"The Captain and the Major"

So much has been said about the fateful incident that happened in Manila last Monday, August 23, 2010.  It's all over the internet, the news worldwide and  the newspaper headlines.  I am not gonna write and tackle about it here for we have seen and heard enough of it. But on behalf of my country and my countrymen, i would like to express my deepest apology and sincerest sympathy to the family of the Hong Kong nationals who have lost their lives on the said incident.  It's an isolated case that is  handled "incompetently" that can possibly happen to anyone, anywhere.

On the lighter side, we Filipinos are somewhat been redeemed from the pit of shame after the toweresque beauty queen, Ms. Philippines 2010 Venus Raj gave a "Major, major" honor to our country by  representing the Republic of the Philippines as a candidate for the Miss Universe 2010 and placed fourth runner-up to Ms. Mexico, Ximena Navarrete.

Venus Raj, born in Doha, Qatar and grew up and lived for more than 20 years in a nipa hut made of wood, bamboo and anahaw leaves with no electricity in the middle of a rice field in Bato, Camarines Sur, in Bicol Region, Philippines, was brought up by her mother, a former tenant farmer and a dressmaker.  She obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Arts, Major  in Journalism at Bicol University in Albay with Latin honors (Cum Laude).  Back in the Philippines, she works as an Information Assistant for the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and works as a part- time fashion model.


Yayiemai's take:

 In just two days, the whole world has seen the two faces of the Philippines.  I called  it "The Captain and the Major",  (please don't ask me why).  A downfall and an emanation.  My country may have been drowning in the sea of problems, but im still proud to say that the Phililippines is still a beautiful country to go to. There are still more Filipinos who are friendly, hospitable and trust-worthy.  Let not one bad apple spoil the whole bunch. Let the love flow within our hearts.  Let's give the innocent people a chance to move on and let's all pray for the good and safety of everyone.