May 31, 2011

The embattled BuCor Chief, resigned at last, took the headline of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.

The headline (Aquino lets go of Diokno. DoJ panel eyes raps vs 10 execs of BuCor) gave both the President and Sec. De Lima good space for the resignation of the BuCor chief. Aquino +1. De Lima +1.

The other front page news reports today:

Chinese-Filipino trader tagged in smuggling of black coral - a report on the people behind the attempted smuggling of black corals, giving the Bureau of Customs, the DENR, and a Senator some good space for their statements. Zubiri +1. DENR +1. BoC +1.

After Malta vote, House body tackles divorce bill - a report saying the Philippines is the only country left not allowing divorce. Catholic Church -1.

Malacañang has another stay-in smoker - the President is reported in a lighthearted mood while declaring a "heritage" tree. Aquino +1.

PH joins world in observance of No Tobacco Day - both the MMDA and the DOH given good space to pronounce against smoking. DOH +1. MMDA +1.

After fishkill, ‘bangus’ consumers cautious - both BFAR and PhilVolcs gave their statements on the 'fishkill' in Taal lake.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
De Lima: 1
Zubiri: 1
DENR: 1
DOH: 1
MMDA: 1
BOC: 1
Catholic Church: -1

May 30, 2011

Seems like some people would want the BoC chief out of office in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front page today.


The headline (Nothing official yet on Cabinet revamp. Malacañang: Reports all speculations) gets the Bureau of Customs chief on the defensive. BoC -1.

The other front page news today:

P14-B land project may lead to more Metro floods - some city mayors and environmentalists calling on the President to take a look at a 'coastal lagoon', like being told what to do. Aquino -1.

Collision of RH, unborn child bills seen - a bill that supports the Catholic Church's position against contraceptive pills got front page treatment today. Catholic Church +1.

Analysis. Will Aquino allow PLDT to call shots? - the President is standing up against a business giant. Aquino +1. MVP -1.

With ‘Rizal passport,’ travel across nation - a DoT project related to the national hero gets front page space. DoT +1.

Smoking ban not Aquino’s problem–Palace - the MMDA leads the campaign against smoking while the world of President Aquino tightens. MMDA +1. Aquino -1.

The scores:
Catholic church: 1
MMDA: 1
DoT: 1
BoC: -1
MVP: -1
Aquino: 1 -2 = -1

May 29, 2011

An unfounded story found its way to the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Customs chief faces ax. Aquino may name party mate to replace Alvarez) - reports that a government official is on the way out, even when such news is not confirmed, perhaps telling the President to actually do so. Aquino -1.

The other front page news today:

The other De Lima breaks MAP’s sex barrier - greatness perhaps runs in the family. De Lima +1.

Habitat: Youngsters build homes for a day - everyone feels good for helping other people and being amongst celebrities, including ABS-CBN's Karen Davila and the Presidential sister Kris Aquino.

Rizal at 150: In visit to HK prison, he saw oppression - a story on HK prison as related to by the national hero, featured in relation to Rizal's upcoming birth anniversary.

Balangay romance: Love blooms at sea for mountain lover, prof - a feature of some romance between both lovers of the environment.

MMDA makes smokers’ world smaller each day - the MMDA leads the anti-smoking advocacy. MMDA +1.

The scores:
De Lima: 1
MMDA: 1
Aquino: -1

May 28, 2011

Ampatuan jailer relieved. Heads roll as DILG chief acts swiftly

‘Chedeng’ is gone; so is summer

P315-M lotto pot will still be tax-free

Cabinet shakeup: Paje, Robredo to keep posts

There’s no stopping Tingting

Flag flap on Palace website

May 27, 2011

More stories on VIP treatments took the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer front page today.


The headline (Andal Sr. ‘roams’ in jail. Gov shows photos of ‘special treatment’) shows that this time, it was the Ampatuans that are getting VIP treatment from jail officials, which President Aquino would not have surely allowed. Aquino +1.

The other front page news reports today:

‘Chedeng’ spares PH, veers toward Japan - it is business as usual as the typhoon spared the country, as if there was no amplification of the weather threats in the past few days.

Aquino: No storm surprises, please - Even by the time that everyone knows that the typhoon is veering away, the President talks tough on his men whose task may be related to storm watching or disaster mitigation operations. Aquino +1.

