Atty. Adel Tamano

The League of Adel Supporters (LEADS) campaign sortie.

2010-04-20T02:50:00.000-07:00

April 16, 2010

Iligan City

April 20, 2010
Municipality of Linamon & Kauswagan

View more pictures: LEAD CAMPAIGN SORTIE ALBUM

“The LP has mastered the art of pure talk” - Tamano

2010-03-25T11:30:00.001-07:00

Nacionalista Party (NP) senatorial candidate and spokesman Atty. Adel Tamano laughed off allegations made by the Liberal Party claiming that the motion for reconsideration that Tamano and other NP bets filed yesterday before the Supreme Court in relation to the midnight appointments was pure gimmick.

“Ang kapal naman ng mga mukha nila to say that the filing was pure gimmick. They only have the gall to say that because unlike me, they haven’t done anything concrete in defending the rights of all Filipinos. They don’t have the balls. All they do is talk. That’s all they’re good at. They have mastered the art of pure talk,” Tamano blasted.

“Funny how they can accuse me of such a thing when the motion for reconsideration is not only for my benefit but for the benefit of all Filipinos. Only goes to show who really is sincere in serving the country,” Tamano said.

“The Liberal Party says that they’re part of the opposition and yet they’re not doing anything that could stop PGMA in appointing someone as Chief Justice, which is such a crucial role. Ano yung tama doon? If we just allow the President to appoint anyone despite the fact that there is an ongoing ban, then this sends out a wrong signal to our fellow Filipinos. Not only does it undermine judicial independence, it also destroys the image of the judiciary. Kawawa naman ang Liberal Party if they don’t understand this,” Tamano explained.

The young lawyer then threw a challenge to the Liberal Party: “Do something solid. Don’t just complain. Familiarize yourselves with the law. It is my fervent hope that you will come to realize that the Constitution should be upheld at all times.”

Tamano, a constitutional law professor and the first Filipino-Muslim scholar-graduate of Harvard Law School, filed a motion for reconsideration yesterday on the Supreme Court’s ruling allowing President Gloria Arroyo to appoint the next Chief Justice despite a “midnight appointments” ban. Tamano was joined by fellow NP bets Susan Ople, Gilbert Remulla, Satur Ocampo, Liza Maza and Gwen Pimentel.

In their petition, Tamano et al stressed that under Article VII, Section 15 of the Constitution, there is no exception for appointments in the judiciary. Hence, the incumbent President must not appoint anyone in both the executive and the judiciary.

The young lawyer also shared that the recent Supreme Court ruling was in contrast with a 1998 decision on the Villarta and Valenzuela case, which barred the President then from appointing members of the judiciary within the period covered by the ban. The ban starts two months or 60 days before the elections and runs until June 30.

“According to the ruling of that case, the judiciary is not an exception to the rule,” Tamano shared.

The constitutional law professor and former president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila also said that he has high hopes that the SC will not reject the motion, despite the fact that a majority of the justices voted favorably in the earlier ruling.

Tamano, the former president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, is the son of the late Senator Mamintal Tamano. A constitutional law professor, Tamano was the former spokesman of the Genuine Opposition.

Adel urges PGMA to have the decency and leave task to successor

2010-03-19T10:51:00.000-07:00

Following the Supreme Court’s recent ruling allowing President Gloria Arroyo to choose the next chief justice amid the legal issues raised against appointments during the election period, constitutional law professor and Nacionalista Party (NP) senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano urged PGMA to leave the task to her successor.

“While I doubt she has any decency left, I sincerely hope that PGMA leaves the task of appointing the next Chief Justice to her successor,” Tamano said.

“The SC may have ruled in her and her minions’ favor this time but PGMA should remember that so many eyes are on her. People will continue to monitor her actions. Voters will remember what she will do,” Tamano warned.

The young lawyer-senatorial candidate also shared his sentiments with regard to the SC ruling.

“The law clearly states that the incumbent president cannot appoint anyone within the period of the constitutional ban. According to Art. VII, Section 15 of the Constitution, there is no exception for appointments in the judiciary. Hence, needless to say, I’m deeply disappointed with the ruling,” Tamano said.

“However, in my many years as a practising lawyer, this isn’t the first time that I got disappointed with the ruling of the court,” he added.

“However, what’s important now is the action that PGMA will take because of this development. If she really does not have any hidden agenda, then she will leave the task of appointing the next Chief Justice to her successor,” Tamano insisted.

In a landmark decision penned by Associate Justice Lucas Bersamin, the high courts said that the ban on midnight appointments does not cover the judiciary. Nine out of 15 justices reasoned that there is nothing under the law that prohibits PGMA from appointing the next CJ upon the retirement of Chief Justice Reynato Puno on May 17.

Students and Youth for Adel

2010-03-15T05:54:00.000-07:00

Some messages, comments made by students and youth supporters of ADEL TAMANO. BE ONE OF THEM! BRING NEW BREED OF POLITICIANS IN THE SENATE.

Why Adel Tamano you ask, well its because I've looked up to him even before he started to appear on tv or ran for senator. I've read news articles, magazine features, etc. about Mr. Tamano, and I must say, that he is one of the most qualified Senatorial Candidates for 2010. For additional information, I also share the same ideologies and faith as him. I am PRO EDUCATION and I believe that education will bring with it better and improved employment rate. I am Muslim and Maranao, like Mr. Tamano, and although I am knowledgeable that your campaign staff is ofcourse not based on religion, I believe that its only right for me to help my brother in Islam. - Ariff Adam Sansaruna

As Mindanaoan, I would like to express to you that we are with you in your quest for senator. We need more senator
from Mindanao to represent us mindnaoans. We should help each other and I know that if we (all) mindanaoans will unite and show solidarity I'm pretty sure we can produce 3-5 senator who will sit down in the senate. - Lancelot "Allan" Padla

Mr. Tamano does not even want people to call him atty. or senator because he does not want people to look at him thru his achievements but as an equal, coz we are all just humans. That is empathy baby! Im one of the students who have met him personally and i agree that he is the politician to be. - Ghanjik Coolmal

Do the research! you wont regret researching for him and do not just vote for him, pls campaign for him also because he is not that rich to beat other corrupt trapo’s furthermore he does not ask money from Villar. Delikadesa thing that he has. Your money will not be wasted every cent will count on this man. -

If the Filipino’s only know this person then he might be on the top 3 for the race on the senate seat. The challenge to his group is how will they make Tamano known to the public…The challenge to us who knows this guy is also the same, i think it is time to make a move, starting today i will openly talk about this guy alllso the same, i think it is time to make a move, starting today i will openly talk about this guy all the time, if he wins and the Philippines becomes a better country, i would be grateful because i know i was a part of it. the time, if he wins and the Philippines becomes a better country, i would be grateful because i know i was a part of it.- Sion

Tamano on On Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao’s victory versus Joshua Clottey

2010-03-14T05:20:00.000-07:00

“Once again, our Pambansang Kamao, Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao has exemplified heroism, resiliency, love of country and sheer talent and dedication. His victory against Joshua Clottey is proof that amid problems besetting our country, here’s someone who epitomizes grit against all odds.

Manny Pacquiao is a son of Mindanao and as a fellow Mindanaoan, I am truly proud to see that Mindanaoans excel in the field of boxing. Manny is Mindanao’s greatest athlete, the Philippines’ pride and definitely among the world’s finest.

I have always been a big fan of Manny’s indomitable spirit. He works very hard, he’s a positive thinker and he embraces change. He’s a great role model for the youth and his religion plays a major role especially during his fights, which I can identify with.

I’m also doubly proud because Manny happens to be a proud supporter not only ofNacionalista Party standard bearer Manny Villar but of the entire NP slate as well. I’m proud that he’s a part of the NP family.

My warmest congratulations to Manny, coach Freddie Roach and the entire Team Pacquiao. My well wishes also go to Manny’s wife Jinkee and their children.”

Ex university president now senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano mocks DepEd Sec Lapus, calls him inconsistent

2010-03-09T07:51:00.000-08:00

Following Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Jesli Lapus’ appeal to politicians not to use graduation ceremonies as venues for their campaign, former Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) president and now Nacionalista Party senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano has expressed his disgust over Lapus’ “inconsistent remark.”

“That’s rich coming from Sec. Lapus who has his face in posters for DepEd in schools all over the Philippines,” Tamano blasted, adding that the DepEd has long “politicized” schools.

“Sec. Lapus must check first if his own department has kept schools free from politics long before the campaign period. Exactly how many large billboards do we see with his and his president’s face on them? You tell me,” the young lawyer mocked.

Tamano, who is running under the banner of the Nacionalista Party, is also known as the first ever Filipino commencement speaker in Harvard Law School and the first ever Filipino-Muslim scholar-graduate of the same Ivy League school.

“As someone who has spoken in numerous graduation ceremonies, definitely the focus should be on the students, to inspire them to face their new life as graduates. I do agree with Sec. Lapus that to overtly campaign would be in poor taste and unjust to the students. However, political leaders may provide inspiration and guidance to the young by being graduation speakers as long as their message is one of genuine inspiration and not the usual partisan politics. It’s really a matter of discretion and delicadeza,” Tamano stressed.

The senatorial bet also said that he was hoping the administration bets will heed Lapus’ call.

“It would be an insult if the administration bets themselves will be the first to ignore their Education secretary’s plea. Anyway, the Filipino youth are wise and they won’t vote for trapos [traditional politicians] anyway no matter how much they try to sell themselves in graduation ceremonies,” Tamano said.

Muslim senatorial bet Atty. Adel Tamano pushes for more pro-women laws and opportunities in government

2010-03-08T07:47:00.000-08:00

Muslim senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano today urged for more pro-women laws and more opportunities for women to work and serve in the government, saying that empowered women help form better societies and that the same are part of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

The Nacionalista Party senatorial bet and spokesperson made this statement today, March 8, 2010, during the International Women’s Day celebration. Tamano attended the “Babae, Tagumpay Ka Ng Bayan!” rally at Mendiola, which was spearheaded by Gabriela.

“We should have more pro-women laws such as those that affect maternal health, gender equality, reproductive health rights, women trafficking and violence against women. Let us remember that these very issues are part of the MDGs, which we as a country have agreed to achieve by 2015,” Tamano stressed.

The MDGs are international development goals signed by and agreed upon by 192 United Nations-member states and at least 23 international organizations to be achieved by the year 2015. The eight goals are 1) eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, 2) achieve universal primary education, 3) promote gender equality and empowering women, 4) reduce child mortality, 5) improve maternal health, 6) combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases, 7) ensure environmental sustainability and 8) develop a Global Partnership for Development.

“Unfortunately for our country, despite the fact that we have a female president, we still see numerous problems affecting women. Just take the case of the reported rampant trafficking of Filipinas to Malaysia. The government must put an immediate stop to that. Hopefully, if I get elected to the Senate, pro-women laws will definitely be on my priority list,” Tamano said.

Tamano, the son of the late Senator Mamintal Tamano and the first ever Filipino-Muslim scholar-graduate of Harvard Law School, also shared that the Islamic world has historically, contrary to the common view, progressive views on women empowerment.

“In fact, many aspects of Islam regarding the rights of women in marriage and their right to property, among others, were deemed revolutionary,” he explained.

The young lawyer also urged for more opportunities for women to serve in the government. Tamano said that of the 17,385 elected public officials from the national down to the local levels, only 3,106 are women. In the Senate, only 4 legislators are women while only 51 out of the 240 congressional seats are occupied by women.

“Women can be great leaders. They’re resourceful, courageous, hardworking and very loving towards their families. With these traits, women leaders can definitely pave the way for women’s advancement and empowerment,” Tamano said.

Senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano says he can be Ang Ladlad’s “voice in the Senate”

2010-03-02T22:11:00.000-08:00

Nacionalista Party senatorial candidate and spokesman Atty. Adel Tamano received warm response from Ang Ladlad Saturday when he said that he will be the partylist group’s “voice in the Senate.”

Tamano made this statement before officers and members of Ang Ladlad, the national organization of Filipino lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgenders (LGBTs), during the group’s national convention Saturday.

Tamano was one of only three senatorial candidates invited to grace the event.

“Being a Muslim, I, too, am a part of a minority group that is stereotyped and discriminated against like LGBTs in the Philippines. I know what you’re going through and I know how frustrating it is not to be heard,” Tamano said.

“It takes someone who has experienced discrimination to be able to represent marginalized sectors like LGBTs. I could be your voice in the Senate,” Tamano offered.

The Ang Ladlad group warmly welcomed Tamano’s offer.

Tamano, a constitutional law professor, is a supporter of Ang Ladlad and its advocacies to promote equality, regardless of sexual preference.

Senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano vows to take legal action if restrictions against Querubin continue

2010-02-26T21:10:00.000-08:00

Nacionalista Party senatorial candidate and spokesman Atty. Adel Tamano has vowed to take the necessary legal action if restrictions against detained colonel and fellow NP senatorial bet Ariel Querubin continue. Tamano made this clear today when he visited Querubin this morning at his detention area at Camp Aguinaldo. Tamano was with NP standard bearer Manny Villar, vice presidential candidate Loren Legarda and fellow senatorial bets Lisa Maza, Bongbong Marcos, Susan Ople and Gwen Pimentel. Querubin is currently in jail and faces mutiny charges. The charges are connected to the 2006 standoff in the Philippine Marines Headquarters in Fort Bonifacio. Speaking as a spokesman for legal matters for Col. Querubin, Tamano, a constitutional law professor, said to reporters at the site, ""If Col. Querubin is not allowed media access or the right to campaign in the next couple of weeks, Gwen Pimentel and I have volunteered to take the necessary legal action to protect the rights of Col. Querubin." “We demand that Col. Querubin be immediately allowed to campaign for two reasons - Number one, as matter of fair play and equal treatment because the Liberal Party candidate who is similarly situated has been allowed by authorities to have interviews and even go to social activities like school homecomings where he can campaign. As you reporters see right now, our candidate is not even allowed by the higher ups in the military to talk to you so I am forced to be the one to answer your questions. It is most unfair to Col. Querubin and this is not how we should treat our heroes in the military.” “Number two, Article III of the Constitution on the provisions on bail are very clear: all persons have a right to bail except those whose crimes are punishable by Reclusion Perpetua and the evidence of guilt is strong. The underlying rationale for the limitation of the right to bail is the risk of flight or escape of the accused. But Col. Querubin is not a flight risk. In fact, he wants to do the opposite of running away and hiding, he wants to become known to the Filipino people so he can get their support for the upcoming elections. Note that the 1987 Constitution grants bail to all persons and no exception is made because of membership in the military,” Tamano added. The senatorial candidate then reiterated that “it is well within Col. Querubin’s rights to campaign. It’s his constitutional and democratic right to campaign. Let’s not undermine the rights of the Filipino voters to choose the best candidates.” Tamano is the first ever Filipino Muslim to graduate from Harvard Law School. He’s also the former president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. His senatorial campaign highlights education, youth and good governance.

