EXECUTIVE Order (EO) 839, which froze oil prices at October 15 levels, was lifted Monday after vigorous debate among stakeholders, with the Executive getting advice from a wide range of experts who were split down the middle on whether the controversial order made for sound policy. Government says the move to lift EO 839 is a win-win solution, but is it really?

Even those of you who are not necessarily boxing fans should have watched Sunday’s Pacquiao fight. The Pacman again demonstrated his complete dedication to his craft and showed his utmost professionalism. Measured, cool, fighting within his game plan, Pacquiao did everything right. It was not a flashy exhibition. It was an exhibition that hard work and discipline can bring outstanding rewards.

And it was yet another opportunity for some normal Philippine bashing even in the sports world.

Nobody doubts that the election season is here; would-be candidates for president, vice-president and other national and local positions are expected to file their certificates of candidacy with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) not later than December 1.

For months now, we have been bombarded with infomercials on television and radio of those who want the general public to have an awareness of who they are and what they have to offer in the hopes that they will be remembered come May 2010. Aside from infomercials, we have also seen posters of various political personalities sprout all over the country. Some of these infomercials and posters were paid for by the would-be candidates themselves while some were contributed by friends and supporters.