April 30, 2011

Former President Arroyo is again on the headlines amidst the background of a Royal kiss, in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (‘I am not protecting Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’. Gutierrez quits; ‘On with antigraft drive’—Aquino) puts the former President on the headline via news on the Ombudsman's resignation. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1. Aquino +1.

The other front page news today:

Gutierrez act removes venue to air Arroyo ‘sins,’ say critics - a continuation of tirades against the former President. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1. Pangilinan +1. Catholic Church +1.

World goes mad for Wills and Kate - is a coverage on the Royal Wedding.

‘Dress absolutely magical, put together by bluebirds’ - more stories on the Royal Wedding.

Pilgrims descend on Rome to witness JP II’s beatification - a story on the upcoming beatification of a beloved Pope. Catholic Church +1.

Sorry Lito Lapid, no chance to wear toga - some side stories on the resignation of the Ombudsman, giving space to some statements. Recto +1.

The scores:
Catholic Church: 2
Aquino: 1
Recto: 1
Pangilinan: 1
Ombudsman: -2
Arroyo: -2

April 29, 2011

A complete reversal of yesterday's headline made it to the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (VFA allows US presence. But DFA adds revival of US bases ‘not possible’) is a he-says-she-says report that is generally a negative view on the possibility of return of the US Bases in the Philippines, although there seems to be no such possibility.

The other front page news:

Sweetheart deal alleged in Cojuangco’s Clark move - a question is raised by the paper through unnamed sources on the propriety of an airport-airline deal. Aquino -1.

Plunder raps to include labor secretary - is a repeat of previous days' news report on the same matter but this time implicating even the present DOLE Secretary. Chavez +1. Arroyo -1.

School turns ex-OFWs’ wounds into wisdom - an OFW featured in a front page news report, giving some people a chance to air their statements.

To this ‘yaya,’ prince will always be ‘my boy’ - a report on one of the more prominent example of a successful OFW that served British Royalties.

What stiff upper lip? Nah, it’s lower lip wobble - a compilation of side reports on the upcoming Royal wedding.

Aquino wishes royals media break - looks like the President's spokesman adlibbing on what might the President want to say. Aquino +1.

The scores:
Chavez: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0
Arroyo: -1

April 28, 2011

Since there are some US Senators that went to the Philippines, the Phil. Daily Inqurier Front Page today banners a huge jump with the possibility of the return of US bases.



The headline (Return of US forces to Subic possible. US military build-up in Guam delayed) simply says that some US Senators are looking at Subic.

Doubts raised on plunder complaint - although the title seems to raise doubts on the complaint, there is no such doubts in the report itself. Instead, the report is a continuation of troubles hurled at the former President. Chavez +1. De Lima +1. Lacson +1. Arroyo -1.

Anti-PCOS, IT whiz named to Comelec - the new COMELEC commissioner branded as whiz. COMELEC +1.

Filipina ‘rock star’ to kids is human trafficking warrior - a Filipina advocate against human trafficking is featured.

LGUs warned: Skip posh out-of-town seminars - DILG Sec. Robredo given good space to say his piece against out of town junkets by local officials. Robredo +1.

Walk for John Paul to build new shrine - a report on more activities dedicated to soon to be declared blessed Pope. Catholic Church +1.

The scores:
Robredo: 1
Chavez: 1
De Lima: 1
Lacson: 1
COMELEC: 1
Catholic Church: 1
Arroyo: -1

April 27, 2011

The former President is in hot waters as declared by the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Arroyo’s plunder raps based on her notes. ‘Charge to OWWA,’ Arroyo ordered; P550M misused) is a one-sided report on a supposed plunder. Arroyo -1. Chavez +1.

The other front page news today:

It’s come to this: Bishop calls RH backers terrorists - both sides heard on the case of RH but the issues are not dealt with. However, while the Church seems to dismiss any further dialogues, the President still project a willingness to listen. Aquino +1.

DENR won’t impose mining moratorium - this time the focus is on the DENR who wouldn't budge to declare a moratorium on mining. The effect of this news on the department is unclear at the moment.

Johor sultan coming for old time’s sake - our President will be accepting a King as guest. Aquino +1.

Cops get tip Pilapil sis-in-law was housemaid - a few updates on the Pilapil crime.

Kate won’t have Di’s problems - some analysis on the character and future problems of a soon to be princess.