DoJ eyes total prison overhaul - the DOJ talks tough on their own department's shortcomings. De Lima +1.

Palace calls for boycott of black coral jewelry - the government is doing what needs to be done for the environment. Aquino +1.

New luxury home for ex-IMF chief - side stories on the problems of the former IMF chief.

The scores:
Aquino: 3
De Lima: 1

May 26, 2011

The curious case of coral shipment made it to the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (More black corals seized. Latest shipment consigned to fictitious Cebu junk shop) gave the administration and the DENR some space for their statements. Aquino +1. DENR +1.

The other front page news:

Salve’s life: A strong case for RH bill - the paper reports with missing crucial details, on a resource person for the RH bill, a mother with 13th child due to be out in the world soon.

Church goes online in drive against measure - a report that gave the Catholic Church chance to advertise its anti-RH web presence. Catholic Church +1.

Experts cite challenges in convicting ex-IMF chief - reports about the difficulty of convicting the former IMF chief.

God, US imperialism raised in RH debates - space given to the RH bill proponent.

‘Chedeng’ now a typhoon; evacuation on - looks like a coverage for the country's worst typhoon ever, although it seems the typhoon is away and on its way out.

The scores:
Aquino: 1
DENR: 1
Catholic Church: 1

May 25, 2011

A story on the environment bumped the Leviste case from the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer front page today.


The headline (Coral reefs twice size of Manila destroyed. Poachers ‘rape’ seas off Cotabato) is a much belated news report on the so-called poachers at sea, that which gave the DENR and the Bureau of Customs some news space showing them as saving the day for the rest of us. DENR +1. BoC +1.

The other front page news:

Diokno won’t quit, says he’s not guilty - the BuCor chief defending himself, while the President's deputy spokesperson shields his boss from questions. Aquino -1.

‘Chedeng’ threatens E. Visayas, Bicol - zero casualty is the marching orders of the President while PAG-ASA does its jobs closely. PAGASA +1. Aquino +1.

Sperm from ex-IMF chief found on maid’s shirt - an update on the sexual assault allegations against the former IMF chief.

Roces: Fiesta writer celebrated Filipino humor, hope, resilience - a feature tribute to a popular but recently diseased writer.

Senator Santiago: Let rich prisoners pay hotel rates - Some senators given space for their statements.

The scores:
DENR: 1
BoC: 1
PAGASA: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0

May 24, 2011

A news that just wont stop even when reports are wanting in importance, graces the center-stage of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Diokno goes on leave. Leviste clears prison officials of blame) puts the President on the defensive while DOJ Secretary De Lima is supposedly trying to save him on the VIP prisoner case. Aquino -1. De Lima +1.

The other front page news:

Peaceful Spratlys resolution reaffirmed - There is no news on the recent talks between the Philippines and China on Spratly intrusions, but the President and DND secretary given space nonetheless. Aquino +1. DND +1.

PUBLIC SENTIMENT. Senator suggests new poll on RH measure - no real issue tackled on the RH bill in this report that gave space to some senator's statements.

Project perils Metro bird sanctuary - a pro-environment report against the development of a business center that might affect a bird sanctuary.

President’s aunt runs for ARMM vice governor - some people getting ready for the elections in ARMM despite the government's moves towards postponing it, getting some attention on President Aquino.

Strauss-Kahn boosts New York tourism - the sexual assault case of the IMF chief turning into a circus.

The scores:
De Lima: 1
DND: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0

May 23, 2011

The supposed war between the Church and the government is headline in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Bishop steps up attack. Cruz: Aquino fails to ease poverty) is a report dedicated to a bishop blasting the President. Aquino -1. Catholic Church +1.

The other front page news reports today:

Diokno fate hinges on his explanation, says Pres Aquino - The President is given space to defend his lack of immediate action against the prison director as compared to his action to the chief weather forecaster whom he dismissed abruptly last year, while the DOJ is conducting its investigation. Aquino -1. De Lima +1.

President Aquino to bring up intrusion with China’s defense chief - the President will not just let any other country intruding our air space. Aquino +1.

Analysis. Singapore’s political life without Lee Kuan Yew - looks like a news report more than an analysis of the beginning of a post Lee Kuan Yew Singapore.

