Wednesday

Inaugural Speech of President Benigno S. Aquino III (with English translation)

Wednesday
June 30, 2010
Quirino Grandstand



His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

Ang pagtayo ko dito ngayon ay patunay na kayo ang aking tunay na lakas. Hindi ko inakala na darating tayo sa puntong ito, na ako’y manunumpa sa harap ninyo bilang inyong Pangulo. Hindi ko pinangarap maging tagapagtaguyod ng pag-asa at tagapagmana ng mga suliranin ng ating bayan.

Ang layunin ko sa buhay ay simple lang: maging tapat sa aking mga magulang at sa bayan bilang isang marangal na anak, mabait na kuya, at mabuting mamamayan.

Nilabanan ng aking ama ang diktaturya at ibinuwis niya ang kanyang buhay para tubusin ang ating demokrasya. Inalay ng aking ina ang kanyang buhay upang pangalagaan ang demokrasyang ito. Ilalaan ko ang aking buhay para siguraduhin na ang ating demokrasya ay kapaki-pakinabang sa bawat isa. Namuhunan na kami ng dugo at handang gawin itong muli kung kinakailangan.

Tanyag man ang aking mga magulang at ang kanilang mga nagawa, alam ko rin ang problema ng ordinaryong mamamayan. Alam nating lahat ang pakiramdam na magkaroon ng pamahalaang bulag at bingi. Alam natin ang pakiramdam na mapagkaitan ng hustisya, na mabalewala ng mga taong pinagkatiwalaan at inatasan nating maging ating tagapagtanggol.

Kayo ba ay minsan ring nalimutan ng pamahalaang inyong iniluklok sa puwesto? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay nagtiis na sa trapiko para lamang masingitan ng isang naghahari-hariang de-wangwang sa kalsada? Ako rin. Kayo ba ay sawang-sawa na sa pamahalaang sa halip na magsilbi sa taumbayan ay kailangan pa nila itong pagpasensiyahan at tiisin? Ako rin.

Katulad ninyo ako. Marami na sa atin ang bumoto gamit ang kanilang paa – nilisan na nila ang ating bansa sa kanilang paghahanap ng pagbabago at katahimikan. Tiniis nila ang hirap, sinugod ang panganib sa ibang bansa dahil doon may pag-asa kahit kaunti na dito sa atin ay hindi nila nakikita. Sa iilang sandali na sarili ko lang ang aking inaalala, pati ako ay napag-isip din – talaga bang hindi na mababago ang pamamahala natin dito? Hindi kaya nasa ibang bansa ang katahimikang hinahanap ko? Saan ba nakasulat na kailangang puro pagtitiis ang tadhana ng Pilipino?

Ngayon, sa araw na ito - dito magwawakas ang pamumunong manhid sa mga daing ng taumbayan. Hindi si Noynoy ang gumawa ng paraan, kayo ang dahilan kung bakit ngayon, magtatapos na ang pagtitiis ng sambayanan. Ito naman ang umpisa ng kalbaryo ko, ngunit kung marami tayong magpapasan ng krus ay kakayanin natin ito, gaano man kabigat.

Sa tulong ng wastong pamamahala sa mga darating na taon, maiibsan din ang marami nating problema. Ang tadhana ng Pilipino ay babalik sa tamang kalagayan, na sa bawat taon pabawas ng pabawas ang problema ng Pinoy na nagsusumikap at may kasiguruhan sila na magiging tuloy-tuloy na ang pagbuti ng kanilang sitwasyon.

Kami ay narito para magsilbi at hindi para maghari. Ang mandato ninyo sa amin ay pagbabago – isang malinaw na utos para ayusin ang gobyerno at lipunan mula sa pamahalaang iilan lamang ang nakikinabang tungo sa isang pamahalaang kabutihan ng mamamayan ang pinangangalagaan.

Ang mandatong ito ay isa kung saan kayo at ang inyong pangulo ay nagkasundo para sa pagbabago – isang paninindigan na ipinangako ko noong kampanya at tinanggap ninyo noong araw ng halalan.

Sigaw natin noong kampanya: “Kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.” Hindi lamang ito pang slogan o pang poster – ito ang mga prinsipyong tinatayuan at nagsisilbing batayan ng ating administrasyon.

Ang ating pangunahing tungkulin ay ang magsikap na maiangat ang bansa mula sa kahirapan, sa pamamagitan ng pagpapairal ng katapatan at mabuting pamamalakad sa pamahalaan.

Ang unang hakbang ay ang pagkakaroon ng tuwid at tapat na hanay ng mga pinuno. Magsisimula ito sa akin. Sisikapin kong maging isang mabuting ehemplo. Hinding hindi ko sasayangin ang tiwalang ipinagkaloob ninyo sa akin. Sisiguraduhin ko na ganito rin ang adhikain ng aking Gabinete at ng mga magiging kasama sa ating pamahalaan.

Naniniwala akong hindi lahat ng nagsisilbi sa gobyerno ay corrupt. Sa katunayan, mas marami sa kanila ay tapat. Pinili nilang maglingkod sa gobyerno upang gumawa ng kabutihan. Ngayon, magkakaroon na sila ng pagkakataong magpakitang-gilas. Inaasahan natin sila sa pagsupil ng korapsyon sa loob mismo ng burukrasya.

Sa mga itinalaga sa paraang labag sa batas, ito ang aking babala: sisimulan natin ang pagbabalik ng tiwala sa pamamagitan ng pag-usisa sa mga “midnight appointments.” Sana ay magsilbi itong babala sa mga nag-iisip na ipagpatuloy ang baluktot na kalakarang nakasanayan na ng marami.

Sa mga kapuspalad nating mga kababayan, ngayon, ang pamahalaan ang inyong kampeon.

Hindi natin ipagpapaliban ang mga pangangailangan ng ating mga estudyante, kaya’t sisikapin nating punan ang kakulangan sa ating mga silid-aralan.

Unti-unti din nating babawasan ang mga kakulangan sa imprastraktura para sa transportasyon, turismo at pangangalakal. Mula ngayon, hindi na puwede ang “puwede na” pagdating sa mga kalye, tulay at gusali dahil magiging responsibilidad ng mga kontratista ang panatilihing nasa mabuting kalagayan ang mga proyekto nila.