Senatorial bet Atty. Adel Tamano welcomes Magdalo endorsement, says they share same vision for country

2010-02-25T21:09:00.000-08:00

Nacionalista Party senatorial candidate and spokesperson Atty. Adel Tamano has thanked the Magdalo group for their endorsement. In a statement released yesterday, the Magdalo group threw their all-out support for Tamano’s senatorial bid. “The Magdalo and I share the same advocacies on poverty eradication, the Mindanao peace process and reform as well as the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. These are crucial issues that we need to address and I’m glad that we share the same vision,” Tamano said. The Magdalo group also endorsed the candidacy of NP standard bearer Sen. Manny Villar. In the Magdalo statement, the group said that they chose Villar for his “competence, character and vision.” “I would like to think that they chose me because of those criteria as well,” Tamano said. The Magdalo group is a self-styled band of junior military officers and enlisted personnel known for the Oakwood mutiny and the Manila Peninsula siege. They have roughly 55,000 members nationwide. Meanwhile, Tamano is the first ever Filipino Muslim scholar graduate of Harvard Law School. A former president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila wherein under his leadership gave away 10,000 scholarships to poor but deserving students, Tamano is also a constitutional law professor and an advocate of youth programs.

Forbidden Questions with Adel Tamano

2010-02-23T20:52:00.000-08:00

It was another explosive Forbidden Questions today on Good Times with Mo! Senatorial candidate and political advisor of the show, Adel Tamano, walked in the studio and we grilled him good. One thing we all have grown to love about Adel is that he is the most honest opinionated political figure that graces our program. Adel tells it how it is, so when we asked him about his personal life, sex life, and thoughts about politicians--he brought out the thunder. Here is the recording of the entire FQ segment, I have yet to write the transcript but if anyone is willing to do it for me and email it to goodtimeswithmo@yahoo.com, I'd appreciate it.

Adel is passionate about education. If elected, he said he would dedicate his work to make sure that all Filipinos receive a quality education and more specifically, a FREE college education for the poor. He has a stellar resume and as young leader, would be a solid addition for a new Philippine Senate. Click here to visit his website. Follow Adel on Twitter by adding him here.

Listen to today's Forbidden Questions with Adel (below)

Source: http://www.motwister.com/blog/2010/2/23/forbidden-questions-with-adel-tamano.html

Atty. Adel Tamano lauds COMELEC’s move to get celebs for voter education campaign

2010-02-19T20:16:00.000-08:00

“Good to know that the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has come to their senses.”

This was Nacionalista Party senatorial candidate and spokesperson Atty. Adel Tamano’s statement with regard to the latest move of the COMELEC to enlist the help of celebrities for its voter education campaign.

Earlier this month, the COMELEC hinted that celebrities endorsing political candidates should either go on leave or resign. Tamano lambasted the COMELEC’s move saying that celebrities are covered by the same rights to express their opinions and support candidates that they like.

“I’m glad that instead of irking the entertainment world, the COMELEC now has plans of forging an alliance. The COMELEC should remember that celebrity endorsers serve an important purpose for lesser known candidates like myself by acting as the bridge to introduce a worthy but less known candidate. Similarly, our celebrity friends can also act as the bridge to promote voters’ education,” Tamano said.

Tamano cited celebrities like Ogie Alcasid and Robin Padilla who can really help spread information on the processes involved in the automated balloting.

“Ogie and Robin have undeniable star power and they can use that power to help educate the Filipino voters,” Tamano underscored.

Tamano garnered the endorsements of Alcasid and Padilla.

In his TVC endorsement, Alcasid said that he’s confident with Tamano’s qualifications as a lawyer, Harvard graduate, university president and Muslim-Mindanaoan. The popular Filipino actor-singer emphasized that he trusts Tamano and that he believes Tamano can bring brain power to the Senate.

Padilla, on the other hand, has expressed his strong support for Tamano. Padilla said that it’s high time that someone from Muslim Mindanao should be back in the Senate. Tamano is the first ever Filipino Muslim to graduate from Harvard Law School.

Atty. Adel Tamano emphasizes need to combat HIV/AIDS, urges government to make condoms readily available

2010-02-15T20:17:00.000-08:00

Atty. Adel Tamano emphasizes need to combat HIV/AIDS, urges government to make condoms readily available

“Combating HIV/AIDS is one of the MDGs. RP will be the laughing stock if we fail by 2015”

Following reports from the Department of Health (DOH) indicating a sharp increase in the number of reported HIV/AIDS cases in the country especially in the 25-34 age group, senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano has urged the Philippine government to make condoms readily available especially to the poor.

“Distributing condoms is all about health services, responsibility and protection. We don’t want to become like African countries with epidemics,” the Nacionalista Party senatorial bet and spokesperson emphasized.

“Let’s not forget that combating HIV/AIDS is one of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that we need to achieve by 2015. This is not a mere secondary task of the Philippine government. It is a primary task, it is something that the government promised the rest of the world to do,” Tamano explained.

“While it’s true that our country is facing so many challenges, we should remain steadfast in achieving the MDGs. We owe it to our fellow Filipinos. The Philippines will be the laughing stock if we fail by 2015,” Tamano added.

Meanwhile, the constitutional law professor and former president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila also lauded the Department of Labor and Employment’s plan to intensify its advocacy against HIV/AIDS.

The military’s claims are stupid and misunderstands the work of health workers – Atty. Adel Tamano

2010-02-14T03:25:00.000-08:00

Senatorial candidate Atty. Adel Tamano has criticized the army in relation to the controversial arrest of 43 health workers on February 6, 2010 from a health training seminar in Morong, Rizal, branding the army’s statements as “plainly stupid.”

“The military spokesman’s statement on a TV interview that the health workers were helping communist rebels or are rebels as well is not only plainly stupid but also misunderstands the work of health workers,” Tamano emphasized.

Tamano’s reaction comes after the non-appearance of the group now dubbed as the “Morong 43.” Despite the Supreme Court’s order on Thursday ordering the military and police to present to the Court of Appeals the “Morong 43,” not one detainee showed up Friday. The group is currently detained at Camp Capinpin in Tanay, Rizal.

Col. Aurelio Baladad, Commanding officer of the 202^nd Infantry Brigade, appeared before the court instead and explained that the AFP did not have enough resources to immediately transport 43 “high risk” detainees.

“That reasoning is preposterous. Are you saying that the AFP, the very same group that’s supposed to defend the country, is that incapable of tapping resources?,” Tamano slammed.

“Some of the people illegally arrested and detained by the military are Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) graduates who were merely providing health services and training to the poor. As president of PLM, we have always oriented our graduates towards public service and a preferential option for the poor. Because of this, our health workers are arrested and detained in violation of law,” Tamano said.

“There is no politics in health work – you provide health service to all in need, no matter what political orientation. Even convicted criminals get health services. The health workers should be released immediately,” Tamano added.

Adel Tamano ON COMELEC’S RESOLUTION TO ASK CELEBRITY ENDORSERS TO RESIGN OR GO ON LEAVE:

2010-02-11T08:17:00.000-08:00

Constitutional law professor and senatorial bet Atty. Adel Tamano hit the recent call of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) for celebrities endorsing political candidates to either resign or go on leave from their shows.

“The COMELEC resolution implementing section 6 of the Fair Elections Act mandating that celebrity endorsers go on leave is unconstitutional and violates the rights of freedom of association and expression,” Tamano emphasized.

The Nacionalista Party senatorial candidate and spokesperson added: “Why should celebrities be penalized for expressing their support for candidates? They are covered by the same rights to express their opinions and support candidates that they like, which is a right of all Filipino citizens, so why single them out?”

Tamano, the first ever Filipino Muslim to graduate from Harvard Law School and the former President of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, has garnered the endorsements of popular action star Robin Padilla and of popular singer-actor Ogie Alcasid.

“Ogie Alcasid has done a TV commercial for me and is endorsing me. Without his help, it will be difficult for the public to recognize me. Celebrity endorsers serve an important purpose especially for lesser known candidates like myself by acting as the bridge to introduce a worthy but less known candidate. They level the playing field against candidates who are re-electionists and artista or media personalities who are already well known to the public,” Tamano explained.

“I hate to say it but perhaps this latest COMELEC resolution is a mere ploy to distract the public. The COMELEC has bigger problems to solve – from all these delays in ballot printing and deliveries of PCOS machines to assuring the public that signals won’t be jammed during transmission of election results. Why don’t they concentrate on those first?”

The young lawyer even joked: “Or perhaps the COMELEC thinks that the political candidates can provide the entertainment in the meantime.”

Adel Tamano: The Redistribution of Hacienda Luisita is Long Overdue

2010-02-11T00:48:00.000-08:00

“Why wait for 5 more years when it should have been done decades ago”.

This was the statement of Atty. Adel Tamano, senatorial candidate of the Nacionalista Party, questioning the sincerity of Senator Benigno Cojuangco Aquino III when the latter promised to redistribute Hacienda Luisita in 5 years at a press conference held in Aquino’s ancestral home in Concepcion, Tarlac.

Tamano said that the redistribution of Hacienda Lusita is long overdue. He was referring to the 6,419-hectare sugar estate operated by the influential Cojuangco clan located in Tarlac. Tamano said that Hacienda Luisita was subjected to land reform in 1980 for distribution to the farmers. Instead of complying with a court order transferring control of Hacienda Luisita to the then Ministry of Agrarian Reform, the Cojuangcos elevated the matter to the Court of Appeals. The case against the Cojuangcos was dismissed in 1988. In 1989, under the administration of President Corazon Cojuangco-Aquino, the Cojuangco clan took advantage of the Stock Distribution Option (SDO) scheme provided under the Aquino administration’s Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP). Under the SDO scheme, landlords were allowed to run landholdings like a corporation wherein the farmer-beneficiaries are given stocks in exchange for land.

After 16 years of SDO, the farm workers beneficiaries have become more impoverished. They complained of unfair labor practices and illegal dismissals and retrenchment. They claimed that their take-home pay went down to as low as P18 for seasonal workers and P9 for casuals per week. The deadlock between the farm workers and the Cojuangco family led to a strike by 5,000 farm workers and 700 mill workers. Seven striking farm workers were killed and more than a hundred workers were wounded when police and military dispersed the picketline at the hacienda’s gate on November 16, 2004. This is what is now more popularly known as the “Hacienda Luisita Massacre.” Seven other farmer leaders and their supporters have been killed since the strike.

Compounding the woes of the poor farmers, Tamano said that in August 15, 1995, the Cojuangcos applied for conversion a 500 hectares land of the hacienda. The 500 hectares were sold for over 2 billion pesos but the farm workers were only given 37.5 million pesos. In 2006, portions of the hacienda were converted to make way for infrastructure projects like the SCTEX where the Conjuangcos reportedly earned a huge sum due to overpricing.

Tamano said that up to this time Senator Aquino has not been able to fully explain why the distribution of the hacienda could not be implemented. As to the claim of Aquino that the hacienda is heavily indebted hence the family does not want to burden the farmer-beneficiaries with the alleged debt, Tamano said that it is unfair to make the farmer-beneficiaries to suffer from the Cojuangcos’ own wrongdoings. Tamano noted that on December 23, 2005, the Presidential Agrarian Reform Council (PARC) issued Resolution No. 2005‐32‐01 which recalled/revoked the SDO plan and placed hacienda Luisita under the compulsory coverage scheme of the CARP. Instead of complying with the order, the Cojuangcos were able to secure a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) from the Supreme Court which enjoins PARC and DAR to implement/execute the resolution revoking the SDO. In the meantime, the farmers continue to suffer.

Nacionalista Party senatorial bet Adel Tamano defends Dolphy’s endorsement of NP standard bearer Manny Villar

2010-02-10T00:52:00.000-08:00

Tamano says accusations are baseless and insulting

Nacionalista Party senatorial bet and spokesperson Atty. Adel Tamano defended Comedy King Dolphy’s move to endorse NP standard bearer Manny Villar. This, after text messages accusing the popular actor of accepting a P30 Million bribe from Villar’s camp started to circulate yesterday.

“That accusation is baseless and a big insult to Dolphy,” Tamano underscored.

“Let us not forget that the Comedy King is an institution, a legend, a man of conviction. He won’t put his name on the line if he doesn’t believe in the person. He believes and trusts Sen. Manny Villar,” Tamano added.

The text message also accused Dolphy of “hanging on to Satan” and even hit the actor for having “20 children” who are all “drug addicts” and “gay.”

“Criticisms like these really come out during the campaign period. It only goes to show how desperate Sen. Manny Villar’s detractors are and the great lengths that they are willing to take just to destroy a person’s name and reputation. It’s sad, really. Why can’t we just consider track record?,” Tamano said.

The senatorial candidate and former president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila also stressed that this is the first time ever that the Comedy King has publicly endorsed a political candidate.

“Sen. Manny Villar and Dolphy both come from the same district in Tondo. They were both poor but because of sheer hard work and patience, they both succeeded in their chosen careers. That’s what people should remember,” Tamano said.

