By Rolo B. Cena
The Gulf Files
Dumaguete Star Informer
29 August 2010
On the 21st day of August, we celebrated the 27th Death Anniversary of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr., former President and Dictator Ferdinand Marcos’ strongest political opponent. Ninoy’s assassination, which catapulted the late Cory Aquino to power, is as of even date still unresolved.
The assassination punctuated the life of the greatest opposition leader in the Philippines. Undoubtedly however, the Marcoses did not envision that the punctuation would mean another punctuation mark in the history of Philippine Politics three years after: Marcos was overthrown via the EDSA 1 peaceful revolution.
Pres. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino, who was then 23 years old when Ninoy was assassinated, handily won last May’s presidential race to become the second member of the family to occupy the most sought-after post in the imperial palace by the river.
His rise to power punctuated another strong leader who left him with nothing by economically and politically unstable nation: billions of deficits and obligations, rising unemployment, escalating poverty, unresolved crimes, apparent graft and corruption, political ruins, etc. His predecessor, the scandalous petite woman, who ruled the country for two terms, was almost equally greedy as the strongman.
Arguably though, becoming the president was the dream of the late Ninoy Aquino, too, matter which stirred the political arena of the times. No one can discount that perception; not even the weakest of minds. It was precisely the reason why the late dictator caused the voluntary exile of the family to the America’s.
Vetoing in his early days in power numbers of Executive Orders that rippled all houses, midnight appointment, that has been a long practice, was again punctuated by Pres. Noynoy. Due to petitions from concerned parties though, it is under review by the Department of Justice. With only a handful of executive orders issued, the 50-year old Aquino is facing controversies already. Understandably, judging his performance is premature at this point.
Last week, it was reported in one of the national broadsheets that the newly-installed president is considering Charter Change if it is necessary in dealing with rebellion in the south. But isn’t this the same charter change pronounced by FVR during the last days of his term? Isn’t this the same Cha-Cha GMA enunciated in the last days of her second term?
The Cha-Cha of FVR was criticized; it was opposed by no less than the former President Corazon Aquino, the mother of Noynoy. The cha-cha of GMA was highly criticized, sensationalized, feared and strongly opposed even without seeing the platform of the planned change by no less Corazon Aquino herself and her team. The Cha-Cha of Noynoy has not even become the staple of the tabloids; it has not reached dual-house debates and movements behind picket fences. What difference do we have when we accommodate the Cha-Cha of Noynoy from the Cha-Cha of FVR or GMA? Aren’t they the same dog with different collars?
What really is the matter with us Filipinos?
The entire 85-million Filipinos thought that installing Noynoy would finally put full stop to the issue of charter change knowing for a fact that the constitution has been amended right after his mother, the icon of democracy whom the world admired, was sworn in to office. What then is this: testing the waters under the bridge? Is this the prelude?
Absolutely, if I may put my two cents in, this is going to be tough for Noynoy and his administration. For one, leading the community of Filipino people to achieve the normal course of life is not easy. While it was easy for him to win the race, winning the support of the entire archipelago to bring the country back to normal is not. Battling the socio-political and economic challenges is equally hard as mapping the game plan to convict the assassin of his father.
But at the forefront, he has no choice. With only a scant amount of petty cash left in the nation’s coffer, his political and economic agenda for the entire populace must be executed and implemented. His plan for peace settlement with the Muslim rebels must be articulated; program to end graft and corruption laid down and implemented; plan to provide home for the homeless, job for the jobless and food for the poor Filipino people carried out, etc.
Above all, his plan to punctuate political greed that has become the root cause of all these long-running socio-economic problems must be done at once.
The question now is: Can Noynoy intelligently punctuate all these socio-economic and political evils that his predecessors failed to and disprove his critics?
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Driving Integration Through Holistic Change
By Rolo B. Cena
Published in Shaheen, Official Corporate Magazine
Astra Industrial Group, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
May 2010 Issue
The egress of 2009 business year, after the Mid-2008 US Financial Crisis that lasted almost until the end of the 2009 second quarter suggests the possibility of an equally profound change in business climate vis-à-vis economic life of every company as a whole. Astra Industrial Group (AIG), as it sets its best foot forward for 2010, is undergoing many major transitions to date, some of which involve clearly defined meaning of corporate life, character and shape that carry them out.
Among the major and notable planned changes are the standardization of Human Resources Management Policies and the introduction of a new Business Process Solution (ERP) for the conglomerate.
Standardized HR Policies
As early as May 2009, AIG organized a meeting of all Human Resources In-Charge from all subsidiaries to discuss common grounds that would eventually become materials to create a standardized HR Policies. After the meeting, several steps have been undertaken to proceed with the project, including the creation of HR Committee, interviews with key officers and visits to all subsidiaries by the HR Advisor Emmanuel Robueno.
Using the existing Administration / HR Policy Manual of Astra Polymers as one of the major sources or reference for the AIG-wide Human Resources Policies Manual, the HR Committee is, as of even date, all set to finalize the standardized Policy for implementation across the subs. The product shall be fully implemented in the business year 2010.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
With the current scenario that our Group is seen as a major regional industrial player, it is critical to have efficient and effective business processes across the group that can result to maximum return on investments while employing the highest standard of quality. Along this line, growth strategies that can keep all subsidiaries attuned to common ground and connections should be implemented to support the business growth: enterprise resource planning fully backed up by quality IT Infrastructure.
As Chairman Sabih T. Masri stated in his letter dated 19th November 2009, “Information Technology is a very effective tool that is going to be instrumental in fueling our growth plans.” As such, the need to streamline business processes across the group is extremely necessary as well as the integration of an enterprise resource planning platform to support all operations thus providing operational visibility and excellence in financial control and reporting features.
Chairman Masri further demanded, “We are therefore embarking on an initiative to opt a best-fit integrated ERP platform that enhances our business operations and provides common view of truth between finance, operations and commercial functions. AIG is going to facilitate the process of putting up the enterprise-wide solution in place.”
Creating an AIG-wide IT infrastructure is a complex task. A conglomerate-wide awareness on the project should yield expected buy-ins from all subsidiaries regardless of ranks. Undertaking the initial steps can be crucial; implementing such an ambitious project requires team-based effort to achieve the target.
The clear and present danger
Change has been very difficult. Modern-day management scientists have identified one major roadblock to Change: Corporate Attitude.
The broad spectrum of “attitude”, which of course encompasses the character and behavior of the company and the individual, determines the way the company or the individual shall handle planned or introduced change. In most cases, resistance is apparent among those employees who served the company for quite a period or to those whose ages do not reconcile with the advent of technology.
Corporate attitude, which should be sensibly and sensitively addressed to alongside with employee attitude, can overpower the latter. The former can be an indicator of the successful implementation even if the project is on its planning stage yet regardless of whether or not the employee attitude is in tune with the corporate. Corporate attitude speaks about the ultimate support from the Top Management and line managers, authority and budget.
Once Corporate Attitude becomes overly aggressive or extremely weak, it cannot overpower the indifferences of the employee attitude in which case, the project may fail. Corporate Attitude should propel employee attitude in accepting change process in which case, it should only be at its best implementable and comprehensible level.
Therefore, it is critical for the management to look into the corporate attitude deeply by analyzing its corporate agenda to keep it attuned to the employee attitude, in relation of course to the project and its impending implementation. The need to integrate at the same time the study of the employee attitude into the corporate should be considered for control and accountability purposes. When this action is overlooked, then consequently these two attitudes may clash and may produce negative internal commotion. The resultant extent would be sour-graping after informal organization ensues.
Management Support, Authority & Budget
Management support is not limited to the mere proclamation of the project and the creation of the Team who shall handle the nitty-gritty of the project. It includes empowerment of the Team with blanket authority based on the undertaking originally mandated by the Board. The Management should be able to back up its recommendations and decisions also in order to maintain the integrity and credibility of the Team. The Team’s integrity and credibility should be the concern of the Management if successful implementation is ultimately its objective.
More to management support, budgetary constraints should also be the concern of the management. Enough budgets to cover the infrastructures, manpower requirement and the incidental expenses should be allocated and approved.
The fully integrated conglomerate
As Chairman Masri stressed, “AIG’s inherent strength lies in industrial and geographic diversification that serves to ensure business stability and enhanced performance.” These two apparent strengths should favorably conjunct with each other to create a marriage that would bring about the synergy that can propel change process.
While all subsidiaries may believe that working on their business processes using their own system works as planned, fully integrated system or policy or procedure is still the best way to further enhance the strength our conglomerate is known for.
As a diversified conglomerate, the need to streamline business processes and integrate enterprise resource planning infrastructure should be on top of the line as this, once implemented across the subs, will bring about the harmony that would standardize protocols and facilitate processes. Full integration should cater the need to address the geographic diversification that concerns the management.
As the Board involves everybody to participate actively in this initiative, Chairman Masri finally urges that “Arriving at the best fit enterprise-wide IT solution for a conglomerate like ours is a complex task. Your usual dedicated involvement is solicited in selecting such a platform that maps with our processes and instill best practices of the industry that our subsidiaries belong to. Further, I wish to emphasize the organization responsibility vested in you in transforming our company through change management initiatives that will streamline our processes and introduce operational excellence, thus unlocking value from this strategic investment.”
Published in Shaheen, Official Corporate Magazine
Astra Industrial Group, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
May 2010 Issue
The egress of 2009 business year, after the Mid-2008 US Financial Crisis that lasted almost until the end of the 2009 second quarter suggests the possibility of an equally profound change in business climate vis-à-vis economic life of every company as a whole. Astra Industrial Group (AIG), as it sets its best foot forward for 2010, is undergoing many major transitions to date, some of which involve clearly defined meaning of corporate life, character and shape that carry them out.
Among the major and notable planned changes are the standardization of Human Resources Management Policies and the introduction of a new Business Process Solution (ERP) for the conglomerate.
Standardized HR Policies
As early as May 2009, AIG organized a meeting of all Human Resources In-Charge from all subsidiaries to discuss common grounds that would eventually become materials to create a standardized HR Policies. After the meeting, several steps have been undertaken to proceed with the project, including the creation of HR Committee, interviews with key officers and visits to all subsidiaries by the HR Advisor Emmanuel Robueno.
Using the existing Administration / HR Policy Manual of Astra Polymers as one of the major sources or reference for the AIG-wide Human Resources Policies Manual, the HR Committee is, as of even date, all set to finalize the standardized Policy for implementation across the subs. The product shall be fully implemented in the business year 2010.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
With the current scenario that our Group is seen as a major regional industrial player, it is critical to have efficient and effective business processes across the group that can result to maximum return on investments while employing the highest standard of quality. Along this line, growth strategies that can keep all subsidiaries attuned to common ground and connections should be implemented to support the business growth: enterprise resource planning fully backed up by quality IT Infrastructure.
As Chairman Sabih T. Masri stated in his letter dated 19th November 2009, “Information Technology is a very effective tool that is going to be instrumental in fueling our growth plans.” As such, the need to streamline business processes across the group is extremely necessary as well as the integration of an enterprise resource planning platform to support all operations thus providing operational visibility and excellence in financial control and reporting features.
Chairman Masri further demanded, “We are therefore embarking on an initiative to opt a best-fit integrated ERP platform that enhances our business operations and provides common view of truth between finance, operations and commercial functions. AIG is going to facilitate the process of putting up the enterprise-wide solution in place.”
Creating an AIG-wide IT infrastructure is a complex task. A conglomerate-wide awareness on the project should yield expected buy-ins from all subsidiaries regardless of ranks. Undertaking the initial steps can be crucial; implementing such an ambitious project requires team-based effort to achieve the target.
The clear and present danger
Change has been very difficult. Modern-day management scientists have identified one major roadblock to Change: Corporate Attitude.
The broad spectrum of “attitude”, which of course encompasses the character and behavior of the company and the individual, determines the way the company or the individual shall handle planned or introduced change. In most cases, resistance is apparent among those employees who served the company for quite a period or to those whose ages do not reconcile with the advent of technology.
Corporate attitude, which should be sensibly and sensitively addressed to alongside with employee attitude, can overpower the latter. The former can be an indicator of the successful implementation even if the project is on its planning stage yet regardless of whether or not the employee attitude is in tune with the corporate. Corporate attitude speaks about the ultimate support from the Top Management and line managers, authority and budget.
Once Corporate Attitude becomes overly aggressive or extremely weak, it cannot overpower the indifferences of the employee attitude in which case, the project may fail. Corporate Attitude should propel employee attitude in accepting change process in which case, it should only be at its best implementable and comprehensible level.
Therefore, it is critical for the management to look into the corporate attitude deeply by analyzing its corporate agenda to keep it attuned to the employee attitude, in relation of course to the project and its impending implementation. The need to integrate at the same time the study of the employee attitude into the corporate should be considered for control and accountability purposes. When this action is overlooked, then consequently these two attitudes may clash and may produce negative internal commotion. The resultant extent would be sour-graping after informal organization ensues.
Management Support, Authority & Budget
Management support is not limited to the mere proclamation of the project and the creation of the Team who shall handle the nitty-gritty of the project. It includes empowerment of the Team with blanket authority based on the undertaking originally mandated by the Board. The Management should be able to back up its recommendations and decisions also in order to maintain the integrity and credibility of the Team. The Team’s integrity and credibility should be the concern of the Management if successful implementation is ultimately its objective.
More to management support, budgetary constraints should also be the concern of the management. Enough budgets to cover the infrastructures, manpower requirement and the incidental expenses should be allocated and approved.
The fully integrated conglomerate
As Chairman Masri stressed, “AIG’s inherent strength lies in industrial and geographic diversification that serves to ensure business stability and enhanced performance.” These two apparent strengths should favorably conjunct with each other to create a marriage that would bring about the synergy that can propel change process.
While all subsidiaries may believe that working on their business processes using their own system works as planned, fully integrated system or policy or procedure is still the best way to further enhance the strength our conglomerate is known for.
As a diversified conglomerate, the need to streamline business processes and integrate enterprise resource planning infrastructure should be on top of the line as this, once implemented across the subs, will bring about the harmony that would standardize protocols and facilitate processes. Full integration should cater the need to address the geographic diversification that concerns the management.
As the Board involves everybody to participate actively in this initiative, Chairman Masri finally urges that “Arriving at the best fit enterprise-wide IT solution for a conglomerate like ours is a complex task. Your usual dedicated involvement is solicited in selecting such a platform that maps with our processes and instill best practices of the industry that our subsidiaries belong to. Further, I wish to emphasize the organization responsibility vested in you in transforming our company through change management initiatives that will streamline our processes and introduce operational excellence, thus unlocking value from this strategic investment.”
Weird, isn't it?
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
31 January 2010
Weird, isn’t it?
For decades now, people from all walks of life aim to land at the elective positions of the country. Most dared to barter good names with odd ones; most traded money for government positions; a few even offered loved ones for the sake of finding cunning seats in politics.
Yes, the fundamental law of the land dictates that for as long as one “can read and write”, and then he is eligible to run. Even the stars of faintest glow run for public office. If I could only rewrite the Milky Way and mandate that stars cannot run for elective offices, then I guess we can put an end to the red-carpet elections. An elementary dropout turned sportsman runs, in the same way that an ordinary citizen does.
Do you think it’s high time to care for this? Our government is not a show, not even a circus. Merry making does happen in town fiestas only; why do it in the executive and legislative halls?
Lately, I talked to God. I asked Him for some interventions especially in the coming election. I honestly asked for good breed of heroes – both heard and unheard to vie for these titles. His response was: don’t dream, son; there are none.
In the same conversation, God asked me to apprise Him on the events happening to notable people occupying the positions and I did. I gave Him the necessary inputs and called off the talk. Out of the blue, I started wondering: What if God decide to run?
Do you think your erring barangay captain will dare running opposite God in the election? Take note, your kapitan del barrio keeps all the medicines intended for the people of the Barangay until lately, she discovered that these medicines are already expired, most were consumed by the family, and crammed what to offer to the voting populace. God, what about the accountability? Well, that’s just simple. She can always produce documents showing receipts of these medicines by the public. She’s used to it anyway!
And what about the city councilor whom the girls once said “cute”? Do you think he will vie for the office for which he is incumbent now if God will run against him? What if he knows that one constituent told God about the kickbacks he seized by intimidation from the contractors of the building he was working for the city? Ouch, if I were him, I will just gracefully exit. After all, life after death is better than life in graft and womanizing. Moral ascendancy to lead, is this it? Dear councilor, correct me if I’m wrong!
God forbids! There is a city executive, who by his own deeds became eligible to the final rounds of the search for the Rarest Breed of Animals in the country today. Imagine, he stormed the Hall for nine years as the Ultimate One, took a beauty rest for one period, and lately announced that he’s coming back, this time with vengeance for the same crown. But hey, what if the crown does not fit anymore?
Power attracts! Yes, even to the merriest of souls. Notice this guy who earned various honors in the square ring and opted to run for the legislative post. Hey, he just can’t give a south punch anytime of the day unless he is willing to be hit below the belt! Wake up! If you don’t, you will end up losing your riches and the opportunities attached to your crowns now.
Oh, I almost forgot! One ailing district representative, who’s suffering from the highest degree of Alzheimer doesn’t want to call a halt to his arguably for-the-country-service by running again despite lapses. What on earth is this? Is Philippine politics a haven of magnet where one can’t resist? Is this another Bermuda Triangle where one is lost mysteriously?
Once he said he is honest to his service. He was also quoted as saying that he is no liar, no robber. Perfect! Question: Is he telling this to the marines? This one too-good-to-be-true senator hallucinates! Politics is as dirty as the city drainage not cleaned-up. Just a piece of advice: ask God for a direct confession; don’t do it with a priest. I am afraid your confession might not gain any merit from high heavens.
Cheers! Before we finally ends, here comes the best man! He is projecting a strong but peaceful image. In his previous stints, he bested other contenders by exuding a man-of-the-masses image in the best supporting actor category. During his prime, you didn’t hear him sing or recite. I don’t know if the palace did buy the most precious flower vase from the land of the promise or contract a fragile guard from down under. Anyway, that’s his role.
Now, do you think your bet for presidency whose personally tailored platform is as bad as his closet image will make it at the polls? If I can talk to God once more, I will recommend that He run for the highest elective post of the land. After all, He has the necessary qualifications: He can read beyond words and human dynamics; write even without seeing walls; play within bounds; talk to people by heart and passion; fight the evilest of evils; serve with honest and purest of intentions; lead with words; and walk His talk. The deadline for filing of candidacy is already over but he can make miracles. Let’s just wait.
