guy maning the toilet turned the tap on for me,i washed my hands and walked out but guess what the cheeky git wanted A TIP,arriving at the letter M so my gf can pick me up and another was asking me if i wanted a taxi or where i was going i guess he wanted to help me with my bags for a TIP.

at the lowest level to the highest u can pay any one off if ur bag of cash is big enough that really is pathetic isnt it?

the poor sit on there lazy backsides having lots of kids and moan about the rich? and live off the money from the foreign workers what are they supposed to do?

and thats the trouble with the country even the poor take advantage,the rich take advantage even all the foreigners who go and live in the philipines take advantage ie getting live in maids and drivers and paying them such high wages.

some say the filipinos are so freindly and happy people,at club manila there was one guy who had a face like thunder i wonder why?
maybe his parents are poor and hes got 6 brothers and sisters so he as a limited education and stuck in a low payed job for the rest of life or should he sit on his lazy butt while the president does such a good job at running the country taking cash from everyone who gives it her,so i wonder why hes so angry?

[walesrob]

the cheeky git wanted A TIP,arriving at the letter M so my gf can pick me up and another was asking me if i wanted a taxi or where i was going i guess he wanted to help me with my bags for a TIP.



I had the same problem on my first visit to Philippines, but now I just ignore them if they ask for a tip. Some are persistent, in which case a few choice words from Elsa normally solves the problem. Don't know what she says to them but it works ..:cwm24:

[fred]

are u drunk again fred?


Im drunk on life pal..
Sounds like you need a shot of what I had!

[Eljohno]

I think some of the comments on here are unfair. I agree there are some who are always asking for money and who are lazy but there are plenty who through no fault of their own are poor and need to do what they can just to survive. I think unless you have visited the Philippines many times and married to a Filipino its best to reserve judgement..

[kimmi]

I agree with what u said John..:)

[joebloggs]

having just watched a program on the' Nov. 16 Hacienda Luisita massacre' in 2004, it's disturbing and shocking that the president would send in the army and police to shoot strikers, who at the time were being paid less than 10php a week :NoNo:

no wonder the president claims the philippine economy is booming :icon_lol: shame on her..

this is not the program i watched, it was 30 mins long, i found this on youtube about the massacre thou..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAGcA9ZIxNg

maybe the uk is not such a bad place..

[andypaul]

having just watched a program on the' Nov. 16 Hacienda Luisita massacre' in 2004, it's disturbing and shocking that the president would send in the army and police to shoot strikers, who at the time were being paid less than 10php a week :NoNo:

no wonder the president claims the philippine economy is booming :icon_lol: shame on her..

this is not the program i watched, it was 30 mins long, i found this on youtube about the massacre thou..

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAGcA9ZIxNg

maybe the uk is not such a bad place..

Just looking after her own..

As most people in power in phill and the world do:NoNo:

Im sure all the people who had cheaper sugar were grateful..

Why its important to find out where things you buy and use come form and who it affects.

[joebloggs]

Im sure all the people who had cheaper sugar were grateful.

i'm sure the money the big international companies saved by paying workers 10php a week was not passed on to the consumer, but the money was given to share holders and big bonuses to the members of the board..

[andypaul]

i'm sure the money the big international companies saved by paying workers 10php a week was not passed on to the consumer, but the money was given to share holders and big bonuses to the members of the board..

Well many farmers even in the UK say the food wholesalers and supermarkets push prices down so far that they cant afford to produce it at that price. Im sure thats the reason all around the world.
Profits and keeping prices low, so low if you think about it how can it be producded so cheaply even with mass prodction etc. If the consumer says hang on treat people fairly it has an impact, what the consumer wants they get.

Thats part of the reason Fairtrade is a good idea ensuring people further down the line get a fair price for goods they produce.

[patti1227]

I feel I have a say on this… :)

Few months before School Year 2007, a government program was created to encourage young Filipino children to pursue their studies and attend school every day. The program was supposed to be beneficial to Elementary students in public schools and it was implemented at selected provinces especially on remote areas where education rate is low. Each day Filipino children be present at school, each student receives two kilos of rice and 2-3 packs of instant noodles. First few months of the program went very well not until a number of greedy individual people stole the government program from the Filipino children and their families. President Arroyo asked her people to conduct an investigation regarding the matter but it seems there were “big people” involved on the issue so no clear report had been made known to the public. Is Pres. Gloria Arroyo a good leader?

Every Barangay has a Health Center and most of the medicines are free for its people. Again, there are number of “business minded” individuals who, instead of providing free medical service and medicine, are making profit for themselves out of the free medicines provided by the government. Is Pres. Gloria Arroyo a good leader?

Too many great and valuable government programs yet too many greedy Filipino individuals lurking freely into the government projects turning them into their “instant businesses”. Is Pres. Gloria Arroyo a good leader?

Technical trainings being offered for free by the government to different provinces but some organization members are making a priority list for their relatives and friends to avail free trainings before allowing the public people to know about the program. Is Pres. Gloria Arroyo a good leader?

Honestly, it differ on the beliefs of Filipinos how they see, accept, reacts and honors Pres. Gloria Arroyo’s immense effort of providing good programs for Filipinos especially the less privilege to make their life improve and it is now up to every single Filipino inside and outside our country to help our own self and our family in having a good life every single person on this earth dream for. Not to forget how we can genuinely help our country improve what needs to be improve so we can look at our country as if not the best a nice country to live in no matter how we and other people view our President…