Ogie Alcasid endorses Adel Tamano for Senator

2010-02-09T05:06:00.000-08:00

Popular Filipino singer, actor, entrepreneur and comedian Ogie Alcasid endorses Adel Tamano for Senator this May 2010 elections. Ogie Alcasid underscores Atty. Adel Tamano's qualifications as brilliant lawyer, University President of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, first Filipino Muslim scholar-graduate of Harvard Law School, promising statesman who can add brain power to the Philippine Senate. Siya ang boses ng kabataan ngayong eleksyon 2010.

Cebu City warmly welcomes Adel Tamano

2010-01-18T20:30:00.000-08:00

Cebu City residents warmly welcomed lawyer and Nacionalista Party senatorial candidate Adel Tamano yesterday during the world famous Sinulog Festival 2010, a yearly celebration in honor of Cebu’s patron saint Santo Nino. Thousands shook hands and requested for photo ops with the NP spokesperson and former Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila president. Festival organizers estimated this year’s Sinulog crowd to be 8 million.

Senatorial candidate Adel Tamano scores Marina, calls for filing of admin cases

2010-01-06T07:51:00.001-08:00

Lawyer and senatorial candidate Adel Tamano blasted MARINA for the recent sea tragedies which resulted in deaths of no less than 20 people. More than 50 are also still missing.

"While it's true that shipowners must be made responsible for negligence, authorities must also be held liable. Administrative cases must be filed against officials who do not implement the laws effectively," the young lawyer said.

"We never seem to learn about these tragedies. It has become such a common occurrence that the public is no longer shocked," Tamano said.

M/V Baleno 9 sank a little past 10pm December 26, 2009 on its way to Batangas City from Calapan, Oriental Mindoro. M/V Catalyn B, on the other hand, sank 3 nautical miles from Limbones Island Christmas Eve.

"It seems that MARINA is inefficient in checking the vessels' seaworthiness. Does MARINA also have a way of checking these maritime companies? Why are substandard vessels allowed to sail?," Tamano asked.

"There have been a lot of maritime mishaps already. How many must perish before we resolve all these tragedies?," Tamano emphasized.

"Our country is an archipelago so the government has an important duty to insure that maritime travel is safe," he added.

Tamano also reiterated the need to file administrative cases against authorities who need to "answer to the people."

"The public must know that the government does not tolerate ineffective officials. If they can't do their jobs well, then relieve them from their posts and file appropriate administrative cases," he stressed.

Actor Robin Padilla lends support to fellow Muslim Adel Tamano

2010-01-06T07:50:00.000-08:00

Following Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) Chairman Nur Misuari's endorsement, popular Filipino actor Robin Padilla has also expressed his support for fellow Muslim Atty. Adel Tamano.

Tamano, the first Filipino Muslim scholar-graduate of Harvard Law School and President of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, is a senatorial candidate under the Nacionalista Party.

In a handwritten personal note to Tamano dated December 9, 2009, Padilla wished the young lawyer and former opposition spokesperson well in his political journey.

"May Allah guide you and give you success," the note read.

Tamano, for his part, expressed his gratitude to Padilla's show of support.

"I am extremely grateful to Robin for his trust and confidence," Tamano said.

"Rest assured that I will continue to protect not only the rights of our fellow Muslims but of all Filipinos. Hopefully, if I get the privilege to serve in the Senate, I will help foster peace and acceptance," Tamano underscored.

Recently, Misuari virtually endorsed Tamano before hundreds of MNLF commanders and leaders when he invited the latter to be the guest of honor during the 5th Bangsamoro National Assembly. Tamano was the only national politician allowed to attend the event.

Tamano calls Maguindanao martial rule an 'outrage'

2009-12-07T03:38:00.000-08:00

abs-cbnNEWS.com | 12/06/2009 11:21 AM

MANILA – Nacionalista Party senatorial bet Adel Tamano has branded as an “outrage” President Arroyo’s decision to put the province of Maguindanao under martial law.

Tamano, who is a Muslim himself, said that steps on solving the Maguindanao massacre should have been done within legalities.

“While all Filipinos, Mindanaoans especially, want swift justice against the monsters who committed the massacre, it must be done within the bounds of law,” Tamano said in a statement.

He added that although the incident in Maguindanao will need speedy resolution, the current situation does not warrant the need for a martial rule.

“The lack of actual - not merely possible or imminent - rebellion shows the illegality of the declaration,” he said.

“The Maguindanao massacre was an outrage but you do not solve it by committing an outrage on the rights of Mindanaoans, specifically those of Muslim Mindanao, by declaring unconstitutional martial law,” he added.

Tamano said Mindanao has suffered much when the whole country was placed under martial law in the ‘70s. Now that the same rule has been applied to Maguindanao, he said the people of the province will suffer the same fate.

"Majority of Maguindanaons who were the victims themselves of the warlords - who were created by this administration - will now have to suffer the yoke of martial law."

President Arroyo imposed martial law on Maguindanao late on Friday in an effort to rein in the Ampatuan family, a clan that until the massacre had ruled the province with the backing of the ruling coalition.

Clan members are accused of being behind the massacre of a rival politician's relatives, as well as journalists and other civilians.

One clan member, Andal Ampatuan Jr, was detained shortly after the killings and charged with 25 counts of murder.

Police allege he and 100 members of an Ampatuan militia shot dead the occupants of a convoy that included female relatives of his rival for the post of governor in next year's elections, as well as a group of journalists.

Andal Ampatuan Sr, the clan patriarch, has been governor of Maguindanao since 2001, and like other members of his family had a private army that the government alleges was involved in the rebellion.

Ampatuan Sr was among 5 clan members detained on Saturday after martial law was declared.

Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera said the Ampatuans will be charged with rebellion.

She said the rebellion charges would be on top of murder cases being prepared against them over the November 23 massacre.

A total of 32 people were taken into custody during Saturday's raids, including 20 militiamen who were found in a warehouse belonging to Ampatuan Jr that contained 340,000 rounds of ammunition for M16 assault rifles. -With a report from Agence France-Presse
as of 12/06/2009 6:49 PM

Adel Tamano & 15 doctors on stage for empowered women

2009-10-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

(The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines - The bedimpled Atty. Adel Tamano was a hit when he joined 15 doctors on the runway to model barongs by Jean Goulbourn’s Silk Cocoon.

Excitement reached fever pitch as soon as Atty. Tamano, Mu Sigma Fraternity Phi doctors Antonio Oposa Sr., Gregorio Pastorfide, Serafin Hilvano, Carmelo Alfiler, Gaudencio Vega, Jr., Alfredo Pontejos, Eduardo Gatchalian, Armando Crisostomo, Cesar Espiritu, John Anonuevo, Juan Rosas, Melfred Hernandez, Philip Cruz, Jose Tecson III and Randy Lopa strutted their stuff on the runway to the delight of the audience.

The gentlemen looked dashing in Silk Cocoon’s fab pieces in jewel tones (diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald) with brass, raffia and mother-of-pearl accents in Goulbourn’s signature hand-woven silk. Other featured designers were Jun Escario, Rhett Eala, Randy Ortiz, Philip Rodriguez, Richie Ortega, Michelle Lim, Delby Bragais, Parrish Carlos, Veejay Floresca, Tina Daniac and OJ Hofer.

Some barongs had embroideries inspired by the artworks of Impy Pilapil, Emily Cheng and Jeannie Javelosa.

The event dubbed “Brilyante — The Empowered Woman” is a benefit gala and fashion show organized by the UP College of Medicine’s Mu Sigma Phi Sorority in celebration of their 75th anniversary. It is for the benefit of their Cervical Cancer Prevention Network Program.

Cervical cancer, which is caused by HVP (human papillomavirus), is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Filipino women. The fashion show was staged not only to raise funds but also to spread awareness about this dreaded disease.

The 'greening' of Adel T. FUNFARE By Ricardo F. Lo

2009-10-04T07:07:00.000-07:00

(The Philippine Star)

Any day now, Adel Tamano will be smiling down larger-than-life at motorists along EDSA from huge billboards of The Belo Medical Clinic as endorser for the facial treatments. It was Adel himself who thought of the blurb: Smart is the new sexy.

Very true. At the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila where he’s the president (the youngest to hold that position), the bedimpled Adel (ramrod straight at 5’9") never fails to make heads turn with his movie-starish looks. Had he passed a singing audition for Boy Abunda years ago, why not, he could have been a singing-lawyer (he’s the first Filipino Muslim to graduate from Harvard Law School where he was a scholar while taking up an M.A. in Islamic Legal Studies).

Said Dr. Vicki Belo who hired Adel as her lawyer before he became an endorser, “He’s the perfect model because he is flawless. He has smooth skin.”

Together with Vicki, Adel met the movie press a few days ago. He came a bit late because he had to fix the travel permit of Vicki who was leaving the next day for a speaking engagement in the US. Besides, said Adel, he also had to finalize PLM’s medical mission for the victims of Typhoon Ondoy around the Intramuros area. He was in a green shirt, matching Vicki’s green outfit.

Asked why, Adel joked, “Because we are both green-minded.”

Vicki rode on. “We think alike.”

Even if he graduated from Ateneo (Blue Eagles), Adel said that green (the color of La Salle’s Archers) is “my color.” Another color that means so much to him is orange which is the motif of the Nacionalista Party (led by Sen. Manny Villar) of which Adel is one of the dashing spokesmen informally known as “Villar’s Honor Guards.”

He let the movie press in on a “secret.”

“A feng shui expert told me that ‘orange’ can easily beat ‘yellow’ because it has a little bit of ‘green’.”

So green it is.

Did Adel try any other treatment aside from the facials, maybe something, hmmm, below the neck?

“I don’t think he needs one,” said Vicki, still joking.

“If I had the body of Piolo Pascual,” said Adel deadpan, “I would have done a more daring pose.”

Does being well-rounded and well-educated make a man even more sexy?

“With the advances in the medical industry,” added Adel, seriously now, “no one has to be unattractive anymore; everyone can be beautiful. So since everyone can be beautiful, what’s your edge in making yourself more attractive? It has to come from inside; hindi puedeng maganda ka lang tingnan. It could be intelligence, character and integrity. You have to be beautiful inside. The Belo Medical Clinic has made beauty available to everyone. When you go to the clinic, it’s because you want to manifest what’s beautiful inside.”

Well said. Smart is, indeed, the new sexy.

Turning 39 today, Adel is married to lawyer Rowena Kapunan. “My one and only wife,” he said in answer to a comment that, being a Muslim, he’s entitled to four. “No such plan,” he joked.

Doesn’t he need, say, a lipo?

“If I watch my diet and continue to exercise, perhaps I won’t need a lipo...yet. But if I come to a point where I need one, why not?”

And what does he find sexy in a woman? Is it the face, the boobs, the butt or something else? What turns him on?

“Sexy is beyond the physical. It has to come from within. She has to be, yes, smart. May mga babaing ang ganda-ganda physically pero hindi masyadong gaano ang dating. Then, there are some some girls na hindi naman masyadong maganda and yet malakas ang dating. They have the so-called ‘X factor.’ I’ve been around the world and I can say that the most beautiful women are found in the Philippines.”

Smart is the new sexy! By CRISPINA MARTINEZ-BELEN

2009-10-02T07:13:00.000-07:00

Smart is the new sexy!

This slogan has been coined by Atty. Adel Tamano, and of course he should know, smart as he is, making him sexy too. “Smart is the New Sexy” is now one of the slogans being used by the Belo Medical Group, Adel being one of its endorsers.

In an intimate meeting with a select group of entertainment writers a few days ago, the bedimpled Adel charmed his way once more into the hearts of the writers even if he was late, because he was busy organizing a group of doctors to give medical assistance to those adversely affected by typhoon Ondoy and he also came from a series of relief operations around Metro Manila. And while he was at it, the Belo Medical Group was also conducting its own medical missions, he said. “Akala natin pang-beauty lang sila but they’re also doing their share of charity work.” On Sunday and Monday, the BMG was in Concepcion, Marikina to distribute about 2,500 goodie bags and medicines. They also gave a donation to the Philippine National Red Cross.

Adel expounded on what the “Smart is the New Sexy!” slogan means to him. “Everyone can be beautiful, and being beautiful is a plus” he said, “but the edge one has over the others comes from inside. It could be intelligence and because intelligence lasts, smart is sexy. It is the new sexy!”

Adel, who has always been described as someone good-looking enough to be in show business, bared that when he was young what he really wanted to be was a singer. In fact, he was a member of the Kundirana group of La Salle. But when he auditioned with Boy Abunda, “I failed,” he laughed. So he went a different way, towards the legal world. Adel first took up A.B. Economics from the Ateneo de Manila University where he also studied Law. He earned his Masters in Public Administration from UP in 2003, and in 2005, he got his Master of Laws from Harvard Law School. He was a Graduate Program scholar, an Islamic Legal Studies Program scholar and was the first Filipino Muslim to graduate from Harvard Law School.

Adel, who is one of the spokesmen of the Nacionalista Party and a strong senatorial contender in the 2010 national elections, said the Filipinas are one of the most beautiful in the whole world, and when asked who among the stars are the sexiest to him, he named Angel Locsin and Marian Rivera among his choices.

And for giving everyone the chance to be beautiful and sexy, Adel commends Dr. Vicki Belo for her efforts in the beauty business. But before he went further, he informed everyone that he has been able to work for the lifting of the travel ban of Dra. Vicki, and actually she was scheduled to travel abroad the day after the press conference.

On her part, Dra. Vicki said Adel will soon be resigning as her lawyer “not because I’m not a good client, or he doesn’t like me anymore, but because he is going to run as senator.” But of course, Adel will continue to avail himself of some of BMG’s services like facial treatments.

“He comes to the clinic at least once a week for skin treatments, like botanical and oxygen facials, and also firm plus,” Dra. Vicki said. As to why she got him as endorser, it’s because “I was looking for a new market to penetrate,” and of course she thought that with his popularity and fame, Adel would be the most perfect endorser to reach that market.

By the way, Atty. Adel Tamano is also the president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, the youngest to become head of the PLM and the first Filipino Muslim to become president of a university in Metro Manila.