Let’s compare apple to apple this time: your bet can read but not beyond words and human dynamics - he can read what he is personally up to only; write on the walls graffiti and arithmetical computations of transactions; play beyond the bounds of the rules – most often, above the laws of men; talk to people in carefully fashioned heart-to-heart discussion in alarming passion; fight the good and favor the evils; serve with selfish and make-believe intentions; lead with horrifying and hard-to-believe words; and most often talk about his walks.
Silly, isn’t it? But do we really need to wait for silly ideas to come along before we decide to change our silly “selves” and eventually change this silly Republic? If God were one of us, do you think the 2010 election will be as peaceful as theorized by most overnight philosophers or just as bad as His trial when selfish Herod was then the governor of the area?
Think about it, man! What if God run for 2010?
Silly, isn’t it? But what if God were one of us? Don’t you think this silly idea fits for the silly Filipinos like us? Is it a silly idea to save the ailing, silly Philippines from further destruction?
Who is silly?
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
31 January 2010
Weird, isn’t it?
For decades now, people from all walks of life aim to land at the elective positions of the country. Most dared to barter good names with odd ones; most traded money for government positions; a few even offered loved ones for the sake of finding cunning seats in politics.
Yes, the fundamental law of the land dictates that for as long as one “can read and write”, and then he is eligible to run. Even the stars of faintest glow run for public office. If I could only rewrite the Milky Way and mandate that stars cannot run for elective offices, then I guess we can put an end to the red-carpet elections. An elementary dropout turned sportsman runs, in the same way that an ordinary citizen does.
Do you think it’s high time to care for this? Our government is not a show, not even a circus. Merry making does happen in town fiestas only; why do it in the executive and legislative halls?
Lately, I talked to God. I asked Him for some interventions especially in the coming election. I honestly asked for good breed of heroes – both heard and unheard to vie for these titles. His response was: don’t dream, son; there are none.
In the same conversation, God asked me to apprise Him on the events happening to notable people occupying the positions and I did. I gave Him the necessary inputs and called off the talk. Out of the blue, I started wondering: What if God decide to run?
Do you think your erring barangay captain will dare running opposite God in the election? Take note, your kapitan del barrio keeps all the medicines intended for the people of the Barangay until lately, she discovered that these medicines are already expired, most were consumed by the family, and crammed what to offer to the voting populace. God, what about the accountability? Well, that’s just simple. She can always produce documents showing receipts of these medicines by the public. She’s used to it anyway!
And what about the city councilor whom the girls once said “cute”? Do you think he will vie for the office for which he is incumbent now if God will run against him? What if he knows that one constituent told God about the kickbacks he seized by intimidation from the contractors of the building he was working for the city? Ouch, if I were him, I will just gracefully exit. After all, life after death is better than life in graft and womanizing. Moral ascendancy to lead, is this it? Dear councilor, correct me if I’m wrong!
God forbids! There is a city executive, who by his own deeds became eligible to the final rounds of the search for the Rarest Breed of Animals in the country today. Imagine, he stormed the Hall for nine years as the Ultimate One, took a beauty rest for one period, and lately announced that he’s coming back, this time with vengeance for the same crown. But hey, what if the crown does not fit anymore?
Power attracts! Yes, even to the merriest of souls. Notice this guy who earned various honors in the square ring and opted to run for the legislative post. Hey, he just can’t give a south punch anytime of the day unless he is willing to be hit below the belt! Wake up! If you don’t, you will end up losing your riches and the opportunities attached to your crowns now.
Oh, I almost forgot! One ailing district representative, who’s suffering from the highest degree of Alzheimer doesn’t want to call a halt to his arguably for-the-country-service by running again despite lapses. What on earth is this? Is Philippine politics a haven of magnet where one can’t resist? Is this another Bermuda Triangle where one is lost mysteriously?
Once he said he is honest to his service. He was also quoted as saying that he is no liar, no robber. Perfect! Question: Is he telling this to the marines? This one too-good-to-be-true senator hallucinates! Politics is as dirty as the city drainage not cleaned-up. Just a piece of advice: ask God for a direct confession; don’t do it with a priest. I am afraid your confession might not gain any merit from high heavens.
Cheers! Before we finally ends, here comes the best man! He is projecting a strong but peaceful image. In his previous stints, he bested other contenders by exuding a man-of-the-masses image in the best supporting actor category. During his prime, you didn’t hear him sing or recite. I don’t know if the palace did buy the most precious flower vase from the land of the promise or contract a fragile guard from down under. Anyway, that’s his role.
Now, do you think your bet for presidency whose personally tailored platform is as bad as his closet image will make it at the polls? If I can talk to God once more, I will recommend that He run for the highest elective post of the land. After all, He has the necessary qualifications: He can read beyond words and human dynamics; write even without seeing walls; play within bounds; talk to people by heart and passion; fight the evilest of evils; serve with honest and purest of intentions; lead with words; and walk His talk. The deadline for filing of candidacy is already over but he can make miracles. Let’s just wait.
Let’s compare apple to apple this time: your bet can read but not beyond words and human dynamics - he can read what he is personally up to only; write on the walls graffiti and arithmetical computations of transactions; play beyond the bounds of the rules – most often, above the laws of men; talk to people in carefully fashioned heart-to-heart discussion in alarming passion; fight the good and favor the evils; serve with selfish and make-believe intentions; lead with horrifying and hard-to-believe words; and most often talk about his walks.
Silly, isn’t it? But do we really need to wait for silly ideas to come along before we decide to change our silly “selves” and eventually change this silly Republic? If God were one of us, do you think the 2010 election will be as peaceful as theorized by most overnight philosophers or just as bad as His trial when selfish Herod was then the governor of the area?
Think about it, man! What if God run for 2010?
Silly, isn’t it? But what if God were one of us? Don’t you think this silly idea fits for the silly Filipinos like us? Is it a silly idea to save the ailing, silly Philippines from further destruction?
Who is silly?
We Are Numbers!
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
February 15, 2009
Businesses today, in response to the massive growth and development of technology and in the science of management, employ alpha-numeric codes for all transactions. This practice, which has become obviously popular nowadays, was catapulted by the dramatic advancements in the field of computer and programming and software development.
Take for instance the numerical assignment to every employee of the company as registry in the records that he now becomes “employee N.” This is a global practice especially among large and multi-national companies to facilitate and ease recording of transactions relating to employees and to easily plan and monitor the manpower requirement.
Whether you are in the Philippines, in the GCC-member countries, in the United States of America, in any part of Asia, Europe, or Africa, this practice is apparent today in response to the complexities of the business. Yes, we are digitally numbered for at least three to seven characters and, yes, we are tracked by the system. I am talking about the workers of any class.
The idea is obviously sound in relation to business norms, policies, and practices and for as long as the management knows their social and moral obligations to their employees and fulfills these without prejudice to the humane nature of works and the workers’ welfare.
However, for some obvious reasons, there are companies who seem to forget the fact that the human resource is the most valuable resource the company could ever have in running the affairs of the business. Noting this from experience, most have become greedy and harsh towards treating people in the organization. Most have in fact forgotten that these peoples are not raw materials but are wonderful creation of God.
Larry has been in one of the companies in the Kingdom as the ultimate finance man, a position of wit, integrity, and power. His professional license and academic achievements in the Philippines plus the lure of opportunities abroad drove him to the Kingdom more than fifteen years ago. He raised his family in this highly conservative Islam community without reservation despite the strong Christian devotion he had. Due to one procedural lapse, one day, the Human Resources Management Department, on the instruction of the top man, issued him a warning notice for sub-standard performance and gross negligence of duty.
It was a pronouncement, based on a minor lapse, he could handle but the Management did not listen and won’t dare to. Larry was computed with his end-of-service benefits and was paid accordingly. Soon, he would be leaving the Kingdom and the company he built along with three other top executives, and one of them was instrumental to his unannounced disengagement.
In another incident, a Filipino General Labor was advised to resign for not paying “tribute” to his department manager. Since his manager does not like him, his contract was not renewed on top of the no-tribute-no-salary-increase phenomenon. Worse, his manager is a fellow “kababayan.”
Adding fuel to the fire, an accountant was terminated for simply not informing the big boss that he would not spend overtime one night because he needs to send money to his home country. The big boss expects a report from him although the deadline is not yet due.
Cases like these, revealed or concealed, are truly happening in this work-and-obey-the-rules Kingdom in twenty-four-by-seven frequency.
The humane side of the stories behind the triggering factors of disengagement or termination was left unheard or unnoticed. The values, corporate or individual, are ignored.
These stories plus a lot more, remind me of Jacobo Benjamin, the Jew who was imprisoned in the post-war America for no reason at all. Benjamin, in one of his assertions, quipped that he was a “prisoner without a cell; cell without a number.”
In contrast, while most overseas workers call themselves “prisoners without a cell” due to their economically driven sojourn to the Mid-East, certainly, “we are numbers” that can be erased from the register or deleted from the system anytime.
Be careful!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
February 15, 2009
Businesses today, in response to the massive growth and development of technology and in the science of management, employ alpha-numeric codes for all transactions. This practice, which has become obviously popular nowadays, was catapulted by the dramatic advancements in the field of computer and programming and software development.
Take for instance the numerical assignment to every employee of the company as registry in the records that he now becomes “employee N.” This is a global practice especially among large and multi-national companies to facilitate and ease recording of transactions relating to employees and to easily plan and monitor the manpower requirement.
Whether you are in the Philippines, in the GCC-member countries, in the United States of America, in any part of Asia, Europe, or Africa, this practice is apparent today in response to the complexities of the business. Yes, we are digitally numbered for at least three to seven characters and, yes, we are tracked by the system. I am talking about the workers of any class.
The idea is obviously sound in relation to business norms, policies, and practices and for as long as the management knows their social and moral obligations to their employees and fulfills these without prejudice to the humane nature of works and the workers’ welfare.
However, for some obvious reasons, there are companies who seem to forget the fact that the human resource is the most valuable resource the company could ever have in running the affairs of the business. Noting this from experience, most have become greedy and harsh towards treating people in the organization. Most have in fact forgotten that these peoples are not raw materials but are wonderful creation of God.
Larry has been in one of the companies in the Kingdom as the ultimate finance man, a position of wit, integrity, and power. His professional license and academic achievements in the Philippines plus the lure of opportunities abroad drove him to the Kingdom more than fifteen years ago. He raised his family in this highly conservative Islam community without reservation despite the strong Christian devotion he had. Due to one procedural lapse, one day, the Human Resources Management Department, on the instruction of the top man, issued him a warning notice for sub-standard performance and gross negligence of duty.
It was a pronouncement, based on a minor lapse, he could handle but the Management did not listen and won’t dare to. Larry was computed with his end-of-service benefits and was paid accordingly. Soon, he would be leaving the Kingdom and the company he built along with three other top executives, and one of them was instrumental to his unannounced disengagement.
In another incident, a Filipino General Labor was advised to resign for not paying “tribute” to his department manager. Since his manager does not like him, his contract was not renewed on top of the no-tribute-no-salary-increase phenomenon. Worse, his manager is a fellow “kababayan.”
Adding fuel to the fire, an accountant was terminated for simply not informing the big boss that he would not spend overtime one night because he needs to send money to his home country. The big boss expects a report from him although the deadline is not yet due.
Cases like these, revealed or concealed, are truly happening in this work-and-obey-the-rules Kingdom in twenty-four-by-seven frequency.
The humane side of the stories behind the triggering factors of disengagement or termination was left unheard or unnoticed. The values, corporate or individual, are ignored.
These stories plus a lot more, remind me of Jacobo Benjamin, the Jew who was imprisoned in the post-war America for no reason at all. Benjamin, in one of his assertions, quipped that he was a “prisoner without a cell; cell without a number.”
In contrast, while most overseas workers call themselves “prisoners without a cell” due to their economically driven sojourn to the Mid-East, certainly, “we are numbers” that can be erased from the register or deleted from the system anytime.
Be careful!
Toppling the Wall
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
February 8, 2009
The recent economic downturn has hit not just America but almost all parts of the world. Consequently, all economies have been severed that led to enormous losses.
Tactically addressing to the situation, all governments have arrived at eventual short-term plans of sorts to tackle the financial calamity “of the moment” that has shaved about 25% off the value of most of the world major stock indices and essentially drove Iceland into bankruptcy. Of course, strategic long term plans are in the can to address gradual fallouts especially when this economic disaster does not improve in the long run.
Recently, our government has approved the 2009 National Budget highlighting the billions of pesos in support to OFWs. Notably noticeably, the Administration has clearly indicated their support to the modern-day heroes who literally send home millions of foreign exchange earnings out of the monthly remittance to respective families.
Panasonic, one of the world’s major industrial firms headquartered in Japan, recently announced the closure of twenty-seven (27) factories terminating about fifteen thousand (15,000) employees of which almost fifty per cent are contracted in its Head Office. Consequently, Panasonic Philippines will also encounter the same fate.
In the Middle East, Saudi Arabian Basic Industries (SABIC), one of the Kingdom’s most important and biggest-earning companies announce the laying off of about one-thousand employees all over the globe. And Filipinos are not spared from this; SABIC employs hundreds of Filipino migrant workers deployed all over their branches and sites.
By and in the same token, locally, several BPO companies are slowly folding up; others actually have folded up that consequently sent hundreds of workers to the streets of the politically-and-economically-disturbed Philippines. Despite the negating statements articulated by the president of its association, BPOs continuously and continually sag and the countdown has actually started.
Denial should not be the thing of the moment; it won’t work. Which is why, our government always fails in its move because every time it offends, it denies, matter that has become the “thing of the hour” in our daily affairs, especially in the grapevines; the same matter that has caused atomic explosion in the media that greatly affected and continuously affects our economic and socio-political activities thereby continually harassing the entire Filipino human race by all means.
What everyone should do, and this involves both the government and the people, is to resist the urge this depression brings along to slower pace and hope that the economic maelstrom will bypass our state, our country. Maybe one has never been overly gregarious but this is the best opportune time to take a stab at it.
All of us, again – the government, companies and the people, are in a very unsteady ride. This time is best for companies to reconsider old proposals that may sound alternatively feasible; the Administration to collude with other political parties a plot that will topple down the worst of enemies of the time – the economic depression - that has been plaguing not just the Malacanang Palace but the entire 85-million Filipino community; business sectors to ally and firm up their convictions to be socially morally responsible sectors thereby eliminating business greed that propel them to aggrieve workers; the Filipino people to delete from the lists of “undesirable attitudes” the crab mentality, the “manana” habit, and the “ningas cogon” that actually are not contributing to our individual economic profile and politicians to forgo personal interests in favor of its constituents.
“It’s time to topple down the wall that divides” between and among all of us. This line became a popular remark way back in 2001 when Arroyo assumed presidency of the Republic after the EDSA 2 that overthrew actor-turned president Estrada out of power. However, the same Arroyo breaks this remark and highlights its negative meaning by her own selfish and vested interests in handling the affairs of the country.
Recently, Arroyo was in Riyadh (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) on the invitation of the government. Sources say, Arroyo is on top of handling the improvements of the welfare of the Filipino migrant workers. Good, indeed!
Question: Will this ever happen? Several people from the government have expressed their plans, courses of actions - or simply thoughts - on this but never have succeeded, if they really have acted on it. Why? They forgot to topple down the walls that have been dividing their “political conviction” and “self-interests.” If these people do not learn how to actually topple down these walls of greed, then not even a word a can aptly describe them as political leaders.
And who then are they?
Roaches on the wall!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
February 8, 2009
The recent economic downturn has hit not just America but almost all parts of the world. Consequently, all economies have been severed that led to enormous losses.
Tactically addressing to the situation, all governments have arrived at eventual short-term plans of sorts to tackle the financial calamity “of the moment” that has shaved about 25% off the value of most of the world major stock indices and essentially drove Iceland into bankruptcy. Of course, strategic long term plans are in the can to address gradual fallouts especially when this economic disaster does not improve in the long run.
Recently, our government has approved the 2009 National Budget highlighting the billions of pesos in support to OFWs. Notably noticeably, the Administration has clearly indicated their support to the modern-day heroes who literally send home millions of foreign exchange earnings out of the monthly remittance to respective families.
Panasonic, one of the world’s major industrial firms headquartered in Japan, recently announced the closure of twenty-seven (27) factories terminating about fifteen thousand (15,000) employees of which almost fifty per cent are contracted in its Head Office. Consequently, Panasonic Philippines will also encounter the same fate.
In the Middle East, Saudi Arabian Basic Industries (SABIC), one of the Kingdom’s most important and biggest-earning companies announce the laying off of about one-thousand employees all over the globe. And Filipinos are not spared from this; SABIC employs hundreds of Filipino migrant workers deployed all over their branches and sites.
By and in the same token, locally, several BPO companies are slowly folding up; others actually have folded up that consequently sent hundreds of workers to the streets of the politically-and-economically-disturbed Philippines. Despite the negating statements articulated by the president of its association, BPOs continuously and continually sag and the countdown has actually started.
Denial should not be the thing of the moment; it won’t work. Which is why, our government always fails in its move because every time it offends, it denies, matter that has become the “thing of the hour” in our daily affairs, especially in the grapevines; the same matter that has caused atomic explosion in the media that greatly affected and continuously affects our economic and socio-political activities thereby continually harassing the entire Filipino human race by all means.
What everyone should do, and this involves both the government and the people, is to resist the urge this depression brings along to slower pace and hope that the economic maelstrom will bypass our state, our country. Maybe one has never been overly gregarious but this is the best opportune time to take a stab at it.
All of us, again – the government, companies and the people, are in a very unsteady ride. This time is best for companies to reconsider old proposals that may sound alternatively feasible; the Administration to collude with other political parties a plot that will topple down the worst of enemies of the time – the economic depression - that has been plaguing not just the Malacanang Palace but the entire 85-million Filipino community; business sectors to ally and firm up their convictions to be socially morally responsible sectors thereby eliminating business greed that propel them to aggrieve workers; the Filipino people to delete from the lists of “undesirable attitudes” the crab mentality, the “manana” habit, and the “ningas cogon” that actually are not contributing to our individual economic profile and politicians to forgo personal interests in favor of its constituents.
“It’s time to topple down the wall that divides” between and among all of us. This line became a popular remark way back in 2001 when Arroyo assumed presidency of the Republic after the EDSA 2 that overthrew actor-turned president Estrada out of power. However, the same Arroyo breaks this remark and highlights its negative meaning by her own selfish and vested interests in handling the affairs of the country.