Pricey house arrest for ex-IMF chief - a story on the living out of jail arrangements of the alleged rapist and former IMF chief.

End-of-the-world prophecy ends in parties, jokes - a story on a doomsday prediction.

The score saw President Aquino on the negative side of things for the first time in many months:
Catholic Church: 1
De Lima: 1
Aquino: 1 -2 =-1

May 22, 2011

The erring BuCor chief again got to the center-stage of the Phil. Daily Inqurier Front Page today, via a statement coming for the paper's favorite cabinet member.


The headline (DOJ EXEC. Trust Aquino on prisons chief case. President will act right on BuCor case, says De Lima) gave space to the DOJ Secretary to repeat (yes repeat) her remarks telling the President what he should do about the BuCor chief. De Lima +1. Aquino -1.

The other front page news reports today:

Powerhouse cast colors Miriam’s wedding rites - the paper gave a Senator huge space to announce her wedding anniversary in statements mixed with humor (sometimes self deprecating, sometimes satirical), ignoring the ostentatiousness of the whole event.

Jose Rizal, suspected spy, deciphered - a feature on Rizal.

Navy reservist Dingdong leads PDI simultaneous Read-Along via video - a celebrity does the reading for the paper. Inquirer +1.

DoJ exec ‘discovers’ Bilibid’s open secret: Rich are VIPs - A DOJ team is having the time of their lives lambasting the past and present BuCor chiefs. De Lima +1.

PH wins new term to UN rights council - although PH got a 3rd three-year term on the human rights council, it has become an opportunity for the DFA to congratulate President Aquino for his fight for human rights. DFA +1. Aquino -1.

The scores:
De Lima: 2
Inqurier: 1
DFA: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0

May 21, 2011

The issue on the VIP prisoners took center-stage in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Diokno suspension sought. But DoJ says President has disciplinary powers over BuCor director) is a report on Sec. De Lima's statements which surprisingly, although mild, are not necessarily favorable to the President. Aquino -1. De Lima +1.

The other front page news today:

Aquino-Pacquiao talk on RH ends in no decision - The President and the boxing congressman share the limelight equally in this news report. Pacquiao +1. Aquino +1.

Lacson’s RH bill to reward couples with 2 kids - Senator Lacson gets front page space while the Catholics are shown to be now divided on the issue. The report also openly backs the RH bill by using its proponents' description "The RH bill, which seeks to provide couples an informed choice in planning their families, has generated tension between the pro and anti camps.". Lacson +1. Catholic Church -1.

Pichay suspended over bank purchase using LWUA funds - a minion of the former President gets the ax. Pichay -1 Arroyo -1. DoF +1.

Wasn’t just me,’ says bus driver in fatal crash - a development on an accident that hugged healdines.

Prophet of doom to watch ‘apocalypse’ on TV - a story on the end-of-the-workd prediction and preparing for Zombies, with PAGASA given space to comment. PAGASA +1.

Chinese mining firms skirt PH laws - Unethical Chinese businesses seem to be the target of this news report. China -1.

The scores:
De Lima: 1
Pacquiao: 1
Lacson: 1
DoF: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0
China: -1
Catholic Church: -1
Pichay: -1
Arroyo: -1

May 20, 2011

VIP prisoners face probe. DoJ to unravel ‘open secret’ of special treatment

Surveys to decide Senate vote on RH bill

Media descend on ‘Sperminator’s’ secret mistress

IMF chief quits, denies sex charges

Visiting US forces visitors no longer

View of President Aquino from the street: Not bad but not good

May 19, 2011

The bishops as they seem to backpedal took the central news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page as we note a newly designed Inquirer.net website today.


The headline (CBCP: No to tax boycott. Church says it’s distancing from civil disobedience) puts the Church on the defensive while the President reconciliatory but firm. Aquino +1. Catholic Church -1.

The other front page news today:

Bimby: ‘Are you my tito’s girlfriend?’ - even if the President is very busy, his seeming superman abilities also allow him to baby sit and watch a movie with his nephews, have dates, drive a porche (not mentioned in the news). The President is also talking a lot about being single but laments being his being single talked about. The report maintains, yes the report, that the President is a one woman man. Aquino +1.

Convict Leviste ‘living out,’ is arrested - ABS-CBN seems to have pinned on former Batangas Gov. Leviste.