Bubuhayin natin ang programang “emergency employment” ng dating pangulong Corazon Aquino sa pagtatayo ng mga bagong imprastraktura na ito. Ito ay magbibigay ng trabaho sa mga local na komunidad at makakatulong sa pagpapalago ng kanila at ng ating ekonomiya.

Hindi kami magiging sanhi ng inyong pasakit at perwisyo. Palalakasin natin ang koleksyon at pupuksain natin ang korapsyon sa Kawanihan ng Rentas Internas at Bureau of Customs para mapondohan natin ang ating mga hinahangad para sa lahat, tulad ng:

· dekalidad na edukasyon, kabilang ang edukasyong bokasyonal para makapaghanap ng marangal na trabaho ang hindi makapag-kolehiyo;
· serbisyong pangkalusugan, tulad ng Philhealth para sa lahat sa loob ng tatlong taon;
· tirahan sa loob ng mga ligtas na komunidad.

Palalakasin at palalaguin natin ang bilang ng ating kasundaluhan at kapulisan, hindi para tugunan ang interes ng mga naghahari-harian, ngunit para proteksyunan ang mamamayan. Itinataya nila ang kanilang buhay para mayroong pagkakataon sa katahimikan at kapayapaan sa sambayanan. Dumoble na ang populasyong kanilang binabantayan, nanatili naman sila sa bilang. Hindi tama na ang nagmamalasakit ay kinakawawa.

Kung dati ay may fertilizer scam, ngayon ay may kalinga na tunay para sa mga magsasaka. Tutulungan natin sila sa irigasyon, extension services, at sa pagbenta ng kanilang produkto sa pinakamataas na presyong maaari.

Inaatasan natin si papasok na Kalihim Alcala na magtayo ng mga trading centers kung saan diretso na ang magsasaka sa mamimili - lalaktawan natin ang gitna, kasama na ang kotong cop. Sa ganitong paraan, ang dating napupunta sa gitna ay maari nang paghatian ng magsasaka at mamimili.

Gagawin nating kaaya-aya sa negosyante ang ating bansa. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance, to business. Sa ganitong paraan lamang natin mapupunan ang kakulangan ng trabaho para sa ating mga mamamayan.

Layunin nating paramihin ang trabaho dito sa ating bansa upang hindi na kailanganin ang mangibang-bansa para makahanap ng trabaho. Ngunit habang ito ay hindi pa natin naaabot, inaatasan ko ang mga kawani ng DFA, POEA, OWWA at iba pang mga kinauukulang ahensiya na mas lalo pang paigtingin ang pagtugon sa mga hinaing at pangangailangan ng ating mga overseas Filipino workers.

Papaigtingin namin ang proseso ng konsultasyon at pag-uulat sa taumbayan. Sisikapin naming isakatuparan ang nakasaad sa ating Konstitusyon na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mamamayan na magkaroon ng kaalaman ukol sa mga pampublikong alintana.

Binuhay natin ang diwa ng people power noong kampanya. Ipagpatuloy natin ito tungo sa tuwid at tapat na pamamahala. Ang naniniwala sa people power ay nakatuon sa kapwa at hindi sa sarili.

Sa mga nang-api sa akin, kaya ko kayong patawarin, at pinapatawad ko na kayo. Sa mga nang-api sa sambayanan, wala akong karapatan na limutin ang inyong mga kasalanan.

To those who are talking about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. Sa paglimot ng pagkakasala, sinisigurado mong mauulit muli ang mga pagkakasalang ito. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

Ikinagagalak din naming ibahagi sa inyo ang pagtanggap ni dating Chief Justice Hilario Davide sa hamon ng pagtatatag at pamumuno sa isang Truth Commission na magbibigay linaw sa maraming kahinahinalang isyu na hanggang ngayon ay walang kasagutan at resolusyon.

Ang sinumang nagkamali ay kailangang humarap sa hustisya. Hindi maaaring patuloy ang kalakaran ng walang pananagutan at tuloy na pang-aapi.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflicts, inclusive of the interests of all – may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. Sa tamang pamamahala gaganda ang buhay ng lahat, at sa buhay na maganda, sino pa ang gugustuhing bumalik sa panahon ng pang-aapi?

Kung kasama ko kayo, maitataguyod natin ang isang bayan kung saan pantay-pantay ang pagkakataon, dahil pantay-pantay nating ginagampanan ang ating mga pananagutan.

Kamakailan lamang, ang bawat isa sa atin ay nanindigan sa presinto. Bumoto tayo ayon sa ating karapatan at konsensiya. Hindi tayo umatras sa tungkulin nating ipaglaban ang karapatang ito.

Pagkatapos ng bilangan, pinatunayan ninyo na ang tao ang tunay na lakas ng bayan.

Ito ang kahalagahan ng ating demokrasya. Ito ang pundasyon ng ating pagkakaisa. Nangampanya tayo para sa pagbabago. Dahil dito taas-noo muli ang Pilipino. Tayong lahat ay kabilang sa isang bansa kung saan maaari nang mangarap muli.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Inaanyayahan ko kayo ngayon na manumpa sa ating mga sarili, sa sambayanan, WALANG MAIIWAN.

Walang pangingibang-bayan at gastusan na walang wastong dahilan. Walang pagtatalikod sa mga salitang binitawan noong kampanya, ngayon at hanggang sa mga susunod pang pagsubok na pagdadaanan sa loob ng anim na taon.

Walang lamangan, walang padrino at walang pagnanakaw. Walang wang-wang, walang counterflow, walang tong. Panahon na upang tayo ay muling magkawang-gawa.

Nandito tayo ngayon dahil sama-sama tayong nanindigan at nagtiwala na may pag-asa.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. Sa inyong mga nag-iisip pa kung tutulong kayo sa pagpasan ng ating krus, isa lang ang aking tanong – kung kailan tayo nanalo, saka pa ba kayo susuko?

Kayo ang boss ko, kaya’t hindi maaaring hindi ako makinig sa mga utos ninyo. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to the people’s needs and aspirations.