Recently, Arroyo was in Riyadh (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) on the invitation of the government. Sources say, Arroyo is on top of handling the improvements of the welfare of the Filipino migrant workers. Good, indeed!
Question: Will this ever happen? Several people from the government have expressed their plans, courses of actions - or simply thoughts - on this but never have succeeded, if they really have acted on it. Why? They forgot to topple down the walls that have been dividing their “political conviction” and “self-interests.” If these people do not learn how to actually topple down these walls of greed, then not even a word a can aptly describe them as political leaders.
And who then are they?
Roaches on the wall!
Through the Fog
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
14 February 2010
For those who have been in the Kingdom for quite a long time, seeing the thickest of fog along the thoroughfares annoys them. Why? The almost zero-visibility convergence of the fog renders all commuters to slowdown from 120 to 80 kph for safety.
Today’s morning fog, the thickest so far I have seen in almost two years, inspires me. The mists it distributes to all windshields and windows tickle my working mind and soothe my ever-curious eyes. More so, it reminds me of two things: obstacle and opportunity.
This morning, our Indian driver who have just arrived from vacation, managed to drive us all to our workplace through the fog with an ounce of discipline. Although he has been noted to be a skillful driver, the right attitude that is pre-requisite to road courtesy and discipline survived his ordeal. And driving through the fog sans discipline endangers not just the driver but also the riders and other commuters. It may abort life instantly. People without this deliver themselves to deathbed and statistics show.
Spouses always encounter the thickest of fog in their lives. Most often separation ensues. However, if one spouse is brave enough to analyze how thick the fog is and turn this into an opportunity to discuss the internal conflict with the partner, then this may strengthen marital relationship. The same holds true with parents against their children, neighbors against their neighbors, and brothers against their brothers.
The presence of fog in our lives, no matter how thick or thin it is and no matter what time of the day it appears, determines our conviction to conduct familial, official or personal affairs with prudence. This is attitude expressed in different tone.
Almost always, our government officials are hindered to see the real meaning and purpose of their positions. They are “fogged” by their own selfish and vested interests in holding the position. From barangay officials to the top elective post in the Palace by the foul-smelled Pasig River, their own “political fogs” destroy their promised 20/20 vision.
Because of this individual fog that converges in the plenary halls of all houses, the troubled and “self-serving” politics is adversely affecting, if not crippling, the Philippine economy that has been left behind by its Asian neighbors. More than two decades ago, the Philippines’ was considered to be among the top economy in Asia. In fact, the modern-day technocrats of China, Vietnam, Burma, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and other countries were trained in our noble soil.
Arguably though, we lost this glory and honor due to the uncontrollable “fogs” that has been plaguing our disarrayed social and political system. This is the fog that brought us to places of honor; the same fog that destroyed our image in the same places where we were honored before.
In May 2010, another thick fog, if not the thickest so far, will dominate the Philippine electorate with an annoying number of candidates to choose from; the voting populace will be “fogged” again by “who is who”, “who has what”, or maybe, “who’s got the money” to vote for.
History has it that people are bribed to vote for Juan even if Pidro deserves to be chosen just because Juan has the money. And not merely money, we are talking about the color of money here. Exasperatingly frustrating!
This fog in the electorate, if not cleared, can bring another fog in the political arena of the country. It breeds, just like the virus breaking through the system. The problem between the human-created and nature-created fog is that the latter disappear in due time by nature’s call; the former needs will power to be totally vanished from the air. In which case, we shall wait when these people will, by their own will power, completely remove this fog.
Again, this is awfully annoying!
Through the fog, the community of united Filipinos in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through the United Filipino Basketball Federation, survived the grand opening this week of the 9th Basketball Season dubbed “Basketball is Life”. Forty-two teams, all composed of Filipino expatriates in the Eastern province of the Kingdom participate to compete for the crown in the unique spirit of Filipino sportsmanship.
Fog is obstacle; fog is opportunity. Through the fog, we can manage to survive life, if we choose to.
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
14 February 2010
For those who have been in the Kingdom for quite a long time, seeing the thickest of fog along the thoroughfares annoys them. Why? The almost zero-visibility convergence of the fog renders all commuters to slowdown from 120 to 80 kph for safety.
Today’s morning fog, the thickest so far I have seen in almost two years, inspires me. The mists it distributes to all windshields and windows tickle my working mind and soothe my ever-curious eyes. More so, it reminds me of two things: obstacle and opportunity.
This morning, our Indian driver who have just arrived from vacation, managed to drive us all to our workplace through the fog with an ounce of discipline. Although he has been noted to be a skillful driver, the right attitude that is pre-requisite to road courtesy and discipline survived his ordeal. And driving through the fog sans discipline endangers not just the driver but also the riders and other commuters. It may abort life instantly. People without this deliver themselves to deathbed and statistics show.
Spouses always encounter the thickest of fog in their lives. Most often separation ensues. However, if one spouse is brave enough to analyze how thick the fog is and turn this into an opportunity to discuss the internal conflict with the partner, then this may strengthen marital relationship. The same holds true with parents against their children, neighbors against their neighbors, and brothers against their brothers.
The presence of fog in our lives, no matter how thick or thin it is and no matter what time of the day it appears, determines our conviction to conduct familial, official or personal affairs with prudence. This is attitude expressed in different tone.
Almost always, our government officials are hindered to see the real meaning and purpose of their positions. They are “fogged” by their own selfish and vested interests in holding the position. From barangay officials to the top elective post in the Palace by the foul-smelled Pasig River, their own “political fogs” destroy their promised 20/20 vision.
Because of this individual fog that converges in the plenary halls of all houses, the troubled and “self-serving” politics is adversely affecting, if not crippling, the Philippine economy that has been left behind by its Asian neighbors. More than two decades ago, the Philippines’ was considered to be among the top economy in Asia. In fact, the modern-day technocrats of China, Vietnam, Burma, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and other countries were trained in our noble soil.
Arguably though, we lost this glory and honor due to the uncontrollable “fogs” that has been plaguing our disarrayed social and political system. This is the fog that brought us to places of honor; the same fog that destroyed our image in the same places where we were honored before.
In May 2010, another thick fog, if not the thickest so far, will dominate the Philippine electorate with an annoying number of candidates to choose from; the voting populace will be “fogged” again by “who is who”, “who has what”, or maybe, “who’s got the money” to vote for.
History has it that people are bribed to vote for Juan even if Pidro deserves to be chosen just because Juan has the money. And not merely money, we are talking about the color of money here. Exasperatingly frustrating!
This fog in the electorate, if not cleared, can bring another fog in the political arena of the country. It breeds, just like the virus breaking through the system. The problem between the human-created and nature-created fog is that the latter disappear in due time by nature’s call; the former needs will power to be totally vanished from the air. In which case, we shall wait when these people will, by their own will power, completely remove this fog.
Again, this is awfully annoying!
Through the fog, the community of united Filipinos in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through the United Filipino Basketball Federation, survived the grand opening this week of the 9th Basketball Season dubbed “Basketball is Life”. Forty-two teams, all composed of Filipino expatriates in the Eastern province of the Kingdom participate to compete for the crown in the unique spirit of Filipino sportsmanship.
Fog is obstacle; fog is opportunity. Through the fog, we can manage to survive life, if we choose to.
The Process We Call Change
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
03 January 2010
Through the years, I have always sustained the momentum of gradually reaching the summit of maintaining my professional and societal position. Although it was not always an easy job, but I would like to believe that my performance was always remarkable – at least as per my standard.
By my own key performance indicators, I also believe that I have done my best and my hardest through the years. Although my best maybe wasn’t good and my hardest not tough enough to some people or to some extent, but surely it was real and it was not just happening.
My most recent familial and professional crises gave me the most opportune time to retrospect and maximize our strengths, improve on and turn our weaknesses into motivating factors, explore the opportunities at hand, and prepare to tactically address the threats along the way. It gave me and my family enough latitude to move around and take off to the higher altitude; the same latitude that sustain us through the years.
This clearly suggests that the world around us is obviously volatile; everything is a flux. Having said that, we need to equip ourselves with the logistics we need to prepare for the coming years: workable plans and targets, dynamic support system and available resources, and feasible alternative courses of action. And these can only be done by evaluating the present condition and introduce aggressive change drivers.
Change initiatives are always available 24/7. The thing is, some facts usually overshadow the others that cause to blind people from seeing and acknowledging these initiatives. Consequently, this leads them to concentrate on knowing all the “what’s” without examining the “why’s” to determine the “how’s” of the issue. People sometimes become immobile because of their own insensitivity.
Change connotes defect. Surely, we cannot change one thing if it is within its norms. What most of us do is ignore the defect until this has become worse, or, to some degree, blown out of proportion. In which case, remedial activities may no longer help. As we detect the defect at its earliest, change should be instituted.
Change drivers are supposed to propel us to improvement. However, change process can only take place if we admit and recognize the defect otherwise it would be hard to institute and implement change drivers.
As we close 2009, we need to evaluate our personal and professional performances carefully noting down these defects. As we welcome 2010, we need to inculcate into ourselves the change processes we need to implement to better our position in the new year and in the coming years and to once again place ourselves more strategically in the map where we could shine once more.
As Mahatma Gandhi strongly advocated, “Be the change you want the world to be.”
Carry on, Gentlemen!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
03 January 2010
Through the years, I have always sustained the momentum of gradually reaching the summit of maintaining my professional and societal position. Although it was not always an easy job, but I would like to believe that my performance was always remarkable – at least as per my standard.
By my own key performance indicators, I also believe that I have done my best and my hardest through the years. Although my best maybe wasn’t good and my hardest not tough enough to some people or to some extent, but surely it was real and it was not just happening.
My most recent familial and professional crises gave me the most opportune time to retrospect and maximize our strengths, improve on and turn our weaknesses into motivating factors, explore the opportunities at hand, and prepare to tactically address the threats along the way. It gave me and my family enough latitude to move around and take off to the higher altitude; the same latitude that sustain us through the years.
This clearly suggests that the world around us is obviously volatile; everything is a flux. Having said that, we need to equip ourselves with the logistics we need to prepare for the coming years: workable plans and targets, dynamic support system and available resources, and feasible alternative courses of action. And these can only be done by evaluating the present condition and introduce aggressive change drivers.
Change initiatives are always available 24/7. The thing is, some facts usually overshadow the others that cause to blind people from seeing and acknowledging these initiatives. Consequently, this leads them to concentrate on knowing all the “what’s” without examining the “why’s” to determine the “how’s” of the issue. People sometimes become immobile because of their own insensitivity.
Change connotes defect. Surely, we cannot change one thing if it is within its norms. What most of us do is ignore the defect until this has become worse, or, to some degree, blown out of proportion. In which case, remedial activities may no longer help. As we detect the defect at its earliest, change should be instituted.
Change drivers are supposed to propel us to improvement. However, change process can only take place if we admit and recognize the defect otherwise it would be hard to institute and implement change drivers.
As we close 2009, we need to evaluate our personal and professional performances carefully noting down these defects. As we welcome 2010, we need to inculcate into ourselves the change processes we need to implement to better our position in the new year and in the coming years and to once again place ourselves more strategically in the map where we could shine once more.
As Mahatma Gandhi strongly advocated, “Be the change you want the world to be.”
Carry on, Gentlemen!
The other activity
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
09 August 2009
Without batting an eye lash, reading through the contract of employment overseas workers inked with their employers would only state one thing: performance by all means as the main activity. This means, consequently, the concepts of the law of the Country of Operation as well as of the Country of Source have to apply.
To date, overseas workers, especially after the economic downturn that was experienced globally, are facing economic difficulties, too. Not mentioning those who were laid off and were sent back to their homesteads, expatiates in all Middle Eastern Kingdoms today are trying hard to make both ends meet.
Ask people from all walks of life in the GCC this time – yes, life is becoming more difficult each day. Prices of commodities in these Kingdoms are gradually skyrocketing. And whether you are in the Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates or Oman – it doesn’t matter. All roads lead to one thing: price increases. Although comparatively, prices of goods, services, and commodities in open cities are higher than in “closed” or “conservative” ones like all cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Deeply, let us talk about this activity once more.
Undeniably, expatriates set out to these weird Kingdoms of the world to earn decent income for families back home. Today however, the compensation packages these expatriates are receiving may no longer serve the purpose. Back home, prices are soaring; in this place, prices are gradually skyrocketing, too.
And what options are laid before the naked eyes of these expatriates? Other activities that can either sustain the economic difficulty or sustain the boredom, loneliness, and homesickness. And whether or not the purpose is moral or financial, in this part of the world – it seems that it doesn’t matter anymore.
Take for instance OFWs doing office-related activities. Normally, they work from 7:00 am to 5:00. After this period, their evening time, Thursdays and Fridays are free. In this regard, part time jobs play into the picture.
One Secretary I knew, he works as a part time sales clerk in a mobile phone store within the city where he lives. One accountant does massage service to Filipinos and Saudis after office. One accountant does part time accounting job in a small firm; this job was offered to me earlier.
One welder spends at least four hours a day as Sales Clerk at the Giordano Store in Al-Khobar after his eight-five-day work. A restaurant service crew dons massage service during his day off.
Which is why, I almost have conceded to the recommendation of a colleague to apply for part-time teaching job in one of the Philippine schools here. The thing is, I might technically breach the contract of employment I signed. Although, my contact in the Philippine Labor Office assured of non-conformity as long as I don’t harm the performance or its delivery, or use official time and resources.
What else? Others use their talents wisely and profitably. Singers here perform for live bands in areas where “white expatriates” are numerous and where these activities are allowed within their compound or accommodation. Workers who can host activities accept hosting contract for a fee.
For expatriates whose economic or contract status in these places are better off than the rest, they dedicate themselves into Sports. This time, this is not for economic rewards but simply for leisure, health and pleasure. I said leisure because it is only during sports activities that these persons relax; health because sports is a way to good health; and pleasure because, people in this level needs pleasure for what they do and for what they want to do.
For expatriates whose loneliness, boredom and homesickness are entertained, most of them plunge into extra-marital affairs without them realizing these. I have known of a registered mid-wife who falls in love with a man of almost her age. They met in a restaurant early this year and their acquaintance blossomed into an affair. Both are married. This time, the man is feeling guilty towards his relationship with his spouse and children and wants to end the affair but the woman is insistent. The man stops entertaining her because this man turns actively into gym exercises and sports activities.
This activity can only be good if both of you are not committed in life yet.
And whether or not the other activity is purposely directed towards financial rewards, temporal sexual bliss, combat loneliness, boredom and homesickness is not a question; the real question is: can the OFW survive the ordeal and goes back home as normal as he was before leaving his homestead?
Which is why, loved ones at home must not only call or send SMS messages asking about remittances. Suggestively, the firsts question to ask is “how are you doing today?” Looking at all angles, all conversations must in fact be ended with a gentle reminder: “I love you and I miss”.
Which is why, involving one’s self in other activities, are still needed by all of us here. And in this I mean, quality activities.
Not all expatriates are doing things happily here. Pragmatically, not all other activities are for purposes of augmenting financial requirements or pleasure; others are simply for nothing.
Take it or leave it: Quality activities for quality life; nothing more, nothing less!
Be blissfully happy then!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
09 August 2009
Without batting an eye lash, reading through the contract of employment overseas workers inked with their employers would only state one thing: performance by all means as the main activity. This means, consequently, the concepts of the law of the Country of Operation as well as of the Country of Source have to apply.
To date, overseas workers, especially after the economic downturn that was experienced globally, are facing economic difficulties, too. Not mentioning those who were laid off and were sent back to their homesteads, expatiates in all Middle Eastern Kingdoms today are trying hard to make both ends meet.
Ask people from all walks of life in the GCC this time – yes, life is becoming more difficult each day. Prices of commodities in these Kingdoms are gradually skyrocketing. And whether you are in the Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates or Oman – it doesn’t matter. All roads lead to one thing: price increases. Although comparatively, prices of goods, services, and commodities in open cities are higher than in “closed” or “conservative” ones like all cities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Deeply, let us talk about this activity once more.
Undeniably, expatriates set out to these weird Kingdoms of the world to earn decent income for families back home. Today however, the compensation packages these expatriates are receiving may no longer serve the purpose. Back home, prices are soaring; in this place, prices are gradually skyrocketing, too.
And what options are laid before the naked eyes of these expatriates? Other activities that can either sustain the economic difficulty or sustain the boredom, loneliness, and homesickness. And whether or not the purpose is moral or financial, in this part of the world – it seems that it doesn’t matter anymore.
Take for instance OFWs doing office-related activities. Normally, they work from 7:00 am to 5:00. After this period, their evening time, Thursdays and Fridays are free. In this regard, part time jobs play into the picture.
One Secretary I knew, he works as a part time sales clerk in a mobile phone store within the city where he lives. One accountant does massage service to Filipinos and Saudis after office. One accountant does part time accounting job in a small firm; this job was offered to me earlier.
One welder spends at least four hours a day as Sales Clerk at the Giordano Store in Al-Khobar after his eight-five-day work. A restaurant service crew dons massage service during his day off.
Which is why, I almost have conceded to the recommendation of a colleague to apply for part-time teaching job in one of the Philippine schools here. The thing is, I might technically breach the contract of employment I signed. Although, my contact in the Philippine Labor Office assured of non-conformity as long as I don’t harm the performance or its delivery, or use official time and resources.
What else? Others use their talents wisely and profitably. Singers here perform for live bands in areas where “white expatriates” are numerous and where these activities are allowed within their compound or accommodation. Workers who can host activities accept hosting contract for a fee.
For expatriates whose economic or contract status in these places are better off than the rest, they dedicate themselves into Sports. This time, this is not for economic rewards but simply for leisure, health and pleasure. I said leisure because it is only during sports activities that these persons relax; health because sports is a way to good health; and pleasure because, people in this level needs pleasure for what they do and for what they want to do.
For expatriates whose loneliness, boredom and homesickness are entertained, most of them plunge into extra-marital affairs without them realizing these. I have known of a registered mid-wife who falls in love with a man of almost her age. They met in a restaurant early this year and their acquaintance blossomed into an affair. Both are married. This time, the man is feeling guilty towards his relationship with his spouse and children and wants to end the affair but the woman is insistent. The man stops entertaining her because this man turns actively into gym exercises and sports activities.
This activity can only be good if both of you are not committed in life yet.
And whether or not the other activity is purposely directed towards financial rewards, temporal sexual bliss, combat loneliness, boredom and homesickness is not a question; the real question is: can the OFW survive the ordeal and goes back home as normal as he was before leaving his homestead?