Comelec taste for solid narra beds hit hard - the Election body in hot waters for specifying "narra" furniture for their cottages in Baguio. COMELEC -1.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Chavez: 1
Comelec: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 26, 2011

A report on a crime that victimized a celebrity is the central news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Police tag Pilapil’s companion suspect. Missing woman’s many lies revealed) is an update on a more than a week old crime with a delayed realization as to who is the suspect.

The other front page news reports today are as follows:

Suspension of mining urged; death toll rises to 8 - with deaths happening around, there seems to be no one responsible while the Church is given space for it stand against mining. Catholic Church +1.

Crame now historical site due to EDSA I - a report on a camp that figured in EDSA 1, which recalled former President Ramos famous "jump". Ramos +1.

Viet refugee’s cross Bataan’s tribute to John Paul II - a feature on the Pope who would soon be beatified, and his brush with the people from the Bataan Refugee camp about 3 decades ago. Catholic Church +1.

Vidal: End Church-Palace dialogue on RH bill, it’s futile - although the title of this report seems to have come from the Catholic Church, it actually gave President Aquino and those pushing for the RH bill some good space. Aquino +1. Catholic Church -1.

Ramos: ‘3Rs’ could lick corruption in military - the former president weighing in on corruoption in the military. Ramos +1. AFP -1.

April 25, 2011

The tragedy in a mining area is the biggest news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Hope dims for survivors of Compostela landslide. Dangerous crack may cause new landslides) is a report on the tragedy in Compostela Valley, with statements coming from the DILG, DENR and the office of the President. Aquino +1. Robredo +1. DENR +1.

The other front page news today:

Magsaysay open to testifying in Gutierrez trial - a report on statements against the office of the Ombudsman and her boss. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

ANALYSIS. President hems, haws on Marcos burial site - an analysis by Amando Doronila of the issue of the Marcos burial and the President's indecision. Marcos -1. Aquino -1.

‘URBI ET ORBI’. Pope Benedict urges diplomacy in Libya - a report on the Pope during the Easter ceremonies. Catholic Church +1.

17 career diplomats appointed envoys - a press release on new appointments to diplomatic posts. Aquino +1. DFA +1.

Royal wedding sparks global betting frenzy - some betting games precipitated by the upcoming Royal wedding in London.

The scores:
Aquino: 2 -1 =1
Robredo: 1
DENR: 1
DFA: 1
CAtholic Church: 1
Marcos: -1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 24, 2011

A tragedy that happened on a Good Friday is the central event reported by the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (15 buried miners saved. Compostela landslide: 3 dead, 21 still missing) is a report on the tragic mudslide that killed a few on Good Friday.

The other news reports:

A heritage tree eyed for Sorsogon - a report dedicated to a tree and the environment in general.

Pope goes hi-tech to ease suffering - a report on the Pope answering some questions and on other Church activities. Catholic Church +1.

Bread, soup and memories left by Indochina refugees in Bataan - remembering the Catholic Church's work on refugee camps. Catholic Church +1.

Ad congress gears up for changing game - a report more on the papers chairperson than of the Ad congress. Inquirer +1.

Naia will finally have clean toilets - the NAIA administration is doing its job prodded by a supposedly bad airport review (to their liking, most likely), which amazingly ranked the local airport above some French and American airports.

Estrada accepts Corpus apology - This is a curious report on the acceptance of the former President of an apology of a former ISAFP head. Note that readers are not appraised of any apology prior to this and in fact uninformed of any issue that has brewed behind the supposed 10 year old report. While Corpus apologized to Estrada for a supposedly wrong claim, there is no similar apology directed at Lacson who is also implicated in the same claim. Also, while Corpus apologizes, the paper regrets (not apologize) the printing of the supposedly wrong report. The news report also pointed out that Corpus is working then for former President Arroyo. Estrada +1. Arroyo -1.

The scores:
Catholic church: 2
Inquirer: 1
Estrada: 1
Arroyo: -1

April 23, 2011

- No issue today -

April 22, 2011

- No issue today -

April 21, 2011

Even when there is no new news about the Ombudsman, the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page took them again to the center of its reporting today.