Kayo ang nagdala sa akin sa puntong ito – ang ating mga volunteers – matanda, bata, celebrity, ordinaryong tao, na umikot sa Pilipinas para ikampanya ang pagbabago; ang aking mga kasambahay, na nag-asikaso ng lahat ng aking mga personal na pangangailangan; ang aking pamilya, kaibigan at katrabaho, na dumamay, nag-alaga at nagbigay ng suporta sa akin; ang ating mga abogado, na nagpuyat para bantayan ang ating mga boto at siguraduhing mabibilang ang bawat isa; ang aking mga kapartido at kaalyado na kasama kong nangahas mangarap; at ang milyun-milyong Pilipinong nagkaisa, nagtiwala at hindi nawalan ng pag-asa – nasa inyo ang aking taus-pusong pasasalamat.

Hindi ko makakayang harapin ang aking mga magulang, at kayong mga nagdala sa akin sa yugto ng buhay kong ito, kung hindi ko maisasakatuparan ang aking mga binitawang salita sa araw na ito.

My parents sought nothing less and died for nothing less than democracy, peace and prosperity. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

Layunin ko na sa pagbaba ko sa katungkulan, masasabi ng lahat na malayo na ang narating natin sa pagtahak ng tuwid na landas at mas maganda na ang kinabukasang ipapamana natin sa susunod na henerasyon. Samahan ninyo ako sa pagtatapos ng laban na ito. Tayo na sa tuwid na landas.

Maraming salamat po at mabuhay ang sambayanang Pilipino!



Official English translation of
The Inaugural Address of Benigno S. Aquino III

His Excellency Jose Ramos Horta, Former President Fidel V. Ramos, Former President Joseph Estrada, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and members of the Senate, House Speaker Prospero Nograles and members of the House, justices of the Supreme Court, members of the foreign delegations,Your Excellencies of the diplomatic corps, fellow colleagues in government, aking mga kababayan.

My presence here today is proof that you are my true strength. I never expected that I will be here taking my oath of office before you, as your president. I never imagined that I would be tasked with continuing the mission of my parents. I never entertained the ambition to be the symbol of hope, and to inherit the problems of our nation.

I had a simple goal in life: to be true to my parents and our country as an honorable son, a caring brother, and a good citizen.

My father offered his life so our democracy could live. My mother devoted her life to nurturing that democracy. I will dedicate my life to making our democracy reach its fullest potential: that of ensuring equality for all. My family has sacrificed much and I am willing to do this again if necessary.

Although I was born to famous parents, I know and feel the problems of ordinary citizens. We all know what it is like to have a government that plays deaf and dumb. We know what it is like to be denied justice, to be ignored by those in whom we placed our trust and tasked to become our advocates.

Have you ever been ignored by the very government you helped put in power? I have. Have you had to endure being rudely shoved aside by the siren-blaring escorts of those who love to display their position and power over you? I have, too. Have you experienced exasperation and anger at a government that instead of serving you, needs to be endured by you? So have I.

I am like you. Many of our countrymen have already voted with their feet - migrating to other countries in search of change or tranquility. They have endured hardship, risked their lives because they believe that compared to their current state here, there is more hope for them in another country, no matter how bleak it may be. In moments when I thought of only my own welfare, I also wondered - is it possible that I can find the peace and quiet that I crave in another country? Is our government beyond redemption? Has it been written that the Filipino’s lot is merely to suffer?

Today marks the end of a regime indifferent to the appeals of the people. It is not Noynoy who found a way. You are the reason why the silent suffering of the nation is about to end. This is the beginning of my burden, but if many of us will bear the cross we will lift it, no matter how heavy it is.

Through good governance in the coming years, we will lessen our problems. The destiny of the Filipino will return to its rightful place, and as each year passes, the Filipino’s problems will continue to lessen with the assurance of progress in their lives.

We are here to serve and not to lord over you. The mandate given to me was one of change. I accept your marching orders to transform our government from one that is self-serving to one that works for the welfare of the nation.

This mandate is the social contract that we agreed upon. It is the promise I made during the campaign, which you accepted on election day.

During the campaign we said, “If no one is corrupt, no one will be poor.” That is no mere slogan for posters -- it is the defining principle that will serve as the foundation of our administration.

Our foremost duty is to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance.

The first step is to have leaders who are ethical, honest, and true public servants. I will set the example. I will strive to be a good model. I will not break the trust you have placed in me. I will ensure that this, too, will be the advocacy of my Cabinet and those who will join our government.

I do not believe that all of those who serve in our government are corrupt. In truth, the majority of them are honest. They joined government to serve and do good. Starting today, they will have the opportunity to show that they have what it takes. I am counting on them to help fight corruption within the bureaucracy.

To those who have been put in positions by unlawful means, this is my warning: we will begin earning back the trust of our people by reviewing midnight appointments. Let this serve as a warning to those who intend to continue the crooked ways that have become the norm for too long.

To our impoverished countrymen, starting today, your government will be your champion.

We will not disregard the needs of our students. We will begin by addressing the glaring shortage in classrooms and educational facilities.

Gradually, we will lessen the lack of infrastructures for transportation, tourism and trade. From now on, mediocre work will not be good enough when it comes to roads, bridges, and buildings because we will hold contractors responsible for maintaining their projects in good condition.

We will revive the emergency employment program established by former President Corazon Aquino. This will provide jobs for local communities and will help in the development of their and our economy.

We will not be the cause of your suffering or hardship. We will strengthen collections by the Bureau of Internal Revenue and we will fight corruption in the Bureau of Customs in order to fund our objectives for the public welfare, such as:

· Quality education, including vocational education, so that those who choose not to attend college or those who cannot afford it can find dignified livelihood;
· Improved public health services such as PhilHealth for all within three years;
· A home for every family, within safe communities.

We will strengthen the armed forces and the police, not to serve the interests of those who want to wield power with impunity, but to give added protection for ordinary folk. The armed forces and the police risk their lives daily so that the nation can live in peace and security. The population has doubled and yet their numbers remain unchanged. It is not right that those who make sacrifices are treated pitifully.

If there was a fertilizer scam in the past, today there will be security for farmers. We will help them with irrigation, extension services, and marketing their products at the best possible prices.

We are directing Secretary Alcala to set up trading centers that will directly link farmers and consumers thereby eliminating middlemen and opportunities for corruption. In this way, funds can be shared by farmers and consumers. We will make our country attractive to investors. We will cut red tape dramatically and implement stable economic policies. We will level the playing field for investors and make government an enabler, not a hindrance to business. This is the only means by which we can provide jobs for our people.