Which is why, loved ones at home must not only call or send SMS messages asking about remittances. Suggestively, the firsts question to ask is “how are you doing today?” Looking at all angles, all conversations must in fact be ended with a gentle reminder: “I love you and I miss”.
Which is why, involving one’s self in other activities, are still needed by all of us here. And in this I mean, quality activities.
Not all expatriates are doing things happily here. Pragmatically, not all other activities are for purposes of augmenting financial requirements or pleasure; others are simply for nothing.
Take it or leave it: Quality activities for quality life; nothing more, nothing less!
Be blissfully happy then!
The Grand Reunion
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
27 December 2009
In the last quarter of 2007, Former president Fidel V. Ramos urged former presidents Joseph Estrada and Corazon Aquino (along with himself) to meet President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to collectively draw up a strategic plan for the future of the country.
The move, which Ramos said was his own initiative, was intended to set aside individual differences and focus on what was best for the country.
In one of the reports of the United Nations, it was noted that the Philippines is lagging behind the fast-moving economies of other Asian countries. As of even date, the country registered the worst in history – the Ampatuans or the Maguindanao Massacre brings us back to the list of the worst countries in Asia. Our economy is again dramatically affected even without mentioning it in the open. Figures can tell.
The proposed reunion of sort would have been a nationalistic and intelligent move. It would have been the right time to think about the Filipino people; the right time to work something for the country and to forget selfish motives and interests.
Sadly though, Madam Corazon Aquino is out of the picture now. This is no longer the period of Ramos and Estrada; no longer the time to decide whose administration was the best and who is for the people. To judge one’s performance entails a lot of time and requires a manifold of key performance indicators. And today is no time for it.
If push comes to shove, the proposed reunion can still be held by the three of them if they all agree. This is an unsolicited advice but, out of my wildest imagination, I strongly believe this will work.
Ramos is right; our next generation must be assured of a better future than the present. National hero Jose Rizal advocated the same in the past.
If the present government has been plagued with a lot of scandalous transactions prompting each one to “look out for a brother’s activities,” this time should be the right time to forget about “self” and instead focus on the “whole” community of Filipino people.
After all, whose administration we could say was not plagued by the same woes. While each one of them has the best record to boast for, each one to them has had “gray” areas to clear during their prime, too.
True. This is the best opportune time for the three of them to talk, lay down their best of strategies, unite their best of efforts selflessly, and synergistically purge their forces to make a better government and a better Philippines.
Pride of whatever form and nature should be discarded this time. We need but one pride – the pride as a genuine community of peace loving Filipinos that we have lost since EDSA 1. It is the same pride that brought Rizal, Bonifacio and Aguinaldo to the spotlight; the same pride that Ninoy Aquino has ever placed in the heart of every Filipino.
We all know that the two former presidents and the incumbent have their own unique way of expressing themselves – either favorably or unfavorably against the other, but as a matter of national interest, it is urged that they once again commune and make the grand reunion realized.
As in the customs of Filipinos, family reunions are mostly celebrated in the month of December to put an end to all differences, grudges, ill-feelings, and negative impressions. Usually during this period, the feeling is always jolly and festive, free of worries and negative vibrations; the best time to reconcile and map out plans for the next day, or the future.
Arguably, the three can meet and do the same. Since these political figures have once caused “change” in the country, the reunion to plot change initiatives for the country should be their gift to the entire Filipino people.
As a year-ender reminder, let me quote Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change you want the world to be.”
As the new year comes, let’s begin the change process from within!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
27 December 2009
In the last quarter of 2007, Former president Fidel V. Ramos urged former presidents Joseph Estrada and Corazon Aquino (along with himself) to meet President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to collectively draw up a strategic plan for the future of the country.
The move, which Ramos said was his own initiative, was intended to set aside individual differences and focus on what was best for the country.
In one of the reports of the United Nations, it was noted that the Philippines is lagging behind the fast-moving economies of other Asian countries. As of even date, the country registered the worst in history – the Ampatuans or the Maguindanao Massacre brings us back to the list of the worst countries in Asia. Our economy is again dramatically affected even without mentioning it in the open. Figures can tell.
The proposed reunion of sort would have been a nationalistic and intelligent move. It would have been the right time to think about the Filipino people; the right time to work something for the country and to forget selfish motives and interests.
Sadly though, Madam Corazon Aquino is out of the picture now. This is no longer the period of Ramos and Estrada; no longer the time to decide whose administration was the best and who is for the people. To judge one’s performance entails a lot of time and requires a manifold of key performance indicators. And today is no time for it.
If push comes to shove, the proposed reunion can still be held by the three of them if they all agree. This is an unsolicited advice but, out of my wildest imagination, I strongly believe this will work.
Ramos is right; our next generation must be assured of a better future than the present. National hero Jose Rizal advocated the same in the past.
If the present government has been plagued with a lot of scandalous transactions prompting each one to “look out for a brother’s activities,” this time should be the right time to forget about “self” and instead focus on the “whole” community of Filipino people.
After all, whose administration we could say was not plagued by the same woes. While each one of them has the best record to boast for, each one to them has had “gray” areas to clear during their prime, too.
True. This is the best opportune time for the three of them to talk, lay down their best of strategies, unite their best of efforts selflessly, and synergistically purge their forces to make a better government and a better Philippines.
Pride of whatever form and nature should be discarded this time. We need but one pride – the pride as a genuine community of peace loving Filipinos that we have lost since EDSA 1. It is the same pride that brought Rizal, Bonifacio and Aguinaldo to the spotlight; the same pride that Ninoy Aquino has ever placed in the heart of every Filipino.
We all know that the two former presidents and the incumbent have their own unique way of expressing themselves – either favorably or unfavorably against the other, but as a matter of national interest, it is urged that they once again commune and make the grand reunion realized.
As in the customs of Filipinos, family reunions are mostly celebrated in the month of December to put an end to all differences, grudges, ill-feelings, and negative impressions. Usually during this period, the feeling is always jolly and festive, free of worries and negative vibrations; the best time to reconcile and map out plans for the next day, or the future.
Arguably, the three can meet and do the same. Since these political figures have once caused “change” in the country, the reunion to plot change initiatives for the country should be their gift to the entire Filipino people.
As a year-ender reminder, let me quote Mahatma Gandhi: “Be the change you want the world to be.”
As the new year comes, let’s begin the change process from within!
The Fear Factor
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
10 January 2010
Nope, this is not regarding the reality show broadcasted globally by one of the international terrestrial giants. This is about the fears almost all fathers feel for their children. And this can be your story.
Instead of making busy in the kitchen preparing for the traditional “New Year’s Eve dinner”, we busied ourselves with playing badminton early in the afternoon of the 31st and still managed to play table tennis when we got home.
In this land where almost everything a normal Christian does is restricted, celebrating the New Year’s Eve (and Christmas’) become as simple as eating and talking with families (if they are here) and select friends. But if you are brave enough to defy the absolute law of the Kingdom, you can drink home-made wine called “sadiqi” or indulge in some activities that are contrary to their morals and laws at your own risk.
Anyway, after two other members of the team left for their respective activities, the four of us were left staring at the ceiling. To break the silence, I asked Ian, my buddy and partner in the match (both badminton and lawn tennis) to go with me to buy food for our dinner and something to welcome for the coming of the year 2010. We left and after practically two hours, we went back home with dinner and something for the “Noche Buena”.
Sans the fireworks and the presence of our loved ones, we feasted on the food we bought but were never merry even just for this one traditionally-memorable day for us Christians. We talked a lot of things and allowed our minds to scribble for our lips what to discuss until we reached one topic of common interest: fear.
Joy, a father of two and Eastern Province’s one-time Level 2 badminton champion threw the simply-constructed-but-hard-to-answer question to both Ian and I: “Hindi ba kayo natatakot na baka lukuhin ang anak n’yong babae ng kung sino-sinong lalaki?” “Are you not afraid that your daughter maybe fooled by just any man out there?”
I raised my voice and shouted my answer to this twenty-four-million-dollar question: “of course I do. And I don’t want that to happen.”
Then there was silence in the room. The only thing I noticed was we were all staring at each other’s eyes eagerly waiting for further reactions and comprehensible comments. We advanced on the same topic; we talked more of our emotions. Despite the wisdom spontaneously coming out of this conversation, still fear blocks our weary minds and stimulates our do-or-die position on the matter.
The morally-deteriorating society calls it “over-protectionism”, the natural instinct attributable to responsible parents of all species, homo sapiens included. Yes, all three of us (three because one of us is still a bachelor) shared the same sentiments and fears. The “weaker” persona of a father in us overseas workers obviously was spontaneously disclosed that moment; helpless yet forcing the issue of a lifetime.
Joy is a very good provider. Despite the fact that he was earning satisfactorily good as an accountant in the Philippines with a small grocery store in Bulacan, yet he was lured by the earnings of working abroad. He has a ten-year old daughter, an eight-year old son, and a newly born daughter. Listening to and looking at him, one could easily assess that he is a very loving and understanding husband and father to his kids; an extremely over-protective young father, a strict disciplinarian, and street-smart guy.
Ian is a good provider, too. Despite the earning bookkeeping business he and his wife established in Bulacan, he was attracted to work for Saudi Arabia to earn more for his family. He has a fourteen-year old daughter, a ten-year old son and a seven-year old daughter. Working through the net for his bookkeeping services and working overseas made him a hard-to-beat provider for his family, a record extraordinarily unbelievable. Ian is liberal in terms of disciplining his kids; his approach is laxer than Joy’s and mine.
Over a cup of coffee, Joy was boisterously stressing his point of providing a seemingly perfect economic condition for his family and he cannot allow any single man to pick her daughter up from his own abode. Further he stressed that should any untoward incident happen to her daughter, he would be willing to take her back and take care of her until she would be able to take off again.
I shared the same sentiments, thoughts, and plans with him. Ian on the other hand was quite hesitant in agreeing with us. He has his own views: he will allow his daughter to commit into relationship, learn from mistakes and experiences and is willing to take her back.
If push comes to shove, the three of us are willing to take our “daughters” back despite what might happen. The three of us agree that our fears are adversely affected somehow by these three social evils: peer pressure, commercialism and immorality that are contributory to the gradual deterioration of familial foundation parents established.
As social being, people rationally and naturally strive to belong to a group. The age brackets of our children dictate what kind of group they should be in. The older they are the stronger is the “peer pressure”. Peer pressure is simply dictating them to “take this and you will be in” the group. Conversely, peer pressure dictates our children to take drugs, alcohol, cigarettes and other vices and they will be admitted into the group. Then troubles begin.
Commercialism simply means “buy me and you will be okay.” It dictates us what to possess, use or avail and everything is going to be fine. It pressures our kids more than us parents.
Immorality in the society abounds. It becomes the staple in the daily tabloids: crime, grime, and slime. Immorality is the resultant extent of entertained peer pressure and commercialism. And our kids are not spared from this.
The conjunction of these three social evils in the tender mentality and fragile physical ability of our children (not just daughters) could easily result to their unwanted condition in the society in general.
While experts would advise that as stewards of our children we need to yield to the powers of The Master Creator, fathers couldn’t discount the possibility of being taken aback especially when rough waters run under the bridge.
Fathers’ worst fear, indeed!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
10 January 2010
Nope, this is not regarding the reality show broadcasted globally by one of the international terrestrial giants. This is about the fears almost all fathers feel for their children. And this can be your story.
Instead of making busy in the kitchen preparing for the traditional “New Year’s Eve dinner”, we busied ourselves with playing badminton early in the afternoon of the 31st and still managed to play table tennis when we got home.
In this land where almost everything a normal Christian does is restricted, celebrating the New Year’s Eve (and Christmas’) become as simple as eating and talking with families (if they are here) and select friends. But if you are brave enough to defy the absolute law of the Kingdom, you can drink home-made wine called “sadiqi” or indulge in some activities that are contrary to their morals and laws at your own risk.
Anyway, after two other members of the team left for their respective activities, the four of us were left staring at the ceiling. To break the silence, I asked Ian, my buddy and partner in the match (both badminton and lawn tennis) to go with me to buy food for our dinner and something to welcome for the coming of the year 2010. We left and after practically two hours, we went back home with dinner and something for the “Noche Buena”.
Sans the fireworks and the presence of our loved ones, we feasted on the food we bought but were never merry even just for this one traditionally-memorable day for us Christians. We talked a lot of things and allowed our minds to scribble for our lips what to discuss until we reached one topic of common interest: fear.
Joy, a father of two and Eastern Province’s one-time Level 2 badminton champion threw the simply-constructed-but-hard-to-answer question to both Ian and I: “Hindi ba kayo natatakot na baka lukuhin ang anak n’yong babae ng kung sino-sinong lalaki?” “Are you not afraid that your daughter maybe fooled by just any man out there?”
I raised my voice and shouted my answer to this twenty-four-million-dollar question: “of course I do. And I don’t want that to happen.”
Then there was silence in the room. The only thing I noticed was we were all staring at each other’s eyes eagerly waiting for further reactions and comprehensible comments. We advanced on the same topic; we talked more of our emotions. Despite the wisdom spontaneously coming out of this conversation, still fear blocks our weary minds and stimulates our do-or-die position on the matter.
The morally-deteriorating society calls it “over-protectionism”, the natural instinct attributable to responsible parents of all species, homo sapiens included. Yes, all three of us (three because one of us is still a bachelor) shared the same sentiments and fears. The “weaker” persona of a father in us overseas workers obviously was spontaneously disclosed that moment; helpless yet forcing the issue of a lifetime.
Joy is a very good provider. Despite the fact that he was earning satisfactorily good as an accountant in the Philippines with a small grocery store in Bulacan, yet he was lured by the earnings of working abroad. He has a ten-year old daughter, an eight-year old son, and a newly born daughter. Listening to and looking at him, one could easily assess that he is a very loving and understanding husband and father to his kids; an extremely over-protective young father, a strict disciplinarian, and street-smart guy.
Ian is a good provider, too. Despite the earning bookkeeping business he and his wife established in Bulacan, he was attracted to work for Saudi Arabia to earn more for his family. He has a fourteen-year old daughter, a ten-year old son and a seven-year old daughter. Working through the net for his bookkeeping services and working overseas made him a hard-to-beat provider for his family, a record extraordinarily unbelievable. Ian is liberal in terms of disciplining his kids; his approach is laxer than Joy’s and mine.
Over a cup of coffee, Joy was boisterously stressing his point of providing a seemingly perfect economic condition for his family and he cannot allow any single man to pick her daughter up from his own abode. Further he stressed that should any untoward incident happen to her daughter, he would be willing to take her back and take care of her until she would be able to take off again.
I shared the same sentiments, thoughts, and plans with him. Ian on the other hand was quite hesitant in agreeing with us. He has his own views: he will allow his daughter to commit into relationship, learn from mistakes and experiences and is willing to take her back.
If push comes to shove, the three of us are willing to take our “daughters” back despite what might happen. The three of us agree that our fears are adversely affected somehow by these three social evils: peer pressure, commercialism and immorality that are contributory to the gradual deterioration of familial foundation parents established.
As social being, people rationally and naturally strive to belong to a group. The age brackets of our children dictate what kind of group they should be in. The older they are the stronger is the “peer pressure”. Peer pressure is simply dictating them to “take this and you will be in” the group. Conversely, peer pressure dictates our children to take drugs, alcohol, cigarettes and other vices and they will be admitted into the group. Then troubles begin.
Commercialism simply means “buy me and you will be okay.” It dictates us what to possess, use or avail and everything is going to be fine. It pressures our kids more than us parents.
Immorality in the society abounds. It becomes the staple in the daily tabloids: crime, grime, and slime. Immorality is the resultant extent of entertained peer pressure and commercialism. And our kids are not spared from this.
The conjunction of these three social evils in the tender mentality and fragile physical ability of our children (not just daughters) could easily result to their unwanted condition in the society in general.
While experts would advise that as stewards of our children we need to yield to the powers of The Master Creator, fathers couldn’t discount the possibility of being taken aback especially when rough waters run under the bridge.
Fathers’ worst fear, indeed!
The Al Tassel Story
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
26 July 2009
The following is not a classic boy-meets-girl story and this is not about me. This is about thirteen Filipinos who ventured life overseas and still struggle. And, hey, this can be your own story, too.
Apparently for the thirteen individuals, traveling to the uncharted Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is comparatively a trek in the mystical Mount Cristobal of Quezon Province in Southern Luzon. Back in the Philippines, they all trudged the road less travelled all because they wanted short cuts; they wanted to avail of the express lane. Basically, they were all neophytes in the activity they plunged into: applying for work abroad.
Socially, most of them do not know each other. Some were colleagues in the Bistro along Malate; some simply applied for the promised job. And still others responded to the sweet words of a certain Filipino posing as the official Philippine representative of this Arabian Company for this particular work.
Seemingly, the story sounds familiar. Let’s dig!
They converged in a small reception area of the A Placement Agency in Ermita, Manila where they were interviewed by a Filipino Representative and some officers of the Agency. After a week, they were informed that the working visas are not available. They were required to report to B Placement Agency and encountered the same process. As their story went, Visas were not available again in B Placement Agency so they were transferred to C. This time, everything was ready; they paid as high as Php20,000.00 to expedite the process. At last, they were bound to leave the archipelagic Philippines soon.
By legal requirement, they were signed a contract with the Agency containing the SAR1,200.00 Basic Salary, plus SAR200.00 Food Allowance, overtime pay, clean and decent accommodation house, transportation and benefits according to the KSA Labor Law. They were informed that the Restaurant they would work for is in the heart of the Eastern Province of the Kingdom and a fine dining one.
Finally, they were deployed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in two batches: first, 7 and second, 6. According to the first batch, from the port of origin they were all extremely happy on board the Saudi Airlines unmindful of the events that would soon capture them when they reached their port of destination. At the arrival area, two Saudi Nationals met them, ushered them to the 2008 Model Chevrolet Trailblazer and brought them to a decent, beautifully furnished accommodation house in Dammam.
At this juncture, all seven of them were still floating in extreme ecstasy at cloud nine. Apparently, everybody’s mind is set on something “new” to them: bright hope for the future.
A week after, the second batch of 6 arrived. They were greeted with the same welcome propagandas as in the first batch. They were all in the same state: bright hope for the future, too.
They were trained in the main restaurant in Dammam. After a month, all of them were deployed to branches within the Eastern Province of the Kingdom: Al Hasa, Hofuf, Jubail, Dammam, and Al-Khobar. Consequently, they were transferred to their respective accommodation houses in locations they were assigned. Take note, each city in the Eastern province has distinct culture and each has different perils on hand.