The headline (Whistle-blower ties Arroyo to fertilizer fund scam. Ombudsman assailed for filing sloppy case) seems to have made the office of the office of the Ombudsman speechless, that is why no one bothered to cover their side. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

Aquino irked with piers, bus terminal but NAIA OK - the President puts government offices on its toes to prepare for any contingencies. Aquino +1. MMDA +1. PNP +1. AFP +1.

‘Bad Catholic’ Aquino to go on Visita Iglesia with sisters - a report that looks like a press release from the President. Aquino +1.

PH ‘invaded’ Spratlys in 1970s, China tells UN - a little bit of an escalation of conflict between the Philippines and China on the issue of the Spratly's.

P1.3-B vets office here, only facility outside US - a report on the US facility in the Philippines panders to its local workers and beneficiaries. USA +1.

Cecile Licad debut in Moscow: ‘Awesome’ - the Philippines' premier concert pianist given due space in the front page today with a curious bit of comment from the Vice President. Binay +1.

Royal wedding packed with ordinary people - a report on the guest list of the upcoming Royal wedding in London made it in the front page.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
USA: 1
Binay: 1
MMDA: 1
AFP: 1
PNP: 1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 20, 2011

More mistakes coming from the Ombudsman seems to be uncovered by the Phil. Daily Inqurier Front Page today.



The headline (Blunders in plunder case. Senate didn’t recommend Barredo prosecution) is the same headline report as yesterday but this time with more statements coming from other privileged personalities. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1. De Lima +1.

The other front page news:

Aquino gets ‘Oplan Semana Santa’ going - a report that says everyone is ready for whatever might happen in the long vacation. Aquino +1.

Clerics bash President as anti-Christian, not like Cory - a he-says-she-says report on the RH bill, giving space to prelates talking against the President but in a way that may be taken negatively by the readers. Our monitor defers judgement on this report as its effect seems to be largely dependent on the leaning of the reader on the issue. However, some lucky individuals out of nowhere are also given space in the report prompting positive treatment for them. Lacson +1.

Last Supper on Wednesday, says scholar - a report on the confusion on the dates of when the Last Supper occurred which gave the Church some reference points. Catholic Church +1.

Noah’s Ark soothes tired souls - what looks like more features on the Church this Holy Week. Catholic Church +1.

Woman’s body found in river not Pilapil’s companion - this update on a sensational crime case again provides no update.

What’s the buzz? ‘Pasyonistas’ on Twitter - a comic feature about the Holy Week using social media.

The scores:
Catholic Church: 2
Aquino: 1
De Lima: 1
Lacson: 1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 19, 2011

A complaint against the Ombudsman again took the centerstage of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Whistle-blower cries foul. Witness vows to tell all if he’s called to testify) is an unembarrassed one-sided complaint against the Ombudsman by one of those charged. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

Probers in Pilapil case focus on missing woman - the fact that there are no updates on the Pilapil case is a curious prompt for this news report.

COA welcomes new execs Tan and Mendoza - all the statements of the new COA appointees populate this report. COA +1.

‘Our God is a God of happy endings’ - the Catholic Church teachings on Holy Week and Easter. Catholic Church +1.

PH peacekeeper follows Jesus’ path in Holy Land - the story of a religious pilgrimage. Catholic Church +1.

Church: Don’t watch pirated religious films - a press release from the Catholic Church on their cable TV programming. Catholic Church +1.

The scores:
Catholic Church: 3
COA: 1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 18, 2011

The President taking potshots again at the former administration banners the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.

The headline (Aquino: Arroyo, allies getting ‘paranoid’. Attack vs Gutierrez intensifies in UP rites) is the President in a war mood against the former administration while his audience seem to be in the same mood directed at him. But while the President spoke directly through the report, the UP protesters spoke only through their placards (no interviews). The Philippines' state university though gave the President an honorary degree nevertheless. Aquino +1. Arroyo -1. Ombudsman -1.

The other front page news:

‘Pilar says she was attacked by the devil’ - a detailed update on what seems to be a nationally important news for the paper for some days in a row, but without any update on the more important still ongoing search for the criminals.

Online Visita Iglesia draws more Catholics - seems to be a promotional press release for Catholic activities. Catholic Church +1.

ANALYSIS. ‘Nobody home’ President on the ‘war’ path - Although this analysis criticizes the President for not having done anything yet, it nevertheless gave him the podium to say his piece, bringing down with him the past administration. The analysis also gave surveys unquestioned importance. Aquino -1. Arroyo -1. Ombudsman -1.

