September 30, 2010

The Philippine Daily Inquirer has succeeded in putting birth control and the population debates as a major issue pushing aside the Hostage fiasco, the Jueteng scandal, the Ampatuan trial and the Luisita case on the sidelines, via its Front Page.



The main headline is a compilation of press statements that support President Aquino's unclear stand on the RH Bill (RH bill solons urge Aquino: Be steadfast. Palace: No change in stand of President) giving him positive treatment at the expense of the Catholic Church. Aquino +1. Catholic Church -1.

The other front page news today:

Ampatuan lawyers grill star witness for 4 hours - a report on the testimony of a witness against the Ampatuans, who we are reminded were friends of the former President. Arroyo -1.

Aquino visits blast victims, warns attackers - the story about a very caring President visiting bomb attack victims, with a smaller story of Sec. De Lima inhibiting herself from the investigation. Aquino +1. De Lima +1.

No House vs SC crisis on Gutierrez case - a report reminding us of the charges against Gutierrez and her supposed patron former President Arroyo. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

Strike 1: Ecija chief cop fired over ‘jueteng’ - a story where Police authorities are doing what they can do curb an illegal numbers game. PNP +1.

NOT FOR BIRDS ONLY. Gov’t to put more rice on plates of poor - a positive AFP report on Aquino's rice policy. Aquino +1.

Retiree wins $1M, then $2M in lottery - a report on a man winning the lottery twice.

The scores show President Aquino getting some good press today:
Aquino: 3
De Lima: 1
PNP: 1
Ombudsman: -1
Catholic Church: -1
Arroyo: -2

September 29, 2010

The non-news about the President's still unclear stand on population again took the main headline spot today in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page.



The headline (Aquino blinks, seeks talks with Church. Catholic groups plan protests backed by bishops) basically continues yesterday's news or lack of it, today. This seems like a kind of another he say she say report being forced upon us for discussion but actually there is nothing much that has changed in everyone's position. Our monitor cannot figure as to who this report favors.

The other news in the front page today:

Aquino brings home the bacon: $2.4B - a repeat of yesterday's good news for President Aquino. Aquino +1.

House defies SC over Gutierrez impeachment - a report on a contest between the SC and the House, is actually a dig on the Ombudsman and former President Arroyo. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

PhilHealth doubles premiums - a report that says President Aquino does not want his face shown on PhilHealth cards. This also a report that shows how the national government is helping the poor who cannot afford healthcare. Of course, that help is at the expense of the paying members of Philhealth. Aquino +1.

Joker Arroyo: Must the Filipinos be last to know? - a report which looked like an OpEd dig on the President from a Senator . Aquino -1.

FRAT WAR? 3 carried out grenade attack, say police - a report on a recent grenade blast in Manila.

Aquino to DoJ: Review ‘Morong 43’ case - the President took heed for human rights. Aquino +1.

Aquino forced to quit smoking–for 26 hrs - a report on a what seems like a smoking hot President which reminds us of his great accomplishments from his first foreign trip. Aquino +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 3
Arroyo: -1
Ombudsman: -1

September 28, 2010

The President's stand on birth control took the centerstage today in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page.



Although the President's official statement on birth control has been recorded many times in the past, and although his position actually remains unclear, the main headline today (Aquino bucks Church, backs birth control. CBCP ‘hurt more than disappointed’) reports the same as if it is big news. The report gave space though to the CBCP's side on the issue, which everyone also knows, accusing President Aquino of diverting from real issues with the non-issue, which could actually be the purpose of this headline. Aquino -1.

The other news:

Aquino: US trip yielded $2.8B - reports about the overwhelming success of the President's trip to the US. Aquino +1.

AMLC hot on ‘dirty’ art trade - The Jueteng problem is not only a local government unit problem but must have involved an international art investment and money laundering scheme, which bring excitement to the seeming lack of real news on the issue from the paper.

President plays down faux pas on ‘red’ flag - a report where President Aquino says we should not mind the US' mistakes that somehow degrades our country, because there are more important things to do, making it seem our side is more apologetic to them for what happened. The report also repeats the supposed accomplishments of the President in his first foreign trip. Aquino +1.

Luisita mediation deadlocked - a report that says there is no progress in the Hacienda Luisita case, giving a he-say-she-say kind of coverage of the same. The report referred to President Aquino's family interests in the landholdings and pointed out some history which is not favorable to the President. Aquino -1.

ARE WE PREPARED? P12-B ‘Ondoy’ fund still unspent - a report that says nothing is done of the funds supposed to help Ondoy victims and avoid future similar flooding, giving Sen. Legarda space in which she reprimanded the present administration for lacking some sense of urgency while asking for more funds.

Heavy bags no laughing matter for Lapid - a report on a senator insisting on his proposed legislation related to the heavy physical load children are literally carrying on their backs.