The position of PLM president was offered to Adel by Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim two years ago. Adel declined it at first, but then when Mayor Lim persisted, he accepted knowing deep inside of him that he has always wanted to help the poor. He used to be a professorial lecturer at PLM prior to his appointment as president. He was also a lecturer in Constitutional Law at the Ateneo College of Law, and associate lecturer at FEU’s Institute of Law.

During his tenure as PLM president, the university experienced a lot of improvement.

By the way, Adel, who turns 39 tomorrow, Oct. 2, is the son of the late Sen. Mamintal Tamano and Hadja Putri Zorayda Abbas Tamano. He is married to another lawyer, Atty. Rowena Kapunan-Tamano.

Vicki, Hayden together again?

No, Dra. Vicki said she and Hayden are not together again as a couple, although they’ve been seen together like when they went to see the visionary Emma recently. “We are still friends, mabait naman siya and he’s one of the gentlest persons I’ve ever met,” Dra. Vicki said.

As to the possibility of Hayden’s losing his medical license due to the video sex scandal he got himself into, Dra. Vicki said, “unfair naman siguro na basta ma-revoke ang license niya. He studied for 10 years to be a doctor, sayang naman na he cannot practice anymore his profession…”

She reiterated that she and Hayden are not back into each other’s arms contrary to the perception of some.

From Harvard to the Philippine Senate

2009-09-24T00:21:00.000-07:00

From Harvard to the Philippine Senate
FROM THE STANDS By Domini M. Torrevillas (The Philippine Star)

There is a saying in Islam that the “ink of a scholar is holier than the blood of a martyr.” At least one of its sons has taken this proverb to heart, and has made academic excellence among his principal advocacies — apart from exemplifying it in his own life.

The first thing that strikes you upon meeting Attorney Adel Fadel Abbas Tamano is how down-to-earth and approachable he is. Indeed, when a group of people came to our table at a dinner in a restaurant to greet him and extend their support for ‘Attorney Tamano,” he shook their hands one by one, clapped them on the shoulders, and politely replied, “Please call me Adel po”. Right then, it was obvious that this line was born out of genuine sincerity rather than months of practice.

So then, if Adel Tamano conveys an air of being just a regular, ordinary guy, what makes him so outstanding? It is precisely because he is anything but regular and ordinary, yet still remains firmly grounded. His credentials could turn almost anyone into an intellectual snob: the first Filipino Muslim who earned a Harvard scholarship to study at the premier law school, the youngest (and consequently most dynamic) university president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), and president of the Association of Local Colleges and Universities (ACLU). Armed with an economics degree from Ateneo, a master’s degree in public administration from the University of the Philippines, his juris doctor from Ateneo, and a master’s in law from Harvard, Adel nonetheless believes that the most impressive qualifications are meaningless unless they are used to benefit others.

True to form, he has taught subjects ranging from economics to human resource development and constitutional law. “It’s quite over-used, but it all goes back to ‘giving a man a fish’ versus ‘teaching a man how to fish.’ The problems facing our society — particularly our youth — are deeply-rooted and multi-faceted, yet education still remains the starting point in finding solutions to these challenges,” Adel told an admiring group of academics.

This talented lawyer and public servant has caught the attention of the public, from his highly successful efforts to transform the PLM into a world-class center for learning, to his high profile clients such as Ruby Rose Jimenez and Dr. Victoria Belo. “So many people have said that the work we have done in PLM is nothing short of amazing. Others have even called it a miracle,” Adel said in reference to the university’s dramatic improvement in modernization, efficiency, and facilities. “There’s an important lesson to be learned here, however. If available funds are used solely for their intended purposes, and administered by a team that is bound by transparency, integrity, and accountability, then even the most difficult task becomes easier,” he explained.

I learned later on that as university president, Adel oversees an annual fund of P300 million for the benefit of nearly 12,000 scholars, staff and faculty. “It all begins with the official budget. The entire amount — and I mean to the very last centavo, in black and white — has to be used for the university, its scholars, and its staff. By doing that consistently, you send a strong message to civic-minded business leaders and organizations: ‘This guy heading the PLM is not on the take. He’s clean. If we support PLM advocacies or make donations, we are assured that 100 percent goes where we want it to go, and not to his pocket.’ That’s how the synergy of the public and private sectors should work,” Adel further emphasized.

On the other hand, most people remember Adel as the be-dimpled and unflappable spokesperson of the United Opposition during the 2007 senatorial elections. Several analysts actually pointed to him as one of the key reasons why the opposition won overwhelmingly in the Senate that year. Indeed, his witty repartee, confident poise, and logical arguments were in stark contrast to the appalling circus antics of his counterpart.

It is not surprising, therefore, that Adel has once again been tapped as a spokesperson, this time for the Nacionalista Party. Likewise, he has been very vocal about his passion to serve the public in a greater capacity as a member of the Senate. Someone asked him what he thought about his chances of winning, and his reply was as candid as it was disarming: “I submit myself to the Filipino people — no pretensions, no agenda — what you see is what you get. It’s entirely up to them to decide. But it sure would be nice to have a Muslim back in the Senate.” As you probably remember, Adel’s father, the late Mamintal Tamano, was a senator.

It sure would be nice to have an honest, intelligent, and upright non-trapo in the Senate.

Source: www.philstar.com

Who will be their Cory?

2009-08-17T02:56:00.000-07:00

By Adel A. Tamano
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 23:05:00 08/16/2009

TWO WEDNESDAYS ago, in alternately pouring rain and humid heat for two and a half hours, I waited in line with students of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) to pay my last respects to former president Cory Aquino.

Being the president of PLM and one of the department heads in Manila, I could have cheated and skipped the queue, but it would have been contrary to the things that Cory stood for – equality, fairness and democracy.

In fact, the little inconveniences of waiting in line and the erratic weather made perfect sense to me: I wanted to suffer a little, as a thanksgiving gesture to a woman who had lived a life of sacrifice for my country and so, logically, suffered for me as well.

But it was not logic – at least not the cold, impersonal kind that we associate with the term – that brought thousands of people to line up to pay honor to their Tita Cory. Logic would have dictated that these people stay in the comfort and safety of their homes and watch TV to get their last glimpse. Certainly, rationality was not what brought us there. It was emotion and compulsion. For me specifically, a sense of duty and gratitude.

Deep sadness

Days after, I was still in an emotional funk. I was deeply sad but afraid to articulate it, not even to my family and friends. I feared I would be scoffed at: There goes Adel being overly dramatic and self-indulgent about the demise of Cory.

The problem was, the sadness was there, palpable and real. It was a feeling that the country had become a less noble place because of her passing.

In fact, having stood in line with PLM students, I could not help but wonder: Who would be their Cory?

These young men and women were born after the Edsa Revolution, and what they knew of Cory, particularly the years when she had to make the courageous and painful transition from homemaker to national leader, was secondhand at best.

They knew Kris – Cory’s daughter who is a popular media personality but not a political or social leader in the classic sense – but were only vaguely familiar with Cory. They knew Cory was at one time the country’s President. They knew she was the wife of assassinated opposition leader Ninoy Aquino but they had not been made aware of the struggles she had had to face and overcome.

In contrast, Cory was a touchstone and a benchmark for my generation – an icon of inner strength, spirituality and, most of all, decency.

I started to worry for the students. Who would be their Cory?

Days after that rainy Tuesday, I realized that perhaps the answer to that question consisted of two seemingly incongruent ideas: One, there will never be another Cory and, two, the next generation will have to create their own Cory.

Cory was, in the truest sense, sui generic – a unique person made for a specific time and context. Some have suggested that she was a blessing from the Creator sent to the Philippines to guide us through the dictatorship. Consequently, there can never be another one like her. The mould, which was cast for that specific and unique purpose, would not only be broken but could not be remade because the times – and the needs of our nation – have changed.

Need to inspire

Time and context will change but the need for genuine leadership, for role models, and for people to inspire our country to move forward, will not. Our PLM students and their generation will need their own version of Cory, one who will fit the needs and the challenges of the times. Or, even better, they will take the braver step and be their own Cory.

The idea of stepping up to the challenge was for me the greatest lesson from Cory Aquino – that even the most seemingly ordinary Filipino, one whom many called a mere housewife and a know-nothing (“walang alam”) – could rise to the challenge and lead an entire nation back to democracy.

So who will be their Cory? Students, please raise your hands!

From: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/learning/view/20090816-220613/Who-will-be-their-Cory

The MOA-AD, Dr. Vicki Belo, and the Duty of A Lawyer to Defend His Client

2009-07-25T03:43:00.000-07:00

by Atty. Adel A. Tamano, A.B., J.D., MPA, LL.M

(Keynote Speech for Testimonial of New Lawyers of the University of Northern Luzon, July 25, 2009, City of Vigan)

Firstly, congratulations to our newly-minted lawyers and graduates of University of Northern Luzon. We honor you tonight for your success and the sacrifices that you have endured to obtain admission to the Roll of Attorneys. However, while we give you honor, it is but proper for us to remind you of one of your most important responsibilities as an Attorney: the duty of a lawyer to represent clients or causes that are unpopular and to handle cases where the reaction of the community may be adverse to the lawyer.

It bears repeating that the practice of law is a privilege that is granted to a select few in the Philippines. Out of ten bar examinees, only two or three are admitted to the bar. In order to insure that the practice of law takes on the nature of a profession instead of a mere business, this privilege is counterbalanced with duties of lawyers to the court and to his client.

In regard the lawyer’s duties to represent unpopular clients and causes, under Rule 138 of the Revised Rules of Court (Also Rule 14.01 of the Canons of Legal Ethics), it is stated that “(i)n defense of a person accused of a crime, by all fair and honorable means, regardless of his personal opinion as to the guilt of the accused, to present every defense that the law permits, to the end that no person may be deprived of life or liberty, but by due process of law.”

The right to counsel is regarded as so fundamental that it has been enshrined as a constitutional right and this right is given greater relevance when the person seeking counsel is deemed unpopular or the cause is contrary to current public opinion.

Let me give this discussion focus by sharing with you my own personal experience by handling to cases that is unpopular to some groups – the current Halili-Kho sex video case where I am counsel for Dr. Vicki Belo and the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) petition that I filed before the Supreme Court in 2008.

In regard the Halili-Kho case, my decision to handle the defense of Dr. Belo criticized by both friends and foes. People who cared about me and who were concerned with my political prospects warned that handling the defense of Dr. Belo would only give me negative publicity and that intelligent voters would be turned off by my handling such a scandalous case that involved sex, drugs, infidelity, and other elements were more fit for a tele-drama. My critics happily stated that my representing Dr. Belo, in this and other cases, was a death-blow to my political ambitions and a confirmation of my lack of political savvy. Some critics added that I should not even be practicing my profession since I was the President of the University of the City of Manila (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila).

My answer to both friends and critics was simple – I am, first and foremost, a lawyer. I understand my ethical duty to represent Dr. Belo regardless of political repercussions. In this regard, I am the opposite of a traditional politician or “trapo”. A trapo is a weathervane, a trapo has no real principle or stand on any issue, and a trapo will only support causes that will make him popular. Just last week, I received a text message that read, “You should not handle the Belo cases if you want to be a Senator.” I answered that I have an ethical duty as a lawyer to represent my client. He sent a text in reply that said, “so your choice is to be a lawyer instead of a Senator.” I answered finally that, if God is willing, I see no reason why I cannot be both. Most importantly, if I decided not to represent Dr. Belo because I gave more importance and weight to my political career than to my ethical duties, then I would not make a good Senator at all because our public officers should take their ethical and moral duties to heart.

In regard my practicing law, I obtained authority for limited practice from both the Board of Regents and the Office of the City Mayor of Manila. I did this for two reasons – firstly, because, candidly, the salary of a university president is insufficient to support my family and, secondly, I hold my being a lawyer to be so important and fundamental that I need to practice in order to stay mentally sharp and to kept abreast of the current legal trends.

As a guidance to our fledgling lawyers and to emphasize the imperative to handle unpopular causes, the comments of the IBP Committee that drafted the Code of Legal Ethics are especially relevant, “(r)egardless of his personal feelings, a lawyer should not decline representation because a client or cause is unpopular or community reaction is adverse. He should take comfort that history is replete with instances of distinguished and sacrificial services by lawyers who had represented unpopular clients and causes and who had received accolade for such services from his peers in the bar.”

In fact, personally, I do not need the accolade to feel fulfillment. I already take great comfort that I am fulfilling my duty as a lawyer, acting out my role in the dispensation of justice, and knowing from my own appreciation of the facts and the evidence, that my client, Dr. Belo, is innocent of the charges against her.

In fact, the criticism I received from the Halili-Kho case was mild compared to what I received from the MILF and the radicalized elements of the Filipino-Muslim or Moro community.

In 2008, I filed a petition before the Supreme Court questioning the MOA-AD. The Agreement would have established a presumptive state independent of the Philippine republic, which would have its own territory in Mindanao, under the political control of the MILF, and its own ancestral domains not subject to the jurisdiction of the Philippine Government. Despite my being a Moro or Filipino-Muslim, I opposed the agreement for being unconstitutional, for undermining Philippine sovereignty and territorial integrity, and for being unjust not only to non-Muslims, both Lumads and Christian, in Mindanao who would be displaced by the Agreement. Additionally, I believed the Agreement was similarly unfair to Filipino-Muslims who were not allied to the MILF, such as the MNLF and the majority of Filipino-Muslims who are opposed to the creation of a separate Moro State.

MILF leaders called me a “coward”, a “non-Muslim,” and “a former Moro.” On the MILF website I was put in the list of most hated Filipinos. I even received death threats from the MILF and their supporters. But, honestly - and I do not say this to appear brave because I am not any braver than the normal person – I did not care nor worry about the criticisms and threats. It was very clear to me that my duty as a lawyer demanded – not merely persuaded but created the imperative – that I question such an unconstitutional agreement, despite the criticisms that I knew I would obtain from some sectors of the Muslim community.

