Next Media Tycoon?

We write this column amidst the declaration by Philippine authorities that the Bicol Region is a “high risk” area. From the standpoint of Alert protocols, does this mean that we are on Alert No 4, and therefore travel to the Bicol Region is under certain conditions, such as only those with complete vaccination may be allowed or limited under a certain percentage? On the other hand, from TV and other print and broadcast media reports it appears that OCTA research authorities have it that when things level off, Covict 19 may be treated just like ordinary influenza and thus ought not to sow fear among our citizenry. Be that as it may, amidst these seeming contradictions we just have to live with it.

The takeover of billionaire Mark Villar of ABS-CBN just a few months before the national and local elections on May 9, 2022, with the go signal of the National Telecommunication Commission, has given rise to widespread protests from media practitioners, netizens and the general public. Although some experts in the broadcast media like Alvin Elchico and Doris Begornia have assured that the network will continue to broadcast through the internet, as it is presently doing so. There are those who believe that the network may acquire its own channel, like Channel 10 which is presently available, in which case the “midnight” takeover of the network by Villar would be rendered meaningless.

TRIVIA:

Belated birthday greetings to Dr. Zsa Zsa Divinagracia, Internal Medicine practitioner, on the occasion of her birthday anniversary recently. Her late father Delfin Divinagracia, Jr. is my AdeNU class ‘54 batch mate. Belated birthday greeting also to Ms Belen Agregado-Zaragosa whose birthday was last week. She is the USI high school class ‘55 batch mate of my spouse Minda.

Congratulations and greetings also to the Naga College Foundation on the occasion of its 75th Foundation Anniversary. I am sure the Bicolanos take sublime pride in its 75 years of educational service to the Bicol Region in particular and our country in general. Its founder the late Melchor Villanueva was a friend of the family who used to visit our residence for a hearty chat. He was a jolly good fellow.

QUOTATION OF THE WEEK:

‘”NO MASTER BUT LAW, NO GUIDE BUT CONSCIENCE, NO AIM BUT JUSTICE.” -JUSTICE JBL REYES

FOR OUR WORD OF LIFE:

“ THE LORD WILL WATCH OVER YOUR COMING AND GOING BOTH NOW AND FOREVER MORE.” -PSALM 121: 7-8