Please, control your emotions. The roller-coaster begins.
All of them received their first pays. Sealed in an envelope without accompanying Pay Slips, they received their pays by signing an Excel Sheet. Shocked! The promised pays were cut by about thirty-three percent and no overtime pay was accorded.
In the second batch, one candidate was the Operations Manager of a Bistro in Malate. He was hired initially as Operations Supervisor with the Salary twice as much as his in the Philippines. As the first pay revealed, he was an ordinary dining crew just like most of the rest. Worse, his salary was only SAR1,000.00.
The story is slowly getting into my nerves now. Incredible!
This young man, true to the assessment of his personality I initially had during the casual interview, is very aggressive and loud. He speaks more than he listens. However to him, it is beneficial. This man complained why such a position and why such a salary when these were not the agreement signed in the Philippines.
Consequently, he was offered an office job as Accountant. The thing is: he is a graduate of BS Hotel & Restaurant Management. What a compliment, though!
Dalai Lama once said: Failure is just a twist of luck. Sometimes, things happen not the way we wanted because of one apparent reason. The event just twisted because that is what it ought to be. As in the case of this young man, he became the instrument of his batch to collect all evidences of records and information against the company in preparation for their mass complaints against the Management: Visa and Iqama costs are deducted from their salary every month. To date, the total amount deducted form their salaries exceed the actual cost of visa and iqama.
Adding fuel to the fire: every mistake in the accounting transaction – either in issuing payment check, describing the transaction or recording – this young man gets at least two days cut from his basic pay. Irritatingly wonderful!
Technically and legally, visa and iqama costs are the basic obligation of the Management in hiring expatriates around the globe. Needless to point out, these are not the costs to employees.
These Romeos are bleeding without apparent bloodshed. It’s a feeling one can just hide but manifest from inside out through anger; others cried.
It was a classic case of bed-of-roses promises.
The truth!
Number one: This Arabian Company has been hiring its workforce from the Philippines annually using different kind of company names with different persons posting as official Philippine Representative. Aside form this practice, this company has been approaching a lot of Placement Agencies to conceal their true identity.
Number two: This Arabian Company has been complained at the KSA Ministry of Labor Eastern Province Branch for grave offenses against eleven Filipinos prior to the arrival of these batches. And why do they still hire Filipinos? We work to maximum extremes and they can trust us in terms of responsibility. Luckily though – and is a credit to us Filipinos – this company does not trust other nationalities.
Number three: The eleven Filipinos who complained at the Labor Office were granted relief by the Labor Arbiter, paid with End-of-Service Benefits, were given other benefits as per the KSA Labor Law, and went back home full of surprises at the expense of this company.
Twist of fate, this time. These eleven Filipinos are the forerunners of these thirteen new Filipinos who are experiencing the same fate as they were. By happenstance, they may find the same refuge at the end of the day.
This is their very own story in the restaurant called the Al-Tassel. As what I have said, their story is by far no different from the rest. It happened to them; it can happen to any one of us.
Watch out, folks!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
26 July 2009
The following is not a classic boy-meets-girl story and this is not about me. This is about thirteen Filipinos who ventured life overseas and still struggle. And, hey, this can be your own story, too.
Apparently for the thirteen individuals, traveling to the uncharted Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is comparatively a trek in the mystical Mount Cristobal of Quezon Province in Southern Luzon. Back in the Philippines, they all trudged the road less travelled all because they wanted short cuts; they wanted to avail of the express lane. Basically, they were all neophytes in the activity they plunged into: applying for work abroad.
Socially, most of them do not know each other. Some were colleagues in the Bistro along Malate; some simply applied for the promised job. And still others responded to the sweet words of a certain Filipino posing as the official Philippine representative of this Arabian Company for this particular work.
Seemingly, the story sounds familiar. Let’s dig!
They converged in a small reception area of the A Placement Agency in Ermita, Manila where they were interviewed by a Filipino Representative and some officers of the Agency. After a week, they were informed that the working visas are not available. They were required to report to B Placement Agency and encountered the same process. As their story went, Visas were not available again in B Placement Agency so they were transferred to C. This time, everything was ready; they paid as high as Php20,000.00 to expedite the process. At last, they were bound to leave the archipelagic Philippines soon.
By legal requirement, they were signed a contract with the Agency containing the SAR1,200.00 Basic Salary, plus SAR200.00 Food Allowance, overtime pay, clean and decent accommodation house, transportation and benefits according to the KSA Labor Law. They were informed that the Restaurant they would work for is in the heart of the Eastern Province of the Kingdom and a fine dining one.
Finally, they were deployed to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in two batches: first, 7 and second, 6. According to the first batch, from the port of origin they were all extremely happy on board the Saudi Airlines unmindful of the events that would soon capture them when they reached their port of destination. At the arrival area, two Saudi Nationals met them, ushered them to the 2008 Model Chevrolet Trailblazer and brought them to a decent, beautifully furnished accommodation house in Dammam.
At this juncture, all seven of them were still floating in extreme ecstasy at cloud nine. Apparently, everybody’s mind is set on something “new” to them: bright hope for the future.
A week after, the second batch of 6 arrived. They were greeted with the same welcome propagandas as in the first batch. They were all in the same state: bright hope for the future, too.
They were trained in the main restaurant in Dammam. After a month, all of them were deployed to branches within the Eastern Province of the Kingdom: Al Hasa, Hofuf, Jubail, Dammam, and Al-Khobar. Consequently, they were transferred to their respective accommodation houses in locations they were assigned. Take note, each city in the Eastern province has distinct culture and each has different perils on hand.
Please, control your emotions. The roller-coaster begins.
All of them received their first pays. Sealed in an envelope without accompanying Pay Slips, they received their pays by signing an Excel Sheet. Shocked! The promised pays were cut by about thirty-three percent and no overtime pay was accorded.
In the second batch, one candidate was the Operations Manager of a Bistro in Malate. He was hired initially as Operations Supervisor with the Salary twice as much as his in the Philippines. As the first pay revealed, he was an ordinary dining crew just like most of the rest. Worse, his salary was only SAR1,000.00.
The story is slowly getting into my nerves now. Incredible!
This young man, true to the assessment of his personality I initially had during the casual interview, is very aggressive and loud. He speaks more than he listens. However to him, it is beneficial. This man complained why such a position and why such a salary when these were not the agreement signed in the Philippines.
Consequently, he was offered an office job as Accountant. The thing is: he is a graduate of BS Hotel & Restaurant Management. What a compliment, though!
Dalai Lama once said: Failure is just a twist of luck. Sometimes, things happen not the way we wanted because of one apparent reason. The event just twisted because that is what it ought to be. As in the case of this young man, he became the instrument of his batch to collect all evidences of records and information against the company in preparation for their mass complaints against the Management: Visa and Iqama costs are deducted from their salary every month. To date, the total amount deducted form their salaries exceed the actual cost of visa and iqama.
Adding fuel to the fire: every mistake in the accounting transaction – either in issuing payment check, describing the transaction or recording – this young man gets at least two days cut from his basic pay. Irritatingly wonderful!
Technically and legally, visa and iqama costs are the basic obligation of the Management in hiring expatriates around the globe. Needless to point out, these are not the costs to employees.
These Romeos are bleeding without apparent bloodshed. It’s a feeling one can just hide but manifest from inside out through anger; others cried.
It was a classic case of bed-of-roses promises.
The truth!
Number one: This Arabian Company has been hiring its workforce from the Philippines annually using different kind of company names with different persons posting as official Philippine Representative. Aside form this practice, this company has been approaching a lot of Placement Agencies to conceal their true identity.
Number two: This Arabian Company has been complained at the KSA Ministry of Labor Eastern Province Branch for grave offenses against eleven Filipinos prior to the arrival of these batches. And why do they still hire Filipinos? We work to maximum extremes and they can trust us in terms of responsibility. Luckily though – and is a credit to us Filipinos – this company does not trust other nationalities.
Number three: The eleven Filipinos who complained at the Labor Office were granted relief by the Labor Arbiter, paid with End-of-Service Benefits, were given other benefits as per the KSA Labor Law, and went back home full of surprises at the expense of this company.
Twist of fate, this time. These eleven Filipinos are the forerunners of these thirteen new Filipinos who are experiencing the same fate as they were. By happenstance, they may find the same refuge at the end of the day.
This is their very own story in the restaurant called the Al-Tassel. As what I have said, their story is by far no different from the rest. It happened to them; it can happen to any one of us.
Watch out, folks!
Tattered Convictions
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
19 February 2010
Indeed, the great carnival parade on earth has placed the major thoroughfares of the country livelier than any circus presented to barrio folks! It’s showtime, once again!
What annoyed us overseas workers is not the number of contenders for any or all elective posts of the land but the candidacy of the three political figures whose convictions are tattered by their greed-driven political platforms.
In November 30, 2009, GMA filed her COC to run as representative of the second district of her home province, Pampanga, at the end of her term. With this act, she became the first president of the Republic to run for a position inferior of her incumbent.
On the same day, deposed and plunder-convicted Joseph Estrada filed to run for president and Imelda Marcos, widow of the late Ferdinand Marcos, for representative in the Marcos territory of Ilocos Norte. Ferdinand Marcos was thrown out of power via the 1986 People Power Revolution.
GMA is punctuating her scandalous term, the second technically, in May 2010. While she has brilliant projects accorded to the Filipino community and to the entire Republic in general, major corruption scandals discredited her administration that gave her the lowest of popularity ratings so far received by any Filipino president since the restoration of Philippine democracy in 1986.
The unresolved “Hello Garci”, ZTE Deal, extra-judicial killings, Maguindanano Massacre, and the detention of the 43 Morong health workers are among the highly publicized and criticized scandal that have become regular tabloid staples, which Filipinos are trying to swallow without water.
Estrada is no less than the troubled legendary boxer trying to regain his title in the square-roped ring. Convicted of plunder in 2002 in a Senate Impeachment Tribunal for receiving pay-offs from jueteng, an illegal form of gambling, his bid for presidency is more ambitious than that of GMA and Marcos’.
If I were Erap, I would have opted to run for a senate seat to regain my lost grounds, re-establish linkages, re-work my platform and maneuver my presidency from there, rather than hit the cherry with a blind fold.
While he may not be a serious contender for presidency as of even date, the forgive-and-forgive attitude of the pliant-minded Filipinos may still catapult him to power.
Imelda Marcos is no less than an estranged wife betrayed by a husband trying to win the household once again. Known for her lavish lifestyle, Imelda’s re-entry into active politics is wittingly a tactical move to be into power again via the lower house vehicle. Used to be the second most influential figure in the Dictatorial Era as the Governor of the Metropolitan Manila Authority (MMDA), Imelda purposely ornamented her political power with the grace of arts and culture. Her fetish collecting of shoes and her impulsive execution of extravagant projects discredited most of her noble acts, though.
But of the three, a serious analysis has to be employed in the candidacy of GMA. Being still in power as president gives her unfair political and electoral advantage over her opponents. No one in this case can beat her. She can win, seek the speakership and from this juncture, influence the house for the endorsement of the parliamentary shift and win for her again the Prime Minister post. Her allies in the house can easily endorse the approval. This is, if administration bet survives the ordeal of the hotly contested post of the land.
Arguably though, history puts it that the administration candidate has always the edge over other opponents in the canvassing of votes regardless of who wins in the electoral process.
Surprisingly, after filing the COC, GMA still clings to her power in the Palace. She needs to resign for two reasons: to give her opponent in the congressional race a dose of fairness; and, delicadeza. But then again, people would agree that the first can be done, if she is willing to while the second is, of course, not her cup of tea. And she is not bent of doing that, or at least, there is no sign that she is leaving the Palace now.
These candidacies are apparent attack to the ground rules of Philippine politics and a blatant insult to the intelligence of the voting populace. Certainly though, we cannot blame the candidates for things like these do happen because we, the voting public, allow these to happen.
But then again, whatever platforms the three of them maybe brandishing till the end of the campaign period, the political vehicles they are all driving are totally and completely dilapidated that major overhaul has to be carried out now. And this “overhauling” activity has something to do with the “electoral attitude” Filipino electorate have been displaying since the first election was held.
Take note of that, Philippines!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
19 February 2010
Indeed, the great carnival parade on earth has placed the major thoroughfares of the country livelier than any circus presented to barrio folks! It’s showtime, once again!
What annoyed us overseas workers is not the number of contenders for any or all elective posts of the land but the candidacy of the three political figures whose convictions are tattered by their greed-driven political platforms.
In November 30, 2009, GMA filed her COC to run as representative of the second district of her home province, Pampanga, at the end of her term. With this act, she became the first president of the Republic to run for a position inferior of her incumbent.
On the same day, deposed and plunder-convicted Joseph Estrada filed to run for president and Imelda Marcos, widow of the late Ferdinand Marcos, for representative in the Marcos territory of Ilocos Norte. Ferdinand Marcos was thrown out of power via the 1986 People Power Revolution.
GMA is punctuating her scandalous term, the second technically, in May 2010. While she has brilliant projects accorded to the Filipino community and to the entire Republic in general, major corruption scandals discredited her administration that gave her the lowest of popularity ratings so far received by any Filipino president since the restoration of Philippine democracy in 1986.
The unresolved “Hello Garci”, ZTE Deal, extra-judicial killings, Maguindanano Massacre, and the detention of the 43 Morong health workers are among the highly publicized and criticized scandal that have become regular tabloid staples, which Filipinos are trying to swallow without water.
Estrada is no less than the troubled legendary boxer trying to regain his title in the square-roped ring. Convicted of plunder in 2002 in a Senate Impeachment Tribunal for receiving pay-offs from jueteng, an illegal form of gambling, his bid for presidency is more ambitious than that of GMA and Marcos’.
If I were Erap, I would have opted to run for a senate seat to regain my lost grounds, re-establish linkages, re-work my platform and maneuver my presidency from there, rather than hit the cherry with a blind fold.
While he may not be a serious contender for presidency as of even date, the forgive-and-forgive attitude of the pliant-minded Filipinos may still catapult him to power.
Imelda Marcos is no less than an estranged wife betrayed by a husband trying to win the household once again. Known for her lavish lifestyle, Imelda’s re-entry into active politics is wittingly a tactical move to be into power again via the lower house vehicle. Used to be the second most influential figure in the Dictatorial Era as the Governor of the Metropolitan Manila Authority (MMDA), Imelda purposely ornamented her political power with the grace of arts and culture. Her fetish collecting of shoes and her impulsive execution of extravagant projects discredited most of her noble acts, though.
But of the three, a serious analysis has to be employed in the candidacy of GMA. Being still in power as president gives her unfair political and electoral advantage over her opponents. No one in this case can beat her. She can win, seek the speakership and from this juncture, influence the house for the endorsement of the parliamentary shift and win for her again the Prime Minister post. Her allies in the house can easily endorse the approval. This is, if administration bet survives the ordeal of the hotly contested post of the land.
Arguably though, history puts it that the administration candidate has always the edge over other opponents in the canvassing of votes regardless of who wins in the electoral process.
Surprisingly, after filing the COC, GMA still clings to her power in the Palace. She needs to resign for two reasons: to give her opponent in the congressional race a dose of fairness; and, delicadeza. But then again, people would agree that the first can be done, if she is willing to while the second is, of course, not her cup of tea. And she is not bent of doing that, or at least, there is no sign that she is leaving the Palace now.
These candidacies are apparent attack to the ground rules of Philippine politics and a blatant insult to the intelligence of the voting populace. Certainly though, we cannot blame the candidates for things like these do happen because we, the voting public, allow these to happen.
But then again, whatever platforms the three of them maybe brandishing till the end of the campaign period, the political vehicles they are all driving are totally and completely dilapidated that major overhaul has to be carried out now. And this “overhauling” activity has something to do with the “electoral attitude” Filipino electorate have been displaying since the first election was held.
Take note of that, Philippines!
Taking the green route
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
08 November 2009
Geographically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, just like its neighbors, is located in the equatorial zone of the earth. As such, large track of wastelands abound. Bombarded with this theoretical feeds, one could always believe that the place is completely devoid of greeneries and waters.
Sans the commercially significant and economically important product called “petroleum” that lies beneath their vast wasteland, Saudi Arabia would not have been known in the world map. Apart from this fact, it is known for being its neighbor to the former world’s superpowers: Persia (Iran) and Babylon (Iraq) and the biblical Jerusalem. Registering fifth in the world’s highest oil reserves, Saudi Arabia has exceptionally bested its neighbors in terms of economic development notwithstanding to its being the most conservative of all Islamic countries.
The continuing drilling from their reserves accords life to the entire Kingdom. It propels the economy as it generates profit more than what the government needs for the entire populace.
Accordingly, desert is dry. Flora and fauna don’t thrive except the specie that is accustomed to heat and dry spell called cactus and the lousiest of all animals called camel.
But Saudi Arabia is not all these. When I had my first glimpse of the Kingdom in broad daylight, I was fascinated in awe by its splendor. Contrary to my belief, no tent-dwellers are visible nowadays; tent houses are replaced by either bungalow or high rise accommodations. Architecture, which are evident and reflective of the Islamic and baroque culture are prominently displayed in parks, thoroughfares and commercial buildings. The “green earth” that is suggestive of trees and plants abounds.
The coconut-resembling trees called dates, which is very unfamiliar to us Filipinos line the coastline, highways and city roads. Taking a quick gaze at these does not reconcile your senses with curiosity on how these trees are grown and propagated. More to this, one’s curiosity can never be satisfied by just taking a look at these trees; you have to eat the fruit of these trees. It is proven, according to them, that the fruit of dates supply energy to men; it is an aphrodisiac. Most Saudi says taking considerable quantity of dates before indulging into sexual activity helps and gives extreme “ops” in terms of results and satisfaction. These fruits are harvested in the months of July to September and are preserved for year-round consumption. Dates are extremely sweet but sugar is friendly; no diabetic effect.
In some areas, especially cold regions like Tabuk and Burayda in the north, Qassim in the South or Al-Hassa in the Northeast, fruits and vegetables are commercially cultivated for domestic and familial consumption. Most of these varieties are tropical and which can also be grown in countries like the Philippines.
Flowers and ornamental plants embellish the pavements, parks and gardens just like the archipelagic Philippines. In the famed Corniche Park or Boulevard in Al-Khobar, the commercial district of the Eastern Province, magnolias, hibiscus (gumamelas), bougainvilleas, carnation, santan and a lot more are grown that an OFW can’t help but to reminisce the heydays back home.