Finally, my message to the new lawyers is a simple: your privilege to practice the law shall, at times, demand that you take on clients and causes that will make you unpopular and that will garner you criticism instead of praise. Remember that long after the praise or criticism have subsided, you shall be able to carry yourself with dignity knowing that you have fulfilled your vital and primordial role as a member of the bar in the dispensation of justice. Take heart that by your actions you are privileged to be, above all, the genuine article – a real lawyer.

Justice serves right. [Why Adel stays as Dra. Belo's legal counsel]

2009-07-22T00:50:00.000-07:00

It's been almost a month when we heard about Adel's decision to quit as Dr. Vicky Belo's legal counsel. Yet, we wonder why we still see him regularly on news side by side with the controversial doctor. Add to that, in last July 12 episode of ABS-CBN's XXX, where an alleged victim accused certain doctors of Belo Medical Clinic of malpractice, there he was answering questions in defense of the said clinic, as their legal counsel . So, Atty. Adel Tamano is not just Belo's legal counsel but also of Belo Medical Clinic.

Then we start to formulate questions in our mind. Why? Why an intelligent and very promising leader like Adel Tamano keeps on defending the like of Dr. Vicky Belo? If this controversial doctor is negatively link with the Hayden- Halili scandal, what made Adel decide not to drop the case and just leave? When some are saying that this issue will do no good to his 2010 plan, what made Adel to ignore them? All these questions formulate speculations; inter alia, 1. that Adel only wants publicity, whether it's good or bad it is still publicity. 2. Dr. Belo might be spending a lot of money on this case that might be useful to his campaign come 2010 election.

Any of those speculations mentioned might or might not be the real reason. Afterall, these are just speculations. It's part of our right to believe on that or not. And I choose not to dwell on those things as the principal reason of Sir Adel for defending Dra. Belo.

Atty. Adel Tamano is known for his integrity and he will always be known for that. He is a lawyer who has the responsibility to defend people and make sure that justice will be served to them. I know everyone would agree to that, but sadly with some biases. Let me explain what do I mean by that in this scenario;

A rich man and a poor man are in trial. Disregarding the nature of the case, say the rich man is the defendant and the poor man is the plaintiff. At the end of the trial, the court acquitted the rich man.

Now, how do you feel about that? Without even asking what is the case, you might probably thinking that obviously, the poor man was denied of justice.

Let's reverse the scenario. That is, a poor man is the defendant and the rich man is the plaintiff. At the end of the trial, the court acquitted the poor man.

Now, do you feel the same? Or you might thinking that the poor man is vindicated and the justice still works for the oppressed. Brings back the glory of Samson over Goliath.

My point for that illustration is that sometimes justice for some are in double-standard. Yes, we have seen a lot of cases where the rich wins even if they should not; because of their power and money they are capable of denying justice to the poor. However, that is not always the case. Justice is not for the rich nor for the poor only. It is for all and by all.

Where am i leading at? Well, my argument about the possible reason of Adel staying as Belo's legal counsel is that Adel is doing his job, and he is doing it well. He is performing his responsibility, to make sure that justice is served. He defends Dra. Belo because he has the reason to believe that Dra. Belo is innocent of all the accusations against her. What might be keeping him as Belo's legal counsel? Well, I firmly believe that the speculated reasons mentioned earlier have nothing to do with that. I honestly believe that it's Sir Adel's principle that holding him not to dump Belo even if the world asking him to. Adel is serving his purpose, give justice to everyone not just for one. Some writers are being biased against him because he is on the side of Belo, the rich one and not of Katrina. I do not blame them, it has been what the society dictates. Feel pity for the poor, have no mercy for the rest. But we should not allowed our society to affect our own sense of right and wrong. If Adel happens to be the legal counsel of Katrina, would we react the same way we reacted when he is on Belo? I'm sure not. Because Katrina is the victim, because Katrina got the sympathy of the masses, all others on her side are hero. Sadly, Belo is not Katrina. She is rich. She is accused of being the mastermind of the issue and she is also the one who got cheated on by her boyfriend.

The Tamano defection

2009-06-23T23:17:00.000-07:00

By: Fel Maragay

The camp of former President Joseph Estrada and Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay lost a credible and skillful spokesman and a very promising politician when lawyer Adel Tamano quit and moved over to the Nacionalista Party led by Senator Manuel Villar.

The resignation of Tamano was quite painful to both sides because he was an invaluable asset of the United Opposition (composed of Estrada’s Puwersa ng Masang Pilipino and Binay’s Partido Demokratikong Pilipino-Laban ng Bayan). As spokesman, Tamano used his legal and communication expertise and lent the prestige of his name in articulating the views of the opposition on diverse issues, particularly in criticizing administration policies and decisions.

The departure of Tamano is a big blow especially to Estrada, as it occurred at a time when his plan to join the 2010 presidential race and recapture power is moving into high gear. The former president was caught off guard by Tamano’s sudden resignation. He reacted with disbelief when the latter came to him to bid goodbye. Estrada did not expect the move; only a few weeks before, he had included Tamano in the initial list of his senatorial line-up for the 2010 elections. It was a recognition, a reward to the rising political star from Muslim Mindanao for what he has done for the political opposition.

Interviewed by newsmen at the Kapihan sa Sulo in Quezon City over the weekend, Tamano gave two reasons why he decided to jump over to the NP. First is the sentimental reason—his father, the late Senator Mamintal Tamano, was a pillar of the NP during its heyday. The second is his belief that Manny Villar, who rose from poverty to fortune through enterprise and hard work, could provide the kind of leadership that the country needs.

But I think there is a bigger reason why he broke away from Estrada. Tamano’s fateful decision came shortly after Fr. Joaquin Bernas, eminent constitutionalist and delegate to the 1986 Constitutional Commission, explained in his newspaper column the grounds why Estrada is no longer eligible to run for reelection as president. Bernas, former dean at the Ateneo University College of Law, reproduced in his column the portions of the Con-Com proceedings where the prohibition on the re-election of an incumbent and past president of the republic were lengthily discussed. As an Ateneo law graduate, Tamano could not have overlooked and just brushed aside the Bernas’ treatise. It might have in fact influenced him into casting doubts on the viability of Estrada’s attempt at a second presidential bout.

Let us assume that in November, Estrada files his certificate of candidacy for president. If the Comelec decides to disqualify him and this is sustained by the Supreme Court, you could imagine how it could throw the Estrada team including his senatorial bets into a state of disarray and uncertainty. Perhaps, this is the nightmarish scenario that this aspiring Maranao politician dreads most. And this is a gambit that he would take pains to avoid in his first attempt to seek public office.

Now coffee shops are abuzz with talk that Villar dangled an offer to Tamano that was too tempting to refuse. This was what media men heard straight from a campaign strategist and propagandist of Mr. Estrada after the media forum with Tamano at Sulo Hotel.

At any rate, we wish the Harvard-educated Tamano the best of luck in his foray into politics. Seldom does a person with admirable credentials and leadership potentials emerge to represent the Muslim community in the national legislature. It would be a pity if the opportunities that are coming his way to fulfill his dream and destiny would just be wasted.

***

With Tamano gone from the Estrada camp, former Senate President and Ambassador Ernesto Maceda has stepped into the shoes of spokesman of the UNO. The loss of Tamano must be so heart-breaking for Estrada and company that they seem to have intentionally refrained from commenting on it. No doubt, the loss has a lot of negative implications; the less they talk about it, the better for them. In the midst of Tamano affair, one thing that must have comforted Estrada was that Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile is back to his fold. Remember Enrile allied himself with the Arroyo administration after power changed hands in Malacañang. Now, Enrile has become a mainstay in Estrada’s provincial sorties dubbed “Lakbay Pasasalamat” (Journey of Gratitude) which he launched shortly after being granted executive clemency and freed from detention following his conviction for plunder by the court. The public was surprised when the 85-year-old Enrile a few months ago announced that he was running for re-election under Estrada’s Puwersa ng Masang Pilipino. The announcement was naturally a big letdown to Malacañang because it had been hoping that Enrile would join the administration’s senatorial ticket. But Enrile said that while he adopted a policy of collaboration with the administration, he has never left the PMP that he used to head as party president. Of course, this was quite confusing. Many believe that Enrile, like Senator Miriam Santiago, had burned his bridges with the opposition after he allied himself with President Arroyo. In fact, when Enrile was catapulted to the Senate presidency during the leadership coup on Nov. 17, 2008, was it not hailed as a victory for the administration? But since Enrile is claiming that there has not been an interruption in his membership in the PMP, it can be interpreted to mean he has never left the opposition. It sounds like a case of one cruising on two rivers. And since the next elections are drawing near, one cannot help but see Enrile as somebody enjoying the best of both worlds. This illustrates once more the state of confusion in our flawed political system where the distinction between administration and opposition has been blurred or erased. It reflects the convoluted political alignment if the Senate where both the majority and the minority blocs are made up of administration and opposition members.

http://www.manilastandardtoday.com/?page=felMaragay_june22_2009

Tamano to quit Belo, PLM for Villar

2009-06-21T21:58:00.000-07:00

By Perseus Echeminada

MANILA, Philippines - Lawyer Adel Tamano announced yesterday that he will give up his legal services for controversial cosmetic surgeon Vicki Belo and will also resign from his post as president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila to concentrate on his position as spokesman of the Nacionalista Party of Sen. Manuel Villar.

“I cannot be the spokesman of Sen. Villar and Dr. Belo at the same time. I am relinquishing my legal services soon,” Tamano told reporters during the weekly Kapihan sa Sulo Hotel in Quezon City.

“I have to disengage my services so I can devote all my time as spokesman of the Nacionalista Party,” he said.

He admitted that being a lawyer for Belo, who has been implicated in a controversial sex video case involving her former boyfriend Dr. Hayden Kho, is not an easy job.

Tamano said as a lawyer, he accepted the offer to become the legal counsel of Belo because he is convinced that she is innocent of the charges hurled against her and Kho.

He said before the sex video scandal broke out, he was already the lawyer of Belo and handling the cases pending before the Department of Justice is part of his job.

Tamano, former spokesman of the United Opposition, said his job as Belo’s legal counsel will only be confined to the preliminary stages of the sex video case and since it is expected to drag beyond the 2010 elections, he has no choice but to end his services.

As of Friday, a US-based web-hosting site has urged the National Bureau of Investigation to secure a US court order to allow the firm to reveal who uploaded the sex videos of Kho and actress Katrina Halili on the Internet.

The NBI’s Anti-Fraud and Computer Crimes Division said the request for a system log to identify the culprit would delay their investigation of the case.

Tamano, however, did not say when he would be relinquishing his legal services for Belo but he is certain that he will be resigning as president of PLM when the filing of certificates of candidacy for national and local candidates begins in November.

Tamano said he is interested in running for a Senate seat in 2010 under the Nacionalista Party.

Read from: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=479624&publicationSubCategoryId=63

The real Adel Tamano.

2009-06-20T00:53:00.000-07:00

Discover the man behind that cute face.. visit http://www.adeltamano.ph.
Learn about his background and advocacies.
Be part of his journey on finding peace in Mindanao.

Atty. Adel Tamano , pasok na sa Nacionalist Party senatorial line up

2009-06-09T16:25:00.000-07:00

Pasado sa senatorial line up ng Nacionalista Party si Atty. Adel Tamano.

Kinumpirma ni N-P spokesman Gilbert Remulla na taglay ni Tamano ang mga katangian na hinahanap nila sa mga isasabak ng partido sa pagka-senador.

Nanindigan din si Remulla na bukas (open) sila sa iba pang political parties na nais makipag-alyansa sa Nacionalista Party.

Read from: http://www.rmn.ph/national/atty-adel-tamano-pasok-na-sa-nacionalist-party-senatorial-line-up

Adel Tamano a coup for Villar

2009-06-08T23:12:00.000-07:00

By Jerry Tundag

Even before he officially joined politics, Adel Tamano already enjoyed what many politicians would give an arm for — facial recognition and name recall. The young lawyer not only has an actor’s good looks, he is also an excellent communicator.

Despite being a son of former senator Mamintal Tamano, Adel did not jump headlong into politics by vying for an elective position himself. Instead he immersed himself in politics by lending his appealing presence to the company of older politicians.

Now, I don’t know if there was something deliberate in the manner in which he chose the company he kept. But by introducing himself to the national consciousness in the company of the likes of Joseph Estrada and Jejomar Binay, it was clear he enjoyed the benefit of comparison.

Compared to Estrada and Binay, Adel offered television audiences a refreshing contrast to almost everything that the two veteran politicians offered and presented. He was young as opposed to old, good-looking as opposed to ... well..., and articulate as opposed to mumbling.

In a country with an electorate that is increasingly getting younger — half the population being below 25 years of age — and an inexplicable preference for appearance rather than substance — Adel would be certainly be a prized catch in any ticket for election.

So I am sure Estrada, who continues to foolishly dream of regaining the presidency, and Binay, who thinks Filipinos will foolishly mistake the Philippines for Makati, must have been emboldened in no small measure in their folly by assuming Adel was an ace up their sleeve.

But apparently Adel is not all appearance. The inkling we had of his substance from the manner in which he talks, he recently validated by making a choice that must have stunned and stunk Estrada and Binay but which entrenched his own self as a man who knows his destiny.

Adel broke his ties with the United Opposition of Binay and the Partido ng Masang Pilipino of Estrada and joined the Nacionalista Party of Senator Manny Villar, also a contender for the 2010 presidential election.

The move of Adel is clearly to pave the way for what many perceive to be his first real foray into politics — a run for the Senate. It is a move that strengthens both his position, as well as that of Villar.

Villar, who is the subject of a widely-perceived trumped-up ethics complaint in a Senate dominated by colleagues who are also his rivals for the presidency, could not have been any happier by the development.

Having wisely refused to engage his rivals in a frontal confrontation but instead meeting them head-on in press conferences which he can at least control, it seems that it is Villar who has benefitted largely from recent political developments.

A few days before Adel linked up with the Nacionalista Party, Villar also welcomed several local government officials who have defected from the administration, further entrenching himself as the leading opposition contender for the presidency.

