Punchline

Bishops’ call; Pacman’s win

By FRED LOBO
March 18, 2010, 4:54pm

Filipinos should vote freely and not allow themselves to be coerced by threats or influenced by money, says the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.

Yes, let’s prove to the world that we are free men. Courage for suffrage.

* * *

Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales and 15 bishops lead in the signing of the voters’ guidelines as contained in the “Election 2010” pastoral letter.

A good “love” letter to the people – so they won’t forget.

* * *

Namfrel says, it will watch the elections and invites more volunteers, despite lack of accreditation from the Comelec.

Yes, to more poll watchdogs to watch and report “dogs.”

* * *

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) closely monitors poll expenditures of local and national candidates to ensure the collection of the five percent withholding tax on campaign expenses.

Hey, Big Spender, give us our share or we’ll trouble you!

* * *

The BIR clarifies that the tax scheme is not actually imposed on contributors, donors, or candidates but on providers/suppliers of services and products like election campaign materials.

For clarity, it should better be called “Project Boto Mo, Buwis ko.” And candidates should not respond, “Buwisit ako!”

* * *

Candidates complain that this year’s national and local polls is “magulo” and not a walk in the park. But it could be a walk to the bank, he-he.

* * *

Francis Chua, president of the country’s largest and influential business organization Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), says, investors are awaiting the results of the May 10 national elections before deciding to invest.

Oh, I see. It’s wait-and-see... before jumping into the sea.

* * *

“Investors would like to see a continuity of the pro-business policy of the Arroyo administration,” Chua adds.

Pres. GMA gets credit… before jumping to Congress.

* * *

Aside from presidential debates, a head-to-toe look at the “presidentiables” is being advanced.

Hala, reveal your beauty secrets, boys!

* * *

Pinoy boxing icon Manny Pacquiao maintains winning streak.

That’s before retiring as Congressman Pacman. Congrats!

* * *

Opponent Joshua Clottey lauds Pacman for not hurting him.

No blood clot but “bitin,” he-he.

* * *

Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes arranges an uninterrupted telecast of the much-awaited Pacquiao Clottey fight, saying, “If people don’t get to watch Manny Pacquiao, it’s big trouble, a national catastrophe.”

We’ll done. But better do a repeat performance on election day.

* * *

Police forces in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) use the long hours of rotating brownouts in Mindanao for holding security dry runs in preparation for the possibility of brownouts on election day, says Police Director Chief Supt. Bienvenido Latag.

Sigue, ilatag niyo! More emergency measures vs “election in the dark.”