Royal wedding souvenirs swamp shops in UK - a report on the upcoming wedding from the other side of the globe.

10 years after Bandera’s Big Change - a report advertising the paper's own tabloid, as if their main newspaper is not yet such. PDI +1.

The scores:
PDI: 1
Catholic Church: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0
Ombudsman: -2
Arroyo: -2

April 17, 2011

An opinion by a lucky-to-be-covered senator made it to the headline of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front page today.



The headline (Tell all, Cito, Jocjoc told. Former Agri execs urged to name mastermind) is a statements gallery from the more privileged people directed against the Ombudsman and the "unnamed" target. Pangilinan +1. Aquino +1. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

The other front page news:

‘Where Pope John Paul II goes, best things will be’ - a report about Pope John Paul II's beatification. Catholic Church +1.

Japanese going bananas, also for okra - the Agriculture Dept is leading the charge of Philippine vegetables exports. DoA +1.

Police reports conflicting on missing woman with Pilar - the continuation of a story on a crime against a celebrity.

Binay position on RH: Neither here nor there - although it is clear that Binay's statement ran contrary to the RH bill in its present form, the paper did not see it that way. Surprisingly, the paper gave the Catholic Church neutral treatment in the report. Binay -1.

‘Pabasa in hip-hop OK on road to Easter’ - more press releases from the Catholic Church. Catholic Church +1.

The scores:
Catholic Church: 2
Aquino: 1
Pangilinan: 1
DoA: 1
Binay: -1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 16, 2011

The Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today seems to have insinuated some kind of panic over fuel.


The headline (Gov’t stockpiling fuel. Aquino says 50M liters of diesel due in May) is the President's speech converted as a news report. Aquino +1. DOE +1.

The other front page news reports today are as follows:

Actress now out of danger - the still incomplete story of a crime committed against a popular actress.

At long last, plunder raps filed vs former Agri execs - a report on the office of the Ombudsman trying to do its job but is still not good enough, with mention of possible connection of a plunder case with the former President. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

China: Let us not quarrel over Spratlys - The Chinese wants peace, and natural resources from the Spratly's.

Cellphone users to get free advisories on calamities - the NDRMMC has agreed with telcos on emergency warnings. NDRMMC +1.

Church: Holy Week not for beach escapade - a report on the message of a prelate. Catholic Church +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 1
DOE: 1
NDRMMC: 1
Catholic Church: 1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 15, 2011

Again, a TV show seems to be right in the center of the lives of Filipinos having merited a banner treatment.



The main news (TV5 willing to back Willie Revillame: Hit game show to resume with new look and feel) is a retelling of the same news against the Pangilinan-led TV network that puts it in the defensive. MVP -1.

The other front page news:

PH runs to UN to protest China’s ‘9-dash line’ Spratlys claim - the Philippines is doing something to protect its territorial rights. DFA +1.

‘Capiztahan’ celebrates Manuel Roxas & his province - a story about a former President who has the same name as a recent vice presidential candidate. Roxas +1.

Rabusa sues 3 ex-military chiefs for plunder - the incongruence of the actions of the lead actor remain unnoticed in this report grilling the AFP's former top brass, which the DOJ welcomes. De Lima +1. AFP -1.

Joker Arroyo: SC decision terrible defeat for Cory Aquino - a he-says-she-says report for and against Cojuangco, with some derision directed against the President. Aquino -1. Cojuangco -1.

Probing CIDG probers: They’re found wanting - the PNP is now closely upgrading its ranks. PNP +1.

Firm charged for undervalued P1.1-B buffalo meat imports - a food processing company is being charged for technical smuggling.

The scores:
Roxas: 1
DFA: 1
De Lima: 1
PNP: 1
MVP: -1
Aquino: -1
Cojuangco: -1

April 14, 2011

A dissenting opinion took the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today:



The headline (‘Biggest joke of century’ Cojuangco, Marcos had close ties, says justice) is a he-says-she-says report on the Supreme Court's decision on the Cojuangco case. The report forgot to mention the specific case dealt by the SC though. Danding -1. Marcos -1.

The other front page news are as follows:

Metro pay to increase due to oil price hikes - a possible wage increase gave opportunity for another he-says-she-says report. DOLE +1.