While I do not give much credence to surveys, there are indeed surveys that say Villar is the preferred presidential candidate. Maybe the lengthening line of officials crossing over to his fold is a good indicator of his chances in 2010.

But I think it is the acquisition of Adel that pleases Villar the most at this point. A fresh personality is always a welcome change in any environment. And for political purposes, he proves to be a coup for Villar, who instead of being weakened appears to be gaining.

Read more: http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=475559&publicationSubCategoryId=109

Tamano nagtampo kay Erap

2009-06-06T00:56:00.000-07:00

Updated June 06, 2009 12:00 AM
(by Rudy Andal)

MANILA, Philippines - Nagtampo si dating United Opposition (UNO) spokesman Adel Tamano sa naging pahayag ni dating Pangulong Estrada na hindi siya kawalan sa ha nay ng oposisyon dahil isa lamang siyang ‘spokesman’.

Sinabi ni Atty. Tamano, kasalukuyang pangulo ng Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) at dating spokesman ng UNO, igina galang niya ang naging opinion ni dating Pangulong Erap dahil sa pag-alis niya sa UNO.

Nanumpa kamakailan si Tamano bilang miyembro ng Nacionalista Party (NP) ni Sen. Manuel Villar Jr.

“Medyo masakit marinig na parang balewala ang ginawa ko bilang spokesman ng UNO pero nirerespeto ko ang opinion ni dating Pangulong Erap. Now that I am with the NP, I hope they will appreciate whatever contribution I can make to the party,” paliwanag pa ni Tamano.

Naunang sinabi ni Erap na hindi kawalan si Tamano sa oposisyon dahil hindi naman ito opisyal ng UNO tulad nina Sen. Ernesto Ma ceda at Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay bagkus ay isang ‘spokesman’ lamang ito.

Read from http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=474832&publicationSubCategoryId=92

TAMANO RESIGNS FROM UNO, JOINS NACIONALISTAS

2009-06-05T09:19:00.000-07:00

-- Rommel C. Lontayao, Cris G. Odronia And Francis Earl A. Cueto

Adel Tamano on Thursday resigned as spokesman of the United Opposition (UNO) and joined the Nacionalista Party of Sen. Manuel Villar Jr., one of the leading aspirants for president in the 2010 elections.

Tamano earlier confirmed that he would run for the Senate also in 2010, but in statement released by Villar on Thursday, the former opposition spokesman said, “I’m not entering Nacionalista Party with the expectation that I will be one of its senatorial candidates. If they believe that I have what it takes to be a good candidate, I will let them choose.”

He explained, “My family has deep roots in the Nacionalista Party and part of what I am doing is to honor my late father and continue his work as a Nacionalista.”

Tamano is the eighth son of the late Sen. Mamintal Tamano and civic leader Hadja Putri Zorayda Abbas Tamano. He is also president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (University of the City of Manila) and the longtime lawyer of the controversial Dr. Vicky Belo, whose lover, Dr. Hayden Kho, is embroiled in a sex-video scandal.

Tamano, who hails from Lanao del Sur, was accompanied by his wife, lawyer Rowena Kapunan, and her parents, former Supreme Court Justice Santiago Kapunan and Angie.

The erstwhile UNO spokesman earned his economics and law degrees from the Ateneo de Manila University in 1992 and 1996, respectively. Then he took up Masters in Public Administration at the University of the Philippines, and later became the first Filipino Muslim to graduate from the Harvard Law School.

Villar for president

“I can speak for myself as Adel Tamano now. I am no longer a spokesman for somebody,” said the 38-year-old lawyer, who now backs Villar’s presidential bid.

He added that Villar has a big chance in being elected as the country’s next leader next year.

“Our biggest problem in the country is poverty, and it will take someone who has really experienced poverty to redeem us out of it. That is why I choose him,” Tamano said in the statement released by Villar’s camp.

The Nacionalista Party, founded in 1907, has produced six presidents—Manuel Quezon, Sergio Osmeña, Ramon Magsaysay, Jose Laurel, Carlos Garcia and Ferdinand Marcos.

Opposition’s reactions

Tamano also said he had informed the opposition leaders – former President Joseph Estrada and UNO President and Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay—of his decision to resign and join Villar’s party. And they reportedly accepted Tamano’s resignation.

Binay congratulated Tamano also on Thursday, saying their parting was cordial. “I just wish him all the luck in his political plans.”

He added that former Sen. Ernesto Maceda would be UNO’s new spokesman.

Mayor JV Ejercito of San Juan City (Metro Manila) also wished Tamano good luck but gave him a parting shot. “Sana lang napunta siya sa tunay na oposisyon at hindi sa mga nagpapanggap lamang [I wish he had joined the real opposition party, not the one that is just pretending to be one].”

Ejercito is also a director of the United Opposition and son of Estrada, who has repeatedly said he would again run for president if the opposition fails to unite behind a single candidate.

Event at Laurel house

Also sworn in with Tamano was businessman Arsenic Laurel of the illustrious Laurel clan. He will run for representative of the Third District of Batangas, a statement said.

The event took place at the Nacionalista headquarters, the historic Laurel House on Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong City.

Also with Villar, Tamano and Laurel on Thursday were Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano and wife, Taguig Rep. Lani Cayetano; Sen. Villar’s wife, Las Piñas Rep. Cynthia Villar; Albay Rep. Al Francis Bichara; Caloocan Rep. Oscar “Oca” Malapitan; Laguna Rep. Justin “Timmy” Chipeco; Cavite Rep. Crispin “Boying” Remulla; Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rolando “Klarex” Uy; Quezon City Rep. Vincent “Bingbong’ Crisologo; Nueva Vizcaya Rep. Carlos “Caloy” Padilla; former Negros Occidental Rep. Jerry Paras; former Pampanga Rep. Rimpy Bondoc; former Compostela Valley Rep. Roger Sarmiento; former Manila Representatives Joey Hizon and Rudy Tuazon; and former Casiguran Mayor Edwin Hamor.

http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2009/june/05/yehey/top_stories/20090605top2.html

Tamano quits UNO, moves over to NP

2009-06-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

By Allison Lopez
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 11:35:00 06/05/2009

Filed Under: Politics, Elections, Eleksyon 2010

MANILA, Philippines—United Opposition (UNO) spokesperson Adel Tamano resigned the post Thursday when he joined the Nacionalista Party headed by Sen. Manuel Villar.

Tamano at the same time admitted he was interested in running for a Senate seat in 2010 under the party that counts his late senator-father, Mamintal Tamano, among its more illustrious members.

“My family has deep roots in the Nacionalista Party and part of what I am doing is to honor my late father and continue his work as a Nacionalista,” Tamano said.

He said there had been no falling out between himself and UNO stalwarts, former President Joseph Estrada and Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay.

“I joined the NP for two things—because my father, Sen. Mamintal Tamano, was a true-blue Nacionalista, and because it had become very difficult for me to speak on behalf of the opposition. In 2007, it was easy when it was still the Genuine Opposition, but now it had become very difficult for me,” he said in a phone interview.

Tamano was immediately replaced as UNO spokesperson by former Sen. Ernesto Maceda. UNO is composed of Estrada’s Puwersa ng Masang Pilipino and Binay’s PDP-Laban parties.

Tamano, who took his oath Thursday in front of NP president Sen. Manuel Villar, said he was “very nervous” when he went to see Estrada two weeks ago to tell him of his plans. But the opposition leader turned out to be kind and understanding.

“We talked for three hours. He told me that if that was what I had to do, he was not the type to stop me na gawin kung ano raw yung nakakabuti sa akin. Ganun kabait si Presidente (from doing what was right for me. That’s how nice the President is),” he said, adding that he also met with Binay, who gave him some advice.

In a statement, Binay said: “Adel Tamano has the right to join any organization. I just wish him all the luck in his political plans.”

The NP, Tamano said, was the “best fit” for him because its members, who include Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano and Cavite Rep. Gilbert Remulla, were his good friends, and he believes that Villar, a former Senate president, is the best bet to lead the country in 2010.

Villar is the declared NP standard-bearer in 2010.

“Of all the people who are ‘presidentiables,’ I feel that Manny Villar is the one I want to become president. He is a success story. It would take someone who has overcome it to help find answers to solving poverty in the Philippines,” he said.

Tamano, the first Muslim Filipino to obtain a masters of law degree with a scholarship to Harvard University, said he would resign from the presidency of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, a job he concurrently holds, before the deadline for the filing of certificates of candidacy in November.

Aside from Tamano, Villar swore in Arsenic Laurel as a member of the NP in rites held at the historic Laurel House on Shaw Boulevard in Mandaluyong City that Villar had bought from the family early this year.

Laurel, a member of the well-known political clan, will run for representative of the third district of Batangas.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090605-208958/Tamano-quits-UNO-moves-over-to-NP

CON-ASS IS A CON by Atty. Adel A. Tamano

2009-06-04T11:30:00.000-07:00

CON. This word perfectly describes the actions of Team-GMA Congressmen who approved House Resolution 1109 at 11:20 P.M. last night. Let’s not get too mired in the legalese and the parliamentary maneuverings; essentially, the aim of Team-GMA congressmen in approving Resolution 1109 is to take the Senate out of the equation in changing the Philippine Constitution, which is absurd because even renaming a road would require the participation of the Senate. Team-GMA knows that they can never get the ¾ vote from the Senate to be able to change the Constitution, via a Constituent Assembly, because Team-GMA does not control the Senate like it does the Congress.

So why is it a mere con? Well because, as in any con or scam, the object is to deceive and divert attention in order to get the real prize: HOLDING ON TO POWER BEYOND 2010. Team-GMA understands that there is not enough time to amend the Constitution with elections happening in less than a year. So the object is NOT to alter the Constitution before 2010 but rather to LAY DOWN THE BASIS for amending the Constitution AFTER the 2010 elections. All Team-GMA needs now is for someone – maybe one of its minions or some well-intentioned individual who wants to stop the Congressional Cha-Cha train – to go to the Supreme Court and get a favorable ruling that says that Resolution 1109 is valid and that the Senate does not have to participate as long as ¾ths of the Congress vote to constitute itself into a constituent assembly.

See, Team-GMA has pretty much given up on winning the national seats, President, Vice-President, and Senators, but they still have a good chance in winning the local congressional seats. So they are willing to lose – what the layman might think are the more important positions such as President, Vice-President, etc. – as long as they have enough Congressmen to amend the Constitution.

So in July 2010, we will have a different President, perhaps an opposition President and new Senators. However, since Team-GMA still controls Congress, then all Team-GMA has to do is to have Congress constitute itself into a Constituent Assembly and propose changing our system of government from Presidential to Parliamentary. Now if the people approve this revision in a plebiscite, maybe a rigged one, then it is Team-GMA back at the helm. So while all of us are so focused on the 2010 elections, Team-GMA is looking beyond that.

Maybe you can dismiss all of this as conspiracy theory or an over-active imagination but nearly four decades ago Filipinos were caught off-guard when Martial Law was declared and the 1973 Constitution was approved in so-called “people’s assemblies,” which laid the groundwork for Marcos’ twenty-year rule. So I’d much rather be overcautious than be caught off guard. Eternal vigilance is indeed the price of democracy, particularly when dealing with Team-GMA.

Adel joins Villar party.

2009-06-04T08:54:00.000-07:00

UNO spokesman quits, joins Villar party
By Thea Alberto
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 15:44:00 06/04/2009

Filed Under: Eleksyon 2010, Elections, Politics

MANILA, Philippines – The spokesman of the United Opposition (UNO) has bolted the coalition and joined the Nacionalista Party (NP) as he threw his support for NP President Manuel Villar’s presidential bid in 2010.

Lawyer Adel Tamano, who intends to run for Senator in 2010, took his oath before Villar on Thursday.

“My father, the late Senator Tamano is a founder of Nacionalista Party. To honor his memory I joined the party” said Tamano.

“I think Manny Villar is the man to beat… the biggest reason is this man was able to rise from poverty, the country's biggest problem. And it will take someone who has experience and who can find solutions for poverty,” he added.

Villar said Tamano would be a great asset to the NP. He said the NP was open to other candidates who wanted to join the party.

He said many mayors joined the NP last month.

Tamano said former president Joseph Estrada and UNO president Jejomar Binay accepted his decision to transfer to Villar’s party.

“Nagpaalam ako ng maayos kay Erap [I bade Estrada goodbye] and we talked for three hours. He respected my decision,” he said.

“Now I can speak as Adel Tamano and not just a spokesman” he added.

Earlier in the day, Binay said he was saddened by Tamano's decision.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20090604-208803/UNO-spokesman-quits-joins-Villar-party

2009-04-13T20:22:00.000-07:00

Gov’t urged not to internationalize Mindanao conflict

Posted on 25 March 2009

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines/ BP Garcia-–Lawyer-educator Adel Tamano has cautioned the government not to internationalize a local conflict by tapping the participation of foreign figures in the peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels.

This was the reaction of Tamano after former British Prime Minister Tony Blair announced that he is willing to help the Philippines move along its peace process with the Mindanao separatist group.

Tamano, who has high respect on Blair, said there would be positive and negative effects if and when the government will allow the former British Prime Minister to participate in the peace talk with the MILF.

“The positive effect is that Blair has the skills (as a negotiator), which is good and we need that in the peace process with the MILF,” Tamano said as he noted how Blair handled the negotiations in Northern Ireland and Middle East.

The negative effect, Tamano said, is that the local conflict will be internationalized if the government will tap the assistance of Blair to participate in the peace process.

He noted that several countries like the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), Malaysia and Japan are already involved in the peace process by way of forming part of the International Monitoring Team (IMT).

“Ang kinakatakutan ko, if Tony Blair takes too much of a role, then as the saying goes too many cooks will spoil the broth,” Tamano said citing the negotiators’ losing flexibility once a local conflict is internationalized.

“In internationalizing conflict you will have a lot of posturing from parties involved to be admired. The spotlight is too harsh,” he added.

He urged the peace process stakeholders to study well whether or not to allow the participation of more foreign personalities in resolving the conflict in Mindanao.