The score:
Aquino: 0

September 27, 2010

The Jueteng gambling Lord's money laundering scheme took centerstage in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The main headline is a confusing report on an interview with a supposed lawyer of a supposed dead gambking lord who supposedly know how money is cleaned through various supposedly International transactions (‘Jueteng’ lords clean money in Singapore. Buying artworks, luxury cars part of laundering). Our monitor cannot conclude on the logic of the report nor could it judge as to who the news benefits.

The other Front Page news today:

Obama grants Aquino a 7-minute meet in NYC - an embarrassing report about the Philippine president trying to get American President Barack Obama cornered for a photo opportunity, spinned as if It is the best 7 minutes of any Filipino's life. The report is also a listing of the accomplishments of the President out of his first foreign trip. Aquino +1.

Analysis. Crony tells of rivalry in Marcos’ inner circle - a book review on the life of a supposed Marcos crony that started with an out of place remark on both the Aquino and Arroyo administration's Marcos-like holding of information from the public. Aquino -1. Arroyo -1.

RP flag inverted inadvertently - a report on the Philippine flag displayed the wrong way without so much a protest from the country.

Vatican probes Catholic group - an AP report on a cult-like Catholic group which the Vatican starts to look closer into.

High court OKs arraignment of AFP comptroller - a report on some belated court proceedings involving the misuse of the AFP pension fund.

Advice of new disaster council: Save your life; leave everything - a report that says everyone is better prepared for the next Ondoy-like floods.

The scores:
Aqiuno: 0
Arroyo: -1

September 26, 2010

The Great President Benigno Aquino III graces the Phil Daily Inquirer Front Page today via a nice picture with his close pal American President Barack Obama and a headline heralding the speech laden with his People Power brand.



The main headline (People power vs poverty. Do it Filipino-style, Aquino urges UN) is basically a report that says we are very lucky to have Aquino as our President. While it seems that former President Arroyo never spoke about anything outside the country in the past (her speech was not covered by the papers), President Aquino tells people all over the world how to be real heroes like us, which is for the paper well worth the headline space.Aquino +1.

The other front page news today:

Fil-Am youths find way to San Jose, Aquino’s reforms - a report on the activities of different Aquino fans based in the USA. Aquino +1.

‘Panic’ rooms: Now, Provident lives up to its name, clearly - a report on what is happening in a subdivision devastated by Ondoy last year.

Mother cuts knee-length hair after burying her 3 kids - another story and updates on some more Ondoy survivors.

All-American choir sings like Pinoys - a report on some choir singing the paru-parong bukid.

Room at the inn, other reflections like the rushing waters of Ondoy - more stories on Ondoy, captured in a book.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page today gave President Aquino exclusive positive treatment:
Aquino: 2

September 25, 2010

The success of President Aquino while on a trip to the USA is heralded as the headline in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline today (RP gets $434-M grant from US. Money meant to fight poverty, corruption) gave all positive developments for the President's visit in the US, with a multi million grant highlighted to be all too positive for the country. Of course, such grants would have strings attached to it which were left out from the news. Aquino +1.

The other news in the front page today:

Giant RP clams to adorn famous Barcelona church - an article reporting that our giant clam shells will adorn a church in Spain.

Palace to IIRC: Your findings are only recommendatory - a confusing report referring to Malacanang as if it is a person and Sec. De Lima as if she is not part of Malacanang.

Aquino stops shanties’ demolition in Quezon City - a report on a supposedly violent demolition of shanties without any report nor details on the violence that happened. Our monitor cannot make a judgement as to how the report has treated the President although some interviews with De Lima gave the latter some positive treatment at the expense of the DILG. De Lima +1.

Ready or not, ‘Ondoy’ can happen again - the former administration is all-talk but have no solutions on Ondoy. Arroyo -1.

PCSO has plans how to kill ‘jueteng’ - a report that say there are plans to stop Jueteng.

RP’s most expensive fish faces extinction - a report on an endangered fish.

The scores:
Aquino: 1
Delima: 1
Arroyo: -1

September 24, 2010

News about Jueteng, Ondoy, the Hostage Report and the President's USA trip trivialities are the articles found in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The main headline (Aquino won’t ax Puno yet. ‘Foes and friends are entitled to due process’) is a report where the President is saying all the wrong things, yet the paper didn't take notice and still came from a positive point of view. Aquino +1.

The other front page news today:

Bishop defends Atong: He’s into jai-alai, not ‘jueteng’ - is a report where we are also reminded that Atong Ang is former President Estrada's gambling buddy, who pleaded guilty to corruption charges. Estrada -1.

Ex-Manila police chief: ‘Biggest accountability’ - a report saying the Inquirer got hold of the missing portions of the IIRC report, enumerating the actions recommended against personalities involved in the crisis management, saying that the rescue has been botched by the ground commander and the crisis management chair, giving credence to the hostage takers action with the recommendation against the Ombudsman, and virtually freeing the national government from culpability. Ombudsman -1. PNP -1.

ONDOY: ONE YEAR AFTER. Kids express horrors in healing artworks - a report where the paper is part of its own news helping kids adjust from the trauma caused by Ondoy. Inquirer +1.