In Riyadh, the Capital City of the “Land of Contrast”, the same sceneries are available. Jeddah, the western city that is facing the biblical Red Sea, a stop-over to the pilgrim site called Makkah (Meca), displays the same landscape as Riyadh and Al-Khobar and other places of the Kingdom do.
But the most intriguing question has to be answered: How does Saudi Arabia sustain the life of these species when water is scarce?
Scarcity, arguably, propels the creativity and innovativeness of one that is affected by it. In Saudi Arabia, water is costlier than gasoline. One liter of gasoline is only 45 halala (cents) while 1 liter of water costs 1 Riyal. Conversely, the price of one liter of sweet (mineral) water is equivalent to more than double the price of gasoline.
Which is why, the government ventured into desalination, the process of reducing the sodium content of sea water and finally convert it into sweet (mineral) and household waters. One of the prime movers of this process is the Americans who partnered the Saudi government in most of its projects and businesses.
This process made the life of these nomads-in-history easier and better. Desalinated water accords them sweet water to drink, clean water for their household consumption and needs and sodium-reduced water for the plants and the trees.
In all areas, water hoses are visible right where the roots are; the water comes out almost twenty-four hours a day. In this way, there is no need for a warm body to do watering the plants, technically. And nope, it’s not a waste of water! It would be a waste of life if they don’t do it.
Taking the green route for countries like Saudi Arabia is not easy. Water is scarce; temperature kills these natural species almost year-round. The (right) attitude of the nationals, if I may put my two cents in, is nil. But because of supports from the government, the mandate becomes easier to contradict the questionable attitude of the constituents.
Taking the green route once again for countries like the Philippines is so easy. Water is abundant; temperature blends with the requirements of the natural species year-round. The (right) attitude, if I may opine, is balanced. What we need is the intravenous process of medicating Filipinos to achieve fully the discipline to do the “right things” and to do “things right” and the full supports from the government.
Taking the green route is taking things into the artery of relief. Once undertaken, no doubt, life will be easier and healthier than used to be.
Can we take it now?
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
08 November 2009
Geographically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, just like its neighbors, is located in the equatorial zone of the earth. As such, large track of wastelands abound. Bombarded with this theoretical feeds, one could always believe that the place is completely devoid of greeneries and waters.
Sans the commercially significant and economically important product called “petroleum” that lies beneath their vast wasteland, Saudi Arabia would not have been known in the world map. Apart from this fact, it is known for being its neighbor to the former world’s superpowers: Persia (Iran) and Babylon (Iraq) and the biblical Jerusalem. Registering fifth in the world’s highest oil reserves, Saudi Arabia has exceptionally bested its neighbors in terms of economic development notwithstanding to its being the most conservative of all Islamic countries.
The continuing drilling from their reserves accords life to the entire Kingdom. It propels the economy as it generates profit more than what the government needs for the entire populace.
Accordingly, desert is dry. Flora and fauna don’t thrive except the specie that is accustomed to heat and dry spell called cactus and the lousiest of all animals called camel.
But Saudi Arabia is not all these. When I had my first glimpse of the Kingdom in broad daylight, I was fascinated in awe by its splendor. Contrary to my belief, no tent-dwellers are visible nowadays; tent houses are replaced by either bungalow or high rise accommodations. Architecture, which are evident and reflective of the Islamic and baroque culture are prominently displayed in parks, thoroughfares and commercial buildings. The “green earth” that is suggestive of trees and plants abounds.
The coconut-resembling trees called dates, which is very unfamiliar to us Filipinos line the coastline, highways and city roads. Taking a quick gaze at these does not reconcile your senses with curiosity on how these trees are grown and propagated. More to this, one’s curiosity can never be satisfied by just taking a look at these trees; you have to eat the fruit of these trees. It is proven, according to them, that the fruit of dates supply energy to men; it is an aphrodisiac. Most Saudi says taking considerable quantity of dates before indulging into sexual activity helps and gives extreme “ops” in terms of results and satisfaction. These fruits are harvested in the months of July to September and are preserved for year-round consumption. Dates are extremely sweet but sugar is friendly; no diabetic effect.
In some areas, especially cold regions like Tabuk and Burayda in the north, Qassim in the South or Al-Hassa in the Northeast, fruits and vegetables are commercially cultivated for domestic and familial consumption. Most of these varieties are tropical and which can also be grown in countries like the Philippines.
Flowers and ornamental plants embellish the pavements, parks and gardens just like the archipelagic Philippines. In the famed Corniche Park or Boulevard in Al-Khobar, the commercial district of the Eastern Province, magnolias, hibiscus (gumamelas), bougainvilleas, carnation, santan and a lot more are grown that an OFW can’t help but to reminisce the heydays back home.
In Riyadh, the Capital City of the “Land of Contrast”, the same sceneries are available. Jeddah, the western city that is facing the biblical Red Sea, a stop-over to the pilgrim site called Makkah (Meca), displays the same landscape as Riyadh and Al-Khobar and other places of the Kingdom do.
But the most intriguing question has to be answered: How does Saudi Arabia sustain the life of these species when water is scarce?
Scarcity, arguably, propels the creativity and innovativeness of one that is affected by it. In Saudi Arabia, water is costlier than gasoline. One liter of gasoline is only 45 halala (cents) while 1 liter of water costs 1 Riyal. Conversely, the price of one liter of sweet (mineral) water is equivalent to more than double the price of gasoline.
Which is why, the government ventured into desalination, the process of reducing the sodium content of sea water and finally convert it into sweet (mineral) and household waters. One of the prime movers of this process is the Americans who partnered the Saudi government in most of its projects and businesses.
This process made the life of these nomads-in-history easier and better. Desalinated water accords them sweet water to drink, clean water for their household consumption and needs and sodium-reduced water for the plants and the trees.
In all areas, water hoses are visible right where the roots are; the water comes out almost twenty-four hours a day. In this way, there is no need for a warm body to do watering the plants, technically. And nope, it’s not a waste of water! It would be a waste of life if they don’t do it.
Taking the green route for countries like Saudi Arabia is not easy. Water is scarce; temperature kills these natural species almost year-round. The (right) attitude of the nationals, if I may put my two cents in, is nil. But because of supports from the government, the mandate becomes easier to contradict the questionable attitude of the constituents.
Taking the green route once again for countries like the Philippines is so easy. Water is abundant; temperature blends with the requirements of the natural species year-round. The (right) attitude, if I may opine, is balanced. What we need is the intravenous process of medicating Filipinos to achieve fully the discipline to do the “right things” and to do “things right” and the full supports from the government.
Taking the green route is taking things into the artery of relief. Once undertaken, no doubt, life will be easier and healthier than used to be.
Can we take it now?
Take A Walk!
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
20 September 2009
He is always seen walking with his backpack on and packed lunch carried in his right hand. Occasionally, his left hand carries the mobile phone clinging to his left ear. This scenario is frequently taking place at about 6:00 in the morning I regularly witness as he passes by my place while waiting for our service driver.
By happenstance one morning, I see him walking again. I smile at him and give him a clue that I want to talk to him. He slows down and we greet “good morning” in our sweet, familiar tongue. We have a brief, casual talk and I learn what I wanted to know.
He takes a walk from A Street to the 26th Street of the City; obviously, that is twenty-seven streets (A Street is followed by 1st Street by the way). And this distance is actually three kilometers from his temporary domicile. He takes a walk twice daily; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Yes, he takes a walk from his humble abode to his work place and back for two good reasons: good health and savings.
Alas! I finally find a migrant who considers good health on top of his list: taking a walk to him is walking to good health, to good life. After all, walking, as medically and scientifically proven, is a perfect exercise. Alongside with this, he considers this activity as a way to save on cost. Imagine if he takes taxi twice daily, this will cost him twenty riyals. If we will multiply twenty riyals by twenty-six days, this will apparently give him five hundred twenty riyals per month as savings. Consequently, if he sends this to the Philippines, this will give his family about six thousand six hundred pesos. Whew!
As almost always, my domicile attachment ushers my domesticity back to my humble abode in the “city of gentle people”. I always long to be with my family. If this rings intermittently in my senses, I feel I would burst into pieces. If this temporary alienation plays in my system, either I take a walk or does my gym work out.
Taking a walk has been very helpful to me as it releases my stress brought about by boredom and homesickness. Why? Reflexology puts it that our feet (including hands) have corresponding zones for all our internal organs. Mere manipulation of our feet gives us the privilege to be healed of all sicknesses. A total or complete relief, indeed!
Yes, this is not just true to me but to all migrant workers in the Kingdom. Very candidly, I asked one engineer why he prefers to dine outside than prepare his own food in his accommodation. His abrupt response was: “I will die if I do eating alone in my flat. I will only see my wife and my kids looking at me while eating. I would only cry later.”
And for that reason, he prefers to dine outside in that way he can always take a walk as a temporary remedy to boredom and homesickness. And we have the same reason. If I cannot invite a friend to dine with me, I go out, dine in a nearby fast food chain, and take a walk back home. Ergo, I am relieved! Refreshed!
There is another one good thing about this activity: we can talk to people.
Talking to people releases stress. It relieves us from psychological imbalances we feel everyday. This is pursuant to the theory that all humans no matter how introvert he may be, is a social being. Social wellness plays a great role in here.
Walking around gives you the view of the world: the street beggars chasing good Samaritans, the couples you come across who are oblivious of the world around them, the car accidents or street fights or crimes you witness along, the wayward tourists – all these profoundly profess that everything on earth can be learned and adjusted with.
Arguably, taking a walk gives us the opportunity to give one thing a second look or an idea a second thought before finally making decisions.
Having said that, I come to realize that taking a walk does not only belong to the weary overseas Filipino workers; this also belongs to people from all walks of life: the perturbed petite lady in the Palace by the river, the mentally-dehydrated congressmen and senators, ailing politicians and cabinet members, actors and actresses, etc., etc., etc.
If Madam Gloria takes a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before plunging into her routine Palace works, then surely she could think twice before venturing into deals thus avoiding misdeals later that would stream her down from the cloud nine she designed for herself and her family. She could avoid “mental lapses” every election time.
If our congressmen and senators take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before venturing into sessions, then effectively they could think twice as much as they can before banging on issues that could imperil the country’s national and international agenda. They could avoid over-spending.
If all other politicians and cabinet secretaries take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before undertaking local or domestic issues, then chances are local governance can be as lustrous as the shimmering sunlight of the new day. They could avoid project cost padding.
If all actors and actresses take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before facing the limelight, then consequently the results of their actions and speeches can be as awesome as truly the work of art. They could avoid scandals of all sorts.
If all people take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before performing any obligation, then the entire Philippines can be as healthy as the Paradise once created by The One sans the trendy Adam and Eve. Effectively, the political and the socio-economical world of the beautiful Philippines can be more than just dynamic and progressive than what we longed to be.
Then, why don’t we all take a walk now?
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
20 September 2009
He is always seen walking with his backpack on and packed lunch carried in his right hand. Occasionally, his left hand carries the mobile phone clinging to his left ear. This scenario is frequently taking place at about 6:00 in the morning I regularly witness as he passes by my place while waiting for our service driver.
By happenstance one morning, I see him walking again. I smile at him and give him a clue that I want to talk to him. He slows down and we greet “good morning” in our sweet, familiar tongue. We have a brief, casual talk and I learn what I wanted to know.
He takes a walk from A Street to the 26th Street of the City; obviously, that is twenty-seven streets (A Street is followed by 1st Street by the way). And this distance is actually three kilometers from his temporary domicile. He takes a walk twice daily; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Yes, he takes a walk from his humble abode to his work place and back for two good reasons: good health and savings.
Alas! I finally find a migrant who considers good health on top of his list: taking a walk to him is walking to good health, to good life. After all, walking, as medically and scientifically proven, is a perfect exercise. Alongside with this, he considers this activity as a way to save on cost. Imagine if he takes taxi twice daily, this will cost him twenty riyals. If we will multiply twenty riyals by twenty-six days, this will apparently give him five hundred twenty riyals per month as savings. Consequently, if he sends this to the Philippines, this will give his family about six thousand six hundred pesos. Whew!
As almost always, my domicile attachment ushers my domesticity back to my humble abode in the “city of gentle people”. I always long to be with my family. If this rings intermittently in my senses, I feel I would burst into pieces. If this temporary alienation plays in my system, either I take a walk or does my gym work out.
Taking a walk has been very helpful to me as it releases my stress brought about by boredom and homesickness. Why? Reflexology puts it that our feet (including hands) have corresponding zones for all our internal organs. Mere manipulation of our feet gives us the privilege to be healed of all sicknesses. A total or complete relief, indeed!
Yes, this is not just true to me but to all migrant workers in the Kingdom. Very candidly, I asked one engineer why he prefers to dine outside than prepare his own food in his accommodation. His abrupt response was: “I will die if I do eating alone in my flat. I will only see my wife and my kids looking at me while eating. I would only cry later.”
And for that reason, he prefers to dine outside in that way he can always take a walk as a temporary remedy to boredom and homesickness. And we have the same reason. If I cannot invite a friend to dine with me, I go out, dine in a nearby fast food chain, and take a walk back home. Ergo, I am relieved! Refreshed!
There is another one good thing about this activity: we can talk to people.
Talking to people releases stress. It relieves us from psychological imbalances we feel everyday. This is pursuant to the theory that all humans no matter how introvert he may be, is a social being. Social wellness plays a great role in here.
Walking around gives you the view of the world: the street beggars chasing good Samaritans, the couples you come across who are oblivious of the world around them, the car accidents or street fights or crimes you witness along, the wayward tourists – all these profoundly profess that everything on earth can be learned and adjusted with.
Arguably, taking a walk gives us the opportunity to give one thing a second look or an idea a second thought before finally making decisions.
Having said that, I come to realize that taking a walk does not only belong to the weary overseas Filipino workers; this also belongs to people from all walks of life: the perturbed petite lady in the Palace by the river, the mentally-dehydrated congressmen and senators, ailing politicians and cabinet members, actors and actresses, etc., etc., etc.
If Madam Gloria takes a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before plunging into her routine Palace works, then surely she could think twice before venturing into deals thus avoiding misdeals later that would stream her down from the cloud nine she designed for herself and her family. She could avoid “mental lapses” every election time.
If our congressmen and senators take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before venturing into sessions, then effectively they could think twice as much as they can before banging on issues that could imperil the country’s national and international agenda. They could avoid over-spending.
If all other politicians and cabinet secretaries take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before undertaking local or domestic issues, then chances are local governance can be as lustrous as the shimmering sunlight of the new day. They could avoid project cost padding.
If all actors and actresses take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before facing the limelight, then consequently the results of their actions and speeches can be as awesome as truly the work of art. They could avoid scandals of all sorts.
If all people take a walk at least half-a-kilometer every morning before performing any obligation, then the entire Philippines can be as healthy as the Paradise once created by The One sans the trendy Adam and Eve. Effectively, the political and the socio-economical world of the beautiful Philippines can be more than just dynamic and progressive than what we longed to be.
Then, why don’t we all take a walk now?
Soaring High
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
30 August 2009
Contrary to most beliefs, life is not that easy working overseas. Specifically, life of OFWs in Arab countries is as tough as fighting against the leftists in the secluded and treacherous island of Basilan; as perilous as trekking the mystical Mount Cristobal of Quezon Province; and as precarious as scuba-diving the shark infested underwater of Mindoro Strait.
Conversely, life of all migrantes is as uncertain as navigating the mysterious Bermuda Triangle or traversing the Black Hole in the Universe. It is as risky as doubt and fear we naturally face everyday.
But life in the Mid-East must perpetually go on as dynamically as the wheel in motion. And this means, perpetuating life creatively and innovatively by all means. We feel we must not stop otherwise all sort of life ends; we must in fact soar high under the Arabian skies no matter how humid it is.
Soar means to ascend. Yes, ascending is one great yet risky task to do. As migrantes alienated from loved ones, we have to ascend from the bottom of our conditions, whatever these may be, to be on top of the situation. The situations or conditions we are into now in this part of the globe are in our hands. We can either make it or we can’t. The thing is: the ball is in our hands and it has become ours to call the shots. In calling the shots, just consider the ill effect or the consequence of our courses of actions to our contractual obligation and life overseas.
I have one strong recommendation to make and for everybody to take note: we can never offset the whole universe without paying the price.
Soar means to fly. Without wings, we can. Our spirit to live life free of doubts and nuisances can lead us to fly. As migrantes, we can always fly. I believe we can fly as high as the birds up in the sky for as long as we are guided by the foundations we learned from daily life. Flying does not necessarily mean to put on wings or to take an air stride. Flying is relatively simple: take into your mind all things you want to do, let your mind and spirit focus, and fly along with it.
Just take note: make sure to land back to the same ground where you have taken off. In most cases, humans, after taking off and flying high, never come back. They are taken by the strong wind that has propelled their wings into flying and bring them to a different spot of uncontrollable destiny: pride.
Remember: one can never learn how to fly unless he does learn how to hop. Conversely, one can never learn how to run unless he does learn how to walk.
Soar means to wheel. We can always do wheeling even not in the circular motion. Wheeling can be done by moving forward without exerting too much effort. This means, as migrantes, we can prioritize where to put our energies and wheel off to good things.
In our places of works and residences, we can always wheel off to do good things like indulging ourselves into sports, creative and fruitful activities. Take note: how we spend our life depends on “how” we do things, not “why” we do things, sometimes.
Soar means to circle. We can do things in circular motion. This means, we have to look at the consequence for all of our actions. Karma does play: what goes around comes around. Conversely, love begets love; bad intentions never succeed.
Life is a cycle. In this circle of life, one never stops moving. One may end up on the top and sometimes at the bottom. No one can ever tell he or she is alienated from the loop. If one has gone out of the loop then it is the end of it; it is another story.
While attending to personal and official things overseas, take note that life is always a loop. If you go ahead of the other, remember that it is a privilege because it’s the way all throughout unless the loop turns counterclockwise.
Everyone you meet, friends or acquaintances, is part of the loop. Bad or good, he can influence you in one way or another. We are not sure of whom we meet: just be sincere and it gets good results.
Soar means to rise. However, it takes time to rise. As Amy Grant said, “it takes a little time sometimes to take the gigantic sea craft Titanic back around.” As migrantes, we are expected to rise no matter what happens. From whatever state of life we are in, with whatever contractual conditions we are into, rising is just as natural as taking a breath every day.
Most of us are burdened too heavily that sometimes we feel we are no longer capable of rising or even taking an inch to mount. Our salaries are delayed from two to three months, very often our salaries are cut for minute and immaterial offenses, our allowances are reduced, the contract we inked is not implemented - in short, we are deprived of normal life here. Take note that rising comes naturally; it does not come using undue influences or fraud.