Ultimately, Tamano said the solution to the conflict must come from Mindanaoans that include the Muslims, Christians and the Lumads with the support from the national government.

Meanwhile, he said there will be no breakthrough that could be expected even though there will be resumption of the peace talk between the government and the MILF.

The peace talk was stalled last year owing to the strong public opposition on the proposed Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD) that eventually led the Supreme Court to declare it as unconstitutional.

Tamano said time is too short for the present administration to implement certain concessions once the peace talk resumes.

However, he said confidence building should start at this time in preparation for the resumption of the peace talk after the elections next year.

“Let us look for an administration with a fresh mandate with new leadership and then start talking about it,” he said.

Tamano, the president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and of the Association of Local Colleges and Universities was here Tuesday as guest speaker in the commencement exercises of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU). (BP Garcia)

http://thephilsouthangle.com/?tag=adel-tamano

2009-04-13T20:10:00.000-07:00

MARAMAG, BUKIDNON - Radyo Natin Maramag, a radio station based in the Municipality of Maramag, Bukidnon, recently interviewed current Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila President and United Opposition spokesperson Atty. Adel Tamano.

Tamano is widely recognized in Mindanao as a strong contender for a senatorial seat in next year’s elections.

During the live phone-patch interview aired via Radyo Natin Maramag, Tamano shared his views with regard to the hostage taking of the ICRC volunteers.

“Very fluent siya. Apart from his good looks and intelligence, I think naa gyud siya’y chance nga makakuha ug daghang votes from Bukidnon. That is, if he’ll gun for a senatorial seat next year,” commented a radio listener.

Tamano, the eighth son of the late Senator Mamintal Tamano and civic leader Hadja Putri Zorayda Abbas Tamano, was the spokesperson for the United Opposition in the 2007 national elections.

The young lawyer is also known as the first ever Filipino Muslim to graduate from Harvard Law School.

http://www.bukidnononline.com/2009/04/08/maramag-radio-station-interviews-adel-tamano/

2009-03-30T20:22:00.000-07:00

Tamano dares ‘presidentiables’ to reveal Mindanao peace agenda

Posted on 25 March 2009

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines/ BP Garcia–Lawyer-educator Adel Tamano is challenging the so-called “presidentiables” seeking to run in next year’s presidential elections to reveal at this early how they intend to resolve the decades-old conflict in Mindanao and foster the Christian-Muslim unity among Filipinos.

Tamano, the guest speaker Tuesday at the commencement exercises of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), said the country’s “presidentiables” should also explain their position on the ongoing Mindanao peace talks aside from disclosing their “Christian-Muslim Unity Agenda.”

“In fairness to the people of Mindanao, I believe it is only fair that our presidentiables should now tell us what their Mindanao conflict resolution agenda and how they intend to foster better harmony among the Muslims and Christians in Mindanao,” Tamano said.

Tamano, President of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and of the Association of Local Colleges and Universities (ACLA), said finding the elusive peace in Mindanao should be an utmost priority of the next occupant of Malacañang Palace.

“That (agenda) is not a matter of choice, it’s a political imperative,” he said citing achieving economic prosperity and political stability for the entire country will never be attained unless the Mindanao conflict is resolved.

“The bitter lessons of war have taught us this painful reality and anyone seeking the presidency in 2010 must know this by now,” he added.

He pointed out that the Mindanao conflict must be resolved and honorable peace must descend on southern Philippines before the entire country can prosper.

Tamano, who is also an advocate of inter-faith dialogue and conflict resolution in the grassroots level, said the Mindanaoans should be given all the necessary information about the proposed programs of governance of each presidential aspirant, particularly on the issue of the Mindanao conflict.

He encouraged the graduates to use their education in helping create a just and lasting peace in Mindanao, specifically by having a Muslim-Christian unity agenda.

He told the graduates that as they received the gift of education, they have also been given the opportunity in using the knowledge and skills to help others.

“As your graduation theme states clearly, you must be catalysts for development and a just and lasting peace in Mindanao,” he added. (BP Garcia, The PhilSouth Angle)

http://thephilsouthangle.com/?tag=adel-tamano

Tamano: "enough is enough"

2009-03-01T04:36:00.000-08:00

Tamano denounces Abu Sayyaf kidnappings By : Julmunir I. Jannaral, Correspondent Manila Times27 February 2009 12:10 AM
COTABATO CITY: A known stalwart of the political opposition and a Muslim leader on Wednesday broke his silence to denounce even his fellow Muslims engaged in criminal acts like what the Abu Sayyaf is doing in kidnapping even innocent people engaged in humanitarian work like the three workers of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) who remains in captivity since January 15.
Lawyer Adel Tamano, spokesman of the United Opposition and a new breed of Muslim leader these days, said kidnapping innocent people like the members of the ICRC is un-Islamic and should be condemned in its strongest sense.
“This is a great disservice to our religion of Islam,” Tamano said.
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Tamano told The Manila Times that “enough is enough” for Abu Sayyaf and all these kidnappings should stop once and for all as it has dragged the names of peace-loving Muslim Filipinos. He also sent a message to the Abu Sayyaf that if they are fighting in the name of Islam and for the sake of Bangsamoro people, they must not perpetrate kidnapping at the expense of the innocent.
“This act is more dastardly since the victims are members of an international organization which has been engaged for more than a century in non-sectarian humanitarian activities and along with the Red Crescent have long been recognized as a neutral organization which should not be harmed,” he added.
He likewise appealed to the kidnappers not to prolong the agony of the hostages in captivity, but to release them without further delay unharmed and unconditionally. He said the three ICRC workers, Swiss Andreas Notter, Italian Eugenio Vagni and Filipino Mary-Jean Lacaba should be turned over already to the authorities in Sulu, since after all the Abu Sayyaf as reported is not demanding anymore ransom money for the release of the hostages.
Two weeks ago, Abu Ali, senior leader of the Abu Sayyaf had clarified to The Manila Times in a phone interview on the reported demand of the kidnappers for a $10 million ransom. “We are not demanding any amount of ransom in exchange of the release of the hostages,” Abu Ali said. “The report is a lie and devoid of truth, but was made to derail the process of negotiation,” he added.
But Abu Ali admitted that contrary to the previous acts of kidnapping, this time they are just doing it to gain attention of the government since they are not asking any ransom money anymore. He said what they are asking and still fighting for is the self-determination of the Moro people and their rights to establish their own Bangsamoro homeland separate and distinct from the Republic of the Philippines.
However, a confirmed source from Indanan, Sulu who is privy to the situation also told The Muslim Times on condition not to be identified, said the release of the ICRC hostages would be prolong for a number days, or it could drag on even for months since both the military and the Abu Sayyaf do not trust with each other and does not give in to their respective demand.
The Abu Sayyaf is demanding for the pullout of the military cordon that is now with the aide of civilian armed volunteers before the formal negotiation could take place. But the military has made an outright rejection of the demand for the doubt that the kidnappers would transfer the hostages to other place.
On the other hand, the kidnappers are also suspecting that if the military would not be returned to barrack, all of them would be annihilated right away once they had turned over the hostages to the authorities...
Read more: http://www.yehey.com/news/article.aspx?id=235442

Ang Tunay na Lider

2009-02-10T20:52:00.000-08:00

ANG TUNAY NA LIDER
ni ADEL A. TAMANO

Ang pamumuno ay hindi lamang kapangyarihan at karangalan, manapa’y isang tungkulin at pananagutan sa bawat taong sakop ng pamamahala ng isang pinuno o lider.
Mayroon akong natutunan sa tunay na kahulugan ng pamumuno sa ilang panahon ng aking panunungkulan bilang pangulo ng PAMANTASAN NG LUNGSOD NG MAYNILA at bilang tagapagsalita ng UNITED OPPOSITION, marahil din sa aking pagiging ama ng maliliit ko pang mga anak o kaya’y dahil sa kawalan ng mga lider na makapagpapabago ng sistema ng ating pulitika.
TATLONG katangian ang dapat taglayin ng isang tunay at tapat na lider, batay sa aking mga karanasan:
1.Kilala niya ang kanyang nasasakupan
2.May pangitain siya o vision
3.At mahigpit siyang kalaban ng katiwalian (corruption)
Bagamat, hindi bagay sa isang pangulo ng pamantasan, ayon sa tingin ng iba, ang aking ginagawa araw-araw na magtungo sa mga class room, rest room, mga pasilidad at buong bakuran ng PLM, mag-interview ng mga istudyante, professor,kawani at mga manggagawa, nakita ko naman na mabunga ang aking mga sakripisyo, sapagkat nakilala ko ang lahat na uri ng tao na aking pinaglilingkuran. Nakita ko rin ang tunay na kondisyon ng PLM, nalaman ko kung anu-ano ang mga dapat ipaayos, nabatid ko kung sino sa mga kawani, guro at pati na mga karaniwang mangagawa ang tunay na nagtratrabaho , nagkukunwari at higit sa lahat ang mga tamad. Napag-alaman ko rin kung ano pang mga bagay ang dapat kong gawin bilang lider. Lahat ng ito ay nakatulong nang malaki sa pagbibigay ko ng mga desisyon
At dahil sa pakikihalubilo na aking ginawa, ngayon ay napalagyan ko na ang PLM ng libreng INTERNET ACCESS, mayroon ng modernong pasilidad tulad ng air-condtioned class rooms, library, cafeteria, hi-tech equipment at iba pa.
Lubos akong naniniwala, na isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit bigo ang pamumuno sa Pilipinas, dahil ang ating mga lider ay hindi makapaglaan ng kahit maikling oras upang alamin kung papaano nabubuhay ang mga Pilipino. Paano ka mamumuno, kung hindi mo kilala ang mga taong iyong pinamumunuan o hindi mo alam ang kanilang pangangailangan?
May pangitain o vision ang isang lider. Kailangan, higit at malawak ang saklaw ng kanyang pangitain kaysa sa kanyang nasasakupan. Dapat, mayroon siyang nakikita na hindi nakikita ng kanyang mga tao, sapagkat kung hindi, anumang grupo o organization ay hindi susulong lalong hindi uunlad. Ang tunay at tapat na lider ay hindi lamang nakatanaw sa magandang kinabukasan bagkus naipapaliwanag pa niya ang kanyang mga magaganda at makabuluhang pangitain o vision sa mga mamumuhunan at tuloy maganyak na makamit, makamtam ng mga tao niya ang wagas na mithiin.
Maraming hinirang na lider na naging tau-tauhan lamang dahil sa kulang o walang pangitain o vision para sa bayan, kaya’t hindi nakapagtataka kung mabusabos ang bansang ito.
Malugod at labis kong ikinasisiya kapag naririnig ko na marami akong nagawang pagbabago at pag-unlad sa PLM, inuulit ko tulad ng magandang pasilidad, fitness center, shuttle service, bonuses at iba pang mga benipisyo para sa mga kawani,guro at manggagawa. Lahat nang ito’y naging posible dahil sa aming mahigpit na patakaran laban sa katiwalian o corruption.

Hindi tiwali ang isang tunay at tapat na lider, dapat lumalaban sa katiwalian.

Sa PLM ay ipinatutupad namin ng tahas ang “Law of Procurement”. Idinadaan namin ang lahat ng pamimili sa tamang proseso at tinitiyak na may nakalaang pondo sa isang makatwiran at malinaw na pamamaraan. May pera ang PLM para sa kanyang panagangailangan.
Ang totoo niyan, hindi naman ganoong kalaki ang aking nagawa, simple lang ang aking ipinatupad. Bawal magnakaw ng pera ng bayan.

Kitang kita ko na sa isang maliit na yunit ng organisasyon ay maaring umusbong ang katiwalian at kayang sirain nito ang buong institusyon. Ito rin ang eksaktong nangyayari nang malawakan sa ating bansa. Kailanman ay hindi makapagbibigay ng mga kaayusang infrastructure, kalusugan, edukasyon at mga reformang panginstitusyonal hanggat may isang lider na tiwali o corrupt.

Bilang pangwakas, lahat ng aral na ito ay bunga ng marubdob na pagmamahal ko sa aking pamilya, na kung tutuusin ay pangsarili lamang; ngunit bilang isang karaniwang ama na may maliliit pang anak na si Santi, 6 na taon at Mike 3 taon, nababahala ako sa kanilang kinabukasan, kung ang ating bansa ay hindi magkakaroon ng mga lider na makakapagpapabago ng anyo ng ating lipunan, mga lider na may puso at damdamin sa kanyang kapwa; lider na may pangitain o vision, at mga lider na matapat at malinis sa kanilang mga tungkulin na ginagampanan.

Ang aking dalawang anak, ang inyong mga anak, ang mga anak ng bawat Pilipino; saan sila patutungo kung walang tunay na lider na mamumuno sa kanila?

Marami pong salamat.

Repost from http://oppositeofapathy.wordpress.com/2009/02/08/ang-tunay-na-lider/

Tamano: "ill conceived, untimely, and ultimately antipoor and anti-students. He [Chairman Emmanuel Angeles] should resign immediately."

2009-02-02T22:15:00.000-08:00

CHED chief scored for 5-yr plan

Written by TJ Agcaoili / Correspondent

THE president of the Association of Local Colleges and Universities (ALCU), Adel Tamano, on Monday asked the Commission on Higher Education (Ched) to renounce its plan to add another year for all college programs by 2010.

Tamano, with student leaders and youth groups, said in a press briefing at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) the ChEd’s plan is “ill conceived, untimely, and ultimately antipoor and anti-students. He [Chairman Emmanuel Angeles] should resign immediately.”

He has gone to various universities countrywide to talk to administrators, teacher and students about the additional year proposed by the CHED and the “great response” is to oppose the plan, especially given the current economic crisis.

Tamano said Angeles had also proposed the plan without sufficient consultation with all affected stakeholders. He also warned Angeles that there could be a conflict-of-interest issue going against him because he is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Angeles University Foundation as well as the corporate secretary.