ONDOY: ONE YEAR AFTER. They eluded watery graves but are now ‘living dead’ - a report where some victims of Ondoy are said to remain as victims.

Palace review of report dismays De Lima. DoJ chief says IIRC put on defensive - reports of some bad feelings of Sec. De Lima on the somewhat insulting situation she and her committee was put into from the actions of the President. Aquino -1. De Lima +1.

Aquino party feasts on hotdogs in NY street, pays $54 - a very busy President, receiving the same love and affection by some US institution as his mother, is frugal at the same time, in direct contrast with the evil former President. Aquino +1. Arroyo -1.

Don’t bother to txt Noy; he left cell at home in RP - a report tagging the President's miscommunication group.

The scores show that even when the President says the darnedest things, he still get passing marks:
Aquino: 1
De Lima: 1
Inquirer: 1
Estrada: -1
Arroyo: -1
PNP: -1
Ombudsman: -1

September 23, 2010

A smiling Aquino probably meant to say that the President has arrived, walking past the NYT (in New York) signage, is all there is about the President's trip in the USA, in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today. Meanwhile, it is still a toss up between Jueteng and the Hostage Taking incident on the grab for the headlines, with the former edging the other one out by a bit.



The main headline today (SENATOR SANTIAGO SAYS: Atong Ang No. 1 gambling lord. She also slams DILG-PNP control of ‘jueteng’) is a totally one sided report coming from Sen. Mirriam Santiago's privilege speech in the senate that seems to add more mud to the already muddled issue. PNP -1. DILG -1.

The other news today:

Mayor Lim singled out for criminal charges - is a report that says the AP got more information than virtually everyone as they saw parts of the report hidden from the public, wherein it was said that Mayor Lim seems to have received the main swing of the axe while the mass media will be receiving a slap on the wrist. Sec. De Lima got some negative treatment as it was said that the President is not 100% on her recommendations, although the latter is completely shielded from any wrongdoing. De Lima -1.

Solons laud Puno offer to quit, not to burden Aquino - a surprising positive report on USec Puno with some parts of the new negative to him as well, more of a he say she say type of news.

Not me, argues every one on Santiago’s list - a report in which everyone says they are not involved in Jueteng as alleged by Sen. Santiago.

ONDOY: ONE YEAR AFTER Saving 100 no big deal for ‘Jet Ski’ judge - a report on a hero on Jetski, related to the anniversary of the Ondoy floods.

ONDOY: ONE YEAR AFTER The pain of a hero’s mother: Nobody remembers my son - a report on another Ondoy hero, a poor teenaged soul that seems to be forgotten now.

Charice draws raves, awe, pride in ‘Glee’ - a report on the Filipino singer Charice' debut in a US TV series.

Rich detainees may be asked to pay to stay in jail - a somewhat funny report that says those in prison may soon pay for being there.

The scores:
PNP: -1
DILG: -1
De Lima: -1

September 22, 2010

If it is between jueteng and the hostage fiasco, the jueteng issue wins, as far as the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page is concerned.


The main headline today (Aquino aide a ‘jueteng king’. Bishop: Puno gets P8M per month) is the report on the senate hearings on Jueteng wherein Bishop Cruz presented a list of payola recipients led by an Aquino friend and DILG USec Puno, and Former PNP Chief Versoza. Aquino -1. Puno -1, PNP -1.

The other news in the front page today:

‘Gretchen’s BF’ makes surprise visit to Cruz - a continuation of the main headline, again a report on the Jueteng Senate hearings which report involved the name of the major contributor to the Presidendt's election campaign funds, seems negative to President Aquino more than USec Puno this time. Aquino -1. Puno -1.

Autumn in NY: Aquino debuts on world stage - a positive report on the President's world "debut" contrast with the expenses of a bad former president. Arroyo -1. Aquino +1.

China, HK praise report; critics say many questions unanswered - a surprisingly positive spin for President Aquino but negative mostly to the De Lima report. Aquino +1.

Lim in tears, defends cops, blames report - a report on the reaction of people recommended charged (for something) by the De Lima committee.

‘Bilibid or not’ may be the next boom town - a report on plans for the new (now Old) Bilibid prisons in Muntinlupa.

No more ‘siopao’ crisis resto; Palace sets up situation room - a report on some things that must be done following the hostage fiasco that has little to do with siopao.

Public warned: Perfume attracts dengue mosquitoes - a report on Dengue and ways to avoid it.

The worst day for Aquino still yields a balanced treatment for him from the Philippine Daily Inquirer while the former President miles away from the limelight still receives purely negative treatment.
Aquino: 0
Arroyo: -1
PNP:

September 21, 2010

The report (partial) of the De Lima Commission took the main slot in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The main headline (13 may face charges over hostage fiasco. ABS-CBN, GMA 7, TV5 also liable) turns out to be a press release almost exclusively coming from Malacanang. Aquino +1. Ombudsman -1

The other news in the front page today:

Aquino gives copy of report to China first - a he say she say take on the delay in which the administration is releasing the report pf the De Lima commission, starting with mostly the side of the President.

