Environmental concerns: Stars suddenly getting green

I saw Christopher de Leon having photo op for the release of a sea turtle who happened to be rescued by DENR officials in Bulacan.

The news report further states that de Leon is the head of an ecotourism task force in one of the towns of Batangas. He is supposed to be a scuba diver and long time admirer of marine biodiversity. Very profound.

“Initiating meaningful partnerships is a key component for CI’s work in the Verde Island Passage, and we’re glad that Boyet (de Leon) has expressed willingness to help engage the entertainment industry in this endeavor,” the report quoted a Conservation International Philippines head.

Question- Have you heard of de Leon's environmental efforts before? Why timing it now when the Philippine elections are coming?

Jocjoc and Rotary Club

Rotary cries foul on Joc-Joc

Rotary International, through its officers in the Philippines, regrets that it is the one organization that is constantly linked in the media with the name of Jocelyn "Joc-Joc" Bolante. Never has his residence, business or church affiliation, or other ties been used as an adjectival adjunct to his name. It is as if the man had no identity other than as a Rotarian and somehow "Rotary International" shares in the guilt of which he is accused.

While we acknowledge that Bolante distinguished himself as a Rotary officer (emphasis mine), it is unfair to consistently link his name to Rotary in an attempt to demean the international organization. If the media were truly aware of what Rotary is all about, they would surely realize that linking Rotary to Bolante is hardly fair to all concerned. As Bolante has not yet had his day in court and undergone due process, the imputations of guilt and scurrilous behavior on his person are most unfounded and uncalled for and do not serve the interest of justice and fair play.

Rotary International will continue to pursue its goals and programs in a transparent manner as it has done for the more than 100 years of its existence.

We feel that should former Agriculture Undersecretary Bolante get to present his side of the controversy, justice will then be better served. Until such time, it would be best if the name of Rotary is not mentioned with that of Bolante.

LYNE A. ABANILLA,
past district governor, D3810
and Zone 7 coordinator,
RI Public Image Resource Group



My UNSOLICITED ANSWER is taken from your Rotary International Website-

The Four-Way Test (One of those guiding principles mentioned in your website)

The test, which has been translated into more than 100 languages, asks the following questions:

1. Is it the TRUTH?
2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

Mission (of Rotary International)

The mission of Rotary International, a worldwide association of Rotary clubs, is to provide service to others, to promote high ethical standards, and to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.

Only in the Philippines Again

I was about to check-in for my flight back to Cebu just this afternoon when I noticed a stray cat at Zamboanga INTERNATIONAL Airport. I asked the police and the guards at the final check-in gate why there was a cat in the airport. They just smiled and shoo the cat away. It never went away. Instead, it showed up right under my seat, eating dropped food from passengers.

Featuring Some Boholano Delicacies

The Boholano Processed Foods Business Association (Bohol PROFOODS Inc) is getting themselves blogged. Because they will be one of the featured groups in the 5th International Food Exhibition Philippines in Manila this May 16. (Click on the links please.)

The group is more than excited to be part of the show. This will be their first international exposure. Let us support them. Drop some words of encouragement and support at their blogspot address.