Our goal is to create jobs at home so that there will be no need to look for employment abroad. However, as we work towards that end, I am ordering the DFA, POEA, OWWA, and other relevant agencies to be even more responsive to the needs and welfare of our overseas Filipino workers.

We will strengthen the process of consultation and feedback. We will strive to uphold the constitutional right of citizens to information on matters of public concern.

We relived the spirit of people power during the campaign. Let it take us to good and effective governance. Those who believe in people power put the welfare of others before their own.

I can forgive those who did me wrong but I have no right to forgive those who abused our people.

To those who talk about reconciliation, if they mean that they would like us to simply forget about the wrongs that they have committed in the past, we have this to say: there can be no reconciliation without justice. When we allow crimes to go unpunished, we give consent to their occurring over and over again. Secretary de Lima, you have your marching orders. Begin the process of providing true and complete justice for all.

We are also happy to inform you the acceptance of Chief Justice Hilario Davide of the challenge of strengthening and heading a Truth Commission that will shed light on many unanswered issues that continue to haunt our country.

My government will be sincere in dealing with all the peoples of Mindanao. We are committed to a peaceful and just settlement of conflict, inclusive of the interests of all -- may they be Lumads, Bangsamoro or Christian.

We shalI defeat the enemy by wielding the tools of justice, social reform, and equitable governance leading to a better life. With proper governance life will improve for all. When we are all living well, who will want to go back to living under oppression?

If I have all of you by my side, we will be able to build a nation in which there will be equality of opportunity, because each of us fulfilled our duties and responsibilities equally.

After the elections, you proved that it is the people who wield power in this country.

This is what democracy means. It is the foundation of our unity. We campaigned for change. Because of this, the Filipino stands tall once more. We are all part of a nation that can begin to dream again.

To our friends and neighbors around the world, we are ready to take our place as a reliable member of the community of nations, a nation serious about its commitments and which harmonizes its national interests with its international responsibilities.

We will be a predictable and consistent place for investment, a nation where everyone will say, “it all works.”

Today, I am inviting you to pledge to yourselves and to our people. No one shall be left behind.

No more junkets, no more senseless spending. No more turning back on pledges made during the campaign, whether today or in the coming challenges that will confront us over the next six years. No more influence-peddling, no more patronage politics, no more stealing. No more sirens, no more short cuts, no more bribes. It is time for us to work together once more.

We are here today because we stood together and believed in hope. We had no resources to campaign other than our common faith in the inherent goodness of the Filipino.

The people who are behind us dared to dream. Today, the dream starts to become a reality. To those among you who are still undecided about sharing the common burden I have only one question: Are you going to quit now that we have won?

You are the boss so I cannot ignore your orders. We will design and implement an interaction and feedback mechanism that can effectively respond to your needs and aspirations.

You are the ones who brought me here - our volunteers - old, young, celebrity, ordinary folks who went around the country to campaign for change; my household help who provided for all my personal needs; my family, friends, colleagues at work, who shared, cared, and gave their support; my lawyers who stayed all hours to guard my votes and make sure they were counted; and the millions of Filipinos who prevailed, kept faith, and never lost hope - I offer my heartfelt gratitude.

I will not be able to face my parents and you who have brought me here if do not fulfill the promises I made.

My parents sought nothing less, died for nothing less, than democracy and peace. I am blessed by this legacy. I shall carry the torch forward.

My hope is that when I leave office, everyone can say that we have traveled far on the right path, and that we are able to bequeath a better future to the next generation. Join me in continuing this fight for change.

Thank you and long live the Filipino people!

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Monday

Incoming DepEd chief to scrap sex education

Monday
THE controversial “sex education” modules may be heading back to the drawing board, as incoming Education Secretary Brother Armin Luistro is looking to “defer” the implementation for as long as he is at the helm of the Education department. According to sources from within the agency, Luistro, while considering the importance of such subject, will follow the influential Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) call to shelve the plan.

According to the source, Luistro who meet with CBCP officials before accepting the post, was told to scrap the project.

“Secretary Luistro was actually given marching orders by the CBCP to shelve the project,” the source said.

This as outgoing Education Secretary Mona Valisno said that the modules that were planned to be integrated in the basic education curriculum this school year is now with the CBCP for its perusal and review.

Valisno said Bishop Oscar Cruz told her the modules were already with them and are being reviewed before the CBCP would make its recommendations.

“The good bishop told me that the modules we gave them are now with the Pontifical Council for the Family,” Valisno said adding they got the chance to talk when they met Friday night.

Cruz, she said emphasized that “Sex is sacred. Done inside marriage, which is held as a holy union of two souls, it is a component of procreation.”

The Education department chief who earlier said the department will pursue the teaching of sex education, welcomes the CBCP’s comment and opinion on the modules.

“This exchange of ideas is good,” said Valisno. “We have always maintained that we are open for dialog with any interest groups so we assuage their fears and assure them that what we are doing is child-friendly.”

The CBCP are among the sectors strenuously opposed to teaching sex education in the country’s schools successfully blocking a similar initiative by the education department in 2005.

Education department has repeatedly explained to the public that their sex education learning modules focus on adolescence, health and wellness, and proper values and character development.

Valisno adds that they will also include lesson guides in spiritual development as recommended by Bishops Reuben Abante and Efraim Tendero of the Presidential Council for Values Formation.

Sex education will initially be pilot-tested in some 80 elementary and 79 secondary schools nationwide though the Education department said they are still in the consultation stage at present.


The topic would be pilot-tested in schools in Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Tawi-Tawi, Sultan Kudarat and Sulu as well as in Olongapo City, Mountain Province, Masbate, Ifugao, Eastern Samar and Bohol.

Last week, Valisno and Education Undersecretary Ramon Bacani were sued by a group of parents led by losing Ang Kapatiran Party senatorial Jo Aurea Imbong before the Regional Trial Court of Quezon City.

The petitioners were seeking an injunction to prevent Education department from implementing the plan, which they said is “unconstitutional.” (by: FRANCIS EARL A. CUETO, http://www.manilatimes.net/)

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Thursday

PSST... PRACTICE SAFE SEX TODAY CAMPAIGN

Thursday

We need your support. For the sake of the others..