Report ‘jueteng,’ bishops urged - more reports on Jueteng from Bishop Cruz and Ilocos Sur governor Singson, turning out negative to the Catholic church for having received donations from the operators of Jueteng. Catholic Church -1.

Metro air quality worsening - a report on air quality giving good exposure to the DENR.

Farmers walk out of Luisita talks - another he say she say type of report this time on the Hacienda Luisita where it seems now everyone forgets about the issues' connection to the administration.

Aquino flies to US to see Obama, address UN meet - a report saying that Pres. Aquino will be hobnobbing with the likes of Obama and Clinton. Aquino +1.

DepEd: No homework on weekends just a harmless advice - a report where the DepEd Sec defends his memorandum against weekend assignments.

The scores shows that even after too much gaffes yesterday, President Aquino still get to have positive news to his name.
Aquino: 2
Ombudsman: -1
Catholic Church: -1

September 20, 2010

The release (or non-release) of the DeLima Committee report on the hostage taking incident is the main news today although some articles are dedicated to the President's trip to the US, in the front page of today's issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.


The main headline is generally (Release of hostage report draws flak. Why China first? Solons ask Palace) a negative take on the palace's decision to hold the release of the De Lima committee report, before sharing the same with Chinese authorities. Aquino -1.

The other front page news today:

UN summit to review dev’t goals - a report on the UN's Millenium Development Goals and various goings-on in New York in relation to the UN summit.

RP eases on tourism promotion in HK - a report that says Philippine tourism is not that too bad affected by the hostage-taking fiasco, surprising positive for the administration. Aquino +1.

While in US, Aquino still in charge - a report on who's in charge when the President is not around.

Many OFW dream houses in ‘Little Italy’ still empty - a New York Times report on the plight of OFWs.

Abadilla 5 convict: Aquino my last hope - a one-sided report on convicted killers, saying that the SC and all the courts where the convicts were tried and found guilty were wrong. The report also showed how even convicts trust the President. SC -1. Aquino +1.

US backs ASEAN stand against use of force in Spratlys - a report where the President Aquino is mentioned to meet with President Obama in the US. Aquino +1.

Church asks shoppers to try charity stores - a report on a project by a Catholic charity organization. Catholic Church +1.

The scores shows that even if the President is having a really goofy and bad day, he still comes out as a positive person in the PDI front page:
Aquino: 2
Catholic Church: 1
SC: -1

September 19, 2010

The Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today took a story related to the hostage fiasco as main headline, although more space is devoted to volunteerism and do-good-feel-good type of news.



The main headline today is Binay mission on hold. RP to send De Lima report to Chinese embassy - a report much like a press statements from Sec. Lacierda and VP Binay, given free pass by the paper even if said statements sound absurd. Aquino +1. Binay +1.

The other news today:

FIELD OF DREAMS II Smokey’s diamond in the rough rises - a report that says sports can do wonders to poor people via a project led by Gawad Kalinga.

‘Dear Mr. President’ letters seek free education - a report on a UN Millennium Development Goals project using kids to tell the President he is good but he can do more. Aquino +1.

Servathon: Volunteers touch lives, are heroes for a day - another report of good people working together for the benefit of communities, led among others by the paper itself. Inquirer +1.

Prison break: Laughter sets high-risk inmates free - a novel activity involving yoga in the Metro Manila District Jail for prisoners there.

TGIF: No homework on weekends–DepEd - welcome news to students who do not want doing assignments.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Binay: 1
Inquirer: 1

September 18, 2010

A new case filed in the USA revived the unresolved Dacer-Corbito double murder case, taking the headline slot in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The main headline (Dacer kids sue Estrada, Lacson for $120M in US. 5 others also charged) is a report on the details of the charges filed by 3 Dacer kids in the US, giving both former Pres Estrada and Sen. Lacson bad press. Estrada -1. Lacson -1.

The other news today:

Aquino still needs to fill 4,300 positions - reports about the dilemma the President is having in appointing people to government posts. Although the title of the reports seems a bit negative, the contents nevertheless is accommodating to the President.

‘One-strike policy’ for cops linked to ‘jueteng’ - a collection of various he-say-she-say reports on Jueteng.

83-page hostage report in Aquino hands - a report that is like a teaser on the Delima committee findings on the hostage taking event, saying 12 people are recommended to be charged. De lima +1.

Willie Revillame signs up with TV5, gets sued for P486M - a report that turned out to be somewhat more of a press release from Revillame's side.

For real? Robin weds Mariel in Ibaloi rites - a report on somewhat extralegal wedding of a TV celebrity couple.

There are other reports on the front page today (44 Million Americans are living in poverty and A day of Firsts for Pope in UK) which web links our monitor did not find from the Inquirer website. Said news are international in nature and seems not to have involved any government officials.

The scores:
De Lima: 1
Estrada: -1
Lacson: -1

September 17, 2010

The 8/23 hostage taking fiasco retook the centerstage in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page, away from Jueteng and Ombudsman issues, today.