‘If it didn’t buy SMC shares, where did coco levy money go?’ - a report marked by an incoherent heading turned out to be another he-says-she-says report on a congolomerate's stock situation. SC -1. Danding -1.

Jan-Jan’s parents sue psychologist, bloggers - another he-says-she-says report on the Revillame case but this time dragging the competing network in the case. MVP -1. ABS-CBN -1.

PDI turns over goodies to Peace Boat - a report by the paper on itself doing some good for the Japanese. PDI +1.

Happy place for very sad PH orphans - the DSWD is involved in giving orphans a chance for the future. DSWD +1.

Happiness movement starts with lotsa hugs - a report on an international happiness advocacy.

The scores:
DOLE: 1
DSWD: 1
PDI: 1
Marcos: -1
SC: -1
MVP: -1
ABS-CBN: -1
Danding: -2

April 13, 2011

An SC decision and business report involving a crony of a former President is the main banner in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front page today.



The headline (Cojuangco upheld on SMC. SC: Disputed shares belong to Aquino uncle) is a report on the SC decision on a 2-decade old case, which did not highlight the fact that the government lost the case. Danding +1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

Japan nuke alert up to highest level, like Chernobyl - an update on the worsened recognition of the nuclear crisis in Japan.

‘Morong 43’ defector marries soldier in camp ceremony - a report which gave the military better treatment than the communists. AFP +1.

‘Intel report could be the handiwork of rice cartel’ - the NFA and the Agruculture Dept does not have the same thoughts but the report make it seems both of them are right. The report also amazingly is not bothered by the fact that the paper is the one who released the supposedly "wrong" report.NFA +1. Dept of Agriculture +1.

Oil prices up again, 12th time this year - a report that gave more space to those who are complaining than to those whom the complaints are directed to. Aquino -1.

NAIA 1 rated among world’s 10 worst airports - the local airport is judged by an internet entity and which gave a chance for airport officials to explain the upcoming improvements.

The scores:
Danding: 1
AFP: 1
Dept AGriculture: 1
NFA: 1
Aquino: -1

April 12, 2011

A crisis in the making, as if we are not yet already in one, warns the banner of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Aquino warned of rice crisis. Intel body cites threat to national security), although sounding like a panic inducing story, is actually an unconfirmed report from unnamed sources hiding behind the collective umbrella of a national Intelligence Agency. Aquino -1.

The other front page news today:

Magna carta urged for child performers on TV - a report that gave TV5 a chance to air its side but gave more space to those protesting and making statements against the Pangilinan company. MVP -1.

Aftershock jolts Tokyo a month after disaster - stories of more strong earthquakes felt in Japan.

Teenager’s grade best in post-war UP - a feature story on an exemplary new graduate from the premier state university.

Pollution state in Metro? Aquino consults the stars - the President is an extemporaneous speaker and applauds the DENR for getting the environment cleaner. Aquino +1. DENR +1.

Be ready to leave, Taal villagers told - the DILG is doing some swift action on looming volcanic activity in Taal. Robredo +1.

The scores:
Robredo: 1
DENR: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0
MVP: -1

April 11, 2011

A complaint against the so called "dumbing down" of TV is the main banner of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Don’t dumb down viewers, TV urged. Actress, solon seek quality programs) is a report on some statements by a few personalities against TV broadcasting in general but still came out focused on Revillame's possible transgressions deeply affecting the business of the network where his program is aired. MVP -1.

The other front page news today:

World-class artists bred in this school - a report on a school in the Philippines catering to creative students.

ANALYSIS. Marcos burial resolution tears to shreds Edsa mandate - is more of a rebuke of those who are pushing for a heroes burial for the former dictator. Marcos -1.

7,000 defy Taal Volcano warning - an update on the situation in Taal Volcano.

Radioactivity to last decades - a report on the plans to halt the problems posed by the earthquake-tsunami damaged nuclear plant in Japan.

Newsboy delivers papers–in style - a story of tie-wearing newspaper vendor.

Metro kids offer peace cranes - a story on the PDI led donation drive for Japan. Inquirer +1.