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Wednesday

Gabriela tells DepEd: Proceed with sex education

Wednesday

By Delon Porcalla (The Philippine Star) Updated June 23, 2010 12:00 AM

MANILA, Philippines - Gabriela party-list Rep. Luzviminda Ilagan has urged the Department of Education (DepEd) to pursue the introduction of sex education in public schools despite the class suit filed by parents opposing its implementation.      
                             
“They (DepEd) should be true to their mandate. Officials should even be supported instead of being sued. It is a sad commentary on the state of our already beleaguered educational system that certain individuals chose to undermine it further by taking this step.

It is divisive,” said Ilagan, who was a professor at the Ateneo de Davao University for 41 years before becoming a lawmaker. She said sex education should be included in the curriculum of students who are at least nine years old.                   

“As academicians, it is their duty to teach, and that includes sex education. Besides, the UN (United Nations) declared that sex education should be part of the curriculum,” she said.

“It is a great pity that conservative thinking will deprive pupils of knowledge that is important to a well-rounded education.”

Earlier this week, 27 persons, including defeated senatorial candidate Jo Aurea Imbong of Ang Kapatiran Party, filed a class suit against Education Secretary Mona Valisno and Undersecretary Ramon Bacani before the Quezon City regional trial court.

They sought a temporary restraining order on the implementation of sex education in public schools, arguing they have not been consulted as parents.

Buhay Rep. Irwin Tieng supported the class suit, saying the addition of sex education to the school curriculum will erode the morals of the students.

“It is the basic right and duty of every parent to protect the morals of their children inside and outside the confines of their homes,” he said.

In their petition, Imbong argued that DepEd memorandum 26, which mandates the inclusion of sex education in public elementary and high schools, violates the right of parents to be responsible for the development of moral charter of their children.   Imbong heads the legal office of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, which strongly opposes the implementation of sex education and the passage of the Reproductive Health bill. Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gullas supports the implementation of sex education but prefers that it be taught in English.               

“Of course we would prefer that it be taught entirely in English, as a language is best learned and mastered through constant exposure and use in school and elsewhere,” Gullas said.                                                                        
                
“This way, the DepEd also gets to use the new program to advance the English skills of our children at an early age,” said Gullas, an educator and principal author of a bill seeking to strengthen the use of English in schools.

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Sunday

Prayer Brigade for Noynoy

Sunday
Lord, make NOYNOY a man truly for others. May your Holy Guidance be with him always...





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Research into lubes has worrisome findings

New research has found for the first time that certain types of water-based lubes to cause damage to the outer layer of the rectal and cervical tissue, and may cause users to be more vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
New research has found that some lubricants used in anal or vaginal sex can cause damage to those tissues that can leave people more vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.

Surprisingly, this is the first time that anyone has even looked at the question of whether basic sexual lubricants can cause damage to rectal tissue. The studies were presented at the Microbicides 2010 conference in Pittsburgh at the end of May.


A decade ago research presented at the first microbicides conference showed that nonoxynol-9 (N-9), a spermicide added to many lubricants to prevent contraception, was extremely toxic to rectal tissue. Later studies demonstrated that it increased the risk of becoming infected with HIV through vaginal sex.
The gay community learned to avoid lubes containing N-9, and pressured manufacturers to remove it from most products.

This long overdue study of the lubes themselves put six of the most commonly used products to a series of tests used to evaluate the toxicity of potential microbicides – products that might protect against HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
An online survey by International Rectal Microbicides Advocates identified the most popular lubes from among more than 150 brands and variations on the market.
It turned out that the most important factor is the osmolality, the amount of salts in the product.
Water-based lubes that were hyperosmolar "were actually damaging the epithelium of the rectal and cervical tissue," said Charlene Duzzetti, the University of Pittsburgh researcher who led the study. "The one that was not hyperosmolar, that didn't have any salts in it, and the silicon-based one, did not show any damage."
The top layer of cells that provides the greatest barrier protection from disease was stripped away by the lubes. The higher the osmolality of the lube, the greater the damage; but the damage was not as severe as what had been seen in tests of products using N-9.
Water-based lubes that scored poorly were Astroglide, Elbow Grease, ID Glide, and KY Jelly. The only water-based lube that scored well, with no harm to tissue, was PRe. The condom-friendly silicon-based Wet Platinum scored equally well.
The openly gay founder of Wet Lubricants said he was not surprised his product did well in the study.
"According to the study, ingredients in some of the lubricants tested were found to be responsible for stripping away cells on the rectal tissue, thus increasing the risk of transmitting disease," Michael Trygstad, founder and CEO of Trigg Laboratories, said in a statement. "The subject of the research study, the Wet Platinum product we market, does not contain these dissolved salts or sugars and was found by the study to have no toxicity."
A separate study, by UCLA researcher Pamina M. Gorbach, analyzed a group of 229 men who had engaged in receptive anal intercourse (RAI) within the last month, and 192 women who had done so within the last year. It asked about sexual behavior and tested them for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
It found that 76 percent used water-based, 28 percent used silicon-based, and 17 percent used oil-based [Crisco] lubricants, often in combination.
The men and women who used lube at the last recorded RAI were about twice as likely to have chlamydia or gonorrhea as those who did not use lube.
"This suggests that the use of some rectal lubricant products may increase the risk of STIs," Gorbach said.
Unfortunately, the sample was not large enough to see if there were any differences between the types of products used.
IRMA's chairman, Chicago AIDS Advocate Jim Pickett, said it's known that "dry" sex, with no lube, often results in great physical damage to the rectum. It may be more harmful than using even the most damaging lube. He called for more research and urged the gay community to become wise consumers when it comes to purchasing lube, just as they did in shunning products containing N-9.
Duzzetti suggested looking for lubes labeled isotonic or isosmolar, or silicon-based and condom compatible.
The silver lining in this research is that products behaved pretty much the same in both vaginal and rectal tissue samples. It suggests that a product that is safe in the vagina will be safe in the rectum. This may simplify the process of developing a microbicide that protects against HIV infection.
Bob Roehr is a biomedical writer with a focus on HIV and infectious disease. The article was first published in the Bay Area Reporter, San Francisco's oldest and largest local LGBT newspaper; and is republished with the author's permission.