The main story today (10 liable in hostage fiasco. Raps vs cops, gov’t officials, media eyed) excites the readers as to whom the proverbial axe will fall, while giving out some of the facts known so far. The report gave Sec. Delima full coverage who always seems to have a nice positive image as far as the Phil Daily Inquirer is concerned. Delima +1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

ANOTHER ANTIGAMBLING CAMPAIGN Senate vows no whitewash in ‘jueteng’ probe - a he-say-she-say kind of report on Jueteng which our monitor is unsure as to who benefits from the report itself.

Foreign investors driving bulls in RP bourse - a report on the uptick in the Phil Stock Exchange credited to Pres. Aqiuno while entirely forgetting that the mild bull drive started when the 1st half RP economy (when the President is not yet in Malacanang) was reported better than expected. Aquino +1.

P700-M tax evasion case filed vs 3 oil firm execs - The BOC is reported to be doing its job of running after tax evaders, perhaps following the marching orders of the Aquino administration. Aquino +1.

Is love affair over? Not true, says Shalani - a positive report on the President with some "kilig" factor to boot, based on an unknown blogger's supposed claims of knowing the score between the President and his girlfriend. Aquino +1.

Abadilla 5 ‘victims of speedy, but false, justice’ - a report from the exclusive point of view of the SC minority that shows that the Abadilla 5 should be released but is not so because of the wrong decision of the majority in the Supreme Court. SC -1.

Realty firm got Pag-IBIG funds in just 7 days - a local real estate company is very bad, all coming from VP Binay's point of view. Binay +1.

Looking beyond scapegoats - an analysis of what the Filipinos are doing about the hostage crisis with some biblical references.

The scores:
Aquino: 3
Delima: 1
Binay: 1
SC: -1

September 15, 2010

The impeachment case of the Ombudsman took centerstage and Jueteng still gets ample the space while the hostage incident becomes less and less of a news, in the Philippine Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The main story (Swift SC mercy for Merci. Lawmakers to defy high tribunal order) seems to be opening the door to the idea that the Supreme Court, beholden to former President Arroyo, is so much in a hurry to save Ombudsman Gutierrez. SC -1. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

The other news in the Front Page today:

Reversal of roles: Media execs grilled in Senate hearing - quite a balanced report on the senate hearings with mass media executives.

‘Jueteng’ in North, ‘swertres’ in South - reports that there is Jueteng all over, in cities and provinces.

Verzosa didn’t heed order to stop ‘jueteng’ - a report from an undisclosed source that Pres. Aquino and Sec. Robredo are actually doing something about Jueteng. Aquino +1. Robredo +1.

Cops sound alarm on ‘Dancing Bandit’ - a snatching incident and warning report.

MARCHING ORDERS Aquino to Bacalzo: Walk the straight path - a report on President Aquino giving good advise to the incoming PNP chief. Aquino +1.

Priests getting ‘jueteng’ money, says Cruz - a report that even the religious seems to be receiving Jueteng Payola, diluting the President's culpability.

Medical nightmare: Superbugs - a report on newly identified drug resistant bacteria.

The scores today gave hints on good versus evil:
Aquino: 2
Robredo: 1
SC: -1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

September 14, 2010

The Jueteng payola allegations completely took over, pushing the hostage taking incident totally out of, the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The main headline (Puno admits offers from ‘jueteng’ lords. Operators used kin, friends as ‘conduits’) is a Jueteng revelation coming from the Aquino administration itself, of course spinning everything to their favor. The report also says that the administration is focused on stamping out the numbers game, a total departure from what is heard and seen on radio and TV interviews of the President who seem not to see it as a priority (Jueteng does not kill). Aquino +1.

The other Front Page News today:

Aquino appoints Bacalzo PNP chief - a mostly positive treatment of the new PNP chief. PNP +1. Aquino +1.

Batangas STL franchisee underdeclaring sales - A report on illegal gambling and/or illegal schemes of legal gambling franchises, making sure it is reported as mostly local government problem, and surely absolving the national government.

Racket can be stopped - is another report affirming the local nature of the problem of Jueteng, again absolving the national government.

JUDICIAL REVOLT? Justices planning mass leaves - a surprisingly balanced take on the problems of the judiciary, a sort of he-says-she-says kind of balance, which is of course positive to the administration while negative to the courts. Such treatment though is not clearly cut out as our monitor grades the report as neutral.

Ombudsman runs to SC to seek relief - supposedly a press report with interviews from the Ombudsman that turned out mostly negative for her and her patron. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

Dengue kills 117 pupils, hits 12,000 others - a confusing report that tends to highlight the rise of the Dengue problem while the health department dismissed declaring a calamity because the problem is waning.

Unwanted baby won’t be wanting of a loving mother - a report on a baby boy left in an airplane, and the search for the mother.

Nuisance callers? Get a ‘digital secretary’ - a report on a telephone service that junks junk calls.

