Balikbayan box

Phl Coast Guard men captured by the Abu Sayyaf said while in captivity they were made to make things easy and comfortable for the rebels by serving as cooks, masseurs, and servants. Giving comfort to the enemy is punishable under the rules of war. But saving one's neck is top priority.* * *

Some lawmakers are forcing Sen. Grace Poe to explain the circumstances of her birth. Isn't it enough that she has confirmed that she was found in the baptistry of the Jaro Cathedral in Iloilo City wrapped in "lampin" and abandoned by the unknown woman who gave birth to her?

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A Grace Poe supporter was heard telling some coffeeshop customers: "For all we know those inquisitive lawmakers might be the ones whose birthplaces are questionable."

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I just read this article about Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew who was called "strongman" by the international media but never a dictator the title most if not all dictators frown on, although the perks and blessings they keep.

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But Lee Kuan Yew, strong though he was, nearly raised his hands up in surrender to his more powerful Maker while in his losing and prolonged battle against severe pneumonia. One book I read said Lee considered euthanasia to end his suffering and pain in the hospital aggravated by his loneliness brought about by the death of his beloved wife Kwa Geok Choo, whom he once called the source of his strength.

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A Cebuano engineer employed by a foreign embassy in Europe when asked to comment on the Phl Bureau of Customs intention to inspect all balikbayan boxes shipped to Pinas by OFWs said: "Daginuton pa gyud ang balikbayan gifts? Kuwang pa ang bilyons nga cash remittances sa OFWs?"

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I was saddened by the news that came to me late about the passing away of Nards Chiu, a very good friend and colleague in media. Condolences to the loved ones Nards left behind. Nards wrote an interesting column "Kwentong Barbero" in The Freeman during my watch.