Monday, August 24, 2009


FIBBING THE FILIPINO

Wouldn't it be a treat to see for a change President Arroyo defend her own self in public, not so much relying on her spokespersons who are paid to confuse and fib the people with rough rhetoric? In doing so, the citizenry will have a clearer view of the sincerity or insincerity of Arroyo although it is common knowledge how comfortable she feels when surrounded by anything but the truth. As it is, take the case of Press Secretary Cerge Remonde. Long before he opens his mouth, he is already branded as a twister of fabulous facts and a juggler of weak words. Gone are the days when a press secretary spoke impeccable English and communicated with clarity and logic. Today, we have a bunch of apologists in the Palace who really are the only ones left believing their own spin. Does Gloria still believe in herself?

In the US, some American presidents who have had it with the media took matters in their own hands. They didn't hesitate at all to write nasty letters to their critics in this sector. The most famous letter written by a US president against media was that made by President Harry Truman addressed to a Washington Post music critic who had hit his daughter Margaret's singing in her recital in Washington. Truman wrote: "I have just read your lousy review. If I ever meet you, you will need a new nose, a lot of beefsteak for black eyes and perhaps a supporter below." And only a few years ago, President Bill Clinton got so sore against New York Times columnist William Safire for calling Mrs. Clinton a "congenital liar." Clinton was quoted by his spokesman as saying if he were not president, he would have delivered "a forceful response on the bridge of Safire's nose."

GMA may have to emulate these US presidents to let off some steam and fire off some angry letters and issue angry statements against her critics in the fourth estate. We're simply tired of her spokespersons' litany of lies, making them like wind-up dolls that say the same stuff over and over again. It's time we hear Gloria speak for herself. She need not worry. If these fellows can dish it out, they can surely take it.

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