The scores today seem to show that the Phil. Daily Inquirer treats the administration with affection even when the issued headlined are supposedly negative to it.
Aquino: 2
PNP: 1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

September 13, 2010

The hostage taking incident and issues surrounding it seems to have taken a back seat in the Phil Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



For the second day in a row, allegations that some people in the administration of President Aquino receive payola over a numbers game took centerstage as headline in the Inquirer Front page (5 more execs linked to ‘jueteng’ payoffs. Cruz irked by Palace response). Naturally, the news is negative to Pres. Aquino even if the accuser, a Catholic bishops has yet to show some proof. Aquino -1.

The other news in the front page are as follows:

Lifestyle monitors ferret out tax cheats - a report where Aquino's BIR chief and her team are described as crusaders, running after tax evaders. From historically one of the most corrupt agencies in government, the BIR now is one of the good guys as per this report. Aquino +1. BIR +1.

Crisis over AFP, PNP pension fund - a report that did not mention the increase in budget request as it is, but rather from a point of view of the pros and cons of giving retired soldiers and policement their pension.

Analysis. Bond float report cheap propaganda - a negative title of an analysis from someone who very well looked like an Aquino supporter during the campaign, that turned out to be a very positive feature for President Aquino, who by the way won by a "landslide". Aquino +1.

For SSS exec, P7-M windfall isn’t obscene - although this news report includes an interview of the person charged with receiving too much windfall, it is nonetheless one sided as it did not verify the details of the what the same person, an Arroyo appointee, received in actual compensation. Surely, this report promotes the idea that the administration is doing its job of saving money for the government. Aquino +1. Arroyo -1.

Baby found in plane’s trash bag - an interesting story of a baby possibly born in an airplane but immediately abandoned by his mother.

GMA-7 lists guidelines on hostage coverage - an improvement of a media network's guidelines, ending with President Aquino's hopes of an unassailable report from the Delima committee.

9/11 rites in NY: From day of unity to day of discord - events happening around the memorial of the 9/11/01 attacks.

The scores today shows that while the President received negative headline, the issue turned out to be very positive for him:
Aquino: 2
BIR: 1
Arroyo: -1

September 12, 2010

For the first time since the hostage taking incident in Manila, the Phil. Daily Inquirer front page today does not have a report on it, except only in passing.



The main headline ('Jueteng' payoff bared. Retired bishop says Aquino aides get P2M monthly) is a report on the first salvo of tirades coming from Anti-Jueteng crusader Bishop Cruz against the proliferation of the numbers game in the Aquino administration. The bishop did not present any proof but seems to support Sec. Robredo over whoever will replace him in case he is removed from the DILG. This news is also revealing in a way that the paper received a text message from the President in response to the news, showing how close the paper is to the President. Aquino -1. Robredo +1.

The other front page news today:

Koran row shrouds 9/11 anniversary in controversy - a report on the US remembrance of 9/11 with several controversies being brewed all around it.

Buses can be as effective as trains, says prof - reports about a public transportation scheme that may be implemented in the country.

‘Palengskwela’: Kids learn in marketplace of ideas - a feature report on a project to educate some children working in the marketplace, similar to what CNN hero Penaflorida is doing.

EDSA Shrine groups start prayer-vigil for Aquino - a report that blurs the intention of prayers started at the EDSA shrine.

River warriors, eco-precinct cops to keep Pasig clean - a report on some new developments on saving rivers.

The score:
Robredo: 1
Aquino: -1

September 11, 2010

For the first time in our monitor, the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page gave an investment news prominent coverage today.



The main headline (Peso bond sale nets $1B. Landslide vote of confidence–Purisima) is a unchallenged news and opinion coming from the administration's finance deparment saying the investment world gives President Aquino an overwhelming vote of confidence. Aquino +1.

The other news today:

Aquino: Let us not jump to conclusions is a report on the negative reaction of the President to some conclusions everyone seems to be making out of the statements of Sec. Delima that there is possibility that some hostage taking victims may have been shot by friendly fire.

Hope for peace aired on Muslim feast day - looks like a press release coming from the office of the Sec. of defense regarding the Muslim celebration.

Sue me, Cunanan dares Drilon - more news coverage on the reaction of former Pres. Arroyo appointees getting excessive money by being directors of GOCCs. Arroyo -1.

Elite AFP, PNP units give Aquino a show - a two-day old report on the capability of the AFP and PNP units, showing Aquino bent on improving their emergency response capabilities. Aquino +1.

Emerald’s ‘siopao’ only gainer in hostage crisis - a feature on a restaurant that figured in the hostage crisis.

‘I’m a victim, not a monster,’ says land firm founder - reports of the problems encountered by a company that received negative treatment from the Inquirer.

There are other news today, specifically about some controversies in the US about the impending burning of Koran and other issues related to the anniversary of 9/11, that seems not related to any local personalities that we monitor.

The scores today show that President Aquino is treated very positively while former President Arroyo is still in negative territory even when the latter is not anymore visible in the news:
Aquino: 2
Arroyo: -1

September 10, 2010

The news on the hostage taking again took back the centerstage of the Phil. Daily Inquirer front page today.



