Low expectations AN OUTSIDERS VIEW Ken Fuller 08/03/2010

Low expectations

AN OUTSIDERS VIEW Ken Fuller 08/03/2010 As expected and intended, President Aquino’s State of the Nation Address (okay, Sona), with its revelations of profligate spending, over-purchasing of rice, over-paid (over-allowanced, at least), waterworks and sewerage authority executives and depleted government coffers, created a bit of a rumpus. Such revelations are, of course, necessary if the nation is to fully appreciate the state it’s in. But Noynoy’s honeymoon period may be the one he creates for himself, lasting as long as he can maintain a positive satisfaction rating by dwelling on the alleged transgressions and follies of the ancient regime. But that kind of thing may have a short shelf-life, particularly if those transgressions are confirmed and there’s no sign of retribution. Besides which, it won’t be too long — maybe — before it begins to dawn on people that these crime and punishment questions will, even if resolved, make very little impact on the fundamental problems of the country. It’s like playing cops and robbers in a house that’s on fire. Yes, the robbers need to be brought to justice, but the fire needs extinguishing, with reconstruction work commencing shortly thereafter. The sona was short on extinguishing and reconstruction content..... MORE Source:  The Daily Tribune URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/commentary/20100803com5.html

COMMENTARY EDITORIAL Seeking help, refusing to listen FRONTLINE Noynoy’s lose-lose situation FEATURE Malaysia ‘Imam Idol’ seeks to put friendly face on Islam MR. EXPOSE Leave Kris alone AN OUTSIDERS VIEW Low expectations focus Debate on death and taxes heats up as billionaires fall focus Soaring e-book sales speak volumes