Lady financier used co-op’s import permit - seems to be part 3 of the past two days' report on the anomalies which seems only the Arroyo administration can do. Arroyo -1.

Impeach rap vs justice found sufficient in form - this time, one of the justices in the SC is under impeachment attack from the House of Representatives. SC -1.

‘Sperminator’ scorned over love child - the former California governor has a new name.

Pacquiao ‘trying hard’ to spar with Lagman on RH - Manny Pacquiao seems to be losing while sparring on the RH bill. Ramos +1. Pacquiao -1. Catholic Church -1.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Ramos: 1
SC: -1
Pacquiao: -1
Arroyo: -1
Catholic Church: -2

May 18, 2011

While the President is show with a photo while he enjoys his time, his predecessor is having problems with today's coverage of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page.


The headline (NFA lost P100B in 10 years–COA. Agency was buying high, selling low, storing long) is a continuing coverage of yesterday's report, where again the government audit agency seems to know more about what should be our rice policy than the NFA. Arroyo -1.

The other front page news report today:

Aquino dates mystery lady at Hotdog gig - a story of the President's date and the Hotdog concert as if such occurrence is normal. Aquino +1. Roxas +1.

Pacquiao Church poster boy vs RH bill - the boxer is on the defensive about his wife's use of the pill while he rejects it and campaigns against a bill on population control, the report kept the Church out of the discussion but who benefited from the support of the PacMan. Pacquiao -1. Catholic Church +1.

Lozada: Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo wanted $329-M deal for Abalos - The famous whistleblower testifying in Sandiganbayan. Arroyo -1.

SPECIAL REPORT. Rice overimported in last 3 years of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo - part 2 of yesterday's headline. Arroyo -1.

‘Terminator’ sired child with household staff - a story on personal problems of the Governator.

From $3,000 hotel suite to small jail cell - troubles hounding the IMF head.

The scores:
Aquino: 1
Roxas: 1
Catholic Church: 1
Pacquiao: -1
Arroyo: -3

May 17, 2011

The former President seems to have allowed big time smuggling in her administration, the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page announced boldly today.


The headline (Smuggling at NFA bared. Billions lost in Gloria M. Arroyo rice imports.) is an amazing report by the country's government audit agency who seems to know more about rice dynamics than the NFA under President Arroyo. It seems that the only thing COA forgot to report on is the financial audit of the transactions in the NFA. Meanwhile, the paper took their own opinion of the report as part of the headline title and includes its own opinion blaming the former President for rice problems such as increasing rice prices which by the way is surely happening, also, if not only, during President Aquino's time. Arroyo -1. Aquino +1.

The other front page news today:

Chief Justice Corona: Let bygones be bygones - the Chief Justices given exclusive space for his thoughts after one year in the Supreme Court under the Aquino administration. SC +1.

Cool it? Bishop says Malacañang provoked Church - some prelates given space to defend themselves while the administration looks cool about the RH debates. Catholic Church -1. Aquino +1.

Maid picks IMF chief in lineup - a report on a sex scandal involving the IMF chief.

Carabaos get star status in Lucban festival - the paper is participating in some festivities. Inquirer +1.

Controversial customs police chief reinstated - the DoF did what it can but the former Ombudsman is simply wrong. ExOmbudsman -1. DoF +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
SC: 1
DoF: 1
Inquirer: 1
Catholic Church: -1
ExOmbudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

May 16, 2011

The palace calling for sobriety on the RH bill debate seems to be the central news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Palace to Church: Cool it. Tension over reproductive health bill escalates) shows the Catholic Church in what seems to be a desperate position, while the Palace is cool. Aquino +1. Catholic Church -1.

The other front page news today:

Bikefest sets stage for Roxas entry to Cabinet - the President is pitching for health in a DOH event that gave former Sen. Roxas some equal exposure, all while VP Binay is absent. Aquino +1. Roxas +1. Binay -1. DOH +1.

ANALYSIS. With Roxas in, Aquino reshapes Palace chain of command - the President in a negatively confusing light, giving also former Sen. Roxas some confusing position, in an analysis by a Doronila. Aquino -1.

IMF chief arrested on sex charges - trouble and confusion gets into the IMF and in France.