The main news today (Probers eye police fire in deaths. ‘Victims not shot at close range’) is a report on the possibility that some victims were not shot by a bullet coming from the hostage taker. PNP -1.

In other news:


Aquino announces plan to form British-style elite security force - a press report of an interview with the President that although mildly put by the paper seems to show President Aquino digging his own grave. Aquino -1.

Aquino admits receipt of insulting HK letter - more report that tries to absolve the President and which many Filipinos would see that way, but in reality digs his grave deeper. Aquino -1.

Radyo Inquirer 10 years in the making - a media promotion of the new Inquirer AM radio station, for the 2nd day in a row.

Six ‘euro generals’ suspended - Police general taking the heat on an issue dating back to the former administration. PNP -1.

Google shows psychic powers in new product - a report on a new feature in Google search.

This time, BIR lowers boom on resort owners - a report on the BIR going after alleged tax evaders.

Globe Asiatique got easy terms in solon’s time - VP Binay getting good coverage at the expense of former VP de Castro, on the Pag-ibig scam. Binay +1. De Castro -1.

No matter how the President is being shielded from negative treatment, the result seems to still be negative for him today:
Binay: 1
De Castro: -1
PNP: -1
Aquino: -2

September 9, 2010

The Ampatuan hearing is bigger news today than the hostage taking incident, in the front page of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.



The main headline (HOUSE HELP TESTIMONY Ampatuans planned murders over dinner. ‘Kill them all’ order was given by clan patriarch) covers the court hearing where a witness detailed the participation of the Ampatuan family in the gruesome massacre that happened in Maguindano about 10 months ago. There was mention of former President Arroyo whose administration was said to have promised the accused Ampatuan of personal custody by the former President, in a way connecting her to the clan. Arroyo -1.

The other news today:

Radyo Inquirer 990 takes center stage - a news report cum PR about the new Inquirer radio station.

Arroyo office donated P1.75B - a report about former President Arroyo giving away government money perhaps to friends. Arroyo -1.

Ratings war may have doomed negotiations - a report on the media bungling that could have exacerbated the hostage situation. Mass Media -1.

WRAPPING UP ‘Intriguing’ gunshots trigger more questions - a report where some members of the Delima committee opening the possibility of a conspiracy in the hostage taking incident. Our monitor cannot still conclude as to whom this conspiracy theory is being directed at.

GOV’T FAT CATS ‘Major, major scandal’ unearthed at MECO - a one sided report on supposed scandalous arrangement at a goverment agency, wherein the hero of the day seems to be President Aquino and his administration. Aquino +1.

Climate chief leaves huge carbon footprin - a report on a charge against an Arroyo appointee.

Realty firm got billions through ‘express lane’ - former VP De Castro seems to be taking the heat on this report on some Pag-ibig brewing scandal. De Castro -1.

The scores today seems to show who are simply evil and who could save the day:
Aquino: 1
De Castro: -1
Mass Media: -1
Arroyo: -2

September 8. 2010

The hostage taking incident that happened more than 2 weeks ago still is the centerpiece news in the front page of the Phil. Daily Inquirer today:



The main news today (Was SWAT tipped off? Probers get conflicting reports on timeline) reports of a possible mistake again by the SWAT team on its testimony in the De Lima Commission. A recall of the event repeats the world condemnation of the Aquino administration. PNP -1. Aquino -1.

The other news today:

Saving lives or keeping people informed? - reports about a De Lima committee member asking witnesses from the mass media emotional questions that obviously the witnesses cannot answer. Mass Media -1.

SSS says Cunanan, Neri bonuses illegal - a report that seems to say that former government officials are bad but did not link directly with former President Arroyo. Neri -1.

HK DRUG CASE Congressman Singson defers plea - reports on the legal problems of Congressman Singson in HongKong.

Dengue cases rising in Metro - an update and alarm on the rise of Dengue.

Arroyo ally, justices argue on truth body - a report about the legality of the truth commission being heard in the Supreme Court which surprisingly tried hard to not to give an opinion but surely turned out negative for the former President as expected. Arroyo -1.

Pag-IBIG moves to blacklist real estate firm - a report that would touch on the involvement of the former vice president. De Castro -1.

Money can buy you happiness, up to $75K - an AP report on the happiness connection with money.

The scores:
Aquino: -1
Arroyo: -1
De Castro: -1
PNP: -1
Mass Media: -1
Neri: -1

September 7, 2010

The hostage taking incident still is at the center of the Inquirer Front Page today.



The main headline reports in length (‘PNP has no nego team’. No TV, radio monitors at command post–Yebra) on hostage negotiator Yebra's testimony in the De Lima commission that puts the PNP on very negative position. PNP -1.

The other news today:

Puno: I’ll take bullet for the President - a report that questions the appointment of USec Puno in the DILG by President Aquino, and the appointments of manicurist and gardeners in the Arroyo administration. Aquino -1. Arroyo -1.