He declared there is a failure of leadership at the ChEd. “While we must acknowledge that there are major problems in the education sector, it must be clear that we do not address these problems by adding additional burden on the poor by adding an additional year in college. The challenges in Philippine education are much deeper and may only be addressed through fundamental reforms and only after proper consultation with all stakeholders.”

Alvin Peters, president of the National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP), said the ChEd proposal, although aimed at improving education, is not the solution and he suspects it as a “ploy by the government to disguise its neglect in providing jobs for new graduates.”

“By extending students’ stay in college for an additional year, the Arroyo government is trying to avoid graduates immediately becoming part of the swelling number of unemployed,” said Peters. “The government is clearly attempting to do magic with the data once again in order to disguise its inaction and neglect, something it’s been shown to have penchant for.”

A technical panel, it was reported, is now studying the advantages and disadvantages of adding an additional year to the 4-year nursing curriculum. Angeles said the panel would finish its review by the end of next month.

Afterwards, the CHED will start its consultations with students and parents and the final decision on ChEd’s proposal will be announced before March ends, added Angeles.

http://businessmirror.com.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5533:ched-chief-scored-for-5-yr-plan&catid=23:topnews&Itemid=58

Tamano: ‘Abus destroying our name’

2009-02-01T22:11:00.000-08:00

By Desiree Caluza
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:21:00 02/01/2009

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines—United Opposition spokesperson Adel Tamano said Muslims should publicly condemn the criminal activities of the Abu Sayyaf, which is suspected of kidnapping three workers of the International Committee of the Red Cross on Jan. 15.

“I’m a Muslim and what the Abu Sayyaf did was anti-Islamic, anti-Christian and immoral,” Tamano said in a press forum here on Friday. “They are destroying our name.”

He said the Abu Sayyaf had put Muslims in a bad light as many people tended to associate them with the bandit group.

A number of Muslim groups are drafting statements to denounce the Abu Sayyaf’s criminal activities, according to Tamano, a lawyer and the president of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila.

“It is time for all Muslims to speak out on this issue,” he said, adding that many Muslims could be considered role models because they were contributing to peace efforts and to nation-building.

Read Full Article http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20090201-186741/Tamano-Abus-destroying-our-name">here

‘Cutting COA’s budget sends wrong signal’

2009-01-29T22:18:00.001-08:00

Written by Zaff S. Solmerin / Correspondent

Thursday, 29 January 2009 23:22

THE United Opposition (UNO) yesterday warned about the implications of recent reports of a P100-million cut in the budget of the Commission on Audit (COA).

“It sends a wrong signal to graft busters in the government. It will indicate that Malacañang will not hesitate to defang an agency crucial in keeping an eye on how the government uses its resources,” UNO spokesman lawyer Adel Tamano said.

Tamano cautioned, “The development, if true, will further erode the public’s confidence on whether the Palace is really serious in adapting a policy of transparency and accountability in its affairs.”

A recent report quoting a COA official said the cut in the office’s budget, if approved by the President, will have a significant effect on how State auditors’ function.

Read Full Article here

‘Cutting COA’s budget sends wrong signal’

2009-01-29T22:18:00.000-08:00

Written by Zaff S. Solmerin / Correspondent

Thursday, 29 January 2009 23:22

THE United Opposition (UNO) yesterday warned about the implications of recent reports of a P100-million cut in the budget of the Commission on Audit (COA).

A recent report quoting a COA official said the cut in the office’s budget, if approved by the President, will have a significant effect on how State auditors’ function.

Read Full Article here

The real meaning of leadership

2009-01-26T23:04:00.000-08:00

By Adel A. Tamano
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:44:00 01/26/2009

Filed Under: Education, People

IT seems that my life’s lessons, of late, have been geared toward the real meaning of leadership. Perhaps I view it this way because of my work as president of the University of the City of Manila (Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila or PLM) and as spokesperson for the United Opposition. Or maybe it is because of my being a father and husband to my young family. Or is it due to the lack of transformational leaders in our country’s political scene?

Suffice it to say, leadership has been in the forefront of my thinking.

I have culled three main lessons on what is leadership.

Leadership is empathy

One of the things I enjoy doing as university president—and for which I am also criticized because some view it as unbecoming—is inspecting, on a regular basis, the entire university: checking all the classrooms, restrooms, facilities and grounds of PLM. Of course, part of the inspection includes interviewing students, professors and staff. By doing this I get to see the real condition of the university—what needs to be fixed, who are the people who are actually working and who are lazy, what the students and staff need, etc.

This is the practical side or the foundations of empathy. Seeing how the people that you serve are situated and learning about their needs and aspirations give you the capacity to empathize and enable you to make wiser decisions on policy matters and resource allocation. If I had not done my regular inspections, the transformation of PLM from a university without even Internet access for its students to the new PLM with modern facilities—such as, among others, free Internet access, a first class student cafeteria, air-conditioned classrooms, etc.— would never have happened.

I believe one of the reasons we have a failure of leadership in the Philippines is our leaders do not take the time to see how the majority of Filipinos live. These pseudo-leaders are so divorced from reality and lack real empathy that regardless of their educational background, abilities or even good intentions, they can never govern wisely. How can you lead when you don’t even know the people you are leading?

Leadership is vision

This is the great paradox: In order to lead you must empathize with those you lead but you must have a better vision than the majority. Leadership must be visionary—meaning that a leader must see possibilities beyond what others see. Otherwise, any group, organization or even a nation will be muddled in mediocrity and the status quo. The leader must not only be able to see a better future but must also be able to articulate it to the stakeholders and motivate people toward achieving the goal.

How many of our pseudo-leaders can we honestly say have a real vision for our country? So is it such a mystery that our country is not moving forward?

Leadership is anticorruption

I am amazed at having received numerous compliments on the improvements I have done in PLM. A big part of why we have been able to provide better facilities and benefits to our employees and staff — bonuses, a free fitness center, shuttle service, etc.—is simply that we have an anticorruption policy.

By doing something as simple as complying with the law on procurement, going through the proper bidding process, and making sure that resources are allocated in a rational and transparent process, there is more than enough money to address all the needs of the university. In other words, I feel the compliments are, in a sense, undeserved because I have not done anything incredibly innovative or revolutionary—I just decided not to steal from government and I have made it difficult for others in my organization to steal.

This has been a powerful lesson for me because I have seen, firsthand, on a microlevel, how corruption can destroy an institution, such as a university, which is exactly what has happened on a macrolevel in our country. The Philippines, similarly, will forever be unable to provide the infrastructure, healthcare, education, and institutional reforms to move our country forward if our leaders are corrupt.

As a final note, all these lessons have been grounded on my deep love for my family, which is, honestly, a selfish motivation.

As a young dad, I shudder at the thought of what kind of future my sons, Santi, 6, and Mike, 3, will face if our country does not produce transformational leaders—leaders with empathy, vision and integrity to fight corruption.

Alma matter:

Where Adel Tamano was educated:

Elementary-JASMS, QC
High school-La Salle Greenhills
University-Ateneo de Manila University (AB Economics, Law)
Graduate-University of the Philippines (Master of Public Administration); Harvard Law School (Master of Laws)

Read from: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/learning/view/20090126-185533/The-real-meaning-of-leadership

Tamano: President Arroyo and her allies should feel guilty..

2009-01-21T22:42:00.000-08:00

Critics use Obama speech to score Arroyo, allies

01/21/2009 | 12:29 PM
By: Sophia Dedace, GMANews.TV

MANILA, Philippines – Political opponents of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Wednesday highlighted parts of US President Barack Obama's inaugural speech to criticize President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo's administration.

In a text message to reporters, United Opposition (UNO) spokesperson Adel Tamano said President Arroyo and her allies should feel at fault after listening to Obama’s speech.

“Firstly, [President Arroyo] and her allies should feel guilty and fearful after listening to Obama’s inauguration speech. Truly, the days of [President Arroyo] and her allies are numbered in history – and in due time, the Courts – which will judge them harshly," Tamano said.

In his speech, Obama said “those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."

Tamano also said the Filipinos should find inspiration in Obama’s victory in its pursuit of leaders bringing “genuine and meaningful change" to the country.

For its part, militant group Anakpawis said President Arroyo must sense that she was among “corrupt leaders" referred to in Obama's address.

Read Full Article here

Magkaisa Tayo!

2008-12-13T23:06:00.000-08:00

Adel Tamano’s Speech for UNO at December 12 Rally

MAGKAISA TAYO!
- ni Atty. Adel A. Tamano

Bismillah Hi Rahman Hi Raheem. Asalaamu Alaikum.

Isang mainit na pagbati ng kapayapaan sa ating lahat.

Halos hindi ko magbikas ang aking kasiyahan dahil nagkaka-isa tayong lahat sa ating pagtutol sa Charter Change.

Maraming nagsasabi na watak-watak ang oposisyon. At gusto ni GMA na magka-watak-watak tayo. Divide and conquer ika nga. Ang mayaman kalaban ang mahirap; Muslim laban sa Kristiyano; Edsa Dos laban sa Edsa Tres.

But today we have shown GMA that on this issue of charter change, we can unite and stand here – for this brief shining moment – as one nation and as one people.

Do not forget this moment because if we can unite against charter change, then we can unite against the other problems that are destroying nation - Corrupsyon. Kahirapan. At ang bulok na sistema at gobyerno ni Ginang Arroyo.

Kailangan natin ng pagbabago. We need change, pero hindi charter change. Ang kailagan natin ay CHARACTER CHANGE. Pagbabago ng mga namumuno at pagbabago nating lahat.

If the Filipino people can unite as one family and one country, then nothing – absolutely nothing – can stop us from becoming a great nation.

Dahil Muslim man o Kristiyano, mayaman o mahirap, tayo ay isang dakilang bansa at tayong lahat ay Pilipino na naghahangad ng tunay na pagbabago.

MAGKA-ISA TAYO AT MABUHAY ANG PILIPINAS.

(From: http://oppositeofapathy.wordpress.com/2008/12/14/adel-tamanos-speech-for-uno-at-december-12-rally/)

Campaign Poster

2008-11-25T01:02:00.000-08:00

Click the image for the larger view

Bumoto ng TAMA, at sa TAMA lang! TAMANO tayo sa senado. =)

Harvard Commencement Speech

2008-11-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

Note: This speech was delivered at the 2005 Commencement Exercises of Harvard Law School -

Dean Kagan, the faculty and staff of Harvard Law School, the Graduating Class of 2005, our family and friends – Good Afternoon:

We begin with a caveat: If you believe that the praise and celebration are the only remarks that are appropriate for a graduation ceremony, then what I have to say will be a big disappointment.

This is not to belittle the hard work and sacrifice that we have undergone in order to be here today. For all of this and more, we deserve the warmest congratulations.

However, it would not serve us well to focus solely on our personal achievements: that would merely serve our vanity. What is more, it would be untruthful. Today’s graduation belongs as much to us as it does to our parents, spouses, relatives, and loved ones. They have sacrificed as much as we have, if not more so. They deserve equal praise for their support, love, and encouragement.

Furthermore, we must remember that our education is a great privilege. For someone like myself, a Filipino-Muslim, studying at Harvard was an unbelievable opportunity. In the predominantly Muslim areas of the Philippines, out of 10 grade-school students, only 2 will be able to complete high-school. Those in the developing world know, firsthand, that education is a truly precious commodity.

This is why our commencement today should not only be a time for self-congratulation but, more importantly, a moment for deep and sincere reflection. We must ask the essential questions of a graduate: 1) What have we learned?; and 2) Where do we go from here?

Today, we leave the comfortable and secure confines of Harvard Law School and enter the real world. It is a world of growing unilateralism, of heightened volatility in the Middle East, of mounting threats to security, of unrelenting degradation of the environment, and an ever widening gap, in economic terms, between the developed and developing nations.

What is more, we depart knowing that we have a responsibility to address these global issues. It should be emphasized that we, the members of the LL.M. Class of 2005, were not chosen from the thousands of applicants to the Graduate Program solely because of our academic or professional achievements. Instead, the choice was made with the prospect that a Harvard education would enable us to become future leaders and policymakers. Very simply, much is expected of us.

Accordingly, in order to address these global issues we must ask: what have we learned? Certainly, from the 250 courses available in the Law School, we have learned much in terms of legal theory and the substance of the Law. However, the most valuable source of education was our exposure to the diverse beliefs and cultures of men and women from over 60 nations. Indeed, the real genius of the Graduate Program is its embrace of multiculturalism and diversity.

In fact, it is this multiculturalism that will prove to be of the most benefit not only to each of us but more so to the Law School itself. This is a vital point: the very existence of the Graduate Program and the presence of legal scholars from over 60 nations is a powerful symbol and a clear reminder that no single country, race, or religion has a monopoly on good will, knowledge, or wisdom.

So where do we go from here? This is a question that each one of us, the 162 members of the LL.M. Class of 2005, will have to answer on our own and in our own time. We all desire to succeed and success itself can be defined and achieved in myriad ways. But one thing is certain - if your graduation becomes the high-water mark of your life, then you have failed to achieve the hopes of this institution. More importantly, you will have failed yourself. Again, we must never forget that much is expected of us.

I must confess that there is a personal reason for framing this speech in terms of poverty, terrorism, pollution, and world peace. I am a husband and a father of a two-year old son and when I think about the enormity of the global problems that we face, frankly, I am filled with fear and doubt. This is why I have such a personal stake in the success of our class and of the LL.M. Program itself.

Ultimately, the real value of our education will be assessed in terms of our making the world a more just, peaceful, equitable, environmentally sustainable, and tolerant place for our children.

Finally, in this world that, at times, seems so determined to destroy itself on the basis of differences in ideology, race, religion, or ethnicity, I have, nevertheless, witnessed 162 people from over 60 nations meet, initially, as strangers, then come together as classmates - who argued, debated, and, at times, vehemently disagreed - and, ultimately, become united as genuine friends. In this I find my optimism, hopefulness, and confidence. It is upon this bond of friendship and the spirit of understanding and humanity that I entrust my hopes for our future. I am truly proud to be a member of the LL.M. Class of 2005.

I thank you. I honor you. Congratulations.

-Repost from The New Infidel: Adel's Blog