Wrestle to rise! We need to be proactive; we need to be aggressive. People who do not aggress often lose the opportunity to win. We have already won over the atrocities of life: we still breathe. Sometimes, we just need to take two steps backward in order to take one step forward. But certainly, we will rise!
Occasionally, we also need to work out-of-the-box. Sometimes, our left mind works effectively and efficiently well than the right mind. Creativity and innovation play conduit roles here.
In soaring, just remember this: be humble. Always remember that even the strongest of aircrafts does fail in soaring high.
Under the ever humid Arabian skies, take time to soar with your honest best and certainly you will make it.
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
30 August 2009
Contrary to most beliefs, life is not that easy working overseas. Specifically, life of OFWs in Arab countries is as tough as fighting against the leftists in the secluded and treacherous island of Basilan; as perilous as trekking the mystical Mount Cristobal of Quezon Province; and as precarious as scuba-diving the shark infested underwater of Mindoro Strait.
Conversely, life of all migrantes is as uncertain as navigating the mysterious Bermuda Triangle or traversing the Black Hole in the Universe. It is as risky as doubt and fear we naturally face everyday.
But life in the Mid-East must perpetually go on as dynamically as the wheel in motion. And this means, perpetuating life creatively and innovatively by all means. We feel we must not stop otherwise all sort of life ends; we must in fact soar high under the Arabian skies no matter how humid it is.
Soar means to ascend. Yes, ascending is one great yet risky task to do. As migrantes alienated from loved ones, we have to ascend from the bottom of our conditions, whatever these may be, to be on top of the situation. The situations or conditions we are into now in this part of the globe are in our hands. We can either make it or we can’t. The thing is: the ball is in our hands and it has become ours to call the shots. In calling the shots, just consider the ill effect or the consequence of our courses of actions to our contractual obligation and life overseas.
I have one strong recommendation to make and for everybody to take note: we can never offset the whole universe without paying the price.
Soar means to fly. Without wings, we can. Our spirit to live life free of doubts and nuisances can lead us to fly. As migrantes, we can always fly. I believe we can fly as high as the birds up in the sky for as long as we are guided by the foundations we learned from daily life. Flying does not necessarily mean to put on wings or to take an air stride. Flying is relatively simple: take into your mind all things you want to do, let your mind and spirit focus, and fly along with it.
Just take note: make sure to land back to the same ground where you have taken off. In most cases, humans, after taking off and flying high, never come back. They are taken by the strong wind that has propelled their wings into flying and bring them to a different spot of uncontrollable destiny: pride.
Remember: one can never learn how to fly unless he does learn how to hop. Conversely, one can never learn how to run unless he does learn how to walk.
Soar means to wheel. We can always do wheeling even not in the circular motion. Wheeling can be done by moving forward without exerting too much effort. This means, as migrantes, we can prioritize where to put our energies and wheel off to good things.
In our places of works and residences, we can always wheel off to do good things like indulging ourselves into sports, creative and fruitful activities. Take note: how we spend our life depends on “how” we do things, not “why” we do things, sometimes.
Soar means to circle. We can do things in circular motion. This means, we have to look at the consequence for all of our actions. Karma does play: what goes around comes around. Conversely, love begets love; bad intentions never succeed.
Life is a cycle. In this circle of life, one never stops moving. One may end up on the top and sometimes at the bottom. No one can ever tell he or she is alienated from the loop. If one has gone out of the loop then it is the end of it; it is another story.
While attending to personal and official things overseas, take note that life is always a loop. If you go ahead of the other, remember that it is a privilege because it’s the way all throughout unless the loop turns counterclockwise.
Everyone you meet, friends or acquaintances, is part of the loop. Bad or good, he can influence you in one way or another. We are not sure of whom we meet: just be sincere and it gets good results.
Soar means to rise. However, it takes time to rise. As Amy Grant said, “it takes a little time sometimes to take the gigantic sea craft Titanic back around.” As migrantes, we are expected to rise no matter what happens. From whatever state of life we are in, with whatever contractual conditions we are into, rising is just as natural as taking a breath every day.
Most of us are burdened too heavily that sometimes we feel we are no longer capable of rising or even taking an inch to mount. Our salaries are delayed from two to three months, very often our salaries are cut for minute and immaterial offenses, our allowances are reduced, the contract we inked is not implemented - in short, we are deprived of normal life here. Take note that rising comes naturally; it does not come using undue influences or fraud.
Wrestle to rise! We need to be proactive; we need to be aggressive. People who do not aggress often lose the opportunity to win. We have already won over the atrocities of life: we still breathe. Sometimes, we just need to take two steps backward in order to take one step forward. But certainly, we will rise!
Occasionally, we also need to work out-of-the-box. Sometimes, our left mind works effectively and efficiently well than the right mind. Creativity and innovation play conduit roles here.
In soaring, just remember this: be humble. Always remember that even the strongest of aircrafts does fail in soaring high.
Under the ever humid Arabian skies, take time to soar with your honest best and certainly you will make it.
Snatched!
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
12 July 2009
Darkness had enveloped the kingdom with only the faint street lights waking up the still of the night. After my team mates dropped me at the nearby Mall to buy “empanada” for my breakfast the following day, I hurried down the streets to take a brisk walk on the way to our accommodation house. I was then coming from my badminton game that night.
Recalling previous commitments with our employees, I called our electrical engineer who was then under some medical examinations for his kidney. This man secured my permission to sleep in my flat because their accommodation house is in the other City. Since it was past ten in the evening, I decided to call him using the mobile phone issued by the company while walking the partly-lit A Street of the famed Al-Khobar City.
And why would I accommodate him? I am the head of Human Resources Management Unit and I was monitoring his condition in relation to our Medical Insurance.
While talking to him, I suddenly felt a rude, strong, Black Hand reaching mine while holding the mobile phone. Shocked, I yelled lightly. After regaining my composure, I managed to withdraw my hand towards my chest, closed my mobile phone, put it in my waist-pouch and ran back to the mall.
I would have been snatched!
I declared to the Filipinos at the Mall. They stopped a taxi cab and asked me to take a ride for safety. Inside the cab, I called again our engineer and narrated to him the story. He was so sorry; I was very scared.
Yes, I would have been snatched if I was too lousy in responding to the danger; others said I was lucky enough I survived the ordeal. Recalling the event, I had doubt of my life had I remained static at the street when they came back after failing in the attempt with their motorcycle.
Yes, they are Saudis. They were blacks. They were the natives of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Surprisingly, it happened in the most conservative of all Islamic Kingdoms in the Gulf Region.; it happened in Saudi Arabia. And I would have been the victim.
Last week, it was confirmed that a young Filipino wife was raped for the whole day in their communal flat and was killed. The story circulating in the downtown Khobar is that she went down to buy for something and few minutes after returning to her flat, she was followed up and by force, they assailants entered their room.
Her husband was working for Saudi Aramco’s major contractor and was assigned on field work outside of Khobar. He went home weekly.
To make the story bitter, the husband is in jail now for being a major suspect. Technically, this is how absurd and awkward is the law of the Kingdom. Not because I want to believe that the husband is clean, but because I assumed the husband is innocent. Notwithstanding several stories of Filipinos having extra-marital affairs in this part f the world, I never have heard from the grapevine any negative report about the husband.
Snatched! Yes, the couple was snatched. She was snatched of her young life shared with her husband and he was snatched with principles and dignity and the promise of a young, beautiful family.
Three persons experienced the ordeal: I would have been snatched; they were snatched. For the couple, it was darkness before dawn; for me, it would have been.
The thing is: every one of us is snatched. Former President Aquino was snatched of the truth regarding the assignation plot against her husband; her husband was snatched of life by no less than the team of the former dictator Marcos. Philippine Actor turned President snatched us of the truth about the envelopes in the Senate and eventually President Arroyo snatched the presidential seat from him through the popular EDSA 2 revolt.
We Filipinos have been snatched of every basic truth while we keep our eyes wide open: The Amari Land Scam Deal, the Envelope, the Hello Garci, the ZTE, the Fertilizer – all these truths were snatched from the eighty-five-million peace loving Filipinos.
Who else is safe this time? None, by firm resolves!
Not even a young fetus in the womb of the mother; he can be in danger of mishap at any time. Nope, not a young high school band majorette who was raped by a neighbor. Not even the City Treasurer who was killed at gunpoint while trying to open their house gate after leaving her work place. And nope, not even an OFW who is in riskier state now more than ever.
No one is safe; this is a universal truth. While risk can be addressed, safety, in my opinion is relative.
Yes, you are snatched! I was snatched! Everyone is snatched daily. And at any time, we still can be snatched physically, psychologically, politically, socially, economically, and personally. What we can do now is to study how to snatch safety from risks.
Our government does promise us our safety through police and military measures, however, in practice, the same place us in danger zone.
Do you agree?
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
12 July 2009
Darkness had enveloped the kingdom with only the faint street lights waking up the still of the night. After my team mates dropped me at the nearby Mall to buy “empanada” for my breakfast the following day, I hurried down the streets to take a brisk walk on the way to our accommodation house. I was then coming from my badminton game that night.
Recalling previous commitments with our employees, I called our electrical engineer who was then under some medical examinations for his kidney. This man secured my permission to sleep in my flat because their accommodation house is in the other City. Since it was past ten in the evening, I decided to call him using the mobile phone issued by the company while walking the partly-lit A Street of the famed Al-Khobar City.
And why would I accommodate him? I am the head of Human Resources Management Unit and I was monitoring his condition in relation to our Medical Insurance.
While talking to him, I suddenly felt a rude, strong, Black Hand reaching mine while holding the mobile phone. Shocked, I yelled lightly. After regaining my composure, I managed to withdraw my hand towards my chest, closed my mobile phone, put it in my waist-pouch and ran back to the mall.
I would have been snatched!
I declared to the Filipinos at the Mall. They stopped a taxi cab and asked me to take a ride for safety. Inside the cab, I called again our engineer and narrated to him the story. He was so sorry; I was very scared.
Yes, I would have been snatched if I was too lousy in responding to the danger; others said I was lucky enough I survived the ordeal. Recalling the event, I had doubt of my life had I remained static at the street when they came back after failing in the attempt with their motorcycle.
Yes, they are Saudis. They were blacks. They were the natives of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Surprisingly, it happened in the most conservative of all Islamic Kingdoms in the Gulf Region.; it happened in Saudi Arabia. And I would have been the victim.
Last week, it was confirmed that a young Filipino wife was raped for the whole day in their communal flat and was killed. The story circulating in the downtown Khobar is that she went down to buy for something and few minutes after returning to her flat, she was followed up and by force, they assailants entered their room.
Her husband was working for Saudi Aramco’s major contractor and was assigned on field work outside of Khobar. He went home weekly.
To make the story bitter, the husband is in jail now for being a major suspect. Technically, this is how absurd and awkward is the law of the Kingdom. Not because I want to believe that the husband is clean, but because I assumed the husband is innocent. Notwithstanding several stories of Filipinos having extra-marital affairs in this part f the world, I never have heard from the grapevine any negative report about the husband.
Snatched! Yes, the couple was snatched. She was snatched of her young life shared with her husband and he was snatched with principles and dignity and the promise of a young, beautiful family.
Three persons experienced the ordeal: I would have been snatched; they were snatched. For the couple, it was darkness before dawn; for me, it would have been.
The thing is: every one of us is snatched. Former President Aquino was snatched of the truth regarding the assignation plot against her husband; her husband was snatched of life by no less than the team of the former dictator Marcos. Philippine Actor turned President snatched us of the truth about the envelopes in the Senate and eventually President Arroyo snatched the presidential seat from him through the popular EDSA 2 revolt.
We Filipinos have been snatched of every basic truth while we keep our eyes wide open: The Amari Land Scam Deal, the Envelope, the Hello Garci, the ZTE, the Fertilizer – all these truths were snatched from the eighty-five-million peace loving Filipinos.
Who else is safe this time? None, by firm resolves!
Not even a young fetus in the womb of the mother; he can be in danger of mishap at any time. Nope, not a young high school band majorette who was raped by a neighbor. Not even the City Treasurer who was killed at gunpoint while trying to open their house gate after leaving her work place. And nope, not even an OFW who is in riskier state now more than ever.
No one is safe; this is a universal truth. While risk can be addressed, safety, in my opinion is relative.
Yes, you are snatched! I was snatched! Everyone is snatched daily. And at any time, we still can be snatched physically, psychologically, politically, socially, economically, and personally. What we can do now is to study how to snatch safety from risks.
Our government does promise us our safety through police and military measures, however, in practice, the same place us in danger zone.
Do you agree?
Remembering the Icon
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
09 August 2009
The bloodless and gunless EDSA Revolution in February 25, 1986 vividly flashed back in my memory after listening to the news that the sole icon of Philippine Democracy passed away. Reviewing the memory was like watching a classic war film “The Longest Day” that speaks about World War 11. The only difference is: EDSA 1 does not speak of “guns” while the movie details more of these.
Anyway, as an active student leader of the period whose ideology centered on freedom and democracy, the Aquinos (both Ninoy and Cory) inspired me to write a satirical essay entitled “Let the Filipino Flag Fly Proudly” and the longest poem I ever have written “El Dia Filipina”. The essay speaks about the hostilities and cruelties of the period (Marcos Era) while the poem speaks about the hostilities noble Filipinos experience from Spanish period to the Marcos Era.
Juxtaposed with other Philippine Presidents, Madam Cory has her own peculiarities: first, she’s just a plain and simple housewife who did not intend to run had it not been due to the massive and aggressive signatures campaign for her; second, she has no political party to cling to except the one organized by her husband Ninoy; and third, she has no political platform to adhere to if she would run as president for the ailing Republic.
By popular demand, the Snap Election catapulted her to power. The great Philippine Dictator was ousted and was ferried by force to Hawaii on the account of the US Government. Madam Cory Aquino and Doy Laurel ran the affairs of the Republic with gusto.
Madam Cory introduced change that overwhelmed the entire populace of freedom-hungry Filipinos. She re-created the two chambers that produce what we now have as House of Representatives and House of the Senate. She dismantled monopolies; she disorganized organized “bureaucracies”. She created departments needed during those times and dissolved ones that were not; those that were redundant. She privatized government corporations, especially utilities, oil companies and major industries. She changed names of streets, structures, and building though the purpose of which, arguably, is obviously political and personal in nature and apparently not outstanding.
She fashioned her own niche in the history of the Country. She created history for her, for her husband and for her family.
While she succeeded in the majority of her economic and political reforms, she failed in the most important aspect of her political life: sanction the assassins of Ninoy.
Along with her (and her team) aggressive campaign for continuous economic and political reforms for the Country was her continuous quest for enlightenment to the gray areas of the pact-finding result regarding the assassination. It was a dual and a taxing role for her during the times. Yet, this simple and plain housewife-turned President managed to survive the ordeal. She outstood weariest of economic worries, smashed the never-ending ace balls of political instabilities, survived the deadliest attempts to her life, and most importantly, brought the Republic of the Philippines into the World Map once again.
It was amazingly unbelievable; it was unconceivable!
It was a feat for her: highly notable and outstanding. She deserved a grandstanding ovation at the end of each show.
She vowed a graceful exit and turned into a simple stately life in her homestead in the central part of Luzon.
Yet, the menace of returning to the old passion prompted most of her political allies to call for her presence once again. Together, they maintained the political party and became sentinels of the succeeding administration. She supported Ramos, the great political ally of the Marcos turned state witness, for his presidential bid. He was elected and, arguably, followed the “new path to democracy” once written by Madam Cory.
She supported other candidates and backed the abortion of Erap Power in favor of the petite lady of the modern-day Philippines. She supported Madam Gloria; she disowned Gloria. She brought Madam Gloria to Malacanang Palace; she wanted her out of the Palace lately.
For me, Cory died the way she lived: she suffered for her family, for her country; she suffered to die for her family, for her country lately.
Remembering Madam Cory is not without remembering the democracy she delivered right to our doorsteps; remembering the name is not without remembering the icon once associated by the people of the world to democracy.
Peace be with you!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
09 August 2009
The bloodless and gunless EDSA Revolution in February 25, 1986 vividly flashed back in my memory after listening to the news that the sole icon of Philippine Democracy passed away. Reviewing the memory was like watching a classic war film “The Longest Day” that speaks about World War 11. The only difference is: EDSA 1 does not speak of “guns” while the movie details more of these.
Anyway, as an active student leader of the period whose ideology centered on freedom and democracy, the Aquinos (both Ninoy and Cory) inspired me to write a satirical essay entitled “Let the Filipino Flag Fly Proudly” and the longest poem I ever have written “El Dia Filipina”. The essay speaks about the hostilities and cruelties of the period (Marcos Era) while the poem speaks about the hostilities noble Filipinos experience from Spanish period to the Marcos Era.
Juxtaposed with other Philippine Presidents, Madam Cory has her own peculiarities: first, she’s just a plain and simple housewife who did not intend to run had it not been due to the massive and aggressive signatures campaign for her; second, she has no political party to cling to except the one organized by her husband Ninoy; and third, she has no political platform to adhere to if she would run as president for the ailing Republic.
By popular demand, the Snap Election catapulted her to power. The great Philippine Dictator was ousted and was ferried by force to Hawaii on the account of the US Government. Madam Cory Aquino and Doy Laurel ran the affairs of the Republic with gusto.
Madam Cory introduced change that overwhelmed the entire populace of freedom-hungry Filipinos. She re-created the two chambers that produce what we now have as House of Representatives and House of the Senate. She dismantled monopolies; she disorganized organized “bureaucracies”. She created departments needed during those times and dissolved ones that were not; those that were redundant. She privatized government corporations, especially utilities, oil companies and major industries. She changed names of streets, structures, and building though the purpose of which, arguably, is obviously political and personal in nature and apparently not outstanding.
She fashioned her own niche in the history of the Country. She created history for her, for her husband and for her family.
While she succeeded in the majority of her economic and political reforms, she failed in the most important aspect of her political life: sanction the assassins of Ninoy.
Along with her (and her team) aggressive campaign for continuous economic and political reforms for the Country was her continuous quest for enlightenment to the gray areas of the pact-finding result regarding the assassination. It was a dual and a taxing role for her during the times. Yet, this simple and plain housewife-turned President managed to survive the ordeal. She outstood weariest of economic worries, smashed the never-ending ace balls of political instabilities, survived the deadliest attempts to her life, and most importantly, brought the Republic of the Philippines into the World Map once again.