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Saturday

white party, attending?

Saturday
9th White Party Manila

IllumiDANCE: The Lunar White Party


26 June 2010
Orosa-Nakpil Sts., Malate, Manila

Presented by:
EZ Lubricating Jelly
Frenzy Condoms
Task Force Pride Philippines

Event made possible by:
Lookal
Silya
O Bar
Che'lu
Bed
Smart Venue
Home

Also brought to you by:
Mentorque Productions
Tsard Chua of Parallax Studio

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Friday

Protest Against Sharia & Religious Laws

Friday


One Law For All
Defend Muslims against religious tyranny
Sunday 20 June
2pm to 4pm
Richmond Terrace, Whitehall, London SW1 (opposite Downing Street).
Nearest tube Westminster

 
4pm, march to Iranian Embassy – Solidarity with the Iranian people’s struggle for democracy and human rights


Hundreds will be demonstrating in London against Sharia and all religious laws and in support of secularism and universal human rights on Sunday 20 June 2010. 


The rally, organised by the One Law for All Campaign, will be held from 2pm to 4pm at Richmond Terrace, in Whitehall, opposite Downing Street, SW1. 


On the day, the Campaign will make public its new report entitled: Sharia Law in Britain: A Threat to One Law for All and Equal Rights.


In the report, One Law for All outlines what Sharia law is, how it is practised in Britain and exposes the way in which Sharia Councils and Muslim Arbitration Tribunals are circumventing British law and human rights legislation. The report also reveals the gross injustices to women and children and reiterates the need to end Sharia and all religious courts on the basis that they work against, and not for, equality and human rights.


After the One Law for All rally, there will be a march organised by Iran Solidarity from 4pm to 5pm. The march will move from Opposite Downing Street to a protest at the embassy of the Islamic regime of Iran.


According to One Law For All spokesperson, Maryam Namazie:


“Whilst racist and far Right groups like the English Defence League and the British Nationalist Party blame ‘Muslim immigration’ for Sharia law in order to further their inhuman agenda, it is people living under Islamic laws, or the many who have fled Sharia and sought refuge here, who are the principal victims of Islamism, and in the forefront of the struggle against it. 


“Within this context, the One Law for All Campaign and the fight against Sharia law in Britain is an important front in the ongoing battle of people in Iran and everywhere against Islamism and for freedom, equality and secularism,” she said. 


The march will culminate in a protest rally in front of the embassy of the Islamic regime of Iran (16 Prince's Gate, London SW7 1PT; closest underground: Knightsbridge). The protest at the embassy will end at 5.30pm.



The One Law For All campaign is supported by human rights campaigner Peter Tatchell. He added:


“We are here to defend Muslim people – and all people everywhere – who are victims of religious tyranny.


“Many Islamic states use religious laws to persecute Muslims who leave their faith or who belong to minority strands of Islam. They also restrict the rights of people who follow non-Muslim religions or who are non-believers. 


“Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender Muslims are harassed and can face punishment, under religious laws, including flogging, imprisonment and, sometimes, torture and execution. 


“We support all the victims of Sharia law, especially the courageous Muslim women who are campaigning for equality. We cannot accept the way Islamic states, including western allies like Saudi Arabia, restrict women’s freedom of movement, make women subject to the control of male guardians, deny women access to certain jobs and positions in government and enforce the compulsory veiling of women with the hijab, niqab, jilbab or burqa.


“We stand in opposition to all religious laws in Britain and worldwide.


“This protest supports secular democracy. Secularism is often confused with anti-clericalism. The two are not the same. Secularism is not against religion per se. It is against giving religion privileged status, rights and protections.


“We believe there should be a separation of religion from the state. No faith should dominate any government and seek to impose its creed on the rest of society. When this happens, freedom of expression is diminished and minority faiths are victimised.
 

“For these reasons, secularism is not only an important element of freedom of expression. It is also the best guarantee of religious freedom, as it prevents any one faith becoming politically dominant and abusing its powers to oppress people of other faiths.


“We express our support for the many courageous, inspiring Muslims who are campaigning against the inequalities and inhumanities of Sharia law, often at great risk to their liberty and life.

“Contrary to what our critics say, this is not an attack on Muslims or Islam. We are here to support Muslims who are resisting Sharia law.


“We defend Muslims and people of all faiths against hatred and discrimination. The victimisation of people because of their religious beliefs is just as wrong as victimising people because of their race, gender or sexuality.


“In a democracy, everyone should be subject to the same laws, with the same rights and responsibilities. Religious rulings should not influence the laws or courts in any way.


“We believe that Muslims and all peoples worldwide should have rights, freedoms and choices, in accordance with the principles of equality and non-discrimination that are enshrined in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights. These are not western values. They are international humanitarian values, agreed by the global consensus of the member states of the UN.


“It is wrong to tolerate the denial of human rights to non-white Muslims in the Middle East, Africa and Asia, when most of us would never tolerate the denial of these rights to white (and non-white) people in Britain.


“There should be no double standards. No moral or cultural relativism. Defend universal human rights. One law for all,” said Mr Tatchell.


For more information:

One Law For All Campaign
http://www.onelawforall.org.uk/20-june-2010/

Maryam Namazie
BM Box 1919
London WC1N 3XX, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 7719166731               +44 (0) 7719166731     
maryamnamazie@googlemail.com
www.maryamnamazie.com
maryamnamazie.blogspot.com

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List and Links to LGBT Organizations in the Philippines



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DepEd on sex ed: It's not about sex

The Department of Education (DepEd) clarified Friday that sex education classroom discussions this schoolyear will not be about the sex act but about the science of reproduction, physical care and hygiene, correct values and the norms of interpersonal relations to avoid premarital sex and teenage pregnancy.

Education Secretary Mona Valisno issued the clarification amid negative reactions from some sectors, particularly the church, about the announcement that sex education will be offered on a pilot test basis to 79 public high schools and 80 public elementary schools this schoolyear.

According to Valisno, the modules that will be integrated in core subjects are scientific and informative. They are not designed to titillate prurient interest.

"For example in Science, the reproductive system and reproductive cycle have always been part of the curriculum including the changes that happen during puberty,” Valisno explained.