The scores today:
Inquirer: 1
MVP: -1
Marcos: -1

April 10, 2011

The President's name is attached to heroes in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (President Aquino hails 'unsung heroes'. 69 years after WW II, nation still thanking vets) looks like the whole speech of the President commemorating the heroism in Bataan in World War 2 taking front page space, with that war's losers and winners both coming out positively. Aquino +1. US +1. Japan +1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

Educators warn solons: Marcos was not a hero - the Catholic educators statements, leading the charge against Marcos's heroes burial pushed by congress. Catholic Church +1. Marcos -1.

Father’s $1,000 to pay for info on missing son - another dig at Marcos this time from the point of view of a human rights victim's father. Marcos -1.

Soldiers of peace: Son picks up where father left off - a "new" strategy by the AFP to push peace in Minadanao, as stated by a general leading and who designed the plan. AFP +1.

Revillame: Don’t pulverize me; I want to help poor - the defensive side of Revillame of course still comes out negative to his show. It is hard to determine whether this news report is negative to Revillame alone or to his network too. Eventually though, it could be deemed that the whole fiasco affects the business interest of the network and thus counted as negative to them. MVP -1.

Japan evacuees move to 5-star hotel but no room service - a situationer in Japan that seems to insinuate that some victims are hitting the big-time.

The scores:
Aquino: 1
US: 1
Japan: 1
Catholic Church: 1
AFP: 1
MVP: -1
Marcos: -2

April 9, 2011

A report on the problems of a TV show is the main banner of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Ad pullouts hit Willie show: Bishops also bear down on TV host) is the culmination of many sectors' attack on a TV show bearing down on one of businessman Manny Pangilinan's Ch5. MVP -1.

The other front page news today:

Aquino to Mikey Arroyo: Only issue is to show proof you paid tax - President Aquino given space to lambast an alleged tax-evading congressman who is put on the defensive. Aquino +1. Arroyo -1.

Rizal tops real heroes’ list; Bonifacio, Ninoy, Cory ... - even Marcos is a hero as reported in this news report on a survey on heroes. Aquino +1. Marcos +1. Pacquiao +1. Estrada +1.

SWS report on rising hunger shocks Aquino - a report giving importance to a survey, this time shocking even the President for its "skewed" results. Although the report gave the President much space to defend his administration, it still came out negative being on the defensive. Aquino -1.

Big aftershock kills 4 in Japan - a report on more earthquakes rocking the already battered country.

Look who’s talking: Santiago files bill vs cyber bullies - Sen. Santiago give space for a bill she is pushing.

One lola’s story: Love in time of war from Albay to Tokyo - a wartime love story that made it to the front page.

The scores:
Aquino: 2 -1 =1
Marcos: 1
Pacquiao: 1
Estrada: 1
MVP: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 8, 2011

An old movie title is the headline of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (No one is untouchable. BIR uses Al Capone method vs Arroyo son) shows us who Al Capone is, and perhaps Eliot Ness too. Arroyo -1. BIR +1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

Mikey Arroyo: It’s pure harassment - some people involved and a senator given space to vent their views, turn out negative for the opposing parties. Arroyo -1. Aquino -1.

Arrows no longer fly in Paco of Aquino’s youth - imagine what good can "good" people bring. Aquino +1. ABS-CBN +1.

Biggest P5.5B tax case filed against trader - government agencies are hitting it big time. De Lima +1. BIR +1.

Create your own good story, Payatas grads told - the DepEd Sec get to say something for unknown reasons. DepEd +1.

First ever: US delivers $132K from Ligot house sale - the US has confidence in the Aquino government as Sec. DeLima got a photo opportunity. De Lima +1. US +1. Aqiuno +1.

Davao City may recapture its ‘Little Tokyo’ - a city mayor given space to announce his idea.

The scores:
De Lima: 2
BIR: 2
Aquino: 2 -1 =1
DepEd: 1
ABS-CBN: 1
US: 1
Arroyo: -2

April 7, 2011

The headline seems to be not really in the news report itself in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Wage hike, lower VAT considered. Aquino eyes measures to cope with high prices) seems to say that the government is not planning to do anything about the VAT but it is amazing that both pros and cons, the way they are reported, looked good. Aquino +1. DBM +1.

The other front page news today:

Cops rescue 12 hostages without firing a shot - an unbelievable story of a rescue that credits Malacanang among others. Aquino +1. Robredo +1. De Lima +1. PNP +1.

‘Plot to disrupt arraignment of Ampatuans’ - some updates on the Ampatuan case, including supposed bloopers by the new lead prosecutor.