US warship’s crew mum on Bin Laden - the President given good space in a news on the US warship docked in Manila bay. Aquino +1. US +1.

TRIBUTE TO CHIT ESTELLA. Firm in her principles, love for downtrodden - a report proving that, sometimes, death is the time only when everyone realizes how good one was.

The scores:
Aquino: 3 -1 =2
Roxas: 1
DOH: 1
US: 1
Catholic Church: -1
Binay: -1

May 15, 2011

The President on controversial US war vessel banners the headline of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (President Aquino tours Osama ‘hearse’. Invited by US envoy, Aquino flies to USS Carl Vins) is a report on the President who seems to cannot pass up the chance to board an aircraft carrier, even if it could attract some unnecessary controversy. Although the report seems to be a press briefing coming from the administration, it could have an effect both ways. The report may turn out positive to those who want to see the President in a military posture, but negative to those who doesn't want the fact that it does attract controversy, cancelling each other. Aquino +0.

The other front page news today:

Chit Estella: Life-changing teacher, editor, journalist, pal - a report dedicated to a journalist/professor who recently died in an accident.

Dive, find jewels of the deep in Mindoro - an environmental feature on a coral reef.

Don’t worry, just enjoy amazing show in sky - an interplanetary occurrence seems to have been converted into a religious sermon. Catholic Church +1.

Education completes handicapped lady in red - the DepEd scoring some points on a story of a person with disabilities finishing school. DepEd +1.

Priest turns Pacquiao homecoming into anti-RH bill rally - The arrival of Pacquiao covered with some other issues which treatment could go either way for the church. Pacquiao +1.

The scores:
Pacquiao: 1
Catholic Church: 1
DepEd: 1
Aquino: 0

May 14, 2011

A news report given belated headline treatment yesterday is continued today with the President taking up most of the space.



The headline report (Killings of environmental workers alarmed palace. President honors ‘green’ martyrs) is about the President and a Secretary given space to comment on the environmentalist's murder given belated central treatment yesterday. Aquino +1. DENR +1.

The other front page news report today:

SPECIAL REPORT. How ‘coconut levy funds bought SMC shares’ - is part 2 of a feature on the coco levy, a story obviously want to be told by the author. Marcos -1. Cojuangco -1. Chavez +1.

Cops kill 13 suspected rebels in 2 encounters - government forces were said to give rebels some "tactical defeat". AFP +1. PNP +1.

US ship, Osama’s funeral barge to dock in Manila - a US ship calling port is treated with some degree of controversy. US -1.

Rights abuses remain under Aquino administration, Amnesty International laments - it seems it still killing time even with President Aquino at the helm. Aquino -1.

Toys for boys, bling for girls at Senate; Pacquiao has it all - some senators and congressmen are really rich people, perhaps questionably. Villar -1. Arroyo -1. Marcos -1.

The scores:
DENR: 1
AFP: 1
PNP: 1
Chavez: 1
Aquino: 1 -1 =0
Cojuangco: -1
US: -1
Villar: -1
Arroyo: -1
Marcos: -2

May 13, 2011

A belated report became the main news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Mt. Makiling guard killed. Forest protector’s murder shocks UPLB) seems to be a 5 day old story that only got the attention of the paper's editor now, on the murder of a forest guard.

The other front page news reports today:

BIR claims Neri owes P18.6M in unpaid taxes - a report on the continuation of the good versus evil plot. DOJ +1. BIR +1. Arroyo -1.

SPECIAL REPORT. How coconut farmers were stewed in beer and coconut milk - a feature on how Danding and Marcos get the best our of coconut farmers. Danding -1. Marcos -1.

Gutierrez’s ‘midnight’ order ‘invalid’ - reports of statements saying the former Ombudsman is wrong. ExOmbudsman -1.

Will the real SBMA administrator speak up? - seems there is confusion over in the former US base.

Audited intel funds, other AFP reforms now in place - a report on the AFP and the DND shaping up. AFP +1. DND +1.

The scores:
BIR: 1
AFP: 1
DND: 1
DOJ: 1
Danding: -1
Marcos: -1
ExOmbudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1

May 12, 2011

Even after her resignation, the former Ombudsman is still hounded in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Gutierrez midnight deal hit. Dismissed Customs cop chief reinstated) is an unverified report and judgement against the former Ombudsman. ExOmbudsman -1. DoF +1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

Color purple drive for women’s rights, RH bill - former President Ramos is coaching President Aquino to endorse the RH bill. Ramos +1. Aquino +1. DOH +1.