It was amazingly unbelievable; it was unconceivable!
It was a feat for her: highly notable and outstanding. She deserved a grandstanding ovation at the end of each show.
She vowed a graceful exit and turned into a simple stately life in her homestead in the central part of Luzon.
Yet, the menace of returning to the old passion prompted most of her political allies to call for her presence once again. Together, they maintained the political party and became sentinels of the succeeding administration. She supported Ramos, the great political ally of the Marcos turned state witness, for his presidential bid. He was elected and, arguably, followed the “new path to democracy” once written by Madam Cory.
She supported other candidates and backed the abortion of Erap Power in favor of the petite lady of the modern-day Philippines. She supported Madam Gloria; she disowned Gloria. She brought Madam Gloria to Malacanang Palace; she wanted her out of the Palace lately.
For me, Cory died the way she lived: she suffered for her family, for her country; she suffered to die for her family, for her country lately.
Remembering Madam Cory is not without remembering the democracy she delivered right to our doorsteps; remembering the name is not without remembering the icon once associated by the people of the world to democracy.
Peace be with you!
Remembering Buglasan
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
25 October 2009
Back-tracking my data bank, it was in 2003 when I first experienced the jovial atmosphere of Buglasan Festivities since arriving from Manila to join the family of my wife in Bacong. Just like any other festival I have witnessed, Buglasan is just as exciting as the others, or so I thought.
In 2004, when I was managing the scenic and enchanting Antulang Beach Resort in Siaton, I was contacted by the local officials and tourism office of the Municipality to assist them negotiating with the owners of the Resort for a replica to showcase in the festival and for some financial assistance.
Through this vehicle, I became a member of the Tourism Council of Siaton which accorded me time to be with the council headed by Councilor Lam. This activity bestowed me the best opportune time to actively participate in the planning, conceptualizing, preparation, and construction of the booth. Apart from this, it granted me another favorable time to meet the executive officers of the municipality.
Luckily, I was able to secure not just the nod of the owners to replicate the resort but the approval as well for financial assistance in the construction. In addition, I also obtained another approval for the raw materials which were just available in the resort and in the farms of the owners in Siaton.
Juxtaposed with the other booths from other cities, towns and municipalities, Antulang Beach Resort’s first-ever replica would have been a best contingent in terms of architectural design and principles (forget about artistry since architecture is one form of art already). Luckily, the replica won for Siaton one special award. I believe, if I don’t have a mental lapse now (forgive me, Madam President for the phrase) it’s the Most Creative Booth.
In 2006, I proposed to the local Tourism Office to write a Coffee Table Book about Buglasan. As an adopted son of the province, I believed my plan and proposal was the noblest I could contribute to the province as a starting-up artist, modesty aside. My proposal was backed up then by the former Vice President for Student Life and External Affairs of Foundation University, Mr. Dinno T. Depositario. Foundation University is said to be the home of the first Buglasan Festival.
During this time, along with young visual artist Hersely Ven Casero, a winner in the Buglasan Photography Contest, we took pictures of the booths and other activities in preparation for the project. Had the project been materialized, Mr. Casero would have been my consultant in photography for the proposed Coffee Table Book.
After I sent them the layout and the cost estimate, I never have heard of anything about the proposed project then. In 2007 when I was then writing a column for another paper, I wrote an article entitled “Putting the Records Straight” which initially detailed the subject.
Despite the distance I had from Negros Oriental and apparently from my humble abode in Bacong, this year’s Buglasan Festival would be just as memorable as ever. Notwithstanding miles of distance and being separated by seas, mountains and large tracks of lands and deserts, the festival to us overseas workers (in Saudi Arabia and in all parts of the Mid-East) from Negros Oriental as a whole is just as worthy to remember as our families.
On the personal note, I will never forget this year’s festivities. Why? My daughter (my eldest) is a contingent for Miss Buglasan Festival search representing her mother’s hometown, Bacong. Bacong is going to showcase “Sinulog de San Miguel” festival.
Hitherto, festivals like Buglasan are very heartwarming to note especially when you are outside of the very place. I became accustomed to the festival that I miss the week-long activities lined-up for the season. I miss the opportunity to be with my family and spend one day in a booth just to dine, take pictures or watch the show. I miss the opportunity to be with friends to reminisce the past or bring back the past. I miss the opportunity to join tournaments especially Badminton organized by the province or city. I miss the opportunity to witness the activities, gather the first-hand information and write stories about them.
I miss practically one and all, absolutely!
About two weeks ago, our group from Negros Oriental composed of professionals from Tanjay, Bais, Amlan, Valencia, Dumaguete, Bacong, Zamboanguita, and from Bohol, gathered and dined in one of the Filipino restaurants in Al-Khobar. We talked about life in the province; we talked about anything that arouses our memories or even our curiosities. And we talked about Buglasan at once: its grandeur, the beauty displayed in the streets, the fun and night life at the Boulevard, barbecue, grills, beers and spirits, its peculiarities, etc., etc., etc.
It was more than just recollecting; it was re-energizing our tired and consumed physical body, revitalizing our bored and frustrated minds and rejuvenating our lost and weary souls that after we talked about it, we felt we were completely refreshed and totally relaxed.
How I wish I was there to witness another splendid presentation, gather fresh memoirs, and write another story to put some records straight.
To people of NegOr, congratulations for staging another magnificent festival.
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
25 October 2009
Back-tracking my data bank, it was in 2003 when I first experienced the jovial atmosphere of Buglasan Festivities since arriving from Manila to join the family of my wife in Bacong. Just like any other festival I have witnessed, Buglasan is just as exciting as the others, or so I thought.
In 2004, when I was managing the scenic and enchanting Antulang Beach Resort in Siaton, I was contacted by the local officials and tourism office of the Municipality to assist them negotiating with the owners of the Resort for a replica to showcase in the festival and for some financial assistance.
Through this vehicle, I became a member of the Tourism Council of Siaton which accorded me time to be with the council headed by Councilor Lam. This activity bestowed me the best opportune time to actively participate in the planning, conceptualizing, preparation, and construction of the booth. Apart from this, it granted me another favorable time to meet the executive officers of the municipality.
Luckily, I was able to secure not just the nod of the owners to replicate the resort but the approval as well for financial assistance in the construction. In addition, I also obtained another approval for the raw materials which were just available in the resort and in the farms of the owners in Siaton.
Juxtaposed with the other booths from other cities, towns and municipalities, Antulang Beach Resort’s first-ever replica would have been a best contingent in terms of architectural design and principles (forget about artistry since architecture is one form of art already). Luckily, the replica won for Siaton one special award. I believe, if I don’t have a mental lapse now (forgive me, Madam President for the phrase) it’s the Most Creative Booth.
In 2006, I proposed to the local Tourism Office to write a Coffee Table Book about Buglasan. As an adopted son of the province, I believed my plan and proposal was the noblest I could contribute to the province as a starting-up artist, modesty aside. My proposal was backed up then by the former Vice President for Student Life and External Affairs of Foundation University, Mr. Dinno T. Depositario. Foundation University is said to be the home of the first Buglasan Festival.
During this time, along with young visual artist Hersely Ven Casero, a winner in the Buglasan Photography Contest, we took pictures of the booths and other activities in preparation for the project. Had the project been materialized, Mr. Casero would have been my consultant in photography for the proposed Coffee Table Book.
After I sent them the layout and the cost estimate, I never have heard of anything about the proposed project then. In 2007 when I was then writing a column for another paper, I wrote an article entitled “Putting the Records Straight” which initially detailed the subject.
Despite the distance I had from Negros Oriental and apparently from my humble abode in Bacong, this year’s Buglasan Festival would be just as memorable as ever. Notwithstanding miles of distance and being separated by seas, mountains and large tracks of lands and deserts, the festival to us overseas workers (in Saudi Arabia and in all parts of the Mid-East) from Negros Oriental as a whole is just as worthy to remember as our families.
On the personal note, I will never forget this year’s festivities. Why? My daughter (my eldest) is a contingent for Miss Buglasan Festival search representing her mother’s hometown, Bacong. Bacong is going to showcase “Sinulog de San Miguel” festival.
Hitherto, festivals like Buglasan are very heartwarming to note especially when you are outside of the very place. I became accustomed to the festival that I miss the week-long activities lined-up for the season. I miss the opportunity to be with my family and spend one day in a booth just to dine, take pictures or watch the show. I miss the opportunity to be with friends to reminisce the past or bring back the past. I miss the opportunity to join tournaments especially Badminton organized by the province or city. I miss the opportunity to witness the activities, gather the first-hand information and write stories about them.
I miss practically one and all, absolutely!
About two weeks ago, our group from Negros Oriental composed of professionals from Tanjay, Bais, Amlan, Valencia, Dumaguete, Bacong, Zamboanguita, and from Bohol, gathered and dined in one of the Filipino restaurants in Al-Khobar. We talked about life in the province; we talked about anything that arouses our memories or even our curiosities. And we talked about Buglasan at once: its grandeur, the beauty displayed in the streets, the fun and night life at the Boulevard, barbecue, grills, beers and spirits, its peculiarities, etc., etc., etc.
It was more than just recollecting; it was re-energizing our tired and consumed physical body, revitalizing our bored and frustrated minds and rejuvenating our lost and weary souls that after we talked about it, we felt we were completely refreshed and totally relaxed.
How I wish I was there to witness another splendid presentation, gather fresh memoirs, and write another story to put some records straight.
To people of NegOr, congratulations for staging another magnificent festival.
Professionalizing the OFWs
By Rolo B. Cena
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
02 August 2009
Call it politicking or professional move, the act of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to conduct licensure examinations for various professions which, was believed to be responsive to the promise of President Arroyo to the OFWs in the Middle East during her state visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is for me a gallant one.
Ostensibly, this move is supposed to professionalize thousands of Filipino expatriates in the Gulf Region to date – meaning, not just Filipinos in Saudi Arabia but also in Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and in the neighboring GCC member countries.
In a memorandum issued by the Commission through the Consular offices, graduates of Accountancy, Architecture, Civil, Electrical, Electronics & Communications and Mechanical Engineering may take their licensure (Board) examinations in Al-Khobar and Jeddah for Saudi Arabia, Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The examinations will take place on 26th to 28th of November 2009 and 2nd to 4th of December 2009 for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia-Qatar and United Arab Emirates respectively.
Arguably, this project would entail a lot of expenditures: travel, hotel accommodation, food, per diem, supplies, proctors, etc. Digging deeply, budgets corresponding to these expenses have to be scrutinized and consequential concerns have to be addressed to.
In the last two weekends of March 2009, the first CPA Licensure Examinations was given in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia. A total of thirty-one examinees struggled their way in to the finish but only three of them succeeded: two from Al-Khobar and one from Jeddah; three managed to land with three conditions. Out of this number, nineteen are candidates from Eastern Province (Dammam, Jubail, and Al-Khobar) and the remainder from Jeddah and its neighboring cities.
The project was jointly spearheaded by the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) and the Business Professionals Organization (BPO) of the Eastern Province in conjunction, of course, with the Professional Regulations Commission.
Incidentally, I would have been one of the candidates in the first batch for the CPA Licensure examinations; I backed out due to massive work loads and disinterests.
Now, let’s talk about the mortality rate: for the first batch of the CPA Board Examinations, the registered rate was 9.38%. When I took the same board examinations in 1991, it was only 7%.
The number of passers, to put it in layman’s terms, determines the kind of examinations and quality of review process that are taking place. In this I mean, we have to look into the qualifications of the reviewers, the condition and the location of the review center, the schedule of the review classes, the materials provided, the support accorded. Of course in education, there is what we call “teacher” and “student” factors as far as classroom excellence is concerned. However, arguably though, in professional reviews like this, these all play a vital role in the passing rate.
Which is why, out of thirty-two, only three candidates made it to the yellow line; three others are still romping to remove the conditions.
Point of argument: is the government, through the Professional Regulations Commission, willing to support this project all the way from qualifying the reviewers to materials to expenses? If at the end of the day the “organizers” would announce for additional charges to shoulder the travel expenses of the Board of Examiners, then ultimately this will defeat the purpose.
I am not saying that this happened in the previous Board Examinations, though I heard some news from the candidates themselves. This I am not sure, however. And no one can really tell. Something odd can happen; it can happen in fact in the Philippines.
Pardon me; I don’t claim it was happening in the Kingdom. But for the information of the general public, OFWs here spend more than what the regular review schools do offer. And where does the difference lie?
Transportation here is difficult. If the candidate does not have a company car, then he should take a taxi cab regularly while attending the review sessions and depending where he lives, taxi fare here is about SAR10.00 as minimum and SAR30.00 as maximum. Registration Fees here, which of course is managed by their respective organization in cooperation with the BPO registered the lowest of SAR1,000.00. Translated into the Philippine Currency, this is equivalent to Php12,800.00 average. Materials and books are paid in Saudi Riyals especially when these are ordered from the Philippines. Photocopies are a bit expensive here.
While “professionalizing” one’s self is surely an “investment” however, the government should consider that OFWs are also suffering financial setback in the Gulf Region due to the recent economic downturn experienced worldwide.
Which is why, if I may urge, President Arroyo must look into this project deeply, invest more money, and make people accountable at once sans politicking or electoral interests.
And just what is in the OFWs why the present administration is undertaking this project? Reasons abound! First, electoral votes; second, economic returns in terms of remittance; third, political interests; and fourth, not to mention the self-interests of the organizers assigned.
Anyway, good or bad intention, the great Filipino community is not accountable to it; it’s them. In whatever manner they carry out the project, it’s between them and the Ultimate Creator. These OFWs do not concern themselves with the sincerity of these public officials at the moment; what they are concerned of is how to become “professional” through this program.
Obviously, of course, OFWs deserve the same treatment in taking their respective board examinations here in the Gulf Region as those taking in the Philippines.
Truly, this undertaking is an investment to these workers who want to try their luck in procuring that most coveted PRC License. It is right and timely to call for a better protection for this interest.
Please, take heed!
Arabian Diaries
Dumaguete Star Informer
02 August 2009
Call it politicking or professional move, the act of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) to conduct licensure examinations for various professions which, was believed to be responsive to the promise of President Arroyo to the OFWs in the Middle East during her state visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is for me a gallant one.
Ostensibly, this move is supposed to professionalize thousands of Filipino expatriates in the Gulf Region to date – meaning, not just Filipinos in Saudi Arabia but also in Qatar, United Arab Emirates, and in the neighboring GCC member countries.
In a memorandum issued by the Commission through the Consular offices, graduates of Accountancy, Architecture, Civil, Electrical, Electronics & Communications and Mechanical Engineering may take their licensure (Board) examinations in Al-Khobar and Jeddah for Saudi Arabia, Doha, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The examinations will take place on 26th to 28th of November 2009 and 2nd to 4th of December 2009 for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia-Qatar and United Arab Emirates respectively.
Arguably, this project would entail a lot of expenditures: travel, hotel accommodation, food, per diem, supplies, proctors, etc. Digging deeply, budgets corresponding to these expenses have to be scrutinized and consequential concerns have to be addressed to.
In the last two weekends of March 2009, the first CPA Licensure Examinations was given in Al-Khobar, Saudi Arabia. A total of thirty-one examinees struggled their way in to the finish but only three of them succeeded: two from Al-Khobar and one from Jeddah; three managed to land with three conditions. Out of this number, nineteen are candidates from Eastern Province (Dammam, Jubail, and Al-Khobar) and the remainder from Jeddah and its neighboring cities.
The project was jointly spearheaded by the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) and the Business Professionals Organization (BPO) of the Eastern Province in conjunction, of course, with the Professional Regulations Commission.
Incidentally, I would have been one of the candidates in the first batch for the CPA Licensure examinations; I backed out due to massive work loads and disinterests.
Now, let’s talk about the mortality rate: for the first batch of the CPA Board Examinations, the registered rate was 9.38%. When I took the same board examinations in 1991, it was only 7%.
The number of passers, to put it in layman’s terms, determines the kind of examinations and quality of review process that are taking place. In this I mean, we have to look into the qualifications of the reviewers, the condition and the location of the review center, the schedule of the review classes, the materials provided, the support accorded. Of course in education, there is what we call “teacher” and “student” factors as far as classroom excellence is concerned. However, arguably though, in professional reviews like this, these all play a vital role in the passing rate.
Which is why, out of thirty-two, only three candidates made it to the yellow line; three others are still romping to remove the conditions.
Point of argument: is the government, through the Professional Regulations Commission, willing to support this project all the way from qualifying the reviewers to materials to expenses? If at the end of the day the “organizers” would announce for additional charges to shoulder the travel expenses of the Board of Examiners, then ultimately this will defeat the purpose.
I am not saying that this happened in the previous Board Examinations, though I heard some news from the candidates themselves. This I am not sure, however. And no one can really tell. Something odd can happen; it can happen in fact in the Philippines.
Pardon me; I don’t claim it was happening in the Kingdom. But for the information of the general public, OFWs here spend more than what the regular review schools do offer. And where does the difference lie?
Transportation here is difficult. If the candidate does not have a company car, then he should take a taxi cab regularly while attending the review sessions and depending where he lives, taxi fare here is about SAR10.00 as minimum and SAR30.00 as maximum. Registration Fees here, which of course is managed by their respective organization in cooperation with the BPO registered the lowest of SAR1,000.00. Translated into the Philippine Currency, this is equivalent to Php12,800.00 average. Materials and books are paid in Saudi Riyals especially when these are ordered from the Philippines. Photocopies are a bit expensive here.
While “professionalizing” one’s self is surely an “investment” however, the government should consider that OFWs are also suffering financial setback in the Gulf Region due to the recent economic downturn experienced worldwide.
Which is why, if I may urge, President Arroyo must look into this project deeply, invest more money, and make people accountable at once sans politicking or electoral interests.
And just what is in the OFWs why the present administration is undertaking this project? Reasons abound! First, electoral votes; second, economic returns in terms of remittance; third, political interests; and fourth, not to mention the self-interests of the organizers assigned.
Anyway, good or bad intention, the great Filipino community is not accountable to it; it’s them. In whatever manner they carry out the project, it’s between them and the Ultimate Creator. These OFWs do not concern themselves with the sincerity of these public officials at the moment; what they are concerned of is how to become “professional” through this program.
Obviously, of course, OFWs deserve the same treatment in taking their respective board examinations here in the Gulf Region as those taking in the Philippines.
Truly, this undertaking is an investment to these workers who want to try their luck in procuring that most coveted PRC License. It is right and timely to call for a better protection for this interest.
Please, take heed!
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