OFW, 75, home after 30 years of life on the run in Saudi - a government agency and some politicians show concern for OFWs. Villar +1. Binay +1. DFA +1.

Quiapo on US list of ‘most notorious’ markets - the US tells everyone PH is doing something wrong here but no government agency was asked to respond.

Nuke plant leak plugged but crisis is far from over - updates from Japan.

Sky is no limit for lady pilot, elite athlete, classical pianist - looks like a press release from Cebu Pacific, featuring one of their female pilots.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Binay: 1
Villar: 1
Robredo: 1
DeLima: 1
DBM: 1
PNP: 1
DFA: 1

April 6, 2011

More troubles for poor Filipinos heralds the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Power, oil prices up anew: P0.20 per kWh, P0.25 per liter of gasoline) is a report on more problems for Filipino consumers, a report that made sure to mention who the owner of the utility company is now. MPangilinan -1.

The other front page news today:

JAPAN NUKE CRISIS: Radiation in seawater a million times legal limit - the crisis in Japan remains as one.

Heidi Mendoza back at COA but Grace Tan is new chief - the Aquino government is appointing people who are against corruption. Aquino +1.

Not funny: ‘Willing Willie’ fate gyrating online - a report that impresses the presumption that a popular Channel 5 show is going down. MPangilinan -1.

SC backs free press, junks PDI libel - a report that says the PDI is not libelous. Inquirer +1.

Senate bill seeks to ban plastic bags - Sens. Legarda and Marcos got some exposure today via this news report. Legarda +1. Marcos +1.

Trousers, water, cash, etc. pour in for Japan aid drive - the paper is leading the drive to give aid to Japanese disaster victims. Inquirer +1.

The scores:
Inquirer: 2
Aquino: 1
Marcos: 1
Legarda: 1
MPangilinan: -2

Note that is the first time that we monitor businessman Manny Pangilinan. Our monitor feels that it is too much of a coincidence that Pangilinan companies are making negative news in the front page today warranting an observation.

April 5, 2011

The Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page welcomes back the former President as the topic of their main banner today.



The headline (1ST LAWSUIT VS EX-PRESIDENT. 6 of ‘Morong 43’ sue Arroyo et al. P15M in damages sought.) gives space to alleged Communists on their complaints against the former President and some members of the military. Arroyo -1. AFP -1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

Aquino orders PNP chief to resolve hostage row - seems to report that the government has learned its lesson and is now on top of a hostage situation. Aquino +1. PNP +1. Robredo +1.

‘Let courts decide firing of Gutierrez’s deputy’ - for the nth time a repeat of the same news without any additional information included. Aquino +1. De Lima +1.

Jobless now having their resumés blessed by priest - a funny situation among religious job seekers but which a priest clarified clearly. Catholic Church +1.

LIBYAN CRISIS. 2 Gadhafi sons offer plan to push pa aside - an update on the situation in Libya showing a split in the immediate family of the beleaguered dictator there.

Alleged drug mule recruiter appears at DoJ - a report saying there is no actual report on the suspected drug delivery recruiter.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
De Lima: 1
Robredo: 1
Catholic Church: 1
PNP: 1
AFP: -1
Arroyo: -1

April 4, 2011

Again, the case against the office of the Ombudsman took centerstage at the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Senators back Aquino sacking of Gonzalez. Stay away from case, Ombudsman urged) is a report which says that everyone thinks the Ombudsman is wrong in protecting one of its deputies. Aquino +1. Ombudsman -1. Pangilinan +1.

The other front page news reports:

Agusan hostage talks bog down - the hostage situation in Agusan is far from being resolved but the President is confident it will be. Aquino +1.

ANALYSIS. President’s order a side issue in trial of Gutierrez - surprises everyone with a negative analysis of the President's actions against the office of the Ombudsman. Aquino -1.

Bishops slam Good Friday crucifixions - the church given space to warn against bizarre Lenten practices. Catholic Church +1.

Japan fails to halt gush of toxic water into sea - an update on the Japanese situation.

Inquirer launches Japan relief drive - the paper is concerned with the victims in Japan. PDI +1.