Biggest catch of rare turtles, corals - the Bureau of Customs is reported as plainly doing its job.

Senate starts AFP, Garcia graft probe again Thursday - the report that shows the AFP is reforming itself even with what seems to be a mistaken Sandiganbayan decision. Sandigan -1. AFP +1.

LP’s fellowship night a virtual ‘Losers’ Ball’ - Even when there seems to be as many electoral winners as losers in the recent LP 'ball', their officers are given a negative brand nevertheless. Meanwhile, the President expresses confidence on his own cabinet. Roxas -1. Aquino +1.

23,000 frenzied fans pack Bieber’s concert - a repeat report on an international teen pop star.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Ramos: 1
DoF: 1
DOH: 1
AFP: 1
exOmbudsman: -1
Sandigan: -1
Roxas: -1

May 11, 2011

President Aquino gets central attention for attacking the anti-graft court in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline is (Aquino attacks Sandigan ruling. ‘It’s like the court was in a vacuum’) all about the President and the DOJ Secretary given space to assail the Sandiganbayan, then say will file motion for reconsideration to the same court. Aquino +1. DeLima +1.

The other front page news today:

‘Never Say Never,’ Bieber is here - an international teen pop idol given PR space.

P22 COLA hike bad news to militant labor - President Aquino gets a beating from labor groups while the Catholic Church panders to them. Aquino -1. Catholic Church +1.

PH posts highest ever palay harvest in first quarter - the Agriculture Department happy for their supposed performance without challenge. DoA +1.

President: No more blindfold on ‘eyes of bureaucracy’ - space given to the President to talk against corruption and praise the new COA. Aquino +1. COA +1.

Health secretary tells students: Avoid nursing - space given to the DOH secretary to talk about education. DOH +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 2 -1 =1
Catholic church: 1
De Lima: 1
DoA: 1
COA: 1
DOH: 1

May 10, 2011

It is the SandiganBayan's turn in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Court OKs Garcia plea bargain deal. DoJ, Aquino allies denounce decision) is a report on the graft court's decision on the Garcia plea bargain that gave negative impression of star witness now COA commissioner Heidi Mendoza. The decision follows the former Ombudsman's position in the matter but the report did not so much point it out.

The other front page news reports today:

Storm ‘Bebeng’ batters Bicol, leaves 10 people dead - a report on the weather disaster causing deaths that gave the weather bureau some negative treatment. PAG-ASA -1.

Aquino richer by P4M; Binay P.6M poorer - a report showing the nation's pair of leaders as forthcoming on their earnings. Aquino +1. Binay +1.

Workers get P22 more; train fares doubled - a trouble to businesses is not reported as such but as good news to workers.

Inquirer bags top awards for humanitarian reporting - the paper congratulates itself for bringing home an award. PDI +1.

‘Why are you touching gloves? Is he your friend?' - some friendly admonition for Pacquiao who still enjoys the reputation of pushing opponents into retirement. Pacquiao +1.

It’s in the bag for Mommy D - looks like an advertisement for a designer's bag more than on a boxing match.

The scores:
Aquino: 1
Pacquiao: 1
Binay: 1
PDI: 1
PAG-ASA: -1

May 9, 2011

Congressman Pacquiao won over a typhoon and the President's ASEAN meeting in getting the main stage in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.

The headline (Lopsided Pacquiao win. Mosley fights scared, escapes KO loss) is a one sided report on a one-sided boxing match. Pacquiao +1.

The other front page news today are as follows:

ANALYSIS. Survey message: Decline of single-issue presidency - an analysis that gave much importance to a survey. Aquino -1.

Gardener-mother, 64, reaches dream to complete high school - some mother's day feature.

Aquino offers venue, brew to ease Thai-Cambodia rift - the President given space for some statements covering up absence of any accomplishment in the ASEAN meeting. Aquino +1.

They’d rather see Pacquiao fight than evacuate - people just cannot get enough of Pacquiao even in the face of calamity, while the President is given space to talk on a popular subject. Aquino +1. Pacquiao +1.