“Our role here is to educate our young people on issues that directly affect them and empower them to make informed choices and decisions,“ Valisno emphasized.

Sex education will be integrated in existing subjects in the current curriculum used by the schools under the pilot testing program.

In Science, sex education topics will cover the reproductive system, parts of the body, reproductive cycle, and puberty.

Under Edukasyong Pantahanan at Pangkabuhayan (EPP), proper behavior among and between peers of different genders will be discussed.

In Health classes under MAPEH (Music, Arts, PE and Health), personal hygiene and reproductive health will be part of the lessons.

In Heograpiya, Kasaysayan, at Sibika (HEKASI) classes, discussion will include the position of religion on premarital sex and the norms when people of opposite sex interact.

Finally, in Math classes, data on issues like premarital sex, teenage pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections will be used in studying mathematical analysis and statistics.

According to Valisno, psychologists were among those who helped prepare the modules "because we want to ensure that specific topics for discussions will be made in the appropriate year levels.”

Topics requiring a more mature audience will be discussed in the latter years in high school.

Training on using the modules has already begun, with two batches of teachers already finished. A third batch is being prepared for training this year.

Valisno reiterated that DepEd is still open for consultations with other sectors. “The next administration will be the one to decide whether to implement this fully, revise the modules, apply on selected schools, or totally scrap it,” she said.

Source:
ABS-CBNNews.com

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Obese women more likely to have unwanted pregnancies

Tiffany O'Callaghan/ www.time.com


Though they tend to have sex less frequently than their slimmer peers, obese women may be four times more likely to have an unwanted pregnancy, according to findings published in BMJ this week. In a study of more than 12,000 French men and women between the ages of 18 to 69, researchers found that obese women were less likely than healthy weight peers to use oral contraception or seek information on contraception options, and were also more likely to have unplanned pregnancies. Compared with normal weight men, obese men, the study found, were more likely to struggle with erectile dysfunction.

The team of researchers from France and England collected data through nearly hour long telephone interviews conducted in 2006. By asking participants' height and weight, researchers were able to calculate body mass index (BMI). Using World Health Organization classifications, researchers considered individuals with a BMI less than 18.5 underweight, 18.5 to 25 normal weight, 25 to 30 overweight, and higher than 30 obese. (According to estimates from a BMI calculator from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute for a 5'5" woman: up to 112 lbs. would be underweight; 112 to 150lbs., normal; 150 to 180 lbs. overweight; and over 180 lbs., obese. For a 6'0" man: up to 137 lbs. would be underweight; 137 to 185 lbs., normal; 185 to 220, overweight; and over 200 lbs., obese.)

Of the study population, 63% of women and 54% of men were normal weight, 21% of women and 35% of men were overweight, and 9% of both genders were obese. Researchers noted that, in keeping with previous research, compared with their lower BMI peers, obese respondents were more likely to report suffering from chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and depression. They also found that obese study participants were more likely to have completed fewer years of formal education.

They also noted that, as has been documented elsewhere, for respondents in serious heterosexual relationships, a partner's BMI strongly correlated to one's own. That is, two thirds of obese women and more than one third of obese men gave height and weight measurements for their romantic partners indicating that they too were either obese or overweight.

Yet the ultimate point of the study was to examine how BMI — and associated health issues — might affect sexual health. To that end, researchers found that, compared with normal weight women, obese women were 30% less likely to report having a sexual partner in the previous year, and obese women were half as likely as lower BMI peers to say that sexuality was an important component of their "personal life balance." 

Among women under age 30, researchers noted that obese respondents were four times as likely to report having had an unplanned pregnancy or abortion compared with normal BMI-range peers. They also found that, compared to normal range BMI women, obese women were less likely to have spoken with a doctor in the previous year about options for contraception, were less likely to use the birth control pill or condoms, and were significantly more likely — 8 times more likely, specifically — to report using less effective contraception methods (such as "pulling out").

For both overweight and obese men, the likelihood of confronting sexual dysfunction in the previous year was more than twice that of normal BMI-range peers. Additionally, while rates of sexually transmitted disease did not differ significantly among women based on BMI, obese men were far more likely than normal weight peers to report having a sexually transmitted disease in the previous 5 years. Among 30- to 49-year-old men with more than one sexual partner in the previous year, obese men were less likely to report using condoms.

Given the prevalence of obesity, the findings, the authors say, point to a significant public health problem, and a need to tactfully improve education and outreach. As the authors sum up:
"The scale of the problem and the magnitude of the effects (particularly the fourfold increase in risk of unintended pregnancy among obese women) warrants focused attention. In terms of targeting advice and care, a considerable proportion of the population is obese, is easily identified as such, and is at increased risk in terms of poorer sexual health status."
While obesity and sex may be two of the trickiest topics for doctors to tackle in conversations with patients, in an accompanying editorial, Dr. Sandy Goldbeck-Wood, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Ipswich Hospital in the U.K. and a specialist in psychosocial medicine, argues that it's physicians' duty to confront the issues in spite of any discomfort. What's more, Goldbeck-Wood concludes that there are three principle lessons to be gleaned from the study. First, that clinicians need to pay closer attention to "the complex contraceptive needs of obese women." Second, that they point to the fact that sexual health is a component of the intricate and interwoven relationships between a huge range of mental and physical ailments. And lastly, she concludes, from a public health standpoint:
"The study lends a new slant to a familiar message: that obesity can harm not only health and longevity, but your sex life."

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Monday

We have a new address

Monday
THINKING OUT LOUD

WE HAVE CHANGED OUR BLOG ADDRESS

access us now at http://queerteam.blogspot.com

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT

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Saturday

Amnesty International calls on President elect Aquino to focus attention on Mindanao

Saturday
Amnesty International Philippines launched in Pagadian City reports on human rights and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs): 

“Amnesty International Report 2010 State of the World’s Human Rights Report” and the “From Promises to Delivery, Putting Human Rights at the Heart of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)”. The first report documents human rights violations in 159 countries and territories worldwide while the second is a 60 page report focusing  on three main issues – gender equality, maternal health and slums  and provides examples of how the MDGs and the targets set fall short of international human rights standards.
 