Aquino revs up media machine - even while the President receives largely favorable coverage in the mainstream media, including from the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page, he still thinks more is needed to bring the good news of his Presidency to the people. Aquino +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 3 -1 =2
Pangilinan: 1
Catholic Church: 1
PDI: 1
Ombudsman: -1

April 3, 2011

What looks like a repeat of yesterday's news is the centerpiece of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Palace won’t back down. ‘Ombudsman has no choice but fire prosecutor’) is not a new development but merely a he-says-she-says repeat of past news that puts the office of the Ombudsman on the defensive. Ombudsman -1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

Our Lady’s message the same from Fatima to Akita - is a contribution by a former ambassador to the vatican on some religious miracles that could have predicted the Japanese disasters. Catholic Church +1.

24K rev up to heed call of charity, environment - looks like a carmaker's press release of their Corporate Social Responsibility activities.

Paco Market now clean, green, fun place to party - a report where the President opens a Corporate Social Responsibility project by the founders of Rustan and with the participation of ABS-CBN foundation. ABS-CBN +1.

UN cites Villars’ rivers’, wastes’ renewal program - looks like a press release of the Villar's riven cleanup project. Villar +1.

OMG! God’s online; Lent goes high-tech - looks like an announcement to everyone on the availability of prayer opportunities for lent online. Catholic church +1.

The scores:
Catholic Church: 2
Villar: 1
ABS-CBN: 1
Ombudsman: -1

April 2, 2011

The ongoing battle between the office of the Ombudsman and the office of the President is the main news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Palace fires prosecutor. Ombudsman defending her deputy, defies order) gave the President's order and its justification against a deputy Ombudsman premium space. Even while Sec. De Lima's IIRC report is largely disregarded by her own boss, the secretary still looms as triumphant for having one of her committee's report, only that one which is politically questionable. Although the report gave the side of the office of the Ombudsman small space which questions the motive behind the order, the report still is majority supportive of Malacanang's statements. Aquino +1. De Lima +1. Ombudsman -1.

The other Front Page News today are as follows:

Sotto: Gutierrez’s fate depends also on public opinion - a report that gave some Senator's, one of whom we monitor, opinion premium space which among others show the noose tightening around the Ombudsman's neck. Ombudsman -1. Pangilinan +1.

US backs PH on China executions - a space given to a US congressman and the DFA; and a report on the arrest of some so-called Chinese poachers. US +1. DFA +1. China -1.

Binay thanks Aquino for his high ratings - again, a front page treatment of a survey giving both the President and the Vice President good exposure, while the Supreme Court lags in popularity. Aquino +1. Binay +1. SC -1.

Another Filipino faces execution by hanging, for drugs in Malaysia - there are more Filipinos accused as drug mules even in other countries but the DFA is ready to assist them in their legal defense. DFA +1.

Teachers on isle with no banks protest pay in ATM - when something is wrong and questions on some policies by government agencies, they are able to respond to them in time to be included in the printing of the news report. DepEd +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
DFA: 2
Binay: 1
Pangilinan: 1
De Lima: 1
DepEd: 1
US: 1
China: -1
SC: -1
Ombudsman: -2

April 1, 2011

A transport strike that fizzled is in the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front page today.



The headline (Transport strike fizzles in Metro Manila. But protests vs oil spikes cripple Angeles, Davao) is a collection of reports, tidbits actually, on the strikes held by Jeepney and other public transport drivers which did not affect the public in Metro Manila.

The other front page news today:

P500-M fuel subsidy OKd for jeepneys - the President aches for the transport sector that is why a fuel subsidy is in order, without giving the operational details which supposedly news reports are for. Aquino +1.

Fil-Am leader of LA gang gets 8 life terms, no parole - a report on the sentencing of Fil-Am gang leader.

LABOR EXPORTER SAYS: ‘3 executed Filipinos should not be called OFWs’ - amazingly turned out to be a report on what the government is doing to avoid future smuggling of illegal drugs. DFA +1. PNP +1.

Aquino, Lacson talk of pork barrel, ‘chicharon,’ etc. - even when the situation clearly shows how incompetent our law enforcers are, there is no such hint in this news report that gave Sen. Lacson's actions and Aquino's acceptance of him with some sense of normalcy. Aquino +1. Lacson +1.

Dangerous radiation spreads 40 km from damaged nuke plant - a report still on the nuclear crisis in Japan.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Lacson: 1
DFA: 1
PNP: 1