6 killed as ‘Bebeng’ slams Catanduanes - the President is on top of things in the news on the typhoon. Aquino +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 3 -1 =0
Pacquiao: 2

May 8, 2011

Even when the leader of the land is in attending ASEAN meetings that could have more important effects on the lives of the people, a professional boxing match that makes its sportsmen unbelievably rich took the pedestal in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Go for knockout, Manny Pacquiao urged. Pacquiao is 6-1 favorite over Mosley) is the usual trumped up report on a boxing match. Pacquiao +1.

The other front page news reports today are as follows:

Bishop: You’re boxing the Holy Spirit - a negative take on Pacquiao's boxing from a prelate. Pacquiao -1.

US to Pakistan: Identify Osama-linked intel agents - a New York Times report on the tension between the US and Pakistan on the death of Bin Laden.

Hot topics debated at Asean meet - President Aquino is brushing elbows with ASEAN leader why his staff are taking the time of their lives saying things that get printed on the paper, all while the Philippine's agenda remain elusive. Aquino +1.

Pila’s first ‘Pailah’: Town celebrates blessings - the Department of Tourism given some exposure via a one month old event. DOT +1.

Read-Along turns 4 with tribute to mothers - a report on the paper's own advocacy. Inquirer +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 1
Inquirer: 1
DOT: 1
Pacquiao: 1 -1 =0

May 7, 2011

After days of prominence, the Bin Laden raid still hugs the headlines in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.


The headline (Al-Qaeda vows revenge on United States: Int’l terror group admits Osama bin Laden is dead) continues the story on the raid on Bin Laden.

The other front page news today:

Aquino off to Jakarta for 18th Asean Summit - the President goes to Indonesia, promoting the Philippines in ASEAN, even in midst of possible dangers related to the recent killing of Bin Laden. Aquino +1.

Pro-Osama marchers: US No. 1 terrorist
- a report that says there are people saddened by the terrorist's death.

Paquiao stands to earn P1.3 billion - a report inciting excitement on tomorrow's boxing match. Pacquiao +1.

Obama at Ground Zero: We will never forget - a report on the American President who seems to be proud for his recent accomplishment. USA +1.

2M farmers, fishers to get rice subsidy - the DSWD repeats the news on the recently announce dole-outs to farmers and fishers. Aquino +1. DSWD +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Pacquiao: 1
USA: 1
DSWD: 1

May 6, 2011

Bin Laden took the center-stage again in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (PH Muslims honor Osama. March from mosque to US embassy on Friday) seems to have shown the Filipino Muslims prefer Bin Laden over the US, and that the Catholics Church are wary of retaliation, while Sen. Santiago opines on the same and on the VFA. USA -1.

The other front page news reports today:

Obama scraps plan to release Osama pix - a report on the US put on the defensive on their Bin Laden operation. USA -1.

Yellow gloves for Pacquiao, for unity on fight night - a press release on the Filipino star boxer and his upcoming fight. Pacquiao +1.

Aquino to employers: Raise workers’ pay - the President is pro-labor and pro-employers at the same time on the issue of wage increases. Aquino +1.

Osama’s 5 computers a gold mine of info for US - the war against terror seems to have become easier with all new information the US got from their raid of the Bin Laden lair. USA +1.

Aquino’s working style is not ‘do-nothing’ - the President is actually a very busy person no matter what many people say. Aquino +1.

The scores:
Aquino: 2
Pacquiao: 1
USA: 1 -2 = -1

May 5, 2011

The issues surrounding Bin Laden's death are the main news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Pakistan blasts US raid
US feared anti-terror ally would alert Osama) puts a whole country in the defensive for not knowing where Bin Laden was all along.

The other front page news reports today are as follows:

US admits al-Qaida chief unarmed when shot dead - a story on conflicting accounts on Bin Laden's final moments that could cast doubt on US statements. US +1.

Pacquiao is House 1st billionaire - a report on rich congressmen and the BIR that hounds them. Pacquiao -1. Arroyo -1. Villar -1. BIR +1. Aquino +1.

MAGUINDANAO MASSACRE
‘What kind of law is this?’—Mangudadatu - a report on a complaint on the snail's pace of a gruesome murder case.

Ownership of TV sets falls in US, says poll - a New York Times report with questionable significance to the Philippines.