Amnesty International is now on its 2nd city in the Mindanao leg of the 8-city report launch tour to share its report to the widest possible audiences in the Philippines
 
From Zamboanga City, we bring with us here in Pagadian City our reports on human rights and the MDGs. These reports expose evidences of repression, injustice, oppression and poverty in ious parts of the world. We want to highlight abuses that worsen the situation of the poor and the marginalized particularly here in Mindanao where six (6) of the ten (10) poorest provinces in the country are located,” said Dr. Aurora A. Parong, Section Director of Amnesty International Philippines.
 
These two reports come at a time when the whole country is at the eve of a new governance. The reports  focus on the justice gap that exists in many parts of the world, including the Philippines. For Amnesty International, justice is needed not only for those who were tortured or killed but also for those who live in poverty and whose economic, social and cultural rights are violated.
 
Today as we launch our reports, Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino, III will be proclaimed as the new leader of the country. We call upon him to focus on the situation in Mindanao, a region that for so many years has fallen prey to political power players that undermine the law of the land and international human rights standards. This poverty-stricken region has seen the worst of politicians and the effects of impunity. Everyday there are reports of unlawful killings. More and more women become victims and more and more people become poor,” added Parong.
 
According to Amnesty International’s report on the world’s human rights, unlawful killings by paramilitary groups, private armies and unidentified assailants continue with impunity and perpetrators are not brought to justice. Most reported cases are from the Central Mindanao Area. It also highlights the plight of Indigenous Peoples living in remote areas and the Moros particularly affected by forced evictions and armed conflict.
 
These reports of human rights violations are not unique in Mindanao but mostly concentrated in the area due to failures in governance, both at the local and national levels. Amnesty International would like to highlight abuses that keep people poor.” Parong explained.
 
Amnesty International’s report on the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) notes that progress has been made, but it is now painfully clear that this has been uneven, and that without increased efforts, progress will fall far short of the targets set for 2015.
The NSCB (National Statistical Coordination Board) reported in 2008 that the poverty incidence increased to 26.9% for families in 2006 (which means 23.8 million individuals who are poor) compared to 24.4% in 2003 and that in terms of poverty incidence among population, out of 100 Filipinos, 33 were poor in 2006, compared to 30 in 2003.The NSCB also reported that Tawi-Tawi was the poorest in 2006 (where 9 out of ten families were poor) while Zamboanga del Norte was second. The other provinces included in the ten (10) poorest are Maguindanao, Surigao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Sur, Masbate, Apayao, Northern Samar and Abra.
“Exclusion and discrimination continue to be key factors in driving and deepening poverty. Laws and practices must ensure that full and equal enjoyment of rights extends to all, including members of marginalized or excluded groups.”
 
States have an immediate obligation to prioritize minimum essential levels of economic, social and cultural rights – such as housing, food, water, sanitation, education, health and social security – for all. The Aquino government and all local government units must ensure that they will direct efforts to fulfilling such obligations to all the peoples in the Philippines. The Aquino government must set national targets which are measurable and time bound for progress to fulfill minimum essential levels of these rights in the shortest possible time. The new government must ensure that people living in poverty are able to participate meaningfully in MDG planning, implementation and monitoring,“ added Parong.
 
The report on MDGs ends with a list of recommendations to states, bilateral and multilateral development agencies, international financial institutions, and UN agencies, programs and funds. The recommendations focus on how implementation of the MDGs between now and 2015 can be made consistent with human rights standards and briefly outline some of the essential elements that must be incorporated into any revised or new global framework to address poverty after 2015.
 
The MDG initiatives in our country must prioritize those individuals and groups most at risk in order to bring about real improvements in their lives. We hope that the new government will give the immediate appropriate attention to the most disadvantaged when planning and implementing programs and allocating resources”, concluded Parong.


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Gov't debt hits P4.4-T in January

BusinessWorld- Posted at 04/16/2010 12:32 AM


MANILA, Philippines - Outstanding debt of the National Government rose 4.3% year on year to hit P4.443 trillion last January, the Treasury bureau said yesterday.

Of that amount, P2.43 trillion was owed to domestic creditors, accounting for 54.7% of total debt and up slightly by 1.5% from January last year.

Some P2.42 trillion worth of government securities were sold last January, also slightly up by 1.8% from the same month in 2009.
Domestic loans availed by NG agencies, however, dropped 49.8% to P6.8 billion in January.

Foreign debt last January totaled P2 .01 trillion, accounting for 45.3% of the total and up by 7.9% from the same month last year.

Foreign debt consisted mainly of direct loans by NG agencies, which rose 7.2% to P770.8 billion in January; and foreign currency-denominated securities, which rose 9.3% to hit P1.174 trillion.

Foreign currency-denominated securities consisted of US dollar bonds and notes, which increased 9.8% to P1.073 trillion; euro bonds, which rose 6.5% to P74.9 billion; and yen bonds, which dropped slightly by 1.2% to P25.9 billion.

Contingent debt, composed mainly of NG guarantees, rose 14% to P619.7 billion. Of that amount, guarantees to foreign creditors rose 14.7% to P540.2 billion, while those to domestic creditors were up 9.2% to P79.5 billion.
 

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Wednesday

Taliban using HIV bombs

Wednesday
Deadly ... needles become 
flying shrapnel
Deadly ... needles become flying shrapnel

TALIBAN fighters are burying dirty needles with their bombs in a bid to infect British troops with HIV, The Sun can reveal.

Hypodermic syringes are hidden below the surface pointing upwards to prick bomb squad experts as they hunt for devices.

The heroin needles are feared to be contaminated with hepatitis and HIV. And if the bomb goes off, the needles become deadly flying shrapnel. 

The tactic, used in the Afghan badlands of Helmand, was exposed by Tory MP and ex-Army officer Patrick Mercer. 
 
Senior backbencher Mr Mercer said yesterday: "Are there no depths to which these people will stoop? This is the definition of a dirty war." 

Razor blades are also being used. All Royal Engineer and Royal Logistic Corps bomb search teams have been issued with protective Kevlar gloves. 
-----

STAFF Sergeant Kim Hughes, who cleared an entire minefield in 2009, will be awarded the George Cross by the Queen today.


  • STAFF Sergeant Kim Hughes, who cleared an entire minefield in 2009, will be awarded the George Cross by the Queen today.

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