Arroyo asked to testify in NBN-ZTE case - a report that puts former President Arroyo in a very difficult position. Arroyo -1.

Under fire, Palace says Robredo only ‘acting’ DILG chief - a report on the DILG chief under pressure from Congress. Robredo -1.

Fat bonuses to be frozen for 2 months - reports on GOCCs receiving perks, the news without mentioning who to blame.

27-inch man is world’s shortest - a AP report on the world's shortest person who may soon be not the shortest anymore.

Ombudsman to probe housing mess in Pampanga - former VP De Castro in the focus of attention in the Pag-ibig bogus borrowers issue recently exposed by the mass media. De Castro -1.

Gov’t asks court to outlaw Abus as terrorist group - a report on what is possibly a wrong report (and PNP claim) on the killing of Abu Sayyaf leaders. PNP -1.

The scores shows former President Arroyo and the PNP leading the negatively treated pack in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today:
Arroyo: -2
PNP: -2
Aquino: -1
Robredo: -1
De Castro: -1

September 6, 2010

Although there are still news about the hostage taking incident, the main headline today took a story about the killing of an Abu Sayyaf leader.



The main news today (Abu commander killed. Special Action Force raids bandits’ Sulu lair) is a report that gave good grades to the PNP with the successful operation against the Abu Sayyaf Group. PNP +1.

The other news today:

Senators press Aquino: Heads must roll - a report about people telling the President what he should do. Aquino -1.

Analysis. Crisis erodes confidence in P-Noy - an analysis with some more unverified information on the hostage crisis that gave negative implications for the President. Aquino -1.

8 long hours of waiting at Dengue Express Lane - a report on the sorry experiences of Dengue victims' long and arduous wait for hospital services at San Lazaro Hospital. DOH -1.

Traffic jams bad for health - a report on the effects of traffic jams on health.

DoH urges 6 habits to fight dengue - a report on dengue cases happening in many places in the country.

RP scientists note massive bleaching of coral reefs - a report of concern on the dying coral reefs.

The scores seems to show that the President is having some negative treatment today:
PNP: 1
DOH: -1
Aquino: -2

September 5, 2010

Again, the hostage crisis took centerstage in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The main headline (‘I could’ve grabbed him’. Negotiator says he had chance to subdue Mendoza) reports of an additional revelation from the De Lima committee investigation of the hostage incident, a revelation that says someone in the Ombudsman's office (Deputy Ombudsman Emilio Gonzales) earlier asked money from the hostage taker to be able to review his case. Ombudsman -1.

The other news today:

Int’l tour operators still bullish on RP sites - reports of the effects of the hostage taking incident in the tourism industry.

Crisis body abandoned crisis, Isko Moreno tells probers - more report on the De Lima Committee's interivew with those involved in the hostage negotiations giving both Mayor Lim and General Magtibay more explaining to do. Mayor Lim -1. PNP -1.

Thursday Group tends to convicts’ body, soul - a report on a group with an advocacy to tend to sick convicts.

It’s priests vs pros in charity basketball - a report on a fund-raiser event, with catholic priests playing basketball with pro-cagers.

US carrier here; crew to ‘shop, shop, shop, eat, eat, eat’ - a story on the port call of a US aircraft carrier in Manila.

The scores:
Ombudsman: -1
Mayor Lim: -1
PNP: -1

September 4, 2010

The Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today gave the hostage taking incident the most prominent space again today after a break of two days.



The main headline (Bus hostage-taking deemed ‘local crisis’. Puno admits no training in hostage situations) gave space to the hearings by the DeLima committee on the hostage crisis, giving the PNP much negative publicity. The hearing seems to show that Usec Puno is ready to admit his incompetence in the situation and might very well going to be the fall guy. PNP -1. Usec Puno -1.

The other news today:

Aquino takes full responsibility for fiasco - a report that gave President Aquino almost exclusive space to admit responsibility on the hostage mess, but did not eke out from him any response as to what would he do then. Nevertheless, we count this news negative to the President. The President also basically gave DILG Sec. Robredo a free pass on the hostage situation, and it very well looks like USec Puno will be the sacrificial lamb. Robredo +1. Usec Puno -1. Aquino -1.

‘Reinstatement’ letter undelivered - another coverage of the committee hearing on the hostage crisis showing the President's concern on that day. Aquino +1.

Too late the heroes: Crack police unit struts stuff - a report that says a hostage rescue is actually within our means. PNP +1.

P8B more for poorest of poor - a report on the budget being asked congress by the administraiton for 2011, that benefits the supposed poorest at the expense of wealthier farmers, making the news both positive and negative to the administration.

US carrier arriving in Manila today - a report on a US naval vessel docking in Manila possibly for some rest and recreation of its crew.

There is another news today about Stephen Hawking's theory about the world's creation that did not require the presence of God, which link our monitor can't find in the Inquirer website.

The scores today shows USec Puno seems to be on his way our of DILG possibly as a sacrificial lamb:
Robredo: 1
Aquino: 0
PNP: 0
Usec Puno: -2