Santiago: Aquino allies fighting over Gutierrez job - the real fight against corruption begins, whose side who is on is anyone's guess.

The scores today:
Aquino: 1
BIR: 1
USA: 1
Pacquiao: 1
Villar: 1
Arroyo: 1

May 4, 2011

Bin Laden is the only important news in the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (Epic raid like spy thriller. Osama hid in plain sight in Pakistan Army town) is a report on how the US followed and got Bin Laden, titled with an opinion of the paper's editors. US +1.

The other front page news today:

Operation seen live via helmet cameras - a story on the same operation as monitored from the top command base.

Secretive US Navy SEALs shine - a side story on the operation of the special commando unit. USA +1.

‘Osama-Obama’: Media struggle to get names right - a side story on misplaced consonants.

US to probe support web in Pakistan - a report on the possible involvement of the Pakistanis from both sides.

Osama buried at sea to prevent his grave from becoming shrine - a report on some reactions to the burial at sea of Bin Laden.

The scores:
US: 2

May 3, 2011

The death of the chief terrorist took the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page almost exclusively today.



The headline (World hails death of Osama bin Laden. Justice has been done, says US president) is a report on mostly positive praise for the US successful operation to kill the world's most hated terrorist. USA +1.

The other news report today are still mostly on Bin Laden:

Most wanted face of terrorism - a report on the life of the terrorist leader.

How US hunted down al-Qaida chief - a report on some details of the US operation that killed Bin Laden. USA +1.

US raises security alert for Americans - the world assesses the effect of the death of the Al Qaeda leader while many including the Philippines brace for possible retaliatory attacks.

Pacquiao says he fights like Bruce Lee - basically Pacquiao is a god and he is good because Bruce Lee is his idol, however illogical that may be even for a press release that this seems to be. Pacquiao +1.

The scores:
USA: 2
Pacquiao: 1

May 2, 2011

A celebration of the life of "Blessed" Pope John Paul II is at the center of the Phil. Daily Inquirer Front Page today.



The headline (‘A feast of Catholic faith’. John Paul beatified before 1M pilgrims) is a report on the beatification of the now "Blessed" Pope. Catholic Church +1.

The other front page news reports today:

Devotees pray for healing miracles at relics of late pontiff - Church activities and some of the faithful's stories on the occasion of the Pope's beatification. Catholic Church +1.

LABOR DAY RITES. Aquino sees increases in minimum wages - a report on dole-outs galore from the Government. Aquino +1.

Militants stage rallies nationwide - laborers are supported by the Church when the former protested against government. Aquino -1. Catholic Church +1.

ANALYSIS. Gutierrez trial aborted: Winners and losers - an analysis without any analysis at all. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1. Aquino +1.

Gadhafi son killed in missile strike - an update of the recent escalation of NATO bombings in Libya.

Kate’s royal task: Beget an heir in 9 months - a curious task for the new bride contrasting today's more modern outlook.

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

May 1, 2011

The Ombudsman cannot escape the headlines today as in yesterday even in the middle of big international news such as the Popes beatification and the Royal wedding.

The headline (Why Ombudsman Gutierrez surrendered. Her own people set to testify, says Tupas) is not actually a news report but the PDI getting away with pure commentaries by the resigned Ombudsman's opponents. Ombudsman -1. Arroyo -1.

The other front page news reports today:

Pope’s words in Legazpi: Be proud of manual labor - is a feature on encounters with Pope John Paul II. Catholic Church +1.

John Paul suffering featured in beatification rites - some news reports on the Pope's beatification which is to happen today. Catholic Church +1.

One for Shakespeare, Cecil B. DeMille and the fascinator - another feature on the Royal wedding the other day.

COMMENTARY
Why am I being retired? Why do we still use 65 as retirement age? - an essay by a retiring professor and political/military/muslim affairs media analyst.

RSVP: Leftists say no; Aquino to break bread with moderate labor - the government is about to give the anticipated labor day surprises that would benefit the workers, most surprising of which that such were only recommended and approved last week. The report also gave the Catholic Church some space for pandering with labor groups. Aquino +1. DOLE +1. Catholic Church +1.

The scores:
Catholic Church: 3
Aquino: 1
DOLE: 1
Ombudsman: